The Retort House

The octagonal chimney at the eastern end of New Lanark was for the village gasworks. Coal gas was produced, mainly to provide lighting for the cotton mills and for the villager’s housing. Two small gasholders once stood next to the Retort House where there are now picnic tables and a river viewing point.

ACTIVITY

1. What was the purpose of the Retort House?

2. Why was coal gas needed at New Lanark?

3. Sketch or draw the octagonal chimney of the Retort House.