THe site was originally an Ironworks. Hydrocon Cranes, were set up in the old Iron works in 19 ? and built early Hydraulic cranes on truck chassis from the Scottish Albion Motors company. Hydrocaon were taken over in the 197?s and the factory closed down. Summerlee Industrial Museum was created in the old works in ? after the Hydrocon company had closed down. It was opened to show the industrial heritage of the are and featured Industrial related displays with exhibits relating to the old Iron works and the local coal industry, as well as local transport related themes and exhibits.