The production of coal fostered an industrial revolution in Prestonpans the monks being eventually replaced by private owners.Thus we had the Meek family responsible for the salt trade which continued until the mid 1960's.

Prestonpans soap works continued production till after the second world war, when the introduction of detergents brought about the demise of this local industry.

The numerous small breweries in and around Prestonpans were eventually replaced by "Fowlers Brewery".Fowlers beer was at one time very popular both locally and elsewhere, "Fowlers Wee Heavy" being universally popular, sadly these are no longer available.

Another important local industry, was the "Gas Works" at Cookies Wynd, gas was produced here from coal, right up to the formation of the Gas Board.

There were several potteries in Prestonpans, Bellfields being the best known. Prestonpans pottery is still much sought after and is in great demand by the various collectors.

Bricks, pipes, tiles, glass, rope and various chemicals such as oil of vitriol are a few of the commodities which were at one time produced locally Prestonpans.

Indeed the harbour at Morrison's Haven was at that time one of the busiest on the Firth of Forth.As business flourished so the town soon grew and the small hamlet built along the shore at Prestonpans began to extend inland.

The church built by the Rev John Davidson was soon proving to be too small.The then minister the Rev Joseph McCormack was responsible for the church being altered and with the addition of galleries was then able to seat 900-1000 people.The church was again renovated in 1891, when a heraldic panel was revealed.