THE FLAX INDUSTRY.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1976, 30 November 1889, Page 3

THE FLAX INDUSTRY.

The Marlborough Times says that a new method of dressing the flax has been invented, which, if fulfils its promise, will cause a revolution in the trade, and also realise a fortune for the patentee, Mr W. J. Hamilton, who is at present in charge of the cable station at White’s Bay. Mr Hamilton has been at work on the subject for a number of years, but his invention was only perfected about eighteen months ago, when he took out a patent. As everyone knows, however, any new thing requires capital to carry it out, and Mr Purkiss, of Blenheim, after careful consideration, has decided to find the necessary cash, and will spare neither pain nor monev to properly develope it. Mr Hamilton claims for his invention that it completely removes the gum from the fibre, and that it obviates the: necessity for bleaching, the chopping system being done away with, that work being performed by means of heavy brass rollers. The main principle's to be found in the boiling of the green flax prior to its being brought under the rollers, the ingredients of the preparation being one of the most important features of the patent. One special advantage is that the fibre so treated can be used for every purpose for which manilla is utilised, while it will be superior for the manufacture of the more delicate fabrics. Mr Purkiss paid a visit to White’s Bay recently, and he was so satisfied with his inspection that he immediately decided to take a share m the patent, and has instructed Mr Muir to prepare enlarged plans for the necessary macninery from the models of Mr Hamilton, and no time wifi he lost in getting the affair in working order.