Exterior

In its heyday, Ulster was the greatest centre of textile manufacturing in the world; and by the late 19th century, the term ‘Belfast-made’ was synonymous with the best quality fabrics and threads.

This region of County Antrim has long been dominated by families of Scottish descent, often engaged in the production of textiles. 

Mossley Mill was purchased in 1859 by two cousins, Henry and John Campbell (of Ulster-Scots ancestry) who made significant developments to the mill, establishing a school, homes for workers and a new sports pavilion.  They invested in new machinery and put Mossley Mill firmly on the map with their work ethic and philanthropic outlook.

Changes in world markets led to the eventual closure of the business in 1995; but the mill was saved from demolition when Newtownabbey Council bought it in 1996 and a major restoration and conversion project was begun.  The original mill buildings have been sensitively conserved, and the interiors adapted for modern day use as Council offices, a museum and successful theatre venue.