A fundraising drive has been launched to save and restore a historic artefact linked to Paisley’s mill history.
The Paisley People’s Archive, which is an oral history project, wants to see the Anchor Mill Crest brought back to its former glory and put on display in the town.
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Former SNP councillor Richard Vassie is leading the drive and is calling on Buddies to help: “Over the years these Victorian mills gave work to thousands of workers from across Renfrewshire.
“As Paisley looks for City of Culture status to promote the town’s heritage, we feel this crest must be restored.
“We are asking for your help in raising funds to save the crest, no matter how small.”
The stone crest, which features an anchor and rope within an oval frame and the words ‘Anchor Thread Works’, was seen by thousands of mill workers every day during the industry’s heyday, but is now in pieces.
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It is currently located at Abbey Mill and is being stored under tarpaulin in its car park.
“It is part of the town’s history, and we would like to re-erect it,” Richard said.
He added: “The Atlantic and Pacific Mills were built between 1871-1875 for the twisting and spinning of thread.
“The top storey of each of the four towers incorporated a circular mural, containing the firm’s trademark, the inscription ‘Anchor Thread Works’ all carved in relief.
“When the mills were demolished in 1972, the firm decided to preserve one of the crests and re-erect it a few yards from the main gate to commemorate the Duke of Edinburgh’s visit in 1974.
“In 1984, when Coats moved production to the northern end of the site, the crest was moved and re-erected on the outside wall of the new spinning shed.
“When production ceased and the site sold, during the demolition of the spinning shed, the crest was split in two and placed on wooden pallets.
“The Anchor crest can still be saved and re-erected on the site for the last time.”
It is estimated that it will cost £20,000 to restore the crest.
Marcus Dean, owner of Abbey Mill Business Centre, said he fully supports the Paisley People’s Archive in its drive the raise money for the restoration.
He added: “I’ve restored all the remaining mills at the site and they are very dear to me.
“It’s a great complex and I’m keen to be of help.”
Marcus, who said he would be glad to make a financial contribution to the restoration, said that he would like to know where Paisley would like to see the crest located if it is restored.
“It’s up to people to say where is best,” he added.
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If you can help, the fund can accept cheques, postal orders or direct payments into the Archives Account.
The details are: TSB, Acc number 83689860 Sort Code 87-43-03.
Richared added: “No matter how small, any help will be appreciated. Everyone who donates will have their name printed in our project booklet.”