Understand
Darwen steam engine restored to honour town's industrial heritage and Gandhi's 1931 visit
Overview
The Cross Compound Steam Engine outside India Mill in Darwen has been repainted in three historically significant colours to preserve the town's cotton industry heritage and commemorate Mahatma Gandhi's visit in September 1931. The restoration project, supported by Darwen Town Council, uses 'Invisible Green', 'Natural White', and 'Burnt Saffron' to reflect both Victorian machinery and the colours of the Indian flag.
Key points
- The Cross Compound Steam Engine outside India Mill has been repainted to reflect Darwen's industrial heritage and links to India.
- The restoration uses three specific colours—'Invisible Green', 'Natural White', and 'Burnt Saffron'—which together recreate the colours of the Indian flag.
- Mahatma Gandhi visited Darwen in September 1931 to observe the impact of the Indian boycott of British cotton goods.
- India Mill, built between 1859 and 1871, was a major textile site closely tied to the cotton trade with India.
- Darwen Town Council leader Anthony Shaw emphasised the importance of protecting local heritage for future generations.