Currier Mill, Colyton, Devon

 

I came across this delightful building whilst having a walk around Colyton in April 2009.
Although the building is derelict and unused it's also part of a residential back garden, therefore I only took exterior photos from the adjoining lane. 

 

I didn't know anything about the building but whilst chatting to the gentleman at the garden centre next door he told me that it was a leather currier. Also, that further down the lane is the tannery that made up the first stage of the leather industry...and which turned out to be the explore to die for! Coming up in the next article.

The trade of currying was the next step after tanning, and was a necessary part of the early leather industry. The process of stretching and finishing tanned leather rendered it supple and strong for the use of a saddler or cobbler. Indeed, Curriers were often also the local shoemaker.

The name Currier is believed to be taken from the Latin term ‘corium’, which is the central skin layer between the outer epidermis and the flesh underneath. The make up of this layer dictates the difference in texture between leathers. Traditionally, animal skins were cured by treating them with animal fat, which was then followed by leaving them stretched out to dry, either in the sun or before a fire.

More history can be found here...

http://www.curriers.co.uk/Art%20&%20Mystery.pdf

Instead of windows there are louvres fitted all around the upper storey. These could be opened or closed to control the air flow, ensuring good circulation for drying the leathers.

Like most old East Devon buildings, the roof is thatched and the fabric is built from local flint and rubble. Brick quoins surround a bricked-up door further along in the wall, below, and one side of the gated entrance, above.

Looking through the gap in the gated door, another old building can be seen across the courtyard (below). This was possibly another part of the operation or maybe the living accommodation for the owners.

Attached to the wall next to the gated entrance is this twirly wrought iron gate. The style is more contemporary, and I don't know what it was or is used for, but a rather delightful addition nonetheless.