Nursery Buildings

Nursery Buildings was built during Robert Owen’s time in charge at New Lanark, unlike the majority of buildings which date from the time of David Dale.
Originally it was constructed as an apprentice house and was part of Owen’s plan to phase out the practice of having child workers boarding in the mill area.
A clue to the original function of the buildings can be seen in its single entrance and turnpike stair, as opposed to the more normal pattern of separate entrance closes and internal stairs common in other village housing. As the apprentices grew up and Owen ceased the practice of employing young children, Nursery Buildings became available to increase the stock of worker’s housing.

ACTIVITY

1. Who was responsible for the construction of Nursery Buildings?

2. Why do you think the buildings are known as ‘Nursery’ Buildings?

(Clue - think of their purpose)

3. What reason(s) do you think Owen had for wishing to end the practice of housing the apprentices in the mill area?

4. Why did the original Nursery Buildings have only one entrance?

5. What use was made of Nursery Buildings after Owen ceased the employment of young children?