Chilworth Gunpowder Works

Sectors:

  • Chemical production Explosives & fuses production

Notes:

Very large and early gunpowder mills. Established mid 1620s by East India Co. 1636 acquired by Samuel Cordwell and George Collins after which many owners / operators. These included Thomas Pearse & Co in 1753, Isaac Dent, d1790, by 1770--90, and his former manager, William Tinkler, by 1790-91. From early 19th century operated by the Sharp family. 1885 acquired by the newly formed Chilworth Gunpowder Co Ltd when developed into a major complex and supplier to British government. Badly damaged in an explosion in 1901. Chilwoth Co subsequently acquired by Nobel Dynamite Trust Co Ltd / Nobel Industries Ltd. Closed 1920 [2023]

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