Implementing And Operating The Portsmouth Block Mill, 1803-1812

The Portsmouth Block Mill is a well-known early industrial concern, but little is known about its management and use. It was built in 1803 as part of Samuel Bentham's reforms to naval administration and operations. Past research based on an analysis of the machinery considers the Mill as a 'production line'. Newly found archival materials show staff numbers, hours, work assignments and output. These allow insights into the management of workers, machinery and materials along with insights into overall facility organization. These detailed analyses of the factory's operations allow inferences about historic factory management practices more generally.