A special opportunity to see manuscripts from Gloucestershire Archives telling the story of the famous Stroud scarlet cloth through the records of the dyers, clothiers and middlemen who were involved in its international trade.

From the import of cochineal dye from South America to the journey the cloth went on as it left Stroud, this display presents a rare opportunity to see these records displayed in front of the Wallbridge Painting depicting the workings of the cloth business at the heart of the town.

Archive research by Tim Parry-Williams. With thanks to Gloucestershire Archives for the loan of the manuscripts and making this display possible.

This display is an extension of the exhibition Beyond Heritage: At The Margins which can be seen in our art gallery.

Staircase Hall

FREE, donations welcome

Image credit: Detail from Twissell’s Mill account book 1805-1814 held by Gloucestershire Archives (D5685 1/11)