Waveney Rush

Waveney Rush Limited was created on account of the skills and passion of a group of East Anglian Weavers and the ingenuity of a local business that wanted to keep hard working and loyal seasonal workers in employment throughout the entire year. In 1947 an apple growing and harvesting company called Waveney Apple Growers, based in Aldeby, took over... the local rush industry workshop to offer their multitude of seasonal workers a means of employment throughout the winter. The skills of rush weaving were passed from individual to individual, generation to generation, and the business thrived supplying baskets and carpets to National Trust and Heritage properties as well as Royalty, at home and abroad, and many renowned designers and notable individuals. Our rush matting is still known by some today as 'apple matting' on account of this past affiliation with Waveney Apple Growers. In 1999 Waveney Apple Growers relocated and the rush business was sold separately and renamed Waveney Rush Limited. The Truman family purchased the business and operations were transferred from Aldeby to its current site at The Old Maltings on the North Bank of Oulton Broad. The family have remained committed to the cause of preserving the craft and the knowledge and unique skills of the team of weavers amidst difficult economic conditions and fierce competition from imported imitations. New weavers have been trained, and visits from local groups and enthusiasts are welcomed and enjoyed by all. The craft of rush weaving dates back to Anglo-Saxon times and is believed to be East Anglia's oldest recorded industry. Rush weaving prospered as a cottage industry and groups of ladies would gather in their houses and villages to use the locally sourced rushes to weave baskets and carpets. In medieval times rushes would be strewn on the floors for warmth; in latter years the rushes were then braided and sewn together to make beautiful and practical carpets for the more affluent. Rush mattresses were also commonly used by the upper classes as one ...Read More