Wool Carding Account Book

Collection

Identifier: SpC MS 1812-sc

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

An account book for a business--probably a woolen mill--that appears to have been located in Mt. Desert, Maine, dating from 1832-1833. The book records the amount of wool carded, and how the laborers were paid, which was often with in-kind payments such as soap, fish, or butter.

Dates

Creation: 1832-1833

Conditions Governing Access

No restrictions on access.

Conditions Governing Use

Rights assessment remains the responsibility of the researcher. No known restrictions.

Historical Note

Records indicate the only wool carding business on Mt. Desert, Maine at the time was owned and operated by Abraham Somes, and then his son Isaac Somes. This account book is most likely from this business.

One of several mills built along Somes Brook, the woolen mill was the most profitable. At the mill raw sheep's wool was carded, meaning it was turned into straightened fibers ready for spinning. The carded wool was then fulled, meaning that excess oils were removed and the threads stretched into a more compact form. Then the refined wool was woven into cloth and trimmed, and dyed. (excerpted from Maine Memory Network, 7/1/2022)