Chain Works 1875

Founded by a Norfolk Quaker, Benjamin Edge, in the 1790s, Edge & Sons Ltd operated from works by the river in Coalport. The firm specialised in making first hemp ropes and then chains and wire ropes for collieries and the haulage trades and became recognised for its innovations in iron, later steel chains. Benjamin Edge’s invention of a new type of flat chain made a great contribution to safety in local mines. The reputation of the company grew after winning medals at the Great Exhibition in London, 1851 and achieved international renown at the Philadelphia Exhibition of 1876.

The need for speedier transport links led to the move to Shifnal, at first to Ruckley Sidings before coming together on the site of the failed Lawton’s Ironworks, Lamledge Lane, in 1875, but still retaining the name of Coalport works.

The Edge family settled at Brooklands, Park Lane. Within a few years Messrs Edge & Sons chain works were reported to be the most substantial employers in East Shropshire. From here the chains were sent to mining districts throughout the United Kingdom and North America, India and other distant parts of the globe. In its later years it made cage suspension gear for the National Coal Board and wagon couplings for British Railways.

In 1951, there was a workforce of 147 people, enjoying the social side of work with the Social Club, the Domino league and the football team and the future seemed bright, yet by 1972, the works had closed. Many men and, from the Second World War, women have memories of working at Edges.

With thanks to the Shifnal History Group for the description and pictures.