THE CENTURY'S PROGRESS - LANCASHIRE.
The London Printing and Engraving Co.

THROUGHOUT the entire United Kingdom the social, political, and commercial progress achieved during the century that is now drawing to a close has been unparalleled in the history of our country, and presents a subject which is well worthy of consideration in its various aspects. The progress to which we refer has not been a movement in merely one or two directions; it has been the general advancement of the whole nation in everything that is of vital consequence to the satisfactory course of human life, and to the due development of the influences of refinement and the advantages of prosperity. Especially marked has been the onward march of enterprise in commerce and industry, with which we shall, in these pages, more particularly concern ourselves; and here again we note the many-sided nature of our national achievements. Every branch of trade and manufacture to which British energy, skill, and capital have been devoted, from the dawn of the nineteenth century down to the day and year in which we are living, may truly be said to have prospered and flourished in an extraordinary degree; and now, wherever we look within the limits of the British Isles we may note the evidences of this prosperity and of the splendid energy and industry that have brought it to pass.

No finer example of latter-day advancement in the useful arts and industries, and in the various departments of trade which contribute to the well-being of a nation in general or of a community in particular, can be cited than that which is afforded by the present condition of the county named at the head of this page.

Lancashire has been justly styled “the workshop of the world,” and its people have time and again proved themselves pre-eminent in the possession of those qualities and capabilities which tend to establish success and supremacy in commerce and manufacture. In magnitude of population, in volume of mercantile undertakings, and in the internal resources which contribute to the prosperity of its thousand and one enterprises in trade and production, Lancashire stands as the premier county of England to-day; and within its borders are situated some of the greatest and busiest centres of commercial activity to be met with in any quarter of the globe.

The historic county palatine and maritime shire to which we are now devoting our attention is situated in the north-western corner of England, and is bounded by Westmoreland, Cumberland, Yorkshire, Cheshire, and the Irish Sea. It has an area of 1,208,154 acres, and its greatest length is about 85 miles, the greatest breadth being 46 miles. A detached part of the county, cut off from the main portion by Morecambe Bay and southern Westmoreland, bears the name of Furness. Here iron is abundant. Other parts of the county yield various mineral products, and the Lancashire coalfield — one of the greatest in Britain — has an area of about 220 square miles. It lies between the rivers Ribble and Mersey, and its vast product of coal has contributed enormously towards the establishment of Lancashire’s world-wide industrial fame. The manufactures carried on in this county are of great variety and importance. Cotton spinning and weaving are, of course, preeminent, and the cotton industry of Lancashire is certainly without a rival in magnitude. Other textiles are also produced, and the manufacture of machinery, engines, and many other articles in general demand engages the services of thousands of workpeople of both sexes. Lancashire is intersected in every direction by a network of railways and canals, and in every respect it possesses the most ample facilities for the proper conduct of the vast undertakings of a mercantile and productive character in which the great majority of its inhabitants are employed. Under conditions of restricted space, our general review of Lancashire and its principal business centres must, of necessity, be concise in the matter of details, and it may be here appropriately inaugurated by a brief survey of the history and achievements of what has now become its largest municipal community — the second city in the United Kingdom, and one of the foremost seaports in the world.

We refer, of course, to Liverpool, the maritime metropolis of Lancashire and north-western England, whose history furnishes a most remarkable illustration of the rapid development of civic influence and mercantile organisation among an intelligent and enterprising people. It is no secret to the majority of our readers that this “queen of British ports” was once an insignificant hamlet, boasting of no greater structural importance than that embodied in the existence of a few poor huts, inhabited by the fishermen and herdsmen who plied their calling on the river and in the immediate neighbourhood. Equally familiar is the story of its wonderful modern advancement, and those who care to look up the records in such matters will find that, as recently as the year 1801, Liverpool had a population of less than 80,000. Between 1831 and 1841 the number of its inhabitants increased by nearly 100,000, viz., from 189,244 to 286,487; and the census of 1881 gave the population of the city in that year as 558,425, being an increase of nearly 60,000 over the figures for 1871. The assumption that this ratio of increase has been maintained is fully justified by the results of the census of 1891. It has been said of Liverpool that it is a city in which “there are riches overflowing, and everything that can delight a man who wishes to see the prosperity of a great community and a great empire.” For all this the place is indebted entirely to the spirited enterprise, integrity, and unflagging industry of those who have participated in its commercial affairs, and aided the development of its mercantile importance by their energy and ability as exponents of the many trades in which the city has gained universal fame.

Liverpool did not rise into prominence either as a port or as a town until the latter half of the seventeenth century; but its history may be traced back to quite a remote period, and it is believed to be mentioned in Domesday Book under the name of Esmedune. Camden, the historian, tells us that Roger of Poitiers (to whom William the Conqueror made a grant of the country between the rivers Mersey and Ribble) built a castle here about the year 1089. King John gave the place its first municipal charter, and Henry III, made it a free borough in 1225. About a hundred years later Liverpool was constituted an independent port, but this distinction does not appear to have been of much practical value, for in 1571 “the people of her Majesty’s decayed town of Liverpool” petitioned Queen Elizabeth for relief by subsidy. Leland, in 1559, refers tm the place as a “paved town,” but it continued to remain in comparative obscurity for fully a hundred years after this. Its possession was, however, a point of dispute in the Civil War, and it was besieged and captured by Prince Rupert in 1644. Ten years prior to this, Charles I. had rated the town for “ship money” in only £26; and “Haydn’s Dictionary of Dates” gives us a notable insight into what the real modern development of Liverpool has amounted to by recording the fact that in 1888 the income of the estates of the Corporation was about twelve millions and a half sterling, from renewal fines, &c., whereas in 1672 the same income stood at the paltry figure of £13!

After the restoration of Charles II., and largely in consequence of the Plague and the Great Fire, many London merchants removed to Liverpool, and soon after this the trade of the town began to flourish. William III. granted a new charter to the Corporation, the river channel was cleared and deepened for navigation up to Runcorn, and the “old dock” was constructed in 1699, the first ship to enter it being the “Marlborough” on June 8th, 1700. Subsequent records show continuous progress. Chester was superseded in the trade of the Irish Sea; and soon Bristol found for the first time a formidable rival in the trade with the West Indies, Virginia, France, Spain, and the west coast of Africa. In the latter part of the eighteenth century the manufacturing districts of South Lancashire became connected with the growing port of the Mersey by the construction of the Duke of Bridgewater’s famous canal. This great waterway opened up navigable communication between Liverpool and Manchester, and enabled the citizens of the two places to engage in a brisk traffic in foreign yarns.

The invention of the spinning jenny and the power-loom, coupled with the extensive development of the coal trade in Lancashire (by which steam engines were set to work in many parts of the county) created a revolution in local textile industries, and soon the Liverpool ship-owners found ample scope for their energy and capital in the importation of raw cotton. The progress of scientific navigation conferred immense benefit upon the port, and from the advent of the first steam vessel in the Mersey we may fairly date the modern history of Liverpool. That was in 1815, and by the year 1824 the town could boast of no less than ten thousand vessels carrying merchandise to and from all parts of the world.

From the valuable “Dictionary of Dates” above referred to we quote the following prominent events in the subsequent history of Liverpool. First it may be mentioned that the town offered a vigorous resistance to the Young Pretender in 1745; that Salthouse Dock was opened in 1753; that the town equipped and manned a very large number of privateers at the commencement of the war with France in 1778; and that the King’s and the Queen’s Docks were constructed about 1785. During all this time much progress had been made in the improvement of the town and the erection of public buildings, and this progress had only been temporarily interfered with by the occurrence of several destructive fires. In March, 1830, Blackrock Lighthouse was completed and the first light shown; and in September of that year the Clarence Dock was completed. The same year witnessed that memorable event, the opening of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway (September 15th, 1830), a line about 31 miles long, and the first grand work of its kind. Four years later the Waterloo Dock was opened, and the opening of the Victoria and Trafalgar Docks occurred in 1836. In July, 1837, the Liverpool and Birmingham (Grand Junction) Railway was opened; and in September, 1838, the railway to London (now the London and North-Western Railway) was opened its entire length. Her Majesty the Queen visited Liverpool in October, 1851; and during the following twenty-five or thirty years there transpired many events which stand as notable landmarks along the pathway of the town’s progress towards the high distinction and influence it has now achieved. One of these events, of special noteworthiness, was the establishment of the bishopric of Liverpool in March, 1880; and in the following month the town was duly nominated for elevation to the dignity of a city—an honour which it had long deserved and worthily earned. In July, 1881, operations were begun upon the new waterworks, which have their source of supply at the valley of Vyrnwy, in Wales. The month of October in the same year witnessed the opening of the Alexandra Dock by the Prince and Princess of Wales, and the University College was inaugurated by the Earl of Derby on January 14th, 1882. February 13th, 1885, was made memorable by the opening of that great piece of engineering, the Mersey Tunnel; and in May, 1886, her Majesty the Queen again visited the city for the purpose of opening the Liverpool International Exhibition of Navigation, Commerce, &c. On that occasion the honour of knighthood was bestowed upon Alderman David Radcliffe, who at that time filled the mayoral chair of the city with such conspicuous credit and distinction. Liverpool celebrated the Queen’s Jubilee year by the holding of a highly successful Royal Jubilee Exhibition, which was opened on May 16th, 1887, by Her Royal Highness the Princess Louise.

Many quaint and interesting traditions are held concerning the origin of the name of Liverpool. It is claimed by some writers that it has been derived from a species of wort found on the shore and called “liverwort.” Others surmise that the name is taken from that of a local family called Lever, but this family has not been proved to be of sufficient antiquity to justify the theory. In some-old records the town is mentioned as Lyrpool, which has led a few historians to suggest that the name simply signifies “lower pool.” Finally we have the widely-accepted story of the “liver,” a species of waterfowl which is believed to have frequented the neighbourhood in former times. This species of bird is now certainly extinct, but as a proof that it once existed the arms of the borough are brought forward, and in them we note that the crest is a bird which is supposed to be the liver. As a matter of fact it is impossible to clearly establish the identity of this heraldic bird, and, like many other armorial symbols, it might easily have been a creature of the imagination. Dr. Enfield says that the proper name of the city is distinctly Liverpool and that it was so-called in the original charter granted by King John. The pool on the borders of which the early inhabitants built up the village which has since become such a mighty centre of life and business, occupied the site of the present Custom House, the General Post Office, and the Revenue Buildings; and the tide flowed in the direction of Paradise Street.

Whatever may have been the real origin of the place or the derivation of its name, or however interesting a profound historical research might be to the curious, the enormous activity of the city to-day is still more interesting, and supplies sufficient food for reflection to all who may be in any degree absorbed in studying the progress of British commerce. The trade of Liverpool has developed into an everlasting institution, exercising an immense influence in the mercantile operations of the world, and in this one great city where people from every land and clime may be met with, the products of the whole world find a ready and convenient market. Who would think, to look upon the city to-day, that its people in the days of “good Queen Bess” could have been brought to the necessity of craving relief for “her Majesty’s poore decayed towne of Liverpool”? The Corporation of the city now ranks as one of the richest in the United Kingdom, and Liverpool itself is regarded as the second city in the Empire in commerce, wealth, and population.

Topographically, Liverpool presents many excellent features, and the plan of the city is, for the most part, of a regular character, suggesting the carrying out of many important structural improvements in modern times. The streets of the city are full of life and bustle, and must be a vast improvement upon what they were a century ago. In those olden days hackney coaches were almost unknown, sedan chairs being a favourite and general means of conveyance; the introduction of the umbrella was not anticipated; gentlemen figured in wigs and cocked hats; and every aspect of ordinary life stood out in striking contrast to its counterpart at the present day. Travelling was a matter of the greatest inconvenience. Two stage coaches performed the journey to London in two days and nights in summer and three in winter. A coach was despatched once a week to Lancaster and Kendal. Those whose means did not allow them to travel by coach were obliged to have recourse to a wagon, which was also used, for the conveyance of merchandise, and by this means the journey was performed in a week. Contrast those days with the present, when the distance between London and Liverpool is traversed in four hours, and it will be at once seen how greatly we are indebted to the advancement of modern science and the progressive character of the men who have spent their lives in contributing to the “century’s progress.”

A square mile of ground, ascending from the level of the Prince’s Landing Stage and Prince’s Dock, includes the area occupied by the principal business thoroughfares of Liverpool and the most conspicuous public buildings of the city. The leading streets in this busy district are Tithebarn Street, Water Street, and Chapel Street, noted for their great shipping, insurance, and cotton houses; Dale Street, with its stately blocks of general warehouses, and public offices of various kinds; and Victoria Street, Lord Street, Church Street, Ranelagh Street, Bold Street, Hanover Street, and Duke Street, all of which are remarkable for the extent and magnificence of their mercantile establishments. These streets are crossed at various angles by Castle Street and South Castle Street, North and South John Street, and Lime Street, opening out in a wide space around St. George’s Hall, in front of the London and North-Western Railway terminus. The architectural features of the above-named streets are most creditable to the taste of the citizens, and speak volumes for the vast wealth and enterprise which can bring so many superb edifices into existence within such a comparatively circumscribed area. Of course Liverpool stretches out far beyond the limits we are now discussing — its miles of streets and acres of houses extend over an immense expanse of ground on the rising land above the Mersey; but in the square mile or so which we have spoken of lies the great heart of the city, and the life-giving source of all its vitality and energy. Here are the colossal warehouses and trading emporia for which Lancashire’s great port is world-famous; and those who wish to view the city in its most characteristic aspects must spend most of their time in these haunts of commerce, and note with an observant eye the manifold operations carried on therein.

Passing outside of this busy, bustling pale of mercantile activity, we may take the opportunity to note that the remainder of the city, out to its remotest suburbs, is admirably laid out and well built; and the numerous parks and places of public recreation, provided for the benefit of the inhabitants by the municipal government of the city, are allowed by all who visit them to be among the finest in Great Britain. These parks, which contribute so largely to the health of the populace and to the spread of refining influences among the people, are six in number, viz., Prince’s Park, Sefton Park, Newsham Park, Shirl Park, Stanley Park, and Wavertree Park, with which is associated that highly popular resort, the Botanic Gardens, adjacent to Edge Hill Station on the London and North-Western line.

Each is a remarkable and beautiful specimen of the art of gardening upon a large scale, and Prince’s Park may take the lead among its fellows. For size, taste, and perfection of arrangement it stands in the front rank of the public parks of the kingdom. Hardly less delightful is Sefton Park, and the magnificent conservatories and extensive hothouses, surrounded by beautiful flowerbeds, illustrating equally well the skill of the gardener and the taste of the florist, lend an air of enchantment to the fine park of Wavertree, which it would indeed be difficult to surpass. Newsham Park has become famous in modern history for supplying Newsham House as a residence for her Majesty the Queen while on a visit to the city to open the International Exhibition of 1886. Apart from this fact the park is highly attractive and picturesque in itself, and forms a most popular resort for the inhabitants of the districts of Kensington, West Derby, and Tuebrook. Stanley Park, situated in the neighbourhoods of Everton and Anfield, affords a place of recreation for dwellers in the North End.

Liverpool is well furnished with places of amusement, and in this respect it lacks none of the conspicuous features of the metropolis, possessing, as it does, seven or eight theatres and six music-halls, all of which are managed with ability and energy by their respective proprietors and directors. The people of Liverpool are noted for their fondness for musical and dramatic entertainments, and their requirements in such matters are certainly well looked after by those who cater to the amusement of the public here.

We have space only for a very brief survey of the notable public edifices and places of interest in Liverpool, but even the concise review of the city would be incomplete without some mention of the many noble buildings and institutions of which every Liverpudlian is justly proud. Some of these are fine specimens of Corinthian, Renaissance, and other orders of architecture, and their ranks are headed by the superb pile known as St. George’s Hall, one of the noblest examples of Grecian architecture in Great Britain, and a structure worthy of its dedication to the patron saint of merry England. The Hall was designed by Mr. H. H. Elmes in 1838, and was erected at a cost of no less than £330,000. It is 500 feet long, with a stately colonnade, and the southern portico, with its pediment adorned with massive sculptures, representing Britannia, Mercury, Europe, Asia, Africa, America, and the English arts and sciences, rises above a flight of steps 150 feet wide. The building in its entirety consists of a central and two outlying blocks, containing respectively a Concert Room and the Assize Courts. The great hall in the central block is a magnificent chamber, provided with a superb organ and forming one of the largest and handsomest halls for musical entertainments in the United Kingdom. The organ recitals given here by Mr. Best, organist to the Corporation, are much appreciated by lovers of music in the city. The Free Library and Museum in William Brown Street are notable institutions of Liverpool; and the Walker Art Gallery, in the same quarter, is a fine building in the Corinthian, style — the gift of Sir Andrew Barclay Walker, who was mayor of Liverpool in 1873. In this establishment the city possesses an art gallery worthy of her rank and status among British communities. Close to these buildings stands the Wellington Monument, a fine column, 80 feet high, surmounted by a statue of the Iron Duke. This was erected in 1863. The Town Hall in Dale Street, fronting Castle Street, is one of the most interesting buildings in the city; and behind it is the Exchange, with an intervening paved area called “Exchange Flags,” the resort of the city merchants and commercial men in general. On these “flags” rises the Nelson Monument, a colossal statue in bronze, emblematical at once of the glorious victory and not less glorious death of the hero it commemorates.

Higher up Dale Street are situated the handsome Municipal Offices, a stately building in the Roman Corinthian style, completed in 1868 at a cost of over £100,000. The interior comprises about one hundred rooms, all devoted to the public business of the city, and all admirably adapted to their several purposes. On the opposite side of the way stand the Police Office, the Petty Sessions, and the Coroners’ Courts; while in Hatton Garden may be seen the headquarters of Liverpool’s well-organised and highly efficient fire brigade, an extensive and commodious modern building, exhibiting all the latest appliances used in the extinction of fires and the salvage of life and property. The Liverpool Custom House occupies the site of the old dock, and is a pleasing and effective piece of Ionic architecture, laid out upon a most extensive scale to accommodate the General Post Office, the Inland Revenue Department, and the Dock Offices.

Near the Custom House stands the Sailors’ Home, one of the most imposing buildings in the city. This useful institution has done a noble and invaluable work in affording help and shelter to many a weary and wandering seafarer from the ranks of the thousands of mariners whose services are of such vast importance in the maritime operations of Liverpool. The foundation-stone of the home was laid, by the late Prince Consort in 1846.

