The first half of this book is devoted to a biography of Samuel Crompton and his endeavours to invent and perfect the spinning mule in 1779.  The second half covers in considerable detail the inception and growth of the manufacturer of textile machinery, Dobson & Barlow, who were the earliest adopters of Crompton's inventions in the 1790's.  Hardback.  Tiny neat gift inscription, otherwise in excellent clean condition.  148 pages.  Includes many archive photographs and an attractive coloured fold-out factory site plan (complete with original tissue guard).  Scarce item.  Cat No 2946