The Duke of Devonshire is the new Patron at the historic Framework Knitters Museum in Ruddington, Nottinghamshire, England. The museum is a unique 19^th century complex of frame shops, cottages and outbuildings arranged around a garden courtyard with an adjacent former chapel in which many of the knitters worshipped.

Machine knitting was invented in 1589 by William Lee from nearby Calverton in Nottinghamshire and the knitting frame made it possible for workers to produce knitted goods approximately 100 times faster than by hand. The industry was primarily based in Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire.

The site has been restored to show the living and working conditions of the framework knitters who occupied it throughout the nineteenth century. This is a working museum with machinery in use and the opportunity for visitors to ‘have-a-go’.

In accepting the invitation The Duke of Devonshire, sent his congratulations on the recent awards the museum has received. He is already looking forward to his next visit to the museum.

Duke of Devonshire is a title in the Peerage of England held by members of the Cavendish family. This branch of the Cavendish family has been one of the most influential aristocratic families in England since the 16th century.

The Duke joins Sir Neil Cossons OBE, originally from Beeston, Nottingham, who is eminent in the museum world, having been Chairman of English Heritage, and many other prestigious organisations.

The museum is delighted to have two such distinguished patrons on board as it moves forward.

Ruddington Framework Knitters’ Museum is a small independent working museum, established by the efforts of the local community, which saved it from the bulldozer and put it under the control of a charitable trust. The museum has been open to the public since 1971 and preserves this unique site, the machinery and the skills to operate them.

Further information

Audrey Winkler

Chairman of the Trustees

[email protected]

www.frameworkknittersmuseum.org.uk