Liverpool possesses no fewer than 180 places of worship, meeting the needs of nearly every religious denomination found in England, and some of the principal, churches are large and handsome edifices, architecturally attractive and structurally commodious. The bishopric of Liverpool was established in 1880, and the fine old parish church of St. Peter, in Church Street, was appointed to be the pro-cathedral. It is a spacious and interesting fane in itself, but is not by any means adequate to maintain the episcopal dignity of such an important and, presumably, wealthy see as this. We understand that there is a scheme on foot to erect a new and magnificent cathedral for the city at a cost of something like half a million sterling, and we believe that designs for the building have already been submitted and a suitable site fixed upon. If this be so, let us hope that the necessary funds will be soon forthcoming, and that the city may ere long rejoice in the possession of a cathedral edifice that shall do credit to all concerned in its erection.

Closely allied with the work of the Church is that of school and college, and Liverpool is remarkable for the number and excellence of its educational establishments. It now has its University under distinguished patronage, and destined, no doubt, to produce some of the cleverest men of our time, and its numerous museums, art galleries, reading-rooms, libraries, &c., supply an ample fund of educational resources, the influence and effect of which cannot be other than satisfactory in an eminent degree. Charitable institutions also abound in this progressive and public-spirited community, and while liberal provision has been made for the poor and the destitute, the physical wants of afflicted humanity have not been neglected. No city in England is better equipped in the matter of hospitals, and the chief of these — the Royal Infirmary, in Ashton Street — is an institution that any community might be proud to possess. It is a magnificent edifice from a structural point of view, situated in the heart of the city, and with every desirable facility of access. No institution of the kind in Great Britain could render more valuable service to the public, and capably managed and provided with a staff of the most eminent medical and surgical practitioners in England, its operations are fully appreciated. The Northern Hospital, in Great Howard Street, is another famous institution of a similar kind; and this and the Stanley Hospital, in Stanley Road, cater to the needs of the inhabitants of the North End. Many an industrious workman, plying his vocation in one or other of the many capacities in which manual labour is called into requisition in a great seaport and seat of trade, owes his life and continued bodily vigour to the timely aid extended by these perfectly-organised headquarters of medical and surgical relief. The Southern Hospital, in Hill Street, confers a similar benefit upon the people of the South End, and there are several minor hospitals, &c., in other parts of the city which play a creditable part in the same noble work. The general organisation and system of all these establishments, and the excellence of the management in each case, cannot be too highly commended, and the hospitals of Liverpool, like the benevolent institutions of the city, reflect the highest credit upon the government under which they are conducted, and upon the liberality and charity of the citizens who support them by their contributions.

We have room for only a word or two concerning the almost unrivalled railway facilities now enjoyed by Liverpool, but it would be unpardonable to omit to acknowledge the indebtedness of the city to that potent agent and forerunner of civilisation, the “Iron Horse.” Although Liverpool is mainly a maritime city, resting its prosperity largely upon its seafaring connections, it has had much to do with the progress of railway enterprise in this country, and our readers will not need to be reminded of the fact that the first railway opened for public traffic on a large scale in England was the line inaugurated between Liverpool and Manchester in 1830. Since then the city has made vast strides in commercial expansion, constantly aided in its advancement by the railways it has ever been prominent in encouraging; and at the present day there is not a principal line in Great Britain that does not possess ready and effective communication with the great port of the Mersey.

That wonderful engineering achievement, the Mersey Tunnel, also calls for mention here, inasmuch as it has accomplished more than even the magnificent and world-famous service of ferry steamers plying between Liverpool and Birkenhead. It has overcome the geographical obstacles that intervene between the two towns, and has made these busy ports well-nigh one and indivisible, despite the sometimes boisterous protest of the broad river beneath whose bed this subterranean railway has been carried. The tunnel was first projected in 1866, and though operations were frequently suspended, the energy of Major Isaac at length secured the completion of the boring in 1884, and the first passenger train was run through on December 22nd, 1885. Designed originally to afford increased and permanent means of communication, between Liverpool and Birkenhead, the Mersey Tunnel has now assumed a position of still higher and more national importance as a notable link in the railway system of the country.

The civic and municipal government of Liverpool is vested in a Corporation consisting of forty-eight councillors, elected by the burgesses in sixteen wards, with a mayor and sixteen aldermen elected by the council. There are also a recorder, stipendiary magistrate, town clerk, and various other officials charged with the performance of important public duties; and no body of men could acquit themselves of these responsibilities with greater credit to themselves or higher advantage to the community. The lighting and general improvement of the city are under the management of the Corporation, who are also empowered to make bye-laws for the regulation of the police, hackney coachmen, porters, &c. The police force (comprising borough, dock, and fire police) is under the control of a watch committee, who instruct a head constable in the discharge of his duties, and anyone who has lived in the city will be ready to pay a well-deserved tribute of admiration to the efficiency and excellent organisation of the police force in all its departments. Political life in Liverpool has developed immense activity within the last fifty or sixty years, and the city now returns nine members to Parliament, one from each of its divisions.

The Press in Liverpool, as in all other important mercantile and political centres, exercises a most powerful influence over the lives of the citizens and the progress of their affairs; and some mention of the manner in which the “fourth estate” is here represented must find a place even in tins brief review. There are five prominent newspapers published daily in the city, and of these the “Post,” the “Mercury,” and the “Courier” may be placed in the front rank of provincial journalism. The “Liverpool Daily Post” is one of the most popular Liberal organs published in the North of England. No newspaper in the kingdom is better conducted, nor is there one whose utterances are received with more general respect and confidence. The “Courier” is the organ of the Conservative party, and is equally remarkable in this capacity, leading the Tory opinion of the city. Its general tone and character are eminently creditable to the management, and the commendable absence of political and religious intolerance is a feature that merits more than ordinary mention. The “Liverpool Mercury” has long been established, and is a commercial and political organ of first-class standing. Independent in tone, it is one of the most esteemed of northern newspapers, and as a mercantile journal it has hardly a rival out of London. The evening papers of Liverpool are also interesting, perhaps the most successful of them all being the “Echo,” an offshoot of the “Daily Post.” The “Courier” sends forth the “Evening Express,” which does good service in its particular sphere in the political arena.

It is practically impossible to enumerate here the many “weeklies” issued in this city. Suffice it to say that the “Weekly Post,” “Weekly Mercury,” and “Weekly Courier” take the lead, and form excellent and esteemed general newspapers, enjoying a wide and influential circulation. Several trade journals are also published, and the “Liverpool Journal of Commerce” is one of the best productions of its kind in the country. The “Shipping Telegraph” has an extensive maritime clientèle; the “Chronicle” is well supported by sportsmen, and lovers of wit, satire, and “smart” criticism are well advised in giving their favour and allegiance to the lively and spirited “Porcupine.” On the whole, the journalistic resources of Liverpool are great, and it is impossible to ignore the benefits which have been conferred upon the city and district by the intelligent and independent action of its well- directed local press in all matters affecting the welfare of the community, or that of the nation at large.

Many large volumes might be filled in recounting the commercial achievements of Liverpool during the last two hundred years, and in surveying the eminent position to which the port has now attained as a result of the continuous progress of those two centuries. In the course of mercantile events in the modern world there is certainly no community, at home or abroad, that has battled so earnestly or so triumphantly with a host of difficulties, or more successfully turned serious disadvantages to ultimate profit than has this great and ever-growing Lancashire city; and we may find the secret of all this success in the manner in which the people of Liverpool have availed themselves of the aid of modern science and invention. Two or three hundred years ago anybody who could survey the Mersey at this point and note the general conformation of the land and river, would have declared it impossible ever to make more than a second-rate port here. True, there were geographical advantages in the position, but the seeming and actual difficulties lying in the way of utilising those advantages would have appeared too great to have been properly overcome. Such an opinion as this might certainly have been formed by one unacquainted with the tremendous energy and industry of the Lancastrian people; but that energy and industry have proved predominant, and have made at Liverpool a port which is absolutely unsurpassed, and probably unequalled in perfection of accommodation for great masses of shipping by any other in the world.

The Liverpool docks are now an institution familiar to, and engaging the attention of, the commercial men of the globe. For miles they stretch along the banks of the Mersey, providing accommodation for ships of every country under the sun; and the towering warehouses that accompany them are packed with the products of every clime and the wares of every market. At the time of the civil war between Charles I. and the Parliament, Liverpool, with a population of about 4,000, is said to have possessed only 24 ships, of an aggregate burthen of 462 tons, and manned by 76 sailors. By the beginning of the eighteenth century the population had risen to 5,000, and the, number of ships to 102, with a total burthen of nearly 9,000 tons. The city was gaining yearly in mercantile activity, and with the growing importance of the port there came a necessity for an improvement in its commercial facilities. Accordingly, the Corporation obtained power to construct docks, and the foundation of the dock estate of Liverpool was laid, with little idea, perhaps, that it would ever assume its present magnitude and importance. From that time onward the trade of Liverpool has advanced with giant strides, and the port has never forfeited the respect and confidence of the commercial world. As the facilities of traffic — both inland and oceanic — increased, so did the demand for dock accommodation become more pressing, and in 1753 the Salthouse Dock was completed and opened. Progress then became the ruling feature of the city’s life, and each succeeding year furnished fresh proofs of continued development. The George’s Dock, the King’s Dock, and the Queen’s Dock were successfully constructed and inaugurated, and in one hundred years the number of vessels had increased from 102 to 4,518, while the population rose to 77,000. In 1800 no less than 4,746 ships entered the Mersey, and from this the Corporation derived a revenue of over £82,000, as compared with £804 4s. 3d. in 1699.

In 1814 the East India Company’s charter having broken the monopoly previously enjoyed by that powerful corporation, a fresh opportunity presented itself to Liverpool enterprise, and a new trade was opened, the subsequent expansion of which has found ample scope for the lucrative employment of a large proportion of the port’s shipping. Simultaneously with the development of this eastern trade, a further advantage was gained by the reopening of the long-suspended intercourse with France and the United States. The first American ship entered the Mersey on May 3rd, 1815, and was received with loud acclamation from the crowds who had gathered on the quays to witness her arrival. The corresponding event in New York occurred on April 5th, 1815, and was thus announced in one of the newspapers of that city:— “The regular British packet from Liverpool, after an absence of nearly three years, at length reappears in our harbour, in token of returning amity. We hail with sensations of gladness the joyful omen, and may no inauspicious event ever occur again to banish her from our waters!”

Changes were yet in progress which were destined to revolutionise the commercial methods, not alone of Liverpool, but of the world. The value of steam as a motive power had been abundantly tested, and in June, 1815, the first steamboat appeared in the Mersey. She came from the Clyde, and was fitted to carry passengers, in which capacity she plied between Liverpool and Runcorn. Soon afterwards other steamboats were built, with the object of instituting better communication between Liverpool and the Cheshire side of the Mersey; and in this way was started that most valuable and unrivalled service now known as the Birkenhead or Woodside ferry-boats. On June 20th, 1819, occurred an event ever memorable, the arrival from America of the Savannah, the first steamer to attempt and accomplish the passage of the Atlantic. It was not, however, until 1838 that any great advantages were gained by the use of steam in the transatlantic service. In that year several large steampackets began to ply between Liverpool and the United States, and soon a fleet of seventeen steamers was actively engaged in this service, accomplishing the passage in from fourteen to eighteen days. The improvements which then rapidly ensued have resulted in the constitution of those splendid fleets of steamships that sail to-day from the Mersey to all parts of the world; and the enterprise that has brought these mighty vessels into existence has given to Liverpool its proud pre-eminence among the seaports of the globe. The city’s name is inseparably associated with the building up and development of the marvellous service of swift-sailing steamships which have brought the Old and the New Worlds within a few days’ journey of each other; and Liverpool’s renown in this matter is deservedly shared by such eminent and influential shipping corporations as the Cunard Line, the White Star Line, the Allan and the Dominion Lines, the Inman and International Line and many other great concerns, to whose energy and progressive spirit the great world of travellers and merchants owes a lasting debt of gratitude.

Liverpool maintains maritime connections with every port under the sun, and controls a universal commerce, the magnitude of which is almost incomprehensible to the ordinary mind. Her imports and exports are now calculated in millions, and nearly the whole of the raw cotton imported into this country is brought to Liverpool. Almost every conceivable trade finds representation at the hands of the wholesale and retail merchants of the city; and sugar refineries, breweries, rope-works, glass-works, brass and iron foundries, soda-works and watch and jewellery factories, help to provide the population with the means of livelihood. The amount of shipping in the port increases year by year, and the short space of a decade is sufficient to effect a truly marvellous change in the activity of the docks and the streets, in the volume of trade done, and in the facilities for the conduct of that trade, as well as in the area of the city, the multitude of its population, and the prosperity of the great mass of its inhabitants.

A glance at the space at our disposal warns us that we must bring this brief sketch of the career of the great north-western mart and seaport to a close, and proceed to consider some of the sister communities that have played a worthy and honourable part in the work of placing Lancashire in the fore-front of English counties. Liverpool presents a subject so vast and so comprehensive in its different aspects at the present day that one might write upon it almost ad infinitum. To trace the growth and history of a great nineteenth-century city, and to follow up the development of its commercial and social affairs, and survey the lives of its inhabitants in the various spheres in which their lots are cast, is a labour that will always be replete with interest and attraction to the student of national progress. But in the case of Liverpool, even were the most colossal task of this kind to be fully and faithfully accomplished, it would amount to nothing more than a voluminous tribute to the purely human energies of the place. By her people has Liverpool been made what she is: and in the character of her people she will always possess a strong and unfailing assurance of continued advancement and prosperity.

MANCHESTER, the inland metropolis of Lancashire, the great headquarters of the cotton textile trade, and one of the busiest and most influential mercantile cities in Europe, has a name which is known throughout the civilised world, and a fame which has penetrated to the most distant quarters of the habitable globe. The writing of all that might legitimately be written concerning this remarkable, and in many respects unique, community of merchants and manufacturers would fill many large volumes, and as we have neither the time nor the space necessary for the compilation of such a work of history and description as this would imply, our readers must be content with a brief and unpretentious survey of the place and its people — a survey that will be amplified by the articles that follow later on, with reference to individual firms in the various lines of trade for which this city is universally renowned.

Manchester is a very ancient as well as a surpassingly interesting place, though but comparatively little of its early history can be recorded with absolute accuracy. It is well known that mention of it occurs in Domesday Book, along with Salford, Rochdale, and Radcliffe; and it is interesting to note that these are the only places named in that historic record in the district now known as South-east Lancashire, the greater portions of which were then either forest or waste lands.

Mr. W. E. A. Axon, a most competent and reliable authority, in an article contributed by him some time ago to the “Encyclopaedia Britannica,” observes in reference to Manchester:— “Nearly the only point of certainty in its history before the Conquest is that it suffered greatly from the devastations of the Danes, and that in 923 Edward, who was then at Thelwall, near Warrington, sent a number of his Mercian troops to garrison it.” The same writer remarks:— “It was probably one of the scenes of the missionary preaching of Paulinus; and it is said (although by a chronicler of comparatively late date) to have been the residence of Ina, King of Wessex, and his queen, Ethelberga, after he had defeated Ivor, somewhere about the year 689.” It would hardly serve any useful purpose now to dive deeper into the ancient history of the city, but, though briefly, some facts regarding the Manchester of more recent times must be recorded.

In the first place it may be said that Manchester is distant from London 188 miles by the London and North-Western Railway, 189 miles by the Midland route, and 188 and three-quarter mile by the Great Northern. The distance from Liverpool is 31 miles. According to the census of 1881, the population of the municipal borough was 341,414, and of the parliamentary Borough (which includes the townships of Harpurhey, Newton, Bradford, and Beswick), 393,585. In 1885 the city boundary was extended to include Rusholme, Bradford (a local township), and Harpurhey, and the population of the municipal borough was thus raised to 373,583, and of the parliamentary borough to 404,823. Although the town of Salford is, both for municipal and parliamentary purposes, separate and distinct from Manchester, it is quite impossible in a work of this kind to treat them separately, except for statistical purposes, inasmuch as they do in reality form one immense and homogeneous community, and what is applicable to one in a general and commercial sense applies equally to both. It is not, therefore, out of place to state that the population of Salford (whose municipal and parliamentary limits are identical) was (in 1881) 176,235. This gives to the combined parliamentary areas of Manchester and Salford a total population of 581,058, and as these figures apply only to 1881, it may safely be assumed that the population is now largely in excess of 600,000.

A charter of incorporation was granted to Manchester as recently as 1838. Prior to that date the municipal government was vested in a borough reeve, two constables and several other officers, elected or appointed at the Court Leet of the Lord of the Manor. The municipal government body is now composed of nineteen aldermen and fifty-seven councillors, and the city is divided into eighteen wards or electoral divisions. Manchester became a city by Royal Charter on March 29th, 1853. It will scarcely be credited by the present generation that, prior to the passing of the Reform Bill of 1832, neither Manchester nor Salford enjoyed direct Parliamentary representation, while places of the utmost insignificance, and with a mere handful of electors, returned one or more members to the House of Commons. All such anomalies as these, however, have happily disappeared, and if the recollection of them be revived by the few among the present residents who are old enough to remember those days, it is rather to provoke mirth than to arouse anger, and doubtless with the desire, too, of impressing upon the young men of this age how much their fathers and grandfathers have accomplished, both in parliamentary and other reforms, within the last sixty years.

Salford received a charter of incorporation on the 16th of April, 1844, and this borough is now governed by sixteen aldermen and forty-eight councillors, who represent the ratepayers of twelve wards. It may be of interest to note that Salford’s first charter, constituting it a free borough, was granted by Randle de Blundeville, Earl of Chester, as far back as the reign of Henry III., and that its near neighbour, Manchester, obtained a similar charter about a century later (temp. Edward I.) from its baron, Thomas Gresley, a descendant of one to whom the manor had been given by Roger of Poitou. The latter was created lord of all the land between the rivers Mersey and Ribble by William the Conqueror. Both charters are, we believe, still in existence, and rank among the most interesting historical documents of the county. The present area of the city of Manchester is 5,927 acres, and that of the borough of Salford 5,171 acres, the united areas being 11,098 acres. Manchester now returns six representatives to the House of Commons, and Salford three, so that the combined representation is a somewhat potent influence within the walls of Parliament.

In speaking of Manchester (which in this instance may be understood to embrace Salford) it is impossible to leave out of consideration the fact that it forms the metropolitan centre of a number of towns of great magnitude and importance, each returning one or two members to Parliament. Among those may be mentioned such busy and flourishing places as Stockport, Staleybridge, Oldham, Ashton-under-Lyne, Bury, Bolton, and Rochdale. Nearly every cotton spinner and manufacturer in these towns makes Manchester his business headquarters, and this circumstance adds enormously to the parliamentary and commercial influence and prestige of the city, fully entitling it to its proud position as one of the greatest communities in the Empire, and the pre-eminent seat of one of the most notable of British trades and industries. Perhaps no city in the provinces so nearly resembles the metropolis in bustle, activity, and mercantile excitement; and certainly in no other provincial centre can there be found such a striking combination of inexhaustible manufacturing facilities and vast trading resources as has been developed by the enterprising and progressive citizens of Manchester. The amount of business transacted here is stupendous in its entirety, and the merchants and manufacturers of the city maintain connections of world-wide extent and influence.

