Hanks Collection

Silk (engraving)
5221713 Silk (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Silk. From Illustrations of Useful Arts and Manufactures by Charles Tomlinson (SPCK)

Four hanks of silk, Old Silk Mill, Derby
Four hanks of silk, as seen at the Old Silk Mill, Derby -- Bengal, Italian, Persian and Broussa. Date: 1843

Spinning machine or engine 1843
A steam-powered silk spinning machine or engine at the Old Silk Mill, Derby. Date: 1843

B Flight at Readiness, c1939-1940, (1941). Creator: Unknown
B Flight at Readiness (Left to Right: Peter M-----, Peter B-----, Leslie, Prosser, Lorry and Sammy), 1939-1940, (1941). From Fighter Pilot - A Personal Record of the Campaign in France

Press Photographers View of No. 1 Squadron, 1939-1940, (1941). Creator: Unknown
Press Photographers View of No. 1 Squadron (Left to Right: Billy, Leslie, Lorry, Prosser, Boy, the Bull, Moses, Johnny, the Doc. Paul, Killy, Stratters and Pussy), 1939-1940, (1941)

Pen grinding room, Hanks, Wells & Cos factory, Birmingham, West Midlands, 1851. More than 50 women sit at individual grindstones finishing metal pen nibs

Pen grinding room: Hanks, Wells & Cos factory, Birmingham. More than 50 women sit at individual grindstones finishing metal pen nibs

The grand trotting Queen Nancy Hanks driven by Budd Doble. Date c1892

WEAVING 1568
A weaver at his loom; his wife is arriving with fresh hanks of wool

Spinning, Holland
A Dutch woman at her spinning wheel, with hanks of thread at her feet

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"Hanks: A Tapestry of History and Innovation" Silk, a delicate fabric admired for its lustrous sheen, is intricately woven into the tapestry of human history. Engraved in time are the four hanks of silk from the Old Silk Mill in Derby, a testament to the craftsmanship that flourished within its walls. In December 1863, Colonel George H. Banks brought emancipated slaves from Louisiana, their journey symbolizing hope and liberation. These brave individuals found solace amidst threads of change as they embarked on a new chapter in their lives. The spinning machine or engine of 1843 revolutionized textile production, propelling society forward with its efficiency and speed. It became an emblematic representation of progress during those transformative times. As war clouds loomed over Europe in c1939-1940, B Flight stood at readiness - an image frozen in time by an unknown creator. Press photographers captured No. 1 Squadron's unwavering determination during these uncertain days of 1941. Journeying back to Birmingham's bustling streets in 1851, we find ourselves immersed in Hanks, Wells & Cos factory's pen grinding room. More than fifty women diligently honed each nib with precision and skill – a true testament to their dedication. Across continents and centuries alike, weaving has been intertwined with cultural heritage since 1568 when it first graced looms' rhythmic dance. In Holland's picturesque landscapes emerged vibrant fabrics that told stories through intricate patterns. Amidst this rich tapestry stands Queen Nancy Hanks – not royalty but rather a grand trotting horse driven by Budd Doble. Her gracefulness echoes the elegance found within every fiber spun throughout history. Henceforth let us celebrate hanks – be it silk or pen nibs; for they represent more than mere objects but rather symbols connecting generations past to present aspirations for innovation and creativity.