The creation of New Lanark is linked to the use of Clyde waterfalls to power new cotton weaving centres. In 1800, its creator, David Dale, sold the weaving houses to his future son-in-law, Robert Owen, a social reformer who took charge of the factories for the next 25 years, implementing a series of social experiments. He created an apprenticeship building, village store and school. The renovated village was named a UNESCO world heritage site in 2001.