As in the case of most large cities, the approaches to Manchester, from whichever direction the traveller comes, are hardly likely to convey to him a just impression of the Capital of the North. Should he arrive from London, four routes are open to him, all of which unite at or near Stockport, and convey him thence to his destination over four miles or so of one of the busiest parts of England. On either side of the railway he will see a long low expanse of fields traversed by “cinder-paths” - paths paved, that is to say, with the clinkers from factory furnaces — and dotted with mills, weaving-sheds, and cottages for the “hands.” As the& traveller approaches the end of his journey, the houses grow thicker, the chimneys more numerous, and the atmosphere denser, all of which are indications of the presence of a vast hive of industrial activity. Much the same impression is received by anyone who approaches the city from the north, west, or south. In each case similar features present themselves, with a constantly recurring panorama of factories and iron-works, coal-pits innumerable, industrial dwellings, and other signs of the proximity of a great manufacturing centre, the whole bathed in a close and smoky atmosphere, charged to oppressiveness with the “incense of industry.” But when the heart of the city is reached the sense of monotony wears off, and one is conscious of being in the midst of a scene of activity and excitement unequalled in England anywhere outside of London itself. Those who arrive at Manchester by road meet with but a slightly varied experience. On one side, indeed, there is hardly any change until one has passed the busy town of Oldham. Other roads out of Manchester, however, take us into pleasant suburbs, but he who would reach the rural villages of Northenden, Cheadle, Didsbury, or Stretford, must first pass through the district of Old Garrett, and the lower end of Oxford Road; while Eccles and its neighbourhood are approached via the fine thoroughfare of Deansgate. Higher Broughton with its pleasant villas, Kersal Moor with its pure air, and select and attractive Cheetham Hill and Prestwich, are separated from the city by the less inviting locality of Strangeways.

As to the city itself, every black spot and unsavoury region within the, municipal boundaries is being rapidly purified and beautified. No people in England are more ready to display a really generous liberality in all matters concerning the condition of their town than those of Manchester, and this is amply proven by the internal aspect of the city, with its well-kept streets and its stately public buildings and commercial edifices. Manchester, at the same time, is a city of paradoxes. It is at once the newest and the oldest of English towns; it is the centre of a vast manufacturing district, and yet it is not itself, strictly speaking, a manufacturing town; it is one of the plainest, and at the same time one of the handsomest cities in the kingdom; it unites within itself the acme of wealth and the depth of poverty; it is a cathedral city, yet a stronghold of Nonconformity; it has an enormous Roman Catholic population, but is one of the most Protestant communities in England; and, finally, it has in proportion to its population probably more teetotallers than any other British town, and yet a vast quantity of strong liquor is consumed within its limits. The wonders of Manchester are inexhaustible, and the city stands as a mighty monument to the vigour and energy of its people.

In his preface to “The Manchester Rebels of the Fatal ’45,” the late Mr. W. Harrison Ainsworth wrote:— “Little of the old town is now left. The lover of antiquity — if any such should visit Manchester — will search in vain for those black-and-white timber habitations, with pointed gables and latticed windows, that were common enough seventy years ago. Entire streets embellished by such houses have been swept away by the course of modern improvements, but I recollect them well.” At the same time within the city of Manchester the number of factories is yearly decreasing. There is still a forest of chimneys, and the atmosphere contains a full allowance of smoke, but the fuliginous pall which overhangs the place is an indispensable accompaniment of every great and populous city, and does not now signify, as it once did, the existence of a host of manufactories in the very heart of the town itself.

The Corporation of Manchester (whose administration of local affairs is deserving of the highest commendation) have expended very large sums of money in beautifying and improving the city, while private enterprise and the public spirit of the inhabitants have done almost, if not quite, as much in the same direction. The change thus wrought within the least thirty years has been something magical. In the “sixties” the well-known Deansgate was little more than a narrow, dirty lane, not at all prepossessing, imposing, or attractive. To-day Deansgate is one of the handsomest thoroughfares in England. The old Town Hall has been replaced by a structure which is hardly surpassed in beauty and majesty among the municipal buildings of Europe. Manchester also boasts Assize Courts and Police Courts such as are to be found nowhere else in the country; and the new Royal Exchange ranks with the grandest and most imposing edifices of its kind in England.

Manchester and Salford are, as we have said, usually spoken of as one town, and this is justified by the fact that they are connected by ties of the most intimate kind. Each has its mayor and Corporation, its separate local administration, its own local rating, and its own way of managing its affairs; yet the leading men in the two places are identical. The manufacturer who has his mills or his works of any kind in Salford has his offices in Manchester, and transacts his business on the Manchester Exchange. Salford is, in fact, mainly the working-class suburb of “Cottonopolis,” and fulfils towards it much the same function as that of Southwark to London. It is also the seat of a Roman Catholic bishopric. Between the two towns flows the turbid stream of the river Irwell, once a very beautiful river, but now anything but attractive owing to the prosaic and matter-of-fact nature of its surroundings. On the high ground above the Irwell stands the cathedral of Manchester, the “Old Church,” as it is still familiarly termed. The foundation of this fane is a very ancient one, and it was made a collegiate church as far back as 1422. Soon after 1830 the old collegiate foundation, governed by a warden, was abolished, and the Deanery was established, the first occupant of the decanal stall under this new constitution being the Hon. and Very Rev. W. Herbert. In 1847 the bishopric was created, and the first bishop of Manchester was Dr. Prince-Lee. His successor, the late Dr. Fraser, was a man of high scholarly attainments, and was greatly beloved in the diocese. The present bishop is the Right Rev. James Moorhouse, D.D., and the dean is the Very Rev. Edward Craig Maclure, D.D.

The cathedral in its present form dates only from a comparatively recent period and, except a portion of the walls, there is very little left of the edifice as it stood in the days of Henry VII. The beautiful tower which is an almost exact reproduction of the old one, but in better material, is new from foundation to pinnacles. New mullions have been put in the windows, many of which have been refilled with stained glass. New choir stalls have been erected, a new reredos has been set up, and a large amount of tasteful ornamental work well carried out. Altogether something like £60,000 has been expended on the restoration and beautifying of the “Old Church,” including the new tower, which was completed in 1868. Of this large sum at least £23,000 has been laid out within the last few years, and the results have been highly satisfactory, the cathedral being now in a condition worthy of so great and wealthy a diocese, though it must be said that a still larger and more magnificent edifice would accord better with the status and position of modern Manchester.

The other public buildings of this city are all remarkable for their handsome appearance and stately structure, but our space forbids a lengthened description of them. Where a full account is impracticable, a brief survey must suffice.

Of the Assize Courts it may truly be said that they are not surpassed in the kingdom for comfort, commodiousness, and excellent arrangement. Certainly, in no other courts that we have seen is there such ample provision for the accommodation of the public, as well as for the convenience of all persons having business to transact. The building consists of a centre, with two wings, and is externally about 250 feet long by 150 feet deep. The architectural effect is greatly enhanced by the wise liberality of the Corporation, who have left an open space of more than 100 feet in depth in front of the building.

The Town Hall is one of the most superb structures for the transaction of municipal business to be met with in any part of the world, and was built to replace the somewhat confined and inconvenient buildings in King Street. It was opened in 1876 by Mr. Abel Heywood, mayor of Manchester, and represents one of the noblest results of the policy of improvement so long and so effectually pursued by the modern “city fathers.” The building is from the designs of Mr. Waterhouse, an architect of eminent ability and distinction, and appears to be perfectly adapted to the purpose for which it has been erected, besides being a magnificent structural ornament to the city. It contains altogether about 350 rooms, including a host of public offices, and the reception-rooms are perhaps the finest possessed by any civic government in the United Kingdom. Directly opposite the main entrance to the Town Hall stands the Albert Memorial, a beautiful structure, completed in 1867, to commemorate the virtues of the lamented Prince Consort.

The Royal Exchange at Manchester is an edifice of great beauty and dignity, and is well worthy to be the headquarters of commercial intercourse among the merchants of the district. The building is probably the largest of its kind in Europe, and there is an enormous area of floor space provided to meet the requirements of an ever-increasing assembly of traders, who daily transact an amazing volume of business in the shelter of this stately pile. Manchester has also several other exchanges, including the Stock Exchange, Corn Exchange, Coal Exchange, and Cotton-waste Dealers’ Exchange, all of which are commodious structures, affording every convenience to those who frequent them for purposes of business.

No survey of the public buildings of Manchester (however brief) would be complete without some mention of the Free Trade Hall, in Peter Street. This massive and imposing edifice, built at a cost of £40,000, was inaugurated on October 8th, 1856, and is second only to St. George’s Hall, Liverpool, among the public halls of the north of England. In many respects, notably that of acoustic properties, it is superior to its Liverpool compeer, and it forms the favourite place of meeting for all classes of politicians on important occasions, as well as the great centre of the musical entertainments of Manchester, the concerts given here by Sir Charles Hallé and his famous “Manchester Band” being decidedly the best out of London. The great meeting-room in the Free Trade Hall is galleried all round, has a splendid organ, and can accommodate several thousands of persons. Nearby is another notable building known as the Gentlemen’s Concert Hall, the property of a society of 600 members, something after the model of the London Philharmonic Society. The concerts here given are of the very highest order of excellence, and tickets for them are in great demand. For those who are musically inclined Manchester affords abundant and excellent entertainment; and lovers of the drama will find all their tastes gratified at the several; well-conducted and enterprisingly managed theatres of which the city can boast. Club-houses are also numerous, and some of these buildings rank high among the local architectural ornaments, notably the Reform Club building in King Street. When we reflect that all these clubs form in themselves centres of thought and culture, and that many of them are engaged in furthering some good, useful, and laudable end, it cannot be wondered at that Manchester should hold politically, socially, and educationally the prominent and influential position it so well maintains among the leading cities of this great empire.

Not only are music and the drama encouraged and esteemed by the citizens of Manchester, but the sister art of painting is duly appreciated and provided with an appropriate home in the fine Art Gallery of the Corporation and the Royal Institution, in Mosley Street. Here there is a permanent gallery of works of art of various descriptions, bearing witness to the liberality and good taste of the men of Manchester, past and present. The great feature of the institution is its annual exhibition, at which the local artists exhibit, and to which a considerable number of the pictures which have adorned the walls of the Royal Academy during the preceding season are lent by the artists or purchasers. Lectures on music and other branches of art are delivered in the theatre during the winter months. The Manchester Athenaeum, built in 1837 from the plans of the late Sir Charles Barry, serves not only the usual purposes indicated by its name, but also as a club for the use of persons of all ages and of all sexes engaged in the many offices and warehouses of the neighbourhood. There is an excellent library; a reading-room of large extent affords access to the London and local newspapers and periodicals; and classes of various kinds have been established, all of which are well attended, and are doing good work in furnishing the members with valuable opportunities for self-improvement at a remarkably moderate cost. Perhaps there is no institution of the kind in England which has more fully answered the expectations and realised the intentions of its founders; and the credit for this gratifying result is shared alike by those who have managed the establishment and by those who have so sensibly availed themselves of its advantages. Manchester has a large number of public free libraries and lending libraries, and these play a grand part in the work of intellectual culture which is being so actively carried on in the city.

In educational matters the greatest advancement is apparent, and a long list of excellent institutions in this connection is headed by the magnificent and immensely useful foundation of Owens College. This great institution, which now enjoys a national renown, originated in the year 1846, when Mr. John Owens, a merchant of Manchester, died, leaving the residue of his property, after paying legacies and charitable bequests, in the hands of trustees for educational purposes. The college was opened in 1851, and has made splendid progress from the first. It is now housed in a superb block of buildings erected from the designs of Mr. Alfred Waterhouse (to whom Manchester is also indebted for its Assize Courts and new Town Hall), and it constitutes the oldest and largest college of the newly-created Victoria University. It would be impossible in the brief space at our disposal here to detail the entire curriculum of Owens College, or review its career and its remarkable advancement within the last twenty years. Suffice it to say that it is one of the most notable academical institutions of modern foundation in the United Kingdom, and a monument to the public spirit of its benevolent founder.

The Grammar School is another educational institution of which the people of Manchester are justly proud; and the many hospitals and charitable institutions of the city speak volumes for the generosity of the wealthy in this locality, who always make it one of their very first duties to provide for the needs of those who have been less fortunate than themselves in the battle of life. The Manchester Royal Infirmary is one of the most conspicuous objects seen on entering the town from London; and the enormous benefits conferred upon the community by this noble institution are abundantly indicated in the number of patients received within its walls and treated there by its skilful professional staff. The infirmary is under the patronage of Her Majesty the Queen. The medical and surgical staff is a very numerous one, and includes the most eminent physicians, surgeons, and apothecaries in Manchester and district. There are a great many other notable charities to be met with in various parts of the populous and busy region, both Manchester and Salford being equally well provided in this respect; but exigencies of space prevent an enumeration of these, and also oblige us to refrain from more than a passing mention of the well-kept public parks and open spaces of Manchester, which contribute so largely to the health and well-being of the people.

The city of Manchester was formerly supplied with water by the Manchester and Salford Waterworks Company, the water being obtained from the river Medlock, which flows through the city, and by means of pumping from a well at Gorton. These works were purchased by the Corporation in or about 1851, but being inadequate to meet the immediate and especially the future wants of the city and district, the present works at Longendale were designed and carried out by Mr. J. F. La Trobe Bateman, E.R.S., principally under the powers of Acts of Parliament passed in 1847 and 1848. The situation of the waterworks, which lie near Woodhead, in the valley between the counties of Chester and Derby, about 18 miles from Manchester, is admirable for collecting a large supply of water, and as constructed, they form the largest artificial gravitation works in the kingdom. The area of the drainage-ground is about 19,300 statute acres, and the yield is 25,000,000 gallons per day, in addition to the compensation water of about 14,000,000 gallons sent daily down the river. The present consumption of water (beyond the compensation) is upwards of 20,000,000 gallons per day.

The Manchester Corporation are the actual proprietors of the city’s gasworks. It is no mere flattery to the people of Manchester to speak of them as a thoroughly shrewd and practical race of men, because such a statement is neither more nor less than the actual truth. Not that there are not shrewd and practical men in other towns and cities also, but, somehow or other, the public men of Manchester seem to act as well as to think. In other words, when once they have satisfied themselves of the feasibility of a thing, and that its adoption would be for the benefit of the community, they at once set to work to accomplish it. One of their greatest and best achievements in this respect has been the acquiring of the gasworks by the Corporation. These gasworks, under the municipal control, have been worked to the satisfaction and advantage of the ratepayers and to the profit of the Corporation, and every year the citizens reap the benefit of the wise and far-seeing policy which prompted their “city fathers” to take the management and control of the gas supply into their own hands. The borough on Salford also enjoys the privilege of controlling its own gasworks.

Manchester and Salford have a splendid police force, admirably organised fire brigades, excellent systems of omnibuses and tramways, and an efficient service of cabs, affording every means of protection and every facility of locomotion for all classes and sections of a vast population. The postal arrangements of the city, both locally and in relation to the outer world, are unsurpassed; and no city in Britain possesses a more complete and effective railway service. The railway lines that have their termini in Manchester’s four large stations bring the city into immediate communication with all parts of England, Scotland, and Wales; and while passengers can now travel to or from Liverpool (31-and-a-half miles) in 45 minutes, they can accomplish the journey to or from London (188 miles) in 4-and-a-quarter or 4-and-a-half hours. As might naturally be expected in a place of such magnitude and importance, Manchester is well provided with market accommodation. Indeed, the local markets are said to be the finest in England, those of London alone excepted, and they present a scene of bustle and animation which, is an accurate index to the immense commercial activity of the place in all those trades which have to do with the supplying of the needs and luxuries of everyday life.

Hitherto we have said nothing of the newspaper press of Manchester, but, before concluding, it is obviously necessary to refer to a factor which exercises so important an influence over the life of the community. The various journals of the city (edited by men who are imbued with the prevailing Lancastrian belief that “life is real, life is earnest”) are written and worked with an air of conviction and fervour which seems born of a spirit of conscious power and independence; and at the same time the newspapers exhibit a commendable reticence with regard to each other. Indeed, in Manchester the Press may be fairly said to have attained a thoroughly metropolitan tone. Five daily newspapers are now published in the city, and all of them are prosperous.

The “Manchester Guardian,” which has always been a Liberal organ, is one of the foremost of English provincial journals, and is conducted with conspicuous ability and judgment. Its general information is comprehensive, its London correspondence an excellent feature, and its art criticism brilliant and interesting. The old and well-known “Manchester Courier” is the organ of the Conservative party. It had long held a more than respectable position as a weekly paper when, in 1864, the daily issue commenced. The then editor was the brother of the present proprietor, and was a member of the bar and a political speaker of no inconsiderable local celebrity. In 1867 failing health induced him to retire from the ardous duties of his post, but the prosperity of the paper, thanks to the exceedingly able management of its present proprietor, has shown no symptoms of diminution. Its commercial information is simply unrivalled — a fact which is proved by the constant quotations from its columns in the most influential organs of the London Press; the leading articles faithfully reflect, where they do not lead, the political opinion of the Conservatives of the district; the London correspondence is decidedly piquant; and the dramatic and fine-art criticism unusually excellent in quality.

The “Examiner” is a well-conducted and well-written paper in the interests of the advanced section of the Liberal party. Its leading articles are clear and vigorous in style, and display very superior talent. It has a large circulation. The “Sporting Chronicle” is a daily print whose title indicates its special mission in journalism. The “Evening News” is a half-penny sheet, which was started during the by-election of 1867, in order that Mr. Mitchell Henry, who was then an independent Liberal-Conservative candidate for the representation of the city, might obtain greater advantages of publicity than were accorded by the daily press. It was first got up in the offices of the “Manchester Guardian,” but soon became strong enough to run alone, and is now by no means an uninfluential or unprofitable property. The “Evening Mail” is a distinctly Conservative organ, and an offshoot of the “Courier.” It was established so far back as 1874, and it runs its Liberal rival hard, and, judging from the number of its advertisements, is a very thriving undertaking.

The local press of Manchester also includes 26 weekly newspapers, chief among which must be mentioned the “Manchester Weekly Times,” which claims to be, with its “Literary Supplement,” the largest penny weekly paper in the kingdom. It contains an amount of matter equal to eighty columns of the “London Times,” and gives full and accurate accounts of local and general occurrences, a digest of public events, parliamentary intelligence, commercial and market reports, foreign news, &c., whilst the “Literary Supplement” consists of original and selected articles, tales, poetry, hints for the household, ladies’ column, gardening, social topics, and copious and interesting extracts from the leading reviews, magazines &c. It enjoys an enormous circulation all over the north of England. The “Manchester City News” may be named next, and as its title implies, it devotes a considerable portion of its space to the municipal affairs of Manchester and Salford, although it contains excellent general matter. There are also many other notable journals published in Manchester and Salford, to which individual reference is impossible here; but it may certainly be said that the “fourth estate” is no less creditably represented here than in any other British community, and the pre-eminence of Manchester is equally well sustained in the field of literature and journalism as in that of commerce and manufactures.

