In the 1840's the original James Hargreaves started dealing in waste generated by the many cotton mills in the Rossendale Valley. This waste was processed and used for cleaning by local companies.

Picture : William Hargreaves - Son of James Hargreaves I

In the late 1800's - Brothers James and Tom Hargreaves managing the business from Pippin Bank Mill.

Picture : James Hargreaves II - Son of William Hargreaves

By the early 20th Century, Tom along with a Mr. Taylor purchased Irwell Mill and started Taylor & Hargreaves Ltd. whose business activities were were cotton doubling and mop yarn manufacturers.

When the 1950's came around James Hargreaves had become a Limited Company.

Picture : James Hargreaves III - Son of James Hargreaves II

During the 1980's James Hargreaves move out of Pippin Bank and into Irwell Mill with Taylor & Hargreaves.

Picture : Pippin Bank Mill

And in the 1990's Taylor & Hargreaves Business were amalgamated into James Hargreaves (Bacup) Ltd. .