Until a century ago every town and many villages had at least one cooperage. Barrels were needed to transport a vast range of goods - beer, brandy, flour, tobacco and gunpowder. In Irvine herring were stored in casks.

Recruits to the craft had to serve a seven year apprenticeship. Making a barrel calls for great skill to ensure that the result is a watertight container. The COOPERS of Irvine made barrels which were used to export salted fish.

During the 17th Century the COOPER TRADE had lapsed but was reinstated to the INCORPORATION in 1755. In 1791 there were only 7 COOPERS due to the decline in herring fishing.

With the membership of the Trades being opened up in 1911 the DEACON of the COOPERS was an hotel owner. By the tercentenary of the TRADES the COOPER CRAFT numbered 80 Members.