The following list of the more important occurrences in the history of Manchester during the reign of Queen Victoria is taken from “Haydn’s Dictionary of Dates,” and may be of some interest to our readers:— The charter of incorporation was issued on October 23rd, 1838. On June 23rd, 1842, the British Association met here. Great free trade meetings were held in November, 1843; and on December 23rd, 1845, there was held a great anti-corn law meeting, at which the immense sum of £64,984 was subscribed in four hours. The Queen’s Park, Peel Park, and Philip’s Park were opened in August, 1846. Manchester was made a bishopric on August 10th, 1847. Owens College (to which Mr. John Owens bequeathed £100,000) was opened on March 10th, 1851. The Queen visited Manchester on October 7th, 1851; and on November 11th in the same year a great meeting was held in the Free Trade Hall to greet M. Kossuth. The Free Library was opened on September 2nd, 1852; and on April 16th, 1853, Manchester was declared to be a city, and formally gazetted as such. The Exhibition of Art Treasures was opened by Prince Albert on May 5th, 1857, and was visited by the Queen on June 29th and 30th. It was closed on October 17th, 1857. The British Association met here for the second time on September 4th, 1861.

The new Town Hall was founded October 26th, 1868. Alexandra Park was opened August 6th, 1860. Owens College New Buildings were founded, September 23rd, 1870; and an additional building at the Grammar School was opened by the Earl of Derby, October 25th, 1871. The new Town Hall was opened on September 13th, 1877; and Owens College was made the nucleus of Victoria University in July, 1880. The new School of Art was opened by the Earl of Derby, April 27th, 1881. The Dukes of Edinburgh and Albany visited the city on December 12th, 1881. In September, 1882, Mr. Williams’ plan for the formation of a ship canal by the junction of the Mersey and the Irwell was approved. A fine art and industrial exhibition was opened October 20th, 1882. The new fine art gallery was opened August 31st, 1883. A great Conservative demonstration took place on August 9th, 1884. By the Act passed June 25th, 1885, Manchester returns six members to Parliament. On May 3rd, 1887, the Prince and Princess of Wales opened the highly successful Royal Jubilee Exhibition of Manufactures, Science, and Art. This exhibition was visited by 4,765,137 persons, and was closed on November 10th, 1887. Prince Albert Victor opened Birchfield Recreation Grounds and Lads’ Club, October 20th, 1888. It may be added with reference to that vast undertaking, the Manchester Ship Canal, that the Act sanctioning it (with conditions) was passed in July, 1885; that the company was formed, with a proposed capital of £8,000,000, in October, 1885; that the contract for the work was taken by Messrs. Lucas & Aird for £5,750,000; and that the first sod was cut at Eastham on November 11th, 1887.

We shall not attempt to speak here of the commerce of Manchester in detail. The vast trade of the city in all its ramifications and branches will be amply illustrated in the later pages of this work by the articles dealing with individual firms of prominence therein; and the results achieved by many of the greatest of such firms will be found to constitute practically an epitome of the wonderful attainments of the community as a whole in those departments of commerce to which its immense energies and resources have been devoted during the present century. Just a word about Manchester men as a body, and then we must pass on to the consideration of other Lancashire towns whose claims to attention are pressing and indisputable.

A local proverb divides the people of southern Lancashire into four classes. There are, we are told, “Liverpool gentlemen, Manchester men, Oldham fellows, and Bolton chaps.” That there, is a certain humour in this descriptive category may at once be admitted, but that it is strictly accurate is open to a good deal of question. The merchants of Liverpool are, without doubt, cultivated, refined, and gentleman-like, but so also are the men of Manchester. A few years ago it is no doubt perfectly true that there were a good many amongst the manufacturers and merchants who still retained, to some small extent, the tradition of those days to which reference has already been made, when master, family, and apprentices sat at the same board and lived as it were en famille. But those days have vanished, and their heroes have gone with them. In a few of the outlying districts, such as the suburbs of Bolton, Oldham, or Blackburn, something of the kind may possibly yet be found, but no one is likely to think or to speak of those quiet, enterprising, and highly-educated men who may be found any day on the Manchester Exchange with other feelings than those of respect and regard. The explanation is simple enough.

The last generation of Manchester men had the practical wisdom to see that the world is daily advancing, and that no efforts of theirs were likely to prevent its progress. And so they gave to their sons that which they themselves, in many instances, had lacked. The boys were sent to good schools, if not always to public ones, and they followed up their school trainings with a residence at one or other of the Universities or a course of foreign travel — sometimes with both. It did not invariably happen, of course, that the results of the process were satisfactory. Croesus the Younger sometimes came back from Oxford little better in certain respects than he was when he went thither, and in other instances he returned from his Continental tour having acquired habits of which he would never have dreamed at home. On the whole, however, the effect has been decidedly advantageous. The new generation retains all the merits of the old — its vigour, its hospitality, kindliness, liberality, and public spirit; and upon this is superadded all the intelligence and refinement that are the result of mingling with the affairs of the outer world and learning the ways of men and the manners of society in a wider sphere than that afforded by the old home circle.

Of the public spirit and esprit de corps of the men of Manchesteï enough has probably been said, though it would be difficult to say too much in praise of such superlative qualities. It would seem, indeed, that, as regards money, it is only necessary to prove that an object is a deserving one to secure for it munificent support; while those who know the place are well aware that the time given up to public duty by the busy citizens of Manchester is simply astonishing. The consequences are manifest on all sides; The city has become world-renowned, and already it rivals the metropolis in outward beauty and dignity of appearance. It sets an example of municipal administration which Londoners can only envy, without hope of emulation. It forms the centre of a mighty system of commercial and manufacturing operations, some noticeable development of which is marked off and recorded by every tick of the clock. It is at once a home of industry and an abode of social and artistic culture, which is steadily augmented and strengthened day by day. It has a life of its own, an individuality of its own, an independence which is the birthright of its people; and all its prospects point to a magnificent future, the realisation of which will set the seal of completion upon the labours of all those who have striven so earnestly and disinterestedly to make of Manchester a great city, worthy of a great Empire,

We shall now invite the attention of our readers to a brief notice of each of the remaining towns of prominence in Lancashire, with the particulars of population, &c., as far as possible, brought up to date. Where seaports are concerned it was thought likely that some figures showing the value of exports and imports thereat during the last few years would be interesting, so these have been appended. The chief features of interest, with the industries of each place, are named, but lack of space forbids any very lengthy descriptive writing. For easy reference the towns are set down in alphabetical order.

ACCRINGTON, situated midway between Blackburn and Burnley, to the north of Haslingden, has a population of considerably over 60,000, according to recent estimates. Its chief manufactures are cotton and mousselline de laine, and there are also several important machine and print works in the vicinity. The Town Hall, which was erected in 1857 at a cost of about £8,000, the Market House, and the Mechanics’ Institute, are the principal architectural features of the town. “Hollins,” which was plundered in the time of Oliver Cromwell, and “High Riley” (the residence of the Rileys in the sixteenth century), are also objects of interest in the neighbourhood.

ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE is situate east of Manchester, and south of Oldham, and stands in a good position on the river Tame. It is a remarkably busy and important town, and has an interesting history. The primary name is derived from the Saxon word, ‘aese,’ an ash; and ‘tun,’ an enclosure; the sub-title being used to avoid confusion with other Ashtons in the county — that “upon Mersey”, and “in Makerfield” for example. Its population is about 43,574, and its special manufacture is cotton; coal being also raised in the district. In the town are the parish church, founded originally in the fifteenth century, but since repaired past almost all recognition; several other churches, including St. James’s; the Town Hall, erected in 1840 and enlarged in 1878; the Oddfellows’ Hall; the Infirmary; and the Mechanics’ Institute (built 1861). Stamford Park, in the centre of which stands a handsome museum, was opened in 1873, and bequeathed by Lord Stamford to the towns of Ashton and Staleybridge.

BACUP lies about midway between Burnley and Rochdale, and is a particularly thriving place, though none too regularly situated at the foot of the moors in which the river Irwell takes its rise. The population in 1881 was 25,033, the majority of the people being employed in cotton spinning, woollen manufacture, and dye works. The town is a centre of the co-operative principle, which has developed in the Rossendale district to an enormous extent. The source of the Irwell is about three miles distant from Bacup, and the scenery in the vicinity, especially towards Burnley, is very beautiful, and eminently calculated to captivate the close attention of the lover of the picturesque.

BARROW-IN-FURNESS is remarkable for its rapid rise from comparative nothingness to a position of the first importance. Early in the present century, we are told, only one dwelling stood where now stand the many handsome buildings and busy trading and industrial establishments of the flourishing seaport of Barrow. But this solitary house seems to have formed the nucleus of a little fishing village that ultimately aspired to, and, in ,1867, deserved, the designation of a town. In 1847 the population was 325; in 1864, 10,068; in 1867, 17,000; in 1878, 40,000; in 1881, 47,259; and in 1888 (estimated) about 50,000. The secret of this progress is doubtless to be found in the valuable coal-mines of the district. In 1847 the Furness Railway was opened, and in that year it carried to the port 103,768 tons of iron ore. In 1863 the quantity conveyed for shipment was 621,525 tons. The values of the exports from Barrow in recent years are shown by the following figures:— Produce of the United Kingdom: 1884, £465,080; 1885, £439,683; 1886, £612,313; 1887; £608,968. Foreign and Colonial produce and manufactures:— 1885, £106; 1886, £4; 1887, £585. The values of the imports were:— Foreign and Colonial merchandise: 1884, £351,429; 1885, £380,629; 1886, £386,718; 1887, £388,967. The steel works of Barrow are of vast importance, and shipbuilding, railway-carriage building, steam corn-mills, flax and jute works, rope-making and brick manufacture are additional sources of commercial activity and profit. The docks of the town are very extensive and afford excellent accommodation for a large amount of shipping.

BLACKBURN, one of the first and foremost of the “cotton towns” of Lancashire, is charmingly situated in the midst of wooded heights, somewhat to the south-east of Preston. The manor was originally in the domain of Roger of Poitou, and after passing through several hands, was ultimately held by the Abbots of Whalley until the dissolution of the monasteries. Archbishop Cranmer was the first rector, and also the patron, of the living subsequently to the Reformation. As early as the seventeenth century Blackburn was famous as a manufacturing centre. In addition to the cotton industry, there are large machine and engine works, which give employment to a great number of hands. The population of the town in 1881 was no less than 104,014. John Hargreaves, of “spinning-jenny” fame, was a native of Blackburn. The churches are all modern, the parish church having been built in 1824 to replace an edifice erected in the reign of Henry VIII. The Town Hall, which cost about £40,000, is a fine building, and the public edifices also include the Market Hall, the Exchange, the Free Public Library, the Infirmary, and the Grammar School. The Corporation Park (about 50 acres in extent) and the Alexandra Meadow form excellent “breathing spaces” for the townspeople.

BLACKPOOL is a modern town, well built, and finely situated to the south-west of Lancaster. It is much more notable as a place of summer resort for sea-bathing than as an industrial centre. Its population is about 50,000, and the local authorities have been highly successful in their efforts to make it a pleasant and attractive watering-place.

BOLTON, the home of the gifted Arkwright and the ingenious Crompton, is a town holding a high position in the annals of the cotton industry. It is situated on the Croal, a tributary of the Irwell, about 12 miles north-west from Manchester. The aspect of the place has changed considerably of late years. The spirit of progress has been abroad, and in its every feature the town is now quite a model in comparison with its aspect in the seventeenth century, when Blome referred to it as “a fair-built town with broad streets.” The Town Hall is a commanding edifice with a handsome portico, surmounted by a tower 220 feet in height. It was opened by H.R.H. the Prince of Wales in 1873, and cost £170,000. The Market Hall, built in 1855, at a cost of £50,000, is extensive and of considerable architectural beauty; then there are the Library, the Museum, the Church Institution, the Grammar School (founded by Robert Lever in 1641), and the Infirmary. Bolton believes, too, in parks and pleasure-grounds: witness the Public Park, Bradford Park, the Heywood Recreation Ground, the Darbishire Recreation Ground, &c. The country around is particularly pretty, though the prospect is somewhat interfered with from a picturesque standpoint by the numerous cotton factories, the extensive machine works, brass-foundries, iron-works, steel-works, chemical works, collieries, and the other manufacturing and industrial features of the town. Population in 1881, 105,965; estimated in October, 1887, to be about 112,354, and is now no less than 115,000.

BURNLEY is a most important industrial centre, and stands at the confluence of the little river Brun with the Calder, about 22 miles north from Manchester. Around the town the natural scenery is very pretty to look upon; the town itself is more beautiful to the eye of the commercial-minded man: cotton spinning, weaving, and woollen manufacture being the staple sources of livelihood for the 70,875 inhabitants. The town possesses the usual municipal buildings, but nothing in any way very remarkable from the architect’s standpoint. The Grammar School was founded in 1650, and the parish church, though altered considerably at various intervals since, traces its origin to the time of Edward III.

BURY (on the Irwell, and 8-and-a-half miles north of Manchester) did not contain in 1793 more than 3,000 inhabitants. To-day it numbers between 50,000 and 60,000. Its history, however, goes back to the time of the Conquest. The Free School in the town was founded by Roger Kay, Prebendary of Salisbury, in 1726. In the market-place is a statue of Sir Robert Peel, to the family of which talented nobleman Bury is under a great debt of gratitude: the father of the statesman having been the owner of extensive calico-printing works here. The place primarily figures as a centre of industry in Henry VIII.’s time, when its woollens were held in great regard.

CARNFORTH, situated to the north of Lancaster, is chiefly celebrated for — we might say it has been formed by — the furnaces erected there for the smelting of hematite ore.

CHORLEY (to the south of Preston) is not very large, but it is eminently active. Cotton-mills and calico-printing afford employment to a large proportion of the population (59,384). Coal, lead, alum, flag and mill stones are found in the vicinity.

CLITHEROE stands on the river Ribble, about 30 miles by rail north-west from Manchester. In Norman times the place formed one of two ancient seats of the De Lacys (its companion being at Pontefract). The castle was dismantled during the Civil Wars, and but little remains of it to-day. The Grammar School in the town was founded in 1554 by Philip and Mary. Pendle Hill, in the vicinity, is the chief point of interest. Population, 65,476.

The thriving and populous township of COLNE, which has now a population of about 11,000, has been noted for its connection with the woollen and worsted industries from a very early period. There was a fulling mill here in the days of Edward III., and Dugdale opines that this fact contradicts the assertion that the Flemings brought an entirely new industry to the kingdom. It stands on the ridge of a hill near the Calder and on the borders of Yorkshire, and there seems no reason to doubt that it was the site of the Roman station of Colnuo. Tradition also asserts that Emmett, an adjoining village, owes its origin and its name to one Duke d’Emmet, who came over with the Conqueror and settled here. Colne is now chiefly noted for its cotton mills and factories, which are numerous and busily employed. The old Piece Hall speaks of a time when woollen goods were dealt in, but cotton has now almost entirely superseded it. The parish church dates from a very early period, so far as site is concerned. It is supposed to have been rebuilt in the time of Henry VII., and contains many mementoes of departed worthies. One of the “chapels” belongs to the Bannister family, and the other to the Towneleys of Barnside, both well-known families in the district. There are also the remains of an ancient and elaborately carved screen. The Grammar School stands under the shadow of the church, and here it was that the boy who afterwards became Archbishop Tillotson was educated, he having been born and bred in the vicinity. A number of old mansions are to be found round about, and Colne is evidently the centre of a district rich in historical associations.

CHURCH is practically a suburb of Accrington, but has a local population of between 5,000 and 6,000 persons, most of whom are engaged in industrial avocations. It is governed by a Local Board, but one of these days it will probably come under the wing of the Accrington Corporation. A number of well-known residences are in the immediate vicinity of Church, such as Rhyddings and Paddock House, together with Dunkenhaigh Park and Clayton Hall, the former dating from the time of James I., and the latter having a history extending to the days of the third Edward, when the De Claytons made it their home. Peel Fold, where the first Sir Robert Peel passed many of his early years, is at no great distance; and all around the country is of an interesting character.

DARWEN (OVER), with about 61,000 inhabitants, is situated about half a dozen miles from Blackburn, and is noted for its cotton-mills, print and bleach works, and coal-pits, and stone quarries, in all of which great activity prevails.

DENTON is a flourishing township situated at a short distance from Hyde. The principal industries of the place are connected with coal-mining and hat-making, and in these trades the greater number of the inhabitants find profitable employment. Managed by a Local Board, the affairs of Denton are carried on in a very successful manner, and it presents all the appearances of a busy and prosperous community.

The thriving and populous township of ECCLES is practically a suburb of Manchester, and as such partakes to a very large extent of its distinctive characteristics. It is situate about 4 miles from the Victoria Station at Manchester, on the line from that city to Wigan; and the road between Eccles and Cross Lane, where there is a cattle market for the district, is principally occupied by the residences of large manufacturers and merchants in the city, such as the Agnews, the Heywoods, the Besleys, and others. In itself Eccles possesses a good many claims on attention, in addition to those connected with its celebrated cakes, which are known all over England. A large proportion of what are known as Manchester goods comes from the mills within the Eccles and Patricroft district, and the manufacturers are amongst the most energetic and enterprising of their class. Some other industries find a location in the district; and the retail establishments are both numerous and attractive, the proprietors vying, and successfully too, with their Manchester rivals in displaying the finest stocks of all household necessaries, clothing, drapery, furniture, provisions, &c., that one could wish to find. Large and well-built premises are occupied in the principal thoroughfares by some of the most enterprising tradesmen in Lancashire, and the annual return of trade is extensive in the extreme.

FAILSWORTH is a flourishing township with a railway station, 4-and-a-half miles north-east of Manchester, with which parish it is incorporated. Its population in 1881 was 7,912.

FARNWORTH (near Bolton) has a population of 20,708, chiefly employed in the neighbouring collieries, cotton-mills, paper- making and chemical works.

FLEETWOOD, some fifty years ago, was quite a nonenity. The populous town on the Wyre is now of considerable importance in many ways. The population in 1881 was 3,834, but this has been much augmented since then. The values of the exports from this young port during the past five years were as follows:— Produce of ,the United Kingdom: 1883, £18,429; 1884, £7,528; 1885, £18,858; 1886, £11,692: 1887, £17,220. Foreign and Colonial produce and manufactures: 1887, £280. The imports being, in value:— Foreign and Colonial merchandise: 1883, £975,756; 1884, £533,547; 1885, £772,266; 1886, £708,802; 1887, £1,000,305.

