Factory owner In Coupar Angus

[Kathykins]

Hello,

I've turned up a relative recently, William Ferguson, who is described as a "manufacturer" on the census records, at one point emplying 80 people, which seems quite a lot for a small town like Coupar Angus.

Where would I find more information about the factory? There must be records somewhere I would have thought, but I'm not sure where to start.

[emanday]

Hi Kathykins,

I think the firm was called Ferguson Brothers.

This might be helpful (down the page a bit - Item 34)...

http://www.soutar.net/pafn06.htm

I Googled "William Ferguson" then selected Search Within Results (at the bottom of the results page) for "Coupar Angus"

A fair few results came up.

[AndrewP]

Hi Kathykins,

The Second Statistical Accounts of Scotland include the following paragraph for Coupar Angus.

Manufacturers - The chief employment of the labouring classes is weaving, principally of the coarser articles of linen manufacture. In the present depressed state of trade, the remuneration is extremely small. Able-bodied men cannot earn, on an average, above 5s or 6s per week. The privations which this imposes are borne, with a most praiseworthy spirit.

This account is dated July 1843.

All the best,

AndrewP

[Kathykins]

Thanks Andy! I emailed the owner of the website that you found, and he's not only a distant cousin, he's also got a photograph of my great great grandmother!

Nice to know we had money once....

[LesleyB]

Hi Kathy

Thanks Andy! I emailed the owner of the website that you found, and he's not only a distant cousin, he's also got a photograph of my great great grandmother!

Great news!
Well, that certainly doesn't happen everyday! One of those brilliant moments that happen occaisionally - really pleased for you.

Best wishes
Lesley