Nailers Shop at No 8 Joseph Street, Belper, Derbyshire
An early 19th century nailer's workshop. This building is a rare survival of this once important industry in Belper. Hand made nails were generally made in small workshops next to the workers houses. This is known as a 'cottage industry'. Long iron rods were sold to the nailers by middle men called nail masters and made into nails by the nailer. The nails were then sold back to the master for a small amount of money per nail made. He then sold them on and made a large profit. This system lasted until machine made nails were introduced in the early 20th century. The nickname of Belper Town FC is the 'Nailers'.