1724 A Treatise concerning the Manner of Fallowing of Ground, Raising of Grass-Seeds, and Training of Lint and Hemp, for the increase and improvement of Linnen-Manufactories in Scotland. Publish'd for the benefit of the farmers in that kingdom, by the Honourable Society for Improving in the Knowledge of Agriculture.

Description

Illustrated, Leather Binding, Scarce

The author of this work is still disputed today. The ESTC notes that it is 'variously attributed to Richard Bradley and William Macintosh' (of Borlum). Others widely attribute this work to the aristocrat and agricultural reformer, Sir Thomas Hope. The title page notes that this work was written by the 'Honourable Society for Improving in the Knowledge of Agriculture'. The society was the first agricultural society founded in Great Britain. Sir Thomas Hope was the first president of the Society, with Maxwell as secretary, which is why the work is considered to be by them. Chapters 5-8 incorporate Lewis Crommelin's essay towards improving the manufacturing of hempen and flaxen in Ireland. Crommelin was the director of an Irish linen business following his exile from France. Following the 1696 parliament act admitting all products of hemp and flax to be duty free from Ireland to England, he ordered looms from Flanders and Holland. He was intrinsic to the introduction of Huguenot weavers to Ireland. His writings, which are cited in this work, was one of the earliest Irish books on Irish industry. Collated, complete with seven plates (six folding). Contemporary ink inscription to the title page of Henry Richmond Brougham. This may well be the same of Highhead Castle, Cumberland. A fascinating work, which gives in great detail the production of linen. There is descriptions of the weaving process, the bleaching, spinning and more. The illustrations demonstrate various types of loom. A scarce and fascinating work, which gives great insight into eighteenth century agriculture and the textile industry.