At first, Samuel was an apprentice, but soon had the role of partnership over the business. In 1782, Robert Hyde died, leaving Samuel with as the sole owner.

Samuel Greg started to buy property to expand the business. He then decided that he would need plenty of cotton workers all working together, which would then mean he’d have to have a very large building built.

He wanted to build the ‘factory’ near a fast flowing stream. In 1783, he found one. On the side of River Bollin, north of Wilmslow, he found a place where he could dig a long headrace channel. This would mean that there would be plenty of water to turn a wheel fast. When the wheel would turn, it would provide enough power for all of his machines in the mill.

Samuel Greg built a house near the factory for his family. His wife, Hannah Lightbody had become well known by other business people and factory owners in the new middle classes.

In the 1780s, a lot of factory workers lived in very poor areas and conditions. Samuel was very concerned about the welfare of his workers, so he built houses for them on his land. He also built an apprentice house for the children who worked in the factory so they could learn better and had better medical care.

One of five of his sons, Robert – built a very large mansion at Norcliffe Hall. He too owned mills and other businesses.

Samuel Greg died in 1834, and left his business to his son, Robert Greg. Robert Greg went on to expand his father’s business even more. He died in 1875, leaving the business to his son, Edward Greg.

As you can see, Quarry Bank Mill started off as ones dream and was turned into a reality over generations and generations.