History of sea glass

2 Oct 2019 Here is the selection of sea glass picked walking south of Parton bay on a journey to North Shore with year 6 pupils from St Bridget's school. Delicate shades of green and aqua worn smooth with hundreds of years of wave action. A treasure to find, touch and collect. A close look at the lettering gives clues to local origin. An information board on the wagon road details industrial history of Parton, explaining about the 17th century glassworks in Parton which shipped glass to London. More information was found on the internet about Parton breweries established 1752-3. Parton like most towns and villages of the time had at least 1 brewery as it was difficult in those days transporting large quantities of beer. Details uncovered in 1844 when the Parton/Harrington breweries company owned by Thomas Dalzell was for sale, capable of brewing 14 barrels (35 gallons each) and in the 1881 census, employing 24 men. Brewing ceased in 1906 when Dalzell had a supply agreement for their pubs with local brewers Jennings. During the 20th century the larger local breweries, such as Jennings, were taking over their smaller neighbours. Now in Cumbria local microbreweries are on the increase and competing again with the larger companies.