The picture at the top shows Draper looms in use at the Naumkeag Mill, Salem, Massachusetts, in 1916. The bottom photo, as the caption says, was taken at Interlaken Mills in Harris, Rhode Island. (1917) In both views, the bobbin batteries (also called bobbin hoppers) show up quite clearly. A single loom makes quite a bit of noise. I can't imagine what it was like to be in one of these rooms with all of them operating.    The photos were printed the the Draper monthly, Cotton Chats. The Naumkeag story had the following letter with it:         NAUMKEAG STEAM COTTON COMPANY, SALEM, MASS.                                                                                   Feb 11, 1916 Dear Mr. Stimson:    Every loom, 2644, running at two p.m., Thursday, Feb. 10!       The fire occurred Jan. 25, 1914.We started the first loom in shed Dec. 21st, 1914.This means that you and we have averaged starting over 44 looms per week for 60 weeks! I believe it a most wonderful achievement and most creditable to everyone.       I thank you and everyone connected with the Draper Company for the prompt attention and intense interest manifested in enabling Naumkeag to obtain its normal production in so short a time.  Over 200,000 lbs of cloth last week!                                                                    Yours truly,                                                                     Wm. P. McMullen, Agent                   Draper Menu                                  HOME