This panel describes Robert Owen’s reforms at New Lanark Mills. At age 20, Owen became a successful factory manager and later, with support from business partners, bought the mills in 1799. He improved working and living conditions for workers, especially children. He promoted education, reduced harsh labour practices, and showed that industry could thrive without exploitation. His work became a model for social and economic reform.

This exhibition panel is from the ‘Robert Owen Utopian Legacy Exhibition’, originally held at Newtown Library in May of 2025, on the life and legacy of Robert Owen (1771-1858) the philanthropic Welsh Business & Social Entrepreneur and pioneer of infant education and the co-operative movement.