The aftermath of a fire at Eltico Mills, Prospect Mill, Flax Street, Belfast. Tons of linen and flax was destroyed by fire and water used to put the fire out.

Prospect Mill was built by Sir John Savage, Lord Mayor of  Belfast.  The mill manufactured thread as well as spinning flax. He was elected as a Councillor for St Anne’s Ward in 1856 and later represented St George’s Ward. During his term as Mayor, he was knighted by Earl Spencer in Belfast’s Botanic Gardens.  

Prospect Mill was one of hundreds of mills in Belfast. By 1963, the linen industry in Belfast was in decline but at its peak one hundred years before, the mills employed 75,000 people, mostly women.  

An Ulster Television Production

• Broadcasting Authority Ireland