The Decline of Rope Making

Image: Lowe’s Rope Manufactory, Bewdley in a derelict state in about 1973. Strand separating boards are shown to the left of the picture.

[Image from: Bewdley Museum]

Rope making in Bewdley declined.

• The market for many of its products fell. The water trade virtually disappeared, the Kidderminster carpet industry declined and the use of adhesive tape reduced the need for twine.
• Lowe’s Rope Manufactory prided itself on its ability to meet the individual demands of different customers. Its specialised production meant that it could not compete with cheaper items, which were manufactured elsewhere and man-made cordage made from nylon, polythene and polypropylene.

Lowe’s was one of the last ropeworks to produce hand-made products. After it closed in 1972, its premises were demolished, but examples of its equipment and products were relocated and displayed in Bewdley Museum.