Wigston Framework Knitters Museum

When the last master hosier, Edgar Carter died in 1951 his workshop, built in 1891 was locked leaving a unique record of his working life.

Inside are 8 hand frames for making gloves, mitts and fancy ribbed tops for golf hose, together with all the moulds and tools for each machine, also a number of Griswold knitting machines. When the last occupant’s left the house, it was taken over by the local council. It is now run by a group of trustees who pay an annual peppercorn rent to the council, a sock made on one of the machines at a ceremony held in September. The Wigston Framework Knitters Museum opened its doors in 1986. Unique in having the original knitting frames, some 150 years old. Framework knitting was part of the industrial revolution and our museum is a wonderful example

 The property started as a farmhouse in the 1690’s and has had a number of later additions to enlarge the house, mainly in the Victorian era, these can be clearly seen from the outside of the building. Entry to the museum is via a cobbled driveway to the rear. Downstairs, the house contains a 1950’s kitchen, complete with lidded bath, a Victorian parlour and dispatch room for home workers collecting wool and returning finished items. 1950’s room with various artifacts, including an original Corah knitting machine dating back to about 1820, once owned by Nathaniel Corah, founding father of Corah. Victorian laundry room.  Upstairs 3 Victorian bedrooms. The yarn room, built in 2008 on the site of a former workshop is used as a reception area, shop and for refreshments. In the courtyard there are signs of former buildings. The Victorian secret walled garden at the back of the property is a surprise to all our visitors. Measuring an area of about 6000 sq feet, it is planted in a traditional cottage garden style. A peaceful and relaxing area away from the noise of the busy road outside. A group of volunteer gardeners of all abilities manage the garden, always looking for more.