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Bersham Ironworks, Wrexham
Bersham Ironworks, Wrexham
Bersham Ironworks, located near Wrexham, Wales, is renowned as the original site of John Wilkinson’s pioneering work.
Key Facts
- Location: Wrexham, Wales
- Founder: Isaac Wilkinson
- Innovation: Boring machine for cannon and steam engine cylinders
- Significance: First site to use new boring method
- Products: Cannon, steam engine cylinders
- Legacy: John Wilkinson’s pioneering work
- Status: Partially destroyed, few structures remain
Overview
Bersham Ironworks, located near Wrexham, Wales, is renowned as the original site of John Wilkinson’s pioneering work. It was the first place to use a new method for boring holes in cannon and steam engine cylinders.
Ironworking at Bersham began around 1640, producing cannon for the Royalists during the English Civil War. In the 18th century, Isaac Wilkinson acquired the ironworks, focusing on cannon production despite challenges with iron casting.
John Wilkinson, Isaac’s son, revolutionized the process with a boring machine that produced smooth bore cannons. These cannons were widely used in the American War of Independence and the Napoleonic Wars. The same technology was applied to create cylinders for Boulton & Watt steam engines. However, Wilkinson’s secret production of steam engines led to the dissolution of his partnership with Watt.
As demand for cannon declined post-war, Wilkinson moved operations to Brymbo, establishing what would become Brymbo Steelworks. A conflict with his brother William led to the partial destruction of Bersham Ironworks, leaving only a few structures intact.
The site was later used as a paper mill before falling into disrepair. Excavations between 1987 and 1991 uncovered the foundations of the original buildings, a lime kiln, and a wooden railway, sparking renewed interest in the site’s historical significance.
Recognizing its importance, Wrexham Council established the Bersham Heritage Centre. The nearby Bersham School was converted into a museum, showcasing local history and artifacts from the ironworks. The Mill building was restored and now houses exhibits, including the wooden waggonway and excavation finds. Efforts continue to preserve and fund the site.
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