The Northern Mill Engine Society opened its original museum at Atlas Mills in 1983 with five restored steam engines of various types on display. Steaming days were held six times a year using steam initially from the Atlas Mills boilers then later from our own package boilers. Educational Open Days were held on week-days during term time for schools in the district, sponsored by local companies.
Disaster struck in 1990 when we were informed that Morrisons Supermarkets plc had bought the site for redevelopment and the museum was to be demolished. However, the company proved to be extremely helpful and agreed to relocate us to an old Cotton Store at the rear of the site.
Since 1992 the Society, operating on an entirely volunteer basis, has been rebuilding the engines - that now number over 20 - in the new building. The engines are a cross-section of the main source of power that was used in the North West cotton mills, and the display is one of the largest collections of steam engines anywhere in the country.
The Museum is unfortunately not yet regularly open to the general public but visitors are welcome by prior arrangement, mainly on our working days, Wednesdays and Sundays.
Visits can be arranged at other times by contacting John Phillp, Hon Secretary. Tel 01257-265003 or email john.phillp@blueyonder.co.uk. Society Membership details are also available from the same contact.
PUBLIC OPEN DAYS:
The Working Steam Open Days for 2009 will held be on
Sun/Mon May 24 & 25 (Bank Holiday)
Sun/Mon 30 & 31 August (Bank Holiday)
Sat/Sun 12 & 13 September
10 am - 4pm
We have recently commissioned our new boiler so most of the engines will be working in steam.
There is no admission charge, but if you wish to make a donation to support the Society, it will be most appreciated since we receive no other form of grant-aid.
The museum is located on Morrisons Supermarket site (next to the petrol station) off Chorley Old Road
Other details of the Museum can be found on the link below. 
