Steel, Strength, and Scunthorpe: Ian Lee Reflects on 88 AND OUT

For nearly 90 years, Scunthorpe Plate Mill shaped not only steel but the world itself. From bridges and buildings to battleships and flood defences, the steel plates forged in this historic Northern mill helped support the infrastructure of modern life.

In 88 AND OUT, author and photographer Ian Lee offers a powerful reflection on the site, the people, and the legacy of an industrial giant. With striking photography and personal insight, this book captures the enduring spirit of the mill and the workers whose pride and precision defined its legacy.

We caught up with Ian to learn more about his connection to Scunthorpe Plate Mill, the making of the book, and why preserving industrial history still matters today.

What first inspired you to create a photographic and historical record of the Scunthorpe Plate Mill?

Because nobody else was doing anything to record the place, so I decided to.

Did you or your family have a personal connection to the mill or the steel industry?

I worked there, and my father was a supervisor.

The photographs in the book are incredibly atmospheric. What was your process for capturing the spirit and story of the site?

To show the outside, the world inside a working rolling mill.

As you researched and compiled the book, were there any discoveries that surprised or moved you?

Working there for over 30 years, you still don't know the place until you photograph it from front to back.

The mill's steel has contributed to major global landmarks. Was there one project or structure that stood out to you as especially meaningful?

IBCC in Lincoln. The spire is made of Corten steel, and I was part of the photographic department on the construction of the International Bomber Command Centre in Lincoln.

What was the most challenging part of putting together this kind of book, and what was the most rewarding?

Getting it in a chronological order and then, obviously, the finished article. 

The book is a tribute to the people as much as the place. What do you think made the community around the mill so special?

Guess it was like a family.

For those unfamiliar with Scunthorpe or the mill’s legacy, what do you hope this book will help them understand or appreciate?

The 88 years of production and how it was produced.

Do you think there’s a renewed interest in preserving industrial heritage? How important is it for future generations?

It’s important to preserve all history; it will show them how it was produced for over 80 years.

Where can readers connect with you or find out more about your photography and historical work?

eclipseoneimages@hotmail.com