Macclesfield

England, United Kingdom

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Article History

Macclesfield, town and former borough (district), Cheshire East unitary authority, historic county of Cheshire, northwestern England. The former borough included a narrow strip of the Pennines in the east that is part of the Peak District National Park.

Macclesfield was the centre of the silk industry. The manufacture of silk-covered buttons began in the 16th century, and silk throwing was introduced in 1756, when the first silk mill was built. By the end of the 18th century the silk industry was flourishing, but silk production ceased in the late 20th century. The town is now primarily an administrative and service centre, with several corporate offices. Pop. (2001) 50,688; (2011) 56,581.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Kenneth Pletcher.