How was a Yarn Assorting Balance used in the cloth industry of the early 20th century?

Question

I have a yarn assorting balance made by John Nesbitt Ltd of 42 Market Street, Manchester (England) but have no instructions for its use

Answer 1

I think this is the correct answer but I'll check and get back to you. A small amount of raw cotton was placed on the balance, to weigh against a predetermined, specifc weight. The volume of cotton it took to balance the weight determined the quality of the cotton and therefore the type of yarn and cloth it would be used to produce. These were used at the cotton exchange in Manchester (amongst other places) to grade the cotton before auction and by potential buyers to check the merchandise. Most mill owners would buy different types of cotton and blend them in their mills prior to spinning, depending on the type of yarn they wanted to spin.. We have a website: www.sunsetonthedawn.co.uk that you may find interesting and it contains links to other cotton and industrial revolution related sites.If you email me a photo I'll sort this one for you. I probably know someone who used to use one!

Answer 2

I have no idea. The Pumphouse or the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester might be able to help.

BTW, 42 Market Street is now Shelley's shoes!

Answer 3

Never heard of it. Have you tried your local Museum Service?