 The Hudson family sold out to William Walton at the end of the 17th century, starting a family connection lasting almost a hundred years.The enterprise was successful under the Walton's tenure, especially thanks to the efforts of William's widow, Philippa Walton, and the Mills expanded up the Millhead Stream as additional production facilities were added; the material progressing from one building to another as it passed through the various processes.The Waltham Abbey Mills were one of the first examples in the 18th century of an industrialised factory system, not often recognised.