GARSTANG (on the right bank of the Wyre, about ten miles from Preston) is a place with a past, but now very dull and unimportant. A paper-mill in the vicinity and some cotton-mills give employment to the population, which is not very large.

HASLINGDEN, situated between thirty and forty miles south-east from Lancaster, has a population of 7,929, largely employed in woollen, cotton, and silk manufacture. The town has a handsome church, Town Hall, Mechanics’ Institute, and several chapels for Nonconformists.

ST. HELENS is noted for its crown, sheet, and plate glass manufacture, for which it has been a centre since 1773. The Town Hall is a handsome building, but the place as a whole has nothing architecturally to especially commend it. Still, it is undoubtedly improving. It is situated on a branch of the Mersey, some twelve miles north-east from Liverpool. The present population has been estimated at about 60,000.

HEYWOOD, which threescore years ago was little more than a village in which a number of hand-weavers had a home, is now a brisk and busy manufacturing town of more than 24,000 inhabitants, and a splendid example of the progress which has been made in all directions within the memory of the present generation. Its chief historical interest consists in the fact that Heywood Hall was for many years the residence of the Heywood family, one member of which was concerned in the discovery of the infamous Gunpowder Plot. The Hall is now the residence of Mr. W. Roberts, and is a charming ivy-covered old house, situate in a very pretty neighbourhood. It was Mr. Peel, father of the first baronet of that name, who erected the first mill in Heywood, and the success of the venture was such as to ensure that Heywood should henceforth be a busy and well-populated place. How the Peel family grew and prospered is well known in Lancashire, and it was to them that Heywood owed its initiative as a manufacturing town. Other mills followed very speedily in the wake of the Peel establishment, and as they increased in number so did the residents, and the consequent need for accommodation caused the whilom village to spread out on all sides, and to take upon itself all the semblance and importance of a town. Some of the best known manufacturers in the kingdom took up their quarters in Heywood, and the products of its mills came in time to be known far and wide as among the best the county of Lancashire could afford. The number of mills is now very large. They are extensive and well-built establishments, fitted with every improvement in the way of machinery, and give employment to a very great number of men and women. In addition to the cotton industry, Heywood folk find employment in the manufacture of machinery and railway plant, some large and important foundries being located in the town. Boiler making, brass founding, and the manufacture of chemicals also take up a considerable part of the industry of Heywood, and from end to end of the town there is the constant sound of industry, and the business-like aspect which betokens the prosperous community. Coal mines abound in the vicinity of the town, and their produce is largely availed of in the manufactories of the district. The local government of Heywood, after passing through the usual stages, is now vested in a mayor and corporation, and these functionaries carry out their duties in an efficient manner.

HYDE is situated not far from Ashton-under-Lyne, and is in the county of Cheshire, but its importance as a commercial and industrial centre, influencing this part of Lancashire considerably, entitles it to some mention here. It has for many years been noted as a great centre of the hat-making industry, and as such it has obtained a prominent position. Other industries also engage the attention of the people of Hyde, among which iron-founding and engineering are notable; and cotton spinning and weaving are also engaged in. The splendid conveniences possessed by Hyde, in the shape of coal and water supply, contribute very largely to the success of the industrial operations carried on by its inhabitants.

LANCASTER (on the Lune), the county town of Lancashire, is particularly well built, for the most part of excellent freestone, procured from the quarries in the neighbourhood. The magnificent aqueduct which crosses the river here is composed of five elliptical arches. The principal buildings are the once splendid castle, erected in the eleventh century, renewed by John of Gaunt, and converted at an enormous expense, in 1788, into a gaol, assize and county courts, &c. Contiguous to the castle is the parish church, a spacious Gothic structure, dedicated to St. Mary, and remarkably interesting in its character. There are, in addition to several other churches, chapels of ease and Nonconformists’ chapels, the Town Hall (a heavy structure of freestone), the Lunatic Asylum (with accommodation for 1,000 persons), Custom House, Assembly Rooms, Theatre, Mechanics’ Institute, a Grammar School and many other educational establishments, public baths, and washhouses, &c. The Riley’s Hospital, the principal of several other charitable institutions, was erected for the maintenance and education of orphans, by the wife of a Liverpool merchant who devoted £100,000 to this end. It is a noble-looking building of twelfth-century Pointed style. The Lancaster Canal passes close to the town, about one mile north-east from which is the great aqueduct just referred to, by which the canal is carried over the Lune. The cemetery is situated on Lancaster Moor, where the asylum is also situated, about a mile and a half from the town. The staple manufactures which occupy the time of the large and increasing population, are in connection with cabinet making, cotton spinning, railway waggon-building, linen, sailcloth, and silk. The political history of the place is remarkable. Its first delegates to Parliament were sent in 1293, but a break occurred in 1359. It resumed its privileges in 1547, and all went well until 1868, when the town was disfranchised. It is, however, again represented at Westminster. As a commercial centre Lancaster has declined somewhat since the days when it was a seaport superior to Liverpool. In those times the ancient town carried on a brisk and very important trade with the West Indies, Archangel, and the Baltic. It is still a place of considerable activity in general business affairs, and has a population of about 30,000. The following figures may be instructive:— Values of exports from Lancaster, 1885, £272; 1885, £330; 1887, £562. Values of imports of foreign and colonial merchandise: 1885, £37,797; 1886, £32,735; 1887, £51,797.

LEIGH is situate about three miles from Bolton Junction, and includes within its parochial districts many of the adjoining townships and villages. According to a return made in 1831 the area of the parish was 11,820 acres, with a population of 20,083. Included in this were the townships of East Leigh, or Astley as it is now termed, Atherton, Bedford, Pennington, or Pemnington, West Leigh, and Tyldesley, with Shaverly. The Poor Law boundaries at the present time cover an area of 24,356 acres; but in other matters of local government most of the places named have been granted Home Rule. Leigh, which is the most important part of the union, is a thriving and prosperous town which has risen into importance concurrently with the growth of Lancashire industry, and is now the scene of much activity in various branches of manufacture. Of its ancient history but few remains are traceable, albeit the immediate vicinity is rich in the possession of old churches, which prove in the most conclusive manner that the district was a favoured one even in the good old times. The parish church is perhaps the most interesting architectural feature of which Leigh can boast, this being of Tudor origin, but rebuilt to a considerable extent in 1873, when no less than £10,000 were spent on the work of restoration and renovation. The town of Leigh itself is more in consonance with the utilitarian spirit of the nineteenth century than with the romantic or historic traditions which still cling to many of the old mansions round about. The business of its inhabitants is to uphold and if possible extend the repute which it has gained for the quality and excellence of its products, and the steady hardworking capabilities of its sons and daughters. Cotton-spinning is, as a matter of course, the staple industry of the town, and has been carried on from a very early period in the history of that manufacture, many of the firms now in existence having a record which extends back to the time when the most sanguine could hardly have anticipated such greatness for Lancashire as it has since achieved.

But important as is the cotton-spinning industry to the men of Leigh, there are several others which engage their attention, and in which they carry on a large and profitable trade. The presence in the immediate vicinity of a number of coal mines leads to a considerable amount of business in connection with the supply of that necessary article of consumption, and a number of people are engaged in various branches of that industry. Ironfounding, too, is carried on to an important extent, several large and well-filled foundries being located in the town and its environs, the sound of busy toil which comes from within their walls betokening the activity which prevails and the amount of work which is being carried out. This part of Lancashire has for a good many years been identified with the glass-making industry, and it is not surprising to find that in Leigh this beautiful and useful art is still carried on.

MIDDLETON is a busy little town situated on the Irk, some six miles north-east from Manchester. The scenery all round the neighbourhood is very pretty. The church claims to have been founded in the time of Henry III. There are several other places of worship, and a Grammar School, the latter founded in the reign of Elizabeth by Alex. Nowell, Dean of St. Paul’s. The industry of the place is centred in calicoes, nankeens, ginghams, checks, and silk-weaving. Population in 1881, 10,346.

NEWTON-IN-MAKERFIELD is a manufacturing town near Manchester, having a population of 10,580.

OLDHAM, certainly one of the first of the South Lancashire cotton centres, is situated near the source of the Medlock, seven miles north-east from Manchester. The parish and other churches, the Town Hall, the Mechanics’ Institute, the Lyceum, School of Science and Art, Lunatic Asylum, the Grammar School, and the Bluecoat School, are amongst the chief features of the town. Oldham affords another striking example of that rapid spirit of progress so characteristic of the county of Lancashire. A century ago, it was only a village; now it has a population of 152,513. Formerly it was celebrated for its hat manufacture, which is still carried on. The collieries dotted so thickly in this locality have doubtless been the primary cause of the rise of Oldham, but the cotton industry has added yet more materially to its welfare. Some of the finest factories in the county are to be found here, devoted principally to the manufacture of fustians, velveteens, calicoes, cotton and woollen cords, &c. Co-operation is believed in here to a very practical extent.

ORMSKIRK is celebrated for its gingerbread and beer. It has a Town Hall, Free Grammar School, founded in 1641, and several charitable institutions. Population, 6,651.

PRESCOT, celebrated for its connection with the watch trade, is situated eight miles east from Liverpool, and has a population of about 6,000.

PRESTON is a busy and important manufacturing town, with a large population, many excellent local institutions, and an old-established renown as a prominent seat of the cotton industry. Various other trades are here carried on, and the town possesses considerable historical interest.

ROCHDALE is another important centre of co-operative working. It is situated on the Roche, eleven miles north-east from Manchester. The parish church of St. Mary was restored in 1866; there are numerous additional places of worship, a Grammar School (founded in 1565), Assembly Rooms, Guildhall, Town Hall (built in 1867), and a Literary Institution. Cottons and calicoes form a large portion of the local trade, and woollens, fustians, and friezes are made in considerable quantities. Population, 68,865.

The thriving and populous town of STALEYBRIDGE is situate partly in Cheshire, and about one mile from Ashton. The name of the town is said to have been derived from the Staley or Stavley family, the founder of which was one of the Norman gentry who came over with William at the time of the Conquest. At the latter end of last century the population of Staleybridge was less than 200, and it was about this time that the first step was taken towards making it the busy town it now is. A person named Hall, who must have been called enterprising in those days, set up a cotton-mill in the village of Staleybridge, and commenced operations on a small scale. Subsequently he introduced machinery, and those who know what the feeling of Lancashire spinners was at that time will readily believe that Mr. Hall did not make many friends thereby. But it was not long before there came a change, and from this beginning sprang up the busy circle of factories and other industrial establishments which are now the principal features of Staleybridge. With industry came population, and the 140 inhabitants of 1776 have now increased to 40,000, nearly all of whom are engaged in the staple industry of the district. Staleybridge was incorporated in the year 1857, and is governed by a municipal body, whose influence for good is seen in the broad, well-paved, and well-lighted streets, and the general arrangements for the health and well-being of the residents. Education is also well cared for, and there are a number of schools and other training establishments which do good and useful work in connection with the rising generation. In addition there are mechanics’ institutes, free libraries, evening classes, and other aids to intellectual training. In the matter of communication with the rest of the country Staleybridge is particularly well served, two lines of rail running into the town and three canals being in the vicinity, whilst its situation, about equidistant from Manchester and Oldham, places it in a favourable position for industrial progress. The mills and factories are among the finest in the neighbourhood, and the manufacturers are gentlemen who leave nothing undone to secure both the comfort and convenience of their workpeople and the reputation of Staleybridge goods in the markets of the world.

SOUTHPORT, situated at the mouth of the Ribble, fifteen miles south-west from Preston, is visited to a considerable extent for the sea-bathing to be obtained here. It has the customary architectural features — Town hall, market, park, library, assembly rooms, newsrooms, promenade, &c. Population, 57,643.

TODMORDEN is situated sixteen miles north-east from Bolton. Manufactures, cotton goods. Population, about 12,000.

WARRINGTON has the distinction of being one of the most ancient towns in the county. In spite, however, of the old-world arrangements of the streets, there are some splendid buildings in the place, the church being especially interesting. The usual municipal erections are supplemented by numerous industrial establishments. At present the trade of the district is varied: iron foundries, glass-houses, wire-works, cotton-spinning, and power-loom weaving, and brewing form the staple industries of the inhabitants, though in Warrington’s early manufacturing days cloth checks and linen cloth were the chief productions. Population, 45,233.

WIDNES, for its alkali works, is world-known. It is situated at a distance of about six miles from Warrington. Population, 63,951.

WIGAN, near the river Douglas, fifteen miles south-east from Preston, is a prettily-situated place. Its churches are worth inspection, and its official edifices are well built, the town possessing its library, museum, &c. Manufactures: woollen and cotton fabrics, cast-iron and brass goods, edge tools, nails, machinery, and implements of agriculture. Population, 51,000.

We have now almost finished the first, or introductory, part of our review of the great industries, trades, and manufacturing and mercantile concerns of Lancashire; but, before concluding, it may be well to append the following statistical particulars, which may be found convenient for reference:—

The area, number of houses, and population of the county are given as follows in the official return of 1881: Area in statute acres, 1,208,154. Houses: inhabited, 655,307; uninhabited, 68,929; building, 5,697. Population, 3,454,441: males, 1,669,864; females, 1,784,577. Average number of persons to an acre, 2.86; average number of acres to each person, 0.35. The gross rental is estimated at £21,299,477; the poor rate at £1,609,824, and the number of paupers at 83,321.

The available coal supply of Lancashire was estimated in 1885 to be 5,165,000,000 tons. The amount raised in 1852 was 8,225,000 tons; in 1871, 13,851,000 tons; but for several years it has exceeded 18,000,000 tons, and in 1880 reached 19,120,294 tons. The amount of this mineral carried from Lancashire is about ll,000,000 tons, of which about 7,600,000 tons are shipped.

The following is a classification of agricultural holdings according to size in the years 1875 and 1880:—

Number of holdings of fifty acres and under: 1875, 18,210 holdings; area, 299,109 acres; 1880, 17,423 holdings; area, 286,009 acres; Fifty to one hundred acres: 1875, 2,873 holdings; area, 202,619 acres; 1880, 3,077 holdings; area, 219,412 acres. One hundred to three hundred acres: 1875, 1,468 holdings; area, 225,184 acres: 1880, 1,552 holdings; area, 235,174 acres. Three hundred to five hundred acres: 1875, 74 holdings; area, 26,828 acres; 1880, 104 holdings; area, 31,555 acres. Five hundred to one thousand acres: 1875, 12 holdings; area, 8,070 acres; 1880, 13 holdings; area, 8,532 acres. About one thousand acres: 1875, 1 holding; area, 2,195 acres; 1880, 1 holding; area, 2,726 acres. Total: 1875,22,638 holdings; area, 704,005 acres; 1880, 22,170 holdings; area, 783,408 acres.

The county in 1872-73 was divided among 88,735 proprietors, possessing 1,011,769 acres, with an annual valuation of £13,878,277. Of the owners, 76,177 (or 87 per cent.) possessed less than one acre, and the average value, including minerals, was estimated at £13 14s. 4d. per acre. Nineteen proprietors owned upwards of 5,000 acres, the Earl of Derby possessing no less than 47,269, with an estimated rental of £156,735. Among the other large landowners figure the names of the trustees of the Duke of Bridgewater; the Duke of Devonshire, the Marquis de Casteja, the Earl of Stamford and Warrington, the Earl of Wilton, the Earl of Sefton, Lord Lilford, and Lord Skelmersdale.

The agricultural returns of 1881 showed that the total cultivated area was 787,732 acres, a percentage of 65.2, instead of 60 in 1870. The area under corn crops was 101,651 acres; under green crops, 59,971 acres; rotation grasses, 63,387 acres; permanent pasture, 560,143 acres, more than two-thirds of the whole under cultivation; 2,573 acres were fallow. Of the area under corn crops, 59,373 acres (more by a considerable quantity than the half) were occupied with oats; wheat came next with 26,492 acres; barley, 11,559 acres; 42,809 acres were under potatoes; turnips and swedes, 10,867 acres.

The total number of horses in 1881 was 38,484, 24,567 being used for agricultural purposes. Cattle numbered 222,988 (122,683 being cows), an average of 18.5 to every hundred acres under cultivation — polled Suffolks, red Yorkshires, and Leicesters predominating. Sheep numbered 284,317, an average of 23.6 to every hundred acres under cultivation, the average for England being 62.4; Cheviots on the higher grounds, Southdowns and Leicesters on the lower grounds, predominating. Pigs in 1881 numbered 37,700.

In 1850 there were in the county of Lancashire 1,235 cotton factories, 37 woollen and worsted factories, 9 flax factories, and 29 silk factories, In these factories there were about 15,000,000 spindles, and something like 185,000 power looms. The machinery was moved by a steam power equivalent to about 50,000 horse power; and by water power to the extent of 4,000 horse power. The persons employed at the 1310 factories were near 240,000 in number, 130,000 being females. As many as 12,000 of this great number of operatives were under thirteen years of age. Coming to the year 1879, we find the total number of factories to border on 2,000, and the number of persons employed to be nearly 370,000. The woollen, silk, and linen manufacturers of Lancashire employed in 1879 about 50,000 persons; and in a host of other useful industries (including a large amount of mechanical engineering) thousands of the skilled and competent workmen not otherwise engaged find regular occupation.

The attention of our readers may now be invited to the articles distributed over the following pages, in which it has been our object to review the history and progress of a large number of Lancashire houses of business, among which are to be found many eminently representative concerns, directed by men in whose possession are all those sterling qualities of energy, perseverance, and unwearying application which have been so well employed in the advancement of this greatest of English counties.

MANCHESTER

REMARKABLE alike for the rapidity of its growth in modern times, for the perfection of its municipal organisation, for its wealth of useful and beneficent local institutions, and for the energy and public spirit of its inhabitants, Manchester is at the present day one of the most interesting and noteworthy communities in Europe. Nowhere in England has more striking proof been given of the progress that has marked the affairs of this century in a degree beyond all previous ages; and no British town or city has illustrated more completely than Manchester the immense resources of our nation in social advancement as well as in matters of commercial development. The very name of Manchester is pregnant with suggestions of extraordinary business acumen, enterprise and energy, and the term, “Manchester man,” has become a synonym for one who possesses all the essential qualities and characteristics of the successful merchant or manufacturer. Thus the element of trade is pre-eminent among the constituent features of the place, and at the present moment our chief concern is with this most important factor in the prosperity of Manchester.

Earlier in this volume we have devoted some space to tracing the career of the city from the obscurity of the past up to the fame and brilliancy of the present; and we have watched the gradual development of the Mancunium of the Romans and the Manceaster of the Saxons into the busy and populous Manchester of the Victorian period — the great and influential community which shares with Liverpool the dignity of metropolitan rank in Lancashire, and which may one day dispute with the great seaport on the Mersey for the proud distinction of being termed the “second city in the Empire.” It is now our purpose, therefore, to direct the attention of our readers more particularly to the mercantile and industrial aspect of Manchester, and to invite a careful consideration of its rich resources in this connection, as they are represented by the city’s leading establishments in trade and manufacture.

