The Langdale Linen Industry was set up in Westmorland, Cumbria, by Alfred Fleming, with the support and patronage of William Ruskin (1819-1900) and upon earlier work carried out by Miss Susanne Beever (1805-1893), who came from the area and who was the editor of Ruskin's book, Modern Painters. The Industry was initally led by Fleming's housekeeper, Marian Twelves.