Established in 1890, the Scranton Lace Company was the largest producer of high quality Nottingham Lace in the United States, manufacturing tablecloths, napkins, valances, and shower curtains, among many other types of lace items. The Scranton Lace Company became one of area's largest employers, and the clock tower above the massive factory a Scranton, Pennsylvania landmark.

During the prosperous years, employees were treated to many benefits; a cafeteria, multifunction gymnasium and movie theater, even a bowling alley. Like many other firms during World War II, the company shifted production to the war effort, and Scranton Lace manufactured parachutes and camouflage netting for the US Army. Though the company prospered well into the 1950s, risky investments, outdated manufacturing techniques, and more efficient competitors led to decades of revenue decline, layoffs, and its ultimate closure in 2002. Previous employees describe that final day, an unceremonious company closure happening mid-shift when a vice president announced that the factory was closing and that everyone was to leave the facility "effective immediately." The massive looms stopped in the middle of production, many employees left behind personal items as they departed the factory in their shock and haste.

A surprising amount of history remains in the Scranton Lace Company factory. Unfortunately, neglect and decay have slowly consumed many buildings, items of value were stolen or sold off by past owners, and many other areas have been intentionally damaged or destroyed as salvagers remove and sell scrap metals. There is talk of repurposing the great old buildings into mixed retail-residential uses. I hope that happens. But as time passes and more damage takes place, the likelihood of saving the buildings decreases.

My eye has been increasingly attracted to urban decay. Exploring, researching the history, learning what I can from the past, and photographing the historical subject that remains. I feel empathy for those who live nearby and who once worked here. I can imagine the disappointment they must feel seeing a once thriving factory falling into ruins. Many don't understand the appeal of a subject like this. There is a sadness, but within the abandoned structures I can still see the vitality of decades past, and a haunting beauty in the rust, crumbing plaster and peeling paint.

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