Verdant Works is a museum housed in a historic jute mill in Dundee’s former industrial area of Blackness. The museum is dedicated to Dundee’s prolific textile industries, which generated a huge amount of wealth during the Victorian era. Learn about how the city was built on jute. See the feats of manufacturing, engineering, transportation and design that defined Dundee toward the end of the 19th century.
Enter the museum via a modest brick façade and find yourself in a world of industrial history. This original mill in the industrial district of Dundee, a rare architectural example of a courtyard-type mill, is a protected heritage site. Since 1996, the expertly restored museum has been presenting the community’s industrial history.
Learn about the two opposing effects of jute production on the city’s residents. For many trying to make a living in the city, the textile industry was one of long hours, poor health and roaring machinery. For others, jute brought the wealth and prosperity that put the city on the map and extended it as far as Broughty Ferry.
Explore the fascinating exhibits and learn the tales of the workers. Watch Juteopolis, an informative film that explains the role of jute in Dundee’s industrial history. See the meticulously restored machinery rattle into life and roar in the factory displays.
Interesting multimedia shows illustrate the way of life for workers in Dundee over 100 years ago. Hands-on interactive exhibits make learning easy and fun, while archives and photographic records make the Verdant Works’ history come to life. View period costumes, machinery artifacts, fine art and original business papers. Also on display are small tools, plans and jute products from the era.
Verdant Works is located in Blackness, an industrial district of Dundee. Admission covers entry to the museum, which is wheelchair accessible. Get discounts for children and for combined tickets with the Discovery Point museum. Dundee’s main train station is a 15-minute walk away. Use the free on-site parking. As you leave the Verdant Works museum, visit the café and the Victorian-style gift shop.
