Our Weaving History
Even before the year 1700 the ‘lakennijverheid’ (broadcloth industry) flourished in Geldrop. Even so, the textile industry only started booming in the year 1850. The great factories, chimneys and labourer and stately homes were built in this period. Some of these have been converted to restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal. The large houses at the Heuvel, in the Kerkstraat and at the Langstraat in Geldrop still show the opulence of the manufacturers. And there are many more places that will take you back to that time.
Colourful history
The sheep, which you can still see grazing, naturally were the suppliers of wool. Wool that was spun by the home weavers’ women, who in their turn wove sheets on a self-built weaving loom. Afterwards, these weavers walked with their sheets over the Cotton path to Geldrop to sell to the manufacturers there. Manufacturers had also built their own drinking room, so the weavers could spend their earnings right away.
The current street names, state monuments and other places of interest invite you to experience this colourful history in the cosy towns of today. Everything is seamlessly woven with each other.
Experience it by visiting the Weaving Museum, walking the textile route, discovering the of the Cotton path or enjoying a delicious meal at one of the atmospheric restaurants. While you’re at it, book one of the unique package arrangements which you cannot experience elsewhere in the Netherlands.