Forty years ago Manchester was on the highroad to the exceptional renown and prosperity which it started out to gain as far back as the early years of the eighteenth century, and which it has now indisputably achieved. When the “Great Exhibition” of 1851 afforded to the manufacturers of England, Scotland, and Ireland an opportunity of showing how they could stand in competition with their fellow-producers in other lands, Manchester nobly upheld the national honour in her special departments of textile trade, as well as in several other highly important branches of industry; and in order to indicate the condition of the city’s leading manufacturing and trading undertakings at that time, we make the following brief quotation from Knight’s “Cyclopaedia of Industry,” 1851 edition:— “This most important town, the centre of the largest cotton-manufacturing operations in the world, is situated in a district which contains some excellent coal strata, a circumstance to which the place is in no small degree indebted for its prosperity. It has the credit of having given an impulse to our means of internal communication, and has reaped an ample reward. The achievements of Brindley were prompted by the desire which the Duke of Bridgewater had of sending his coal from Worsley to Manchester at a small expense; and Manchester now possesses the means of water communication with almost every part of the country. In the railroad enterprises Manchester has held a prominent station. It furnished its full share of the capital employed in the formation of the Manchester and Liverpool Railway, and it is now the centre of a system of railways radiating in six different directions. There are two magnificent viaducts across the town for connecting the Liverpool line with the Yorkshire and the London lines.

“The commercial spirit dates back to a very early period. At first the woollen was the only branch of trade, but since the middle of the last century the cotton business has nearly superseded the former fabric. The series of brilliant inventions applied, improved, or originated in the district of Manchester, which comprise the steam-engine, the spinning-jenny, the mule-jenny, the fly-frame, the tube-frame, the mule, &c., have proved most effective instruments in aiding the development of the cotton manufactures. Several hundred millions of pounds of cotton are brought into Manchester from Liverpool every year; and the cotton factories are by far the most important buildings in the town: there are more than two hundred of them within the precincts of the town and parish. Some of them are only spinning factories; others are both spinning and weaving. Bleach-works, dye-works, and print-works, all connected with the cotton manufacture, exist on a large scale in and near Manchester.

“The processes of throwing and weaving silk were extensively carried on at Macclesfield several years before they reached Manchester. The silk-mill of Mr. Vernon Boyle, erected in 1819-20, was the first brought into operation in the latter town. Since then the trade has rapidly increased. Printing is another branch of the silk business chiefly, if not exclusively, carried on at Manchester. Dyeing of silk is also extensively pursued, and in fact the town is becoming the centre of transactions in the silk trade. Besides the manufactures in cottons, silks and woollens, Manchester carries on large manufactures in hats, umbrellas, and small wares. Machinery of the finest kind is also made here to a large extent.

“The warehouses of Manchester are on a vast scale; they contain not only the woven products of the town’s factories, but the produce of most of the other cotton towns is brought to Manchester as a central exchange for the manufacturer and the dealer. It was calculated that in 1837, 700,000 tons of goods were carried by canal alone from Manchester to the south, yearly; besides that which passed north, east and west, and besides the railway goods traffic. In 1851 the amount is vastly greater, especially in respect to railways. Manchester as a centre of the calico-printing trade presents a fair field for the exercise of taste in designing, and a school of design is gradually producing important results in the town.”

Such is a brief report of the state of trade and industry in Manchester at the time of the International Exhibition of 1851. Since the above lines were first printed vast progress has been made, important changes have taken place, one or two old trades have declined, and been replaced by others, but everything has tended to the increased prosperity of the place, and to the continual development of its activity and influence as a trade centre. The Manchester of to-day produces an almost incalculable variety of textile fabrics, especially cottons of every conceivable description, velvets, fustians, dimities, calicoes, checks, tickings, jeans, shirtings, ginghams, quiltings, handkerchiefs, nankeens, diapers, muslins, cambrics, &c., &c. These are turned out in enormous quantities at factories situated either in the city or in the wonderfully busy district that surrounds it, and the goods are distributed to the outer world through the medium of Manchester warehouses, which for magnitude of operation and completeness of organisation are among the greatest marvels of modern commerce. Moreover, the city has become famous for its ironfounding, engineering, and many other industries; and in the articles which here follow it will be our endeavour to illustrate the extent to which all these very notable branches of trade have been developed on the banks of the Irwell by describing the works and productions of many representative firms engaged therein. It can safely be said that no English city has had a more creditable record than Manchester, with its teeming population, its giant warehouses, its huge factories, its busy streets, its noble public edifices, and its wealthy and admirable institutions of every kind; and of this great city it is specially true that all its splendid characteristics at the present day are the outcome of the magnificent public spirit of its people in every sphere of life, and of the high individual abilities of the majority of its citizens collectively and ungrudgingly devoted to the common welfare.

In the foregoing pages we have briefly reviewed the career of Manchester as a busy and populous inland city, thriving and increasing more by reason of the energy and talent of its people than because of any special natural advantages of position or surroundings. But for the future, the great metropolis of the cotton trade will have to be regarded in almost a new light — the light of hopes and aspirations realised and satisfied by the completion of one of the greatest engineering projects of modern times. Within a few months’ time Manchester will cease to, be an inland town in the commercial sense of that term, and will become to all intents and purposes a seaport having uninterrupted communication by water with all the distant markets of the world in which its varied products stand in such constantly increasing demand. The means by which this great transformation is to be wrought is

THE MANCHESTER SHIP CANAL.

This immense undertaking has given rise to many a lengthy discussion in the governing councils of the kingdom during the past seven years, and has engaged the most earnest attention of our financial and commercial speculators. Manchester has long had navigable communication with Liverpool through the medium of the Irk and the Medlock joining the Irwell, which latter river eventually becomes a tributary of the Mersey. These are advantages worthy of consideration, and they are supplemented by an excellent system of inland navigation which, in the shape of canals, extends its facilities to all the principal towns of the Northern and Midland Counties. Beyond all this, Manchester has railway conveniences which are at least equal to those of any other British city. Thus various channels are provided by which Manchester receives from all quarters the vast supplies of raw materials required by its manifold industries, in addition to those articles of daily consumption not supplied by its own immediate neighbourhood, and by the same channels the city has hitherto been enabled to widely distribute throughout the world the products of its ingenuity, labour, and capital. All this has worked very well up to the present, but the progress and development of such a city as the “Cotton Capital” cannot be stayed for lack of means of further expansion. The means, if non-existent, must be created, and during recent years the men of Manchester have given their attention to a project which, when carried to a successful issue, will radically alter and improve the relations of their city with the great outer world, and greatly promote the commercial interests of the district. We need hardly add that this project is that for the construction of the Manchester Ship Canal.

About seven years ago the scheme was taken up in earnest by men whose energy and influence afforded a guarantee that everything possible would be done to carry it through, and eventually, after a prolonged struggle, an Act of Parliament, authorising the construction of the canal under certain conditions, was passed in July, 1885. This victory of the promoters was marked with great rejoicings by the people of Manchester and the district interested, and several important public demonstrations were made in honour of the successful result of the arduous parliamentary campaign through which the measure had passed. A great meeting of the subscribers to the Parliamentary fund of £100,000 was held in the Manchester Town Hall on August 19th, 1885. About a couple of weeks later, a most imposing demonstration took place at Eccles, the attendance being estimated at nearly 100,000 persons. In the following October there were three notable celebrations arising out of the passing of the Ship Canal Act. October 3rd witnessed the first of these in the shape of a great public procession from Albert Square, Manchester, to the Belle Vue Gardens, the procession being composed entirely of the trade societies of the district. An influential meeting of friends of the movement was held in the Free Trade Hall on October 5th, 1885. The following day was signalised by the giving of a banquet to the promoters of the enterprise by the Mayor and Corporation of Manchester, said banquet being held in the Town Hall. The private preliminary prospectus of the Manchester Ship Canal Company was issued two days later (October 8th, 1885), but owing to the company not having power to pay interest out of a capital during the construction of the canal, the subscription was insufficient to meet the requirements of the undertaking.

With a view to overcoming this difficulty a further application was made to Parliament, the result being an Act which authorised the company to pay interest at the rate of four per cent, per annum to the shareholders during the construction of the works. This Act received the Royal assent in June, 1886, and subsequently Messrs. Rothschild were authorised to receive subscriptions for the balance of the capital of the Company. The subscription lists were opened on Tuesday, July 2Qth, 1886, and closed on Friday, July 23rd. The full amount required was not, however, subscribed, and the issue was withdrawn.

This was distinctly a disappointment, and as soon as it became realised by those who had shown an inclination to support the scheme that some more earnest measures would have to be adopted to ensure its success, a thoroughly sensible course was decided upon and pursued. The first great step therein took the form of the appointment of a committee of influential gentlemen, largely identified with the trade of the district, to investigate the whole bearings of the various questions involved in the project of the Ship Canal. This committee (called the Consultative Committee) was convened under the auspices of the Mayor of Manchester (Mr. Alderman Goldschmidt) and consisted of twenty-three gentlemen of unexceptionable competency and integrity, and not a few of whom began their investigations with misgivings as to the commercial prospects of the undertaking. Every detail was thoroughly gone into and scrutinised, and eventually the Consultative Committee arrived at the conviction that within two years of its opening the Canal would pay a dividend at the rate of not less than five per cent., in addition to showing a surplus equal to an extra one per cent. It spoke well for the manifest soundness of the whole scheme that this decision was a unanimous one.

Being desirous of putting forward an estimate quite devoid of any exaggeration of the probable business and dividend of the enterprise, the Consultative Committee deducted from their estimate of traffic no less than one-fourth in order to provide for any unforeseen contingencies; and it will thus be seen that the estimate they eventually decided upon was well within the bounds of moderation. As a matter of fact the volume of business which the Committee assumed would be done, after exhaustive inquiry, was sufficient to justify anticipations of a dividend of eight per cent., or three per cent more than that set down in the report. The report of the Consultative Committee was signed on November 26th, 1886; and on December 9th, in the same year, a meeting, convened by and presided over by the Mayor of Manchester (Mr. Alderman Curtis), was held for the purpose of receiving this report.

After the reading of the report the large and influential attendance accorded an enthusiastic vote of thanks to the Consultative Committee for their arduous labours and for the valuable result thereof. The immediate effect of the report was the creation of a very favourable impression with regard to the prospects of the Canal enterprise, and public confidence in the undertaking was greatly increased. In March, 1887, the directors of the Ship Canal Company issued a private circular appealing to the inhabitants of Manchester to subscribe one-half of the required capital of £8,000,000. If the first £4,000,000 were subscribed locally, the directors were assured that the remainder would be found by London capitalists.

A great public meeting (presided over by the Mayor of Manchester) was held in the Town Hall on April 27th, 1887, to consider the best means of assisting the Manchester Ship Canal Company to raise the balance of its required capital, the bulk of the £4,000,000 asked from Manchester and its immediate locality having been subscribed. At this meeting a large committee was formed, the members of which were to exert their best endeavours to obtain subscriptions completing the necessary amount. On June 8th, 1887, the Manchester Ship Canal Preference Shares Bill was read the first time in the House of Commons. The object of this bill Was to divide the share capital of £8,000,000 into £4,000,000 of £5 per cent. perpetual preference shares, and £4,000,000 of ordinary shares, ranking for dividend after the preference shares, the preference shares not to receive five per cent. until after the construction of the canal, and both classes of shares receiving four per cent, alike until the Ship Canal should commence operations.

This Bill in due course passed through the several stages in both Houses of Parliament, and received the Royal assent on July 12th, 1887. Immediately afterwards Messrs. Baring and Messrs. Rothschild were authorised to receive subscriptions for £4,000,000 of perpetual five per cent, preference shares. The lists opened on July 19th, 1887, and closed on July 21st.

The Ship Canal Company was required by the Act to raise £5,000,000 of its share capital, in addition to £1,710,000 purchase money of the Bridgewater Canal and the Mersey and Irwell Navigation. The whole of this £6,710,000 was to be subscribed within two years of the passing of the Act. On August 4th, 1887, the Board of Trade duly certified that these conditions had been complied with by the Company.

On Friday, Nov. 11th, 1887, the actual commencement of the Manchester Ship Canal Works took place, Lord Egerton, of Tatton, in the presence of the Board, and some of the leading officials, cutting the first sod at Eastham, where the entrance locks of the Canal are situated. Some details concerning the extent and character of this great artificial waterway (which will certainly be one of the most important of its kind in the world) may be interesting. The length of the Manchester Ship Canal will be 35 miles, and it will have five sets of locks, viz., at Eastham, Latchford, Irlam, Barton, and Manchester. Each of these sets will consist of three parallel locks, designed to admit different sizes of vessels, and the largest lock in each series is to be 600 feet long by 65 feet wide. The large tidal lock at Eastham will be 80 feet wide. For small vessels it is intended to provide an intermediate lock in each set, and the smallest-sized locks will be used for small coasting vessels and barges. The minimum depth of the canal will be 26 feet. The minimum bottom width of the Suez Canal is 72 feet; that of the Manchester Ship Canal will be 120 feet, and this will be widened to 170 feet for the 3-and-a-half miles between Barton and Manchester. At Manchester, Salford, and Warrington, commodious clocks are to be provided, and the canal will afford greatly improved facilities for vessels entering or leaving the Runcorn and Western Point Docks. The Ship Canal Company also owns the Duke’s Dock at Liverpool, that being part of the interest acquired with the purchase of the Bridgewater Canal.

The first vessel specially designed and built for the Manchester Ship Canal traffic was launched at Belfast by Messrs. McIlwaine & McColl in January, 1891. This new steamer has been appropriately named the “Manchester,” and is, we believe, intended for use in a direct service between Belfast and Manchester, calling at Liverpool en route. The vessel is built of steel, and is 180 feet in length. A notable event was the opening on April 16th, 1891, of the first lock at Weston Marsh, this being to take the traffic between the river Weaver and the Ship Canal. The lock is over 300 feet long, 42-and-a-half feet broad and 16 feet deep, and has three pairs of gates, worked by hydraulic power. A still more important event took place on June 18th, 1891, when the first water was admitted into the main channel of the canal in the Eastham section, which is some four miles in length and about 170 feet wide. The lock gates here were opened for the first time on July 2nd, and the first boats passed down the canal from Ellesmere Port to the Mersey ten days later. At the half-yearly meeting of the Company in August, 1891, it was reported, that satisfactory progress was being mode with the work of construction, and some particulars were then forthcoming with regard to the Company’s financial affairs. The deputy-chairman, Sir J. C. Lee, said that after receiving the Corporation loan of £3,000,000 (which had been voted by the City Council early in the year in response to negotiations opened between the Company and the Corporation), a surplus of £700,000 then remained. On August 21st, 1891, a report was issued by the Ship Canal Committee of the Manchester Corporation, in which it was stated that £10,359,597 had been expended on the Canal up to August 1st. Towards the end of September, 1891, the water was admitted into the second section of the canal, thus completing two sections (eleven miles in all) in working order; and at the formal opening of the second section on September 29th the statement was made that the engineer, Mr. Williams, expected to have the entire canal finished by the end of 1892. There can be no doubt that the completion of this colossal piece of canal engineering will be the signal for a marked advance in the commercial activity and prosperity of one of the busiest and most popular districts in England.

The Manchester Ship Canal will be practically a continuous dock, thirty-five miles in length, and will afford the most convenient port accommodation to large ocean steamers engaged in the commerce of a region whose area is not less than 7,500 square miles, and whose population at the present time may be safely estimated at fully 9,000,000. Of course the Canal has had its antagonists, and probably still has them, but the arguments for the scheme have been immensely more weighty than those against it; and we are convinced that the time will come when even its opponents will recognise, in this laboriously constructed and cleverly planned waterway an invaluable aid to the expansion of Lancashire commerce, and an enduring monument to the energy, foresight, and sagacity of the men who have expressed and proved their confidence in its usefulness.

MANCHESTER.
REPRESENTATIVES OF COMMERCE.

GREGORY & HAYNES, BREWERS’ ENGINEERS,
ST. STEPHEN’S WORKS, SALFORD.

FEW modern industries have become so important and indispensable as that of the brewers’ engineer, and in this line of operations there is probably no English firm better known than that of Messrs. Gregory & Haynes, of St. Stephen’s Works, Salford. This house, noted for its achievements in the making of every apparatus and appliance requisite to the conduct of the brewing interest upon the most advanced lines, was founded about thirty years ago at the above address, and the original title is still retained, though the sole principal of the concern now is Mr. William Haynes, one of the founders, a gentleman possessed of great experience in brewery engineering and architecture. St. Stephen’s Works, situated in William Street, Salford, cover an area of about one thousand square yards, comprising a good four-storey building, rebuilt a few years ago, which has been most conveniently arranged for the purposes of the industry to which it is devoted. Each department is equipped with suitable plant, and the general arrangements speak well for the practical knowledge of the firm, and for the extent to which they have developed all their working resources.

Messrs. Gregory & Haynes were the first to undertake the complete equipment of breweries. Formerly the erection and fitting up of a new brewery necessitated the various classes of work being divided and given out to the different classes of tradesmen, such as coppersmiths, iron-founders, vat-makers, &c., but this firm resolved to take up the trade in its entirety, and we imagine their success has surpassed even their most hopeful expectations. All that the brewer has now to do is to give them an order for a brewery, and in due course he can step into it, and find it ready, in every respect, for the commencement of operations. In the same way exactly as Messrs. Platt, of Oldham, would do in the case of a cotton-mill, Messrs. Gregory & Haynes take everything in their own hands, and in due time they turn out a perfect modern brewery. Not only do they equip the brewery with plant of the most perfect character but they will erect the buildings also, if desired, upon the most approved structural principles, for they are brewers’ architects as well as engineers; and in the matter of fittings they make and supply every requisite of the trade, with the one exception of barrels, these last being the product of an ancient and perfectly distinct industry in itself, viz. the cooper’s.

Messrs. Gregory & Haynes have designed and fitted up breweries all over England and Ireland, and it can be fairly said that every one of these establishments, be it large or small, stands as a monument to the capabilities of the house. Amongst the most notable specimens of this firm’s work that we can at present call to mind are the breweries of Messrs. Watson & Woodhead, at Salford, and Messrs. McKenna’s, at Harpurhey. These are establishments of a particularly important character, the fitting of which reflects the highest credit on the firm. Altogether they have built and fitted about a hundred breweries, and remodelled probably two hundred more; this, we think our readers will say, is a magnificent record of thirty years’ work. It seems scarcely possible for any firm to have accomplished more.

