In 1825, Samuel Courtauld agreed to convert the former corn mill named Townsford Mill for the throwing of silk. This was to be done in conjunction with Stephen Beuzeville, a Spitalfields silk crape manufacturer, who had bought the mill and was to supply the necessary capital as well as supply the raw silk yarn. This was the beginning of Courtaulds' association with Halstead that finally ended in 1982.

The following video, created by John Miners, long-time trustee of the Halstead & District Local History Society, textile consultant and former Courtaulds employee, takes us on a journey exploring the wool trade, its influence in Essex and Suffolk and how the Courtauld family capitalised on the skills available within the area to develop their silk weaving business. The video also shows the lasting legacy of the Courtauld family on the area.

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