New England Ropes Preserves Century-Old Rope-Making Tradition in Fall River

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New England Ropes, a family-owned business in Fall River, Massachusetts, has been preserving a century-old rope-making tradition. The company transforms raw fibers like nylon and polyester into high-strength ropes used by sailors, climbers, rescuers, and even in Hollywood productions. The intricate manufacturing process involves twisting and braiding thousands of strands to create ropes that can withstand over 5,000 pounds of force.

Why it matters

New England Ropes' commitment to maintaining traditional rope-making techniques in the face of modern manufacturing trends highlights the enduring value of skilled craftsmanship and the importance of preserving regional industrial heritage. The company's ropes are trusted by a wide range of industries, demonstrating the continued relevance of this centuries-old textile tradition.

The details

The rope-making process at New England Ropes begins with raw fibers that are carefully tested and selected. These materials are then twisted and braided multiple times to create the final product. Technicians in the lab test the ropes' strength, ensuring they can withstand extreme loads before being approved for use. The company's ropes come in a variety of styles, including traditional three-strand, braided, and kernmantle designs, catering to the diverse needs of their customers.

• New England Ropes traces its roots back to the 19th century Plymouth Cordage Company.
• The company was founded in the 1960s by the former head engineer and sales manager of the Plymouth Cordage Company after it closed.

What’s next

New England Ropes plans to continue its commitment to preserving traditional rope-making techniques while adapting to meet the evolving needs of its diverse customer base.