The firm is so well known that contracts and commissions for all kinds of brewery work are sent in to them from all parts of the country, conclusively proving that it is no longer necessary for them to court publicity through the ordinary channels of advertisement: in fact, no firm could advertise less than they seem to have done. They employ draughtsmen and workmen of the highest skill and experience in every department of the business, and the utmost care is taken to ensure perfection in every portion of a brewery plant, as well as convenience in the arrangement of every part of the building in which such plant is to operate. Comparing certain old-time breweries which we can remember with some of the establishments erected and equipped by this firm, we confess to a feeling of astonishment at a degree of advancement so great. Nothing could more strikingly reveal the tendency of the modern age towards the improvement of all industrial methods; and Messrs. Gregory & Haynes have certainly done a grand work in their particular sphere of action, and rendered a service of incalculable value to the brewing trade by many of their achievements.

They have gained a most extensive and eminent reputation for their skill and ingenuity in the invention and manufacture of all kinds of machinery and appliances calculated to promote progress and improve production in the great national industry to whose requirements they cater. Some of the most useful and effective apparatus known to modern brewers have been devised by Messrs. Gregory & Haynes, who are the proprietors of a great many valuable patents in connection with brewing machinery and utensils. Among their leading specialities may be noted their Improved Malt Mills and Screens, Patent Self-Acting Mashing Machine, and Patent Frictionless Sparger. These are unsurpassed in practical efficiency, and divide the honours with several other important patents of this house, such as their Compound Action Hop Press, Compensating Yeast Press, Corrugated Surface Refrigerator, Cellular and Tubular Attemperators, Barrel Cleanser, &c. Our limited space precludes the possibility of more than the briefest reference to the productions of this firm, but we strongly recommend those of our readers who have any interest in breweries and their equipments to send for some of Messrs. Gregory & Haynes’ printed matter, among which will be found copies of many testimonials from leading brewers and lists of hundreds of breweries at which this firm’s machinery is now in constant use.

The trade controlled by them is a large one, but all its operations are directed with conspicuous skill, Mr. Haynes being a perfect master of every detail of the business. Mr. Gregory died about two years ago, but for many years past Mr. Haynes has had the entire active management of the concern in his hands. It is interesting to note that the two partners were schoolfellows and friends for many years prior to their commencement of this business. Mr. Haynes is now recognised as a leading authority on all matters appertaining to breweries, their equipment and valuation, and for twenty-five years he has held an appraiser’s licence as a valuer of breweries, public-houses, maltings, and other property of that class. He has been for more than twenty-one years a director of one of the largest collieries in Lancashire, principal in several manufacturing concerns of note, and possesses the respect and confidence of those who know him best; his great experience and sound judgment on all matters of finance or trade is much appreciated by those who can get the advantage of it. He has been one of the overseers of the Borough of Salford for many years, an executive office of trust and responsibility. In regard to the Municipal Council, however, though often solicited, he has consistently declined to enter, the office not being congenial to his tastes. From the very first his administration of the business we have briefly reviewed has been all that could be desired to maintain its reputation and prestige as one of the most distinguished concerns of. its kind in the United Kingdom. He has lately taken into partnership Mr. John Henshaw Canavan (for many years manager of the late firm of Thomas Gadd), whose experience, both in brewery work and also in that of maker and inventor of machinery for calico-printers and allied industries, is well known all over the Country.

CANAVAN, HAYNES & CO., MAKERS OF EVERY DESCRIPTION OF MACHINES, &C., FOR PRINTING AND FINISHING CALICO, FLOORCLOTHS, PAPERHANGINGS, BOOKBINDERS’ CLOTH, WOOLLEN, LINEN, &C.,
ST. STEPHEN’S WORKS, WILLIAMS STREET, CHAPEL STREET, SALFORD.

AT the beginning of 1892 Mr. Haynes was joined by Mr. John H. Canavan, who was for many years manager of the late firm of Thomas Gadd, and the business is now carried on as Canavan, Haynes & Co. Mr. Canavan has a thorough experience in all descriptions of machinery for the printing and finishing of calicoes, woollens, linen, lawn, bookbinders’ cloth, paperhangings, oil and floor cloths, and in connection with this department they have recently delivered for the United States a four-colour duplex printing machine, the first of its description in America. An illustration of this machine is given below. They have also just completed other printing machines for Austria and France. Illustrations of two of these machines are also given. At present the work in hand includes machines for sanitary wall-paper printing, hank printing, back starching; and crabs, cranes and hoists, also form an important department, and a number of these are at present in hand. They have just completed and patented great improvements, consisting of catches for hoist doors, by the use of which all doors are locked, and cannot be opened unless the hoist cage is opposite the door and stopped. The cage cannot be started until the door is again shut and locked; this releases the starting gear; the starting of the hoist further locks the doors on all landings, making it an impossibility to open any door until the cage is stopped and opposite that particular door. The starting gear for cage is controllable from either inside the cage or from any floor or landing in the warehouse, making it the very best safety hoist in the market, and completely fulfilling all the requirements of the Factory Acts up to date. They are also makers of hydraulic presses and pumps for packing hay, cotton, or calicoes, and extracting oils, stearine; and hydraulic machines for forcing • railway wheels on and off their axles, and for forcing economiser pipes on to the connections.

ROBERT NEILL & SONS, CONTRACTORS AND BUILDERS,
BROUGHTON LANE, MANCHESTER.

IN the year 1834 the principal partner in the eminent firm named above first came to Manchester from Musselburgh, near Edinburgh, and for a few years he worked as a journeyman joiner, rising eventually to the position of a foreman. He then commenced business on his own account, starting in Sherborne Street, and adding, in 1858, a part of the property now occupied by his very extensive establishment in Broughton Lane. Thus was gradually built up by the perseverance, industry, and practical skill of one man a business which has become one of the most important concerns of its kind in the country. Mr. Neill obtained many notable contracts to carry out between the years 1846 and 1865, he himself frequently “lending a hand” in the practical departments of the trade; and in the meantime he was enabled by the success he had achieved to give his sons a good education. To further fit them for the competition of the future he insisted upon their learning the business in a thoroughly workmanlike manner, and at length (in 1865) he took his two eldest sons into partnership, their names being Robert and Joseph Skidmore Neill. The title of Robert Neill & Sons was then adopted.

At the present time Mr. Robert Neill senior has the satisfaction of seeing the third generation of his family actively engaged in the business, his grandsons being now acquiring practical experience in the mercantile department of the concern. The works of this noted firm in Broughton Lane have been gradually extended from time to time, and now cover an area of about seven acres of ground. To describe them fully would carry us far beyond the space at our disposal here, and to give a condensed account of their many features of interest would be doing very scant justice to an establishment which is not surpassed by any other of the same kind in the north of England. It will therefore suffice if we say that these immense works present a type of practically perfect organisation and appointment, all the requirements of the great trade and industry to which they are devoted being satisfied in the most complete manner as regards the plant, appliances, and general working arrangements in force; and after making a survey of these busy and interesting premises, with their large range of buildings and their constant aspect of activity, it is easy to appreciate the fact that Messrs. Robert Neill & Sons possess very exceptional facilities for all the purposes of the large and successful business they have developed.

All the departments incidental to a great timber, joinery, saw-milling, and contracting trade are fully represented here, and the firm are to be congratulated upon the superior equipment of the entire place. No detail has been overlooked, no important condition neglected; and in each of the numerous workshops ranged over this extensive property we find industrial resources the completeness and efficacy of which are manifestly the outcome of years of experiment and experience. In all cases the machinery in use is of the best modern type, and indicates the intelligent investment of a very large amount of capital. The sawmills and joinery workshops are models of their class, and vast stocks of timber of all kinds are kept in the yards and stores. The stone-working department is fully equipped and always busy — in short, everything is perfectly “ship-shape” and ready to meet the needs of the large contract orders with which this old and reliable firm are entrusted. In its entirety the establishment is certainly unsurpassed in equipment, resource, and practical organisation; and being compactly laid out and well enclosed, it forms a good-sized industrial colony in itself, populous with busy workers. The fact that Messrs. Robert Neill & Sons give employment almost constantly to about one thousand men, on and off their premises, and sometimes even as many as two thousand, speaks sufficiently for the magnitude of their business.

To mention the vast number of important works carried out by this noted firm would be to enumerate many of the most prominent building and railway contracts executed in recent years in the northern counties. Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cheshire, Wales, all exhibit numerous evidences of Messrs. Neill’s resources and capabilities as contractors for all kinds of structural works and improvements. Large buildings are the speciality of this firm, and perhaps their greatest achievement was the erection; of the vast pile of buildings for the Manchester Jubilee Exhibition. This immense affair covered no less than fourteen acres of ground, and the firm had little more than seven months to complete it in, yet everything was perfectly finished and ready for the opening day, a proof at once of Messrs. Neill’s good faith and of their working capacity. This firm also built the immense and very substantial structures for “Buffalo Bill’s” Wild West Show on the Manchester Racecourse; and concerning this work Mr. Salisbury (Colonel Cody’s manager) said he didn’t believe that even America, the land of big things, could have done it better. A mere enumeration of the churches, schools, public buildings, government offices, railway-stations, factories, warehouses, asylums, &c., &c., that have been built by Messrs. Robert Neill & Sons during the last thirty or forty years would fill a volume. They have not long since completed the Central Post Office in Brown Street, Manchester, and are now busily engaged upon the new Parcels Post Office in Strangeways.

This house enjoys a splendid reputation fur the sound quality and reliability of all its work, and cone stands higher in the esteem and confidence of municipal corporations, public companies, and the people in general. We may add that Mr. Robert Neill, the respected head of this distinguished firm, has done good public service in addition to working industriously in the building up of his vast business. Early in his career he was elected a member of the Manchester City Council, and in 1866 he was chosen mayor, which high office he held most creditably for two years in succession. Mr. Neill was High Sheriff of Rutlandshire in 1888, and has long been a Justice of the Peace, and his son, Mr. Joseph Skidmore Neill, has also been honoured by appointment to the Commission of the Peace. A third son, Mr. Alexander Renton Neill, has of late years been admitted a member of the firm, and, like his brothers, takes an active share in the management.

KENDAL, MILNE & CO., CABINET MAKERS, UPHOLSTERERS, GENERAL HOUSE FURNISHERS, DRAPERY WAREHOUSEMEN, &C.,
110, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

THE tendency of the present day is decidedly in favour of the concentration of several branches of trade, more or less akin to each other, under one proprietorship and management. This is especially true of those trades which appertain to household equipment, textiles, and articles of personal apparel or adornment; and a notable instance in point is presented by the widely-known and famous house which forms the subject of the present review. Manchester has no more perfect example of a modern furnishing and textile emporium, representing nearly every department of these trades, than that afforded by the great establishment of Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co., in Deansgate, with its auxiliary cabinet factory in Garden Lane, its upholstery works in Back Bridge Street, and its important allied drapery warehouse in St. Ann’s and Police Streets. This immense business was founded as far back as the year 1831, by the firm of S. and J. Watts and Company, who carried it on until 1835. It was then taken over by Messrs. Thomas Kendal, James Milne, and Adam Faulkner, trading as Kendal, Milne and Faulkner; and this partnership continued until 1862, when Mr. Faulkner died. The house then assumed its present title. The headquarters of the firm in Deansgate comprise a very handsome and commodious stone building, four storeys high, and arranged throughout upon a plan affording the utmost convenience for all the workings of the great furnishing trade to which it is devoted. Here, there is every facility for the proper conduct of such a business, and the establishment is one which, in its entirety, is not surpassed anywhere in England in its complete exemplification of all branches of household equipment.

The extensive show-rooms on the ground-floor contain a splendid stock of high-class furniture for the hall, library, dining and drawing rooms, office, &c., together with a beautiful selection of furniture in those specially artistic designs which have come so largely into favour in recent years. Besides this there is a wonderful assortment of specialities in bedroom furniture, brass and iron bedsteads, beautifully finished mahogany and birch bedsteads, bed and window draperies, kitchen furniture, bedding of every description, floor-cloths, carpets, curtains, and all manner of furnishing draperies. The same richly-varied and remarkably attractive display is carried out in the fine show-rooms on the first, second, and third floors, each flat affording a further revelation of the firm’s seemingly unlimited resources. The goods in all cases are of splendid quality and finish, though the range in price and style is so large as to meet almost all requirements; and we have never visited an establishment in which greater care is manifested in the arrangement of the stock, with the double object of securing a pleasing effect in the aspect of the entire display, and of making each section of the whole easy of inspection and examination.

Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co.’s show rooms are a sight worth seeing — a statement fully supported by the fact that they are visited daily by hundreds of persons, who always meet with a courteous reception and the most efficient attendance; and the several departments taken collectively constitute a permanent exhibition of everything that is new, and elegant, and fashionable in house furnishings of every description. In the matter of cabinet furniture and upholstered work, this firm’s productive facilities are unsurpassed, and they are to be credited with a constant endeavour to cultivate an improved public taste by the production and display of a vast variety of goods which are equally remarkable for artistic beauty of design and for special merit in material, workmanship, and finish. Moreover, Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co. have been singularly successful in reconciling the frequently antagonistic elements of price and quality, and by carefully considering each of these features, and not sacrificing either one to the other, they have accomplished what many other firms have failed to achieve — the production of a really high-class grade of furniture at prices which are, for the most part, within the means of that large body of the public who are too frequently compelled to purchase so-called “cheap,” goods for the sake of a temporary economy, which is really extravagance in the end.

This firm’s extensive and thoroughly practical experience in every department of the trade enables them to complete contracts for furnishing upon any scale of magnitude, in a manner calculated to afford every satisfaction. Their reputation in this respect extends all over the country, and is founded upon many successful transactions in which they have given striking proof of their great capabilities. The cabinet factory of this eminent house occupies a detached seven-storey building at the rear of the Deansgate warehouse, with entrance in Garden Lane, and is one of the largest and most perfectly-equipped works of its kind in the kingdom. It comprises sawmills and all the workshops incidental to a cabinet-making industry of the most extensive character; and here also there is a capacious timber- measuring room, where the perfectly-seasoned timber taken from the firm’s immense and well-replenished stocks is measured, cut into proper lengths, and given out to the workmen. A splendid plant of the most costly and effective modern machinery is in use in this great cabinet factory, and the general organisation of the place is unsurpassed.

Equally high praise is due to the upholstering works, which occupy a large detached, building in Back Bridge Street. About thirty skilled hands are employed here, in addition to the hundred or so engaged in the cabinet factory, and the utmost activity prevails in each department of the vigorously conducted industry. Near by, in Wood Street, is situated the timber yard, with its large and valuable stock of all the different woods required in the trade; and adjoining this there is very extensive stabling for the firm’s numerous horses. These animals (about thirty in number) are carefully classified, the heavier ones being used for the delivery of furniture in large van-loads, while those of more slender physique are employed in the delivery of drapery goods in light conveyances. Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co.’s delivery system is quite a wonderful affair, and speaks volumes for the efficient and orderly administration of this vast business. Near the upholstery works stands a four-storey brick building where all bought goods undergo a careful examination and a thorough polishing before being sent out to the purchasers. Here the female employees of the firm have a commodious dining room. Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co.’s fame as house-furnishers extends all over England, and they are constantly in receipt of orders from distinguished patrons residing a long way from Manchester. They have done a vast amount of furnishing work for the elite of society in town and country, and the splendid Grand Hotel, at Manchester, is among the numerous high-class hotels in which their services as furnishers have been exclusively employed.

Besides all this, Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co., have an extensive and select drapery and fashion business, which is carried on in a stately four-storey stone building, with a frontage of 300 feet at the corner of St. Ann’s and Police Streets. This establishment is most conveniently arranged upon an excellent departmental system, and contains one of the largest and most valuable stocks in Manchester, in dress-goods, general drapery, furs, laces, silks, fancy drapery, flowers and feathers, gloves, linens, and carpets. The lace and carpet stocks are mentionable as among the finest we have ever seen, and special attention is devoted with the greatest success to millinery, costumes, and general dressmaking, in which the latest fashions of London and Paris are exemplified to perfection. We noticed also a most attractive and recherché selection of novelties in sunshades; and another very notable speciality consists in stylish linen and flannel shirts for ladies’ wear. Concerning these latter goods, the “Lady's Pictorial,” of April 25th, 1891, wrote as follows, in a paragraph reviewing some of this firm’s most recent fashionable specialities: “There seems every prospect at present that linen and flannel shirts for ladies’ wear will be just as much in request as ever all the summer season through. Nothing is cooler, more comfortable, or more becoming than a really well-made and well-cut shirt, and those which have just been produced by Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co., of Deansgate, Manchester, answer exactly to this description, and seem to possess every necessary good quality. They are made in thoroughly good washing materials of all kinds, and are to be had at 2/11, 3/11, 4/11, and 5/11 each, with soft fronts, stiff collars, and stiff cuffs.”

Mention should be made of the fact that Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co , by special arrangement with the renowned house of Messrs. Morris & Co., of Oxford Street, London, have set apart a new show room for the exhibition of the famous class of decorative goods (wall-papers, &c.), known as “Morris Fabrics.” A splendid display is made in these unrivalled productions, and any one wishing to have the personal advice of Messrs. Morris & Co., on the decoration or furnishing of houses, may have that assistance through the agency of Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co., who will make special terms in such cases.

Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co., may fairly be said to take the leading position in the matter of dress-goods, dressmaking, and carpets, and they are famous also in connection with table and bed linen of every description. They retain the services of a specially skilful staff of embroiderers for working designs upon linens, such as monograms and crests. Another specially organised staff is constantly engaged in the execution and despatch of orders received by post, and in this very important and busy department the most minute details and instructions are attended to with scrupulous care, as well as with the utmost promptitude. The firm’s workrooms are models of neatness and sanitary perfection, and contribute very largely to the favourable conditions under which all orders in the “making up” departments are carried out.

Upwards of 500 clerks, cashiers, assistants, dressmakers, modistes, &c., are employed, and this brings the total staff in the service of the house up to about 750 hands. Altogether, the business is the largest concern of its kind in Manchester, and it stands almost unrivalled in the magnitude of its ever-increasing trade, and the eminence of its well-earned reputation. The firm issue a large amount of superior printed matter in connection with their business, to which we commend our readers’ attention. The beautifully got-up illustrated catalogue of furniture, with drawings of rooms furnished by the house to special designs, is nothing less than a work of art. The whole business is thoroughly well-organised, and it is an unquestionable fact that the house of Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co. is to-day one of the foremost of English mercantile institutions.
Telegrams for this firm should be addressed “Kenmil, Manchester.” The telephone number is 694.

R. & J. PARTINGTON, SPINNERS, MANUFACTURERS, DYERS AND BLEACHERS, BEETLED JEANS, JEANS, BLUE DUNGAREES, GRANDRILLS, TICKS, DENIMS, GAMBROONS, OXFORDS, HARVARD AND SATEEN SHIRTINGS AND GALATEAS, DYED AND PRINTED, SILESIAS AND SATEENS,
MANCHESTER.

