Blaydon, Chemical Works

Chemical Works. This was the Blaydon Manure and Alkali Company works. Horse and cow manure was processed to produce potash, soda and phosphorus. This area, where the river turns north for a short distance, was known as 'Blaydon Spike'. The name is said to date back to 1856 when captured Russian guns were brought here after the Crimean War to be spiked (the vent plugged up). Blaydon Chemical Company (and prepared bone manure) had their office at 13 Half Moon Court, Bigg Market. Theur agent was Anthony Harrison.