Page 108 - Redditch People

Redditch People

Life and Times of Abel Morrall

Of particular interest are the collection of deeds relating to the ownership of the original
Wasford Mill near Studley which dates back to 1744. Secondary sources suggest that the
property was used as needle mill from 1780 to 1800 and then by Morrell, Archer & Morrell
(an earlier incarnation of Abel Morrell Ltd.) Succeeded by Milwards & Sons in the 1830s.A
second Washford Mill was was built in Redditch on a site purchased by Millwards in 1800.
The original Washford Mill continued to be used as a scouring mill until 1890s.

In the 1851 census Abel Morrell was living in The Towers Green Lane Studley which at this
time was part of his needle mill. Abel Morrell started to produce needles on the site from
1785 and became so successful he had to find larger premises.

He moved to Redditch in 1898 and purchased Ivy House in Edward Street. This site has
essentially been used for industrial purposes since the mid 19th Century and has been
most commonly used for the production of needles. Prior to 1785 the site was occupied
by Redditch needle maker T. Banks followed by H. Lewis.

This site was most recognised as “Abel Morrell’s Clive Works”. Abel Morrell were needle
producers on this site from 1898 and continued trading as Aero Group until 1990’s.

These premises have seen many changes during its life in total there has been some 40
plus applications on this site ranging from temporary buildings, new generators, and
signage applications to general applications for external windows and doors.

Abel Morrall’s Edward street factory in the 1990’s

Page: 108 © RLHS 2015