Rusland Tannery 2024

The main tannery building dates from the mid 18th century and consists of a long, narrow, two-storey building, built into the slope behind in the style of a traditional bank barn, which it may originally have been. The building was extended in the 19th century to accomodate a horse-driven bark mill. With the tanning pits and two rebuilt ‘beam stones’ – work surfaces – where tanners scraped the hides. The process needed water, lime and oak bark, which were all available nearby, as well as dog and chicken poo! Rusland produced heavy-duty leather for goods such as boots, straps and harness.