Bersham Ironworks

Ironworking began at Bersham around 1640, and evidence shows that the cannon for the Royalists in the English Civil War were made there.

[dubious – discuss] In the 18th century, Isaac Wilkinson bought the ironworks and ran it for a considerable number of years.

The main product was cannon, although the process to make them in iron was difficult, and cannonballs often became stuck in the barrel, leading to explosions.

Upon hearing this, John Wilkinson also raised a gang and helped the destruction: he was only too happy to destroy the mill which was causing him a loss.

Between 1987 and 1991, extensive excavations were carried out on the site, and revealed all the foundations of the original buildings and the rear wall of the engine house.

The Mill building was restored and opened as a secondary museum, and contains artefacts such as the wooden waggonway and several pieces from the excavations, with a guided tour of them all.