Description: Hand crafted firebricks were made at Prestongrange using wood moulds like this one. Moulds were made for each different specification; this would produce a tapering, wedge-shaped brick. This is a wooden former made from four sections secured with iron bolts and screws. The central cavity is lined with steel plates, again secured by screws. The depth of the cavity diminishes along its length. The wood is stained gray with clay residues. Even though the ownership of Prestongrange Brick and Tile Works changed hands three times in the 20th century, the works relied on a core of craftsmen. They had the skills to make 'specials' to customers' requirements, and did so up until the closure of the works in 1975. Accession Number - 1996.458.2
