Alexander Morton & Co. opened their first factory in Scotland in 1881, establishing themselves as a leading producer of high-quality textiles, particularly carpets and woven furnishings.
The company became well known for its innovation in textile production, blending mechanised techniques with traditional craftsmanship. Morton’s designs were heavily influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasised handcrafted quality, natural materials, and the revival of heritage crafts. His company collaborated with prominent designers of the time, including C.F.A. Voysey and William Morris, producing textiles that embodied the movement’s ideals.
In 1896, Alexander Morton (1844–1923) traveled to County Donegal in Ireland, where he saw the decline of the local hand-knotted carpet industry. The region had a long tradition of working with wool, but economic hardship and industrialisation had led to a decline in demand for traditional handcrafted textiles. Recognising both the potential of the local weaving skills and the desperate need for employment, Morton took it upon himself to revive the industry.
Motivated by the principles of the Arts and Crafts movement, Morton sought to create sustainable employment while preserving the region’s rich textile heritage. He set up workshops in Killybegs, where local artisans were trained and employed to produce hand-knotted carpets using time-honored techniques. This initiative not only helped alleviate poverty in the area but also ensured that the traditional wool-weaving skills were passed down to future generations.
