Workington in 1837
Workington stands on the south bank of the Derwent, which is navigable for ships of 400 tons burden, and falls into the sea about a mile distant. Coals constitute chief export ; timber, cattle, bar-iron, and flax, the chief imports. Nearly 100 vessels are employed in the coal trade to Ireland. Sail-cloth and cordage are the principal manufactures. Ship-building is carried on to a considerable extent. A few years ago a patent Leghorn manufactory, and a joint-stock banking company were established. There are two churches ; five chapels for dissenters ; a national, an infant, and Sunday schools ; subscription library ; dispensary ; assembly-room ; theatre, and custom-house. Township population in 1831, 6,415. The market-days are Wednesday and Saturday ; on the former day is the principal market. It is remarkable that this is the only large market town in the county at present (1837) not lighted with gas.
Workington-hall, on the east side of the town, afforded an asylum to Mary Queen of Scots, when she landed at Workington. At Seaton, a little above Workington, are extensive iron-works, and the antique ruins of Borough walls.
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