MORE than a quarter of a century has elapsed since this business was established, and it has been developed with notable perseverance and ability, and at the present time the establishment occupies a leading position. The co-partners are Mr. Richard Partington and Mr. John Partington, both gentlemen of unquestionable ability in their speciality and of high commercial standing. The premises occupied in Manchester are ample in size and convenience, comprising a large suite of offices and saleroom and show-rooms, all fitted up with every requisite for the accommodation of the stocks and the successful control of the business on hand. The works are at Worsley, and are known as the Hazelhurst Mills. They consist of an extensive block of five-storey buildings, forming a solid square. The various departments are thoroughly equipped with apparatus, plant and machinery of the most modern type, the whole being dnven by two steam-engines of forty horse-power each. A force of four hundred hands is employed. An admirable system of discipline and labour organisation is maintained and the utmost efficiency is apparent everywhere, the whole being the creditable outcome of the firm’s long experience and liberal policy.

An exceedingly large trade is controlled, and everything the firm produce is of guaranteed excellence. Their goods are well known and highly appreciated in the market, where they find ready sales. For sound workmanship and variety and novelty in designs, the house deservedly occupies a high position, while prices are such as cannot be beaten. Immense stocks are held in Manchester, which have been selected with a consummate knowledge of the trade, and a word of praise is due for the really excellent manner in which they have been arranged. There are splendid supplies of nankeens, Oxfords, zephyrs, coloured cotton drills, &c., &c., which will bear favourable comparison with the best productions of any first-class house in the trade. A valuable connection has been acquired both at home and abroad — the zephyrs and coloured cotton goods manufactured here being much in demand in Australia, New Zealand, and the Cape. All orders receive prompt and careful attention, and-every effort is made to oblige patrons. The proprietors give the business the benefit of their long and valuable experience, and by their energetic control and equitable and honourable methods, they secure the confidence of all who come into business connection with them. They are well known and highly respected in private life, and they take an active interest in all public matters.

HASELGROVE & NEPHEW, SPINNERS AND MANUFACTURERS OF ROPES, LINES, AND TWINES, LAMP COTTONS, ENGINE WASTE, AND SPONGE CLOTHS,
NEWTON ST. MILL, MANCHESTER.

THE inception of this business dates back to 1850, when operations were commenced in Lever Street by the founders, who were possessed of large ability and great experience. The business grew at a rapid rate, upon the most substantial basis, and repeated removals to larger premises were necessitated. The premises occupied consist of a spacious and substantial block of four-storey building with basement, having a frontage of 24 feet in Newton Street and 117 feet in Little Ancoats Street. The extensive basement is used for storage and packing purposes, and the offices, private rooms, and stock-rooms are situate on the ground floor, while the remaining floors are utilized for work-rooms and stores. The different departments have been arranged with great judgment and with a thorough knowledge of the requirements of the business; the equipment is perfect, embracing all the necessary requirements for the storage of their vast manufactures, which are carried on in various districts outside the city, most suitable to their particular requirements. A thorough system of organization is enforced throughout the whole establishment, and manifestations multiply themselves on every hand of the great consideration the worthy proprietors have had for the comfort and welfare of their numerous employes.

The goods emanating from this establishment have assumed a well-recognized position in the markets, and are accepted among all classes of buyers and consumers as standards of excellence in their respective lines. In the superior character of the material, the soundness and thoroughness of the workmanship, strength and finish, the articles manufactured by Messrs. Haselgrove & Nephew cannot be surpassed. In their leading lines, ropes, twines, wicks, waste and sponge cloths, their extensive and perfect productive resources enable them to turn out some of the best quality in the trade, and in such quantities that orders of any magnitude can be despatched with exceptional promptitude. The long experience the firm have had in the business, and their intimate acquaintance with every detail, combined with their ample resources, place them in the most favourable position for manufacturing reliable goods at the Cheapest possible rate. The record of forty years of honourable commercial existence is guarantee enough that the uniform excellence of their goods will never be tampered with. Goods not in hand are made specially, samples and estimates are readily supplied free of charge, and every legitimate inducement is offered to buyers, while special terms are quoted for large quantities and shipping orders.

Immense stocks are held of the various specialities manufactured by the firm as well as of the goods they deal in belonging to the same line of business, and which they have special facilities of obtaining. Considerable judgment and knowledge of the requirements of the trade have been displayed in these selections, which embrace all leading lines and varieties, and in such quantities that orders for current kinds can be despatched by return. They include every description of rope, line, and twine, lamp wicks of all kinds, candle wick, engine waste, sponge cloths, engine packings, spun yarn, log lines, lead lines, clothes’ lines, sash lines, fishing lines, bunting and flags, mops, worsted thrums, mop yarns, cotton and woollen flocks, mill puffs, Venetian tapes, upholsterers’ trimmings, house flannels, wash leathers, gloves, &c., &c. An extensive and valuable trade, both home and foreign, has been developed, the connection lying among the largest consumers, railway companies, mill owners, manufacturers, dealers, merchants, and shippers. A numerous and efficient staff of work-people is employed to meet the constantly increasing demands upon the resources of the establishment. The proprietors are gentlemen of wide experience in their special branch of industry, and their able and energetic personal supervision is bestowed upon the business, thus insuring prompt and efficient attention to all orders and a reliable uniformity of quality. In all their transactions they are straightforward and honest, and by this creditable policy, no less than by the excellence of their manufacture, they retain the confidence and support of their widespread and influential connection. In social and commercial circles they are much respected for their personal integrity, public usefulness, and many good qualities.

A. K. DYSON & CO., GREY CLOTH MERCHANTS AND MANUFACTURERS,
86, 88, AND 90, GEORGE STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS firm was organised by its present senior partner in the year 1875, at 38, George Street, from whence, its commercial development having been so rapid, the business was transferred, in 1883, to the more convenient and commodious premises at 86 and 88, George Street, to which the adjoining warehouse, No. 90, has recently been added. The personnel of the firm are Mr. Arthur Kaye Dyson, Justice of the Peace for Cheshire, member of the County Council for the Sale Division of Cheshire, and Director of the Union Bank of Manchester, and his son, Mr. Arthur Ernest Dyson, both of them gentlemen of experience in connection with the important branch of commerce to which their attention is now directed. The premises occupied consist of large and substantial five-storied buildings, well appointed with a suite of general and private offices, sample, stock and packing departments, and are augmented by offices at 31, Milk Street, Cheapside, London, E.C., for facilitating the carrying on of their important home trade business, an agency at 32, Gresham Street, E.C., also in the great metropolis, and agencies at Glasgow, Belfast, and Paris. The firm operates on an extensive scale in grey and white calicoes, sending large quantities of goods to all the leading continental, colonial, and foreign markets, more especially to Australia, the Cape, and the West Indian Islands.

RYLANDS & SONS, LIMITED, COTTON SPINNERS, MANUFACTURERS, BLEACHERS, DYERS, AND FINISHERS,
MANCHESTER AND LONDON.

IN tracing the annals of business enterprise in England during the first quarter of the present century there is probably no circumstance more conspicuous in itself, or more notable in effect, than the fact that the period in question gave birth to a remarkably large number of trading and manufacturing concerns whose names since then have become identified with some of the greatest achievements in our national commerce. Fruitful as was the era to which we refer in the production of mercantile and industrial undertakings which have lived, and flourished, and grown continuously in magnitude and influence down to the present day, it may be safely said that not one of these many ventures has developed into a more colossal commercial power than that in which the house of Messrs. Rylands & Sons, Limited, had its origin nearly three-quarters of a century ago. Following a rule that has been very general in the history of trade, this great concern commenced its operations upon a modest and unpretentious basis, and so great has been the force of personal character and energy brought to bear upon its subsequent movements that it has far outstripped all its competitors in the race for commercial supremacy, and stands to-day the recognised and undisputed head and leader of the cotton trade, with which, from the first, all its interests have been involved, and to which all its immense resources are still devoted.

To review seriatim the incidents in the career of this remarkable concern is simply to epitomise the history of that wonderful commercial organisation which bears the name of the “Manchester Trade”; and the proper accomplishment of such a task as this would require a volume. We have but a very brief space at our disposal here; nevertheless, it is hoped that the following history of the house, though concise, will not be found uninteresting, or entirely inadequate to its purpose. In the year 1819, from which the record of the business of Messrs. Rylands may be said to date, Joseph Rylands and his brother, John Rylands, established mills for dyeing, bleaching, and producing cotton yarns, Joseph attending to the duties of the manufacture and to the execution of orders, while John, mounted on horseback and carrying his patterns in his saddle-bags, travelled throughout Shropshire, Lancashire, Yorkshire, and parts of Cheshire and North Wales, in order to obtain customers for their goods. His journeys proved eminently successful, and a substantial connection being soon established, the brothers found it necessary to considerably increase their productive facilities.

Soon after this their father, noticing their success, invited them to join him in business at Wigan, where he had already been trading for some time. They assented, and the partnership thus formed took the title of Rylands & Sons. The vigorous energy infused into the concern by the two brothers (and especially by John Rylands, who manifested a remarkable aptitude for business affairs) contributed very greatly to the expansion of the trade done at Wigan; and before long it was proposed by John Rylands to transfer the relations of the house from St. Helens, where they had principally been centred, to Manchester, which was then rapidly rising into prominence. Small premises were accordingly taken in New High Street, Manchester, forming a portion of the site now covered by the huge pile of the company’s principal city warehouses. Thenceforward the development of the business was rapid, and in 1824 the firm purchased two important estates near Wigan, upon which they erected fine mills, equipped in the best manner of that period for the various processes of their industry. A rich vein of coal was also discovered on this property, and the mining of this proved very advantageous to the firm.

Mr. Joseph Rylands, junior, retired from the business in 1840, and seven years later Mr. Joseph Rylands, senior, died. The control of the entire concern then came into the hands of the late Mr. John Rylands, to whose splendid energies the subsequent advancement and growth of this gigantic undertaking were so largely due. As has already been written concerning the house at this period of its existence: “Mill after mill was bought, extended, or entirely erected; development followed development, departure succeeded departure; and by the year 1873 the concern had attained to such gigantic proportions as to be productive, doubtless, of no little anxiety to the one man whose sole efforts had been responsible for such a magnificent effect. Indeed, it is not difficult to believe that Mr. Rylands’ position became in some measure analogous to that of Frankenstein — both had created a ‘monster’ which became almost beyond individual control and management.”

The business had reached such a state of immensity that it was no longer possible to deny its claim to be regarded as the largest concern in the British textile industries, and to relieve himself in some degree of the heavy strain of directing an enterprise of such magnitude, Mr. Rylands, in 1874, decided to convert the house into a limited liability company. This project was carried to a completely successful issue, and “Rylands & Sons, Limited,” became an accomplished fact. The career of the company was inaugurated under the monetary auspices of an immense capital — no less, in fact, than £2,000,000 sterling, in 100,000 shares of £20 each; and of this capital £1,500,000 is paid up. Mr. Rylands was the first Governor of the Company, or Chairman of the Directorate, and with him were associated as colleagues, a number of gentlemen of the highest practical skill and administrative ability. From that time onward the records of the house of Rylands tell the tale of an industrial and commercial progress and prosperity that has had very few, if any, parallels in the history of English mercantile and manufacturing enterprise. We may note at this point that the capital of the company has recently been augmented by the sum of £900,000, in four per cent, debentures, issued to cover a liability to Mrs. Rylands and others, of that amount. At one of the recent meetings of shareholders, it was stated that the value of the company’s lands, buildings, plant, &c., was £1,047,452, while the total assets in lands, buildings, plant, stocks, and book debts amounted to £3,829,003 4s. 8d. The claims upon this vast sum, apart from the capital invested in shares and debentures, were only £748,082 12s. 8d.; and it was furthermore stated that the returns from the business in 1889 were in excess of those of any previous year.

All these facts point to the continued prosperity of the concern, and the citation of a few figures now to illustrate the actual immensity of the system of operations carried on by Messrs. Rylands & Sons, Limited, may not be without interest. The annual transactions of the house are represented in millions of pounds sterling, and the production and distribution of between 20,000 and 30,000 tons of goods (which is the average yearly output of the several works), necessitates the employment of a total force of nearly 12,000 hands. The company control no fewer than seventeen mills and factories, all of which are in constant operation, and “the unique music arising from the almost ceaseless action of the 5,000 looms and 200,000 spindles, that appertain to these immense hives of industry, is a fitting accompaniment to the progress of a trade whose yearly income is positively in excess of that of many a State of recognised standing in the political world.”. Messrs. Rylands & Sons, Limited, are importers upon an enormous scale, principally of raw cotton, which they spin and manufacture for the most part at their mills. Their imports in cotton alone range from 5,000 to 6,000 tons in weight per annum, and amount to upwards of £250,000 in value. The weight of their other imports aggregates about 2,000 tons per annum, and it is well-known that the company are merchants in the broadest sense of the word, for they draft into England from all parts of the world a well-nigh inexhaustible variety of marketable commodities, in which they have dealings of extraordinary magnitude. The map of the world may be used as a topographical chart of Messrs. Rylands’ trade, for there is no quarter of the globe into which their commercial operations do not extend, or in which they have not established a connection of some influence and importance. Despite protection tariffs they export vast quantities of goods to Canada and the United States, as well as to Australia, France, Italy, Belgium, and the Continent generally, the West Indies, South Africa, and every part of the British Empire.

In order to indicate the classes of goods which are thus distributed by this great productive agency throughout the markets of the world, we may here make a brief list of the company’s principal works and factories, with a mention of the products peculiar to each. The chief factories and mills are situate and engaged as shown in the following enumeration: Gorton Mills, near Manchester — a fine brick building enclosing three sides of a square, fitted with 1,550 looms, employing 1,350 hands, possessing engines of 2,000 horse-power, and producing the company’s noted grey Dacca calicoes, sheetings, twills, and jeannettes; Gidlow Works, Wigan — a magnificent range of modern buildings, in every respect one of the foremost industrial establishments of Lancashire, employing 1,350 hands, equipped with 1,600 looms, and engines of 2,000 horse-power, and producing about 350,000 yards weekly of superior Dacca calicoes for bleaching, twills for the celebrated finish of silesias, and cloth for printing; Mather Street Mills, Bolton, with engines of 700 horse-power, 600 Jacquard looms, and 500 employés, making a large weekly production of dimities, satin damasks, brocades, satteens, toilets, fichus, quiltings, and fancy novelties; The Swinton Mills, near Manchester, covering a great area of ground — engines of 300 horse-power, 700 looms, 600 employés, producing the well-known Bower’s regattas, Oxfords, Galateas, coloured goods, and all specialities of the house; The Heapy Bleach Works, near Chorley, Lancashire — a fine stone building, covering with the reserves, &c., forty acres of ground, used for bleaching and dyeing, with water storage — daily consumption of water about 2,500,000 gallons, engines indicating 2,000 horse-power, 600 employés.

Floor Oil Cloth Works, Chorley—lately rebuilt in part with improved facilities, engines of 250 horse-power, 200 employés, very large output of all kinds of oil-cloths for floor covering; Wadding Works, Water Street; The Longford Works, Manchester — a massive and commanding eight-storey block of great dimensions, employing 1,200 hands, devoted to the production of ready-made clothing, embroideries, aprons, pinafores, costumes, corsets, shirts, underclothing, toilet-covers, umbrellas, mantles, jackets, cloaks, dolmans, ulsters, &c., &c. Close by are works for cabinet-making, packing-case making, and other similar work, these being in Hulme Street. The Medlock Works, Manchester, form a large and commodious building of excellent equipment, devoted to the execution of letterpress and lithographic printing, and the manufacture of pattern-cards and paper boxes for the firm.

Besides all these busy establishments, the company manufacture clothing of all descriptions at works in Bethnal Green, London, E.C., and make great quantities of shirts at Commercial Road, London. At Crewe they have another factory, where they manufacture shirts, collars, men’s clothing, &c. Such another system of industrial establishments, it is safe to say, does not exist in Great Britain under the control of any one house. Messrs. Rylands & Sons, Limited, have four magnificent warehouses in Manchester, all of which are architectural and mercantile features second to none in the city; and all contain enormous stocks of goods, equally remarkable for magnitude and exhaustive variety. The warehouse in Market Street has five floors, the one in New High Street seven floors, and the other two six floors each. Collectively they cover a vast area of ground, and are arranged departmentally upon a carefully considered plan, which affords the utmost facility and convenience in the conducting of the company’s colossal business. The London warehouse is in Wood Street, E.C, with frontages to Philip Lane and London Wall. It ranks among the finest commercial edifices in the metropolis, and is an eight-storey block, covering a floor area of no less than seven acres, and embodying all the very best and most approved principles of modern warehouse architecture and organisation.

The limits of our space are well-nigh exhausted, and it now only remains to make some concluding reference to the present administrative body of Messrs. Rylands & Sons, Limited. As all the world of commerce knows, John Rylands, the guiding spirit of this great concern for such an exceptionally lengthened period, passed away, at his residence, Longford Hall, on December 11th, 1888, full of years and of distinction in the sphere of life in which he had played such a noble and useful part; rich, moreover, in all that should accompany old age — “honour, love, obedience, troops of friends”; and deeply and sincerely lamented by all who had the privilege of personal intimacy with him. Of John Rylands it may be said in an especial degree that his works live after him, for no man has left a deeper impression upon the commerce of his time, or achieved greater things in the trade with which he was actively associated to the last; and to anyone who stands in any of the huge establishments that now acknowledge the sway of Rylands & Sons, Limited, and seeks therein for some memorial of the departed merchant prince, there is need only to repeat the expressive inscription to the memory of Wren in St. Paul’s Cathedral — “Si monumentum quaeris, circumspice.” With the death of John Rylands a mighty figure was removed from the drama of Manchester’s trade, and a great ruler from the conduct of affairs in the city’s greatest house of business; but his mantle has fallen upon worthy shoulders, and perhaps the most gratifying circumstance connected with the present condition of the house of Messrs. Rylands & Sons, Limited, is the fact that the administration of its affairs remains in the hands of men who are eminently qualified by experience and personal ability, as well as by long association with its interests, to direct with uninterrupted success the varied operations of such a colossal concern. Our brief review of Manchester’s foremost house in commerce and industry combined is at an end, and though it is in many respects incomplete by reason of its brevity, it may, perhaps, serve the purpose of attracting further attention to those splendid qualities of energy, enterprise, and mercantile rectitude which have won for this house universal respect and confidence, and which still continue, as in time past, to influence all its dealings with the many nations among whom its name is held as a synonym for that dignity and integrity which, we trust, will never be lacking in the conduct of British trade.

WILLIAM WHITTAKER, PRINTER, PAPER MERCHANT, &C.,
13, SHUDEHILL, MANCHESTER.

THIS establishment was founded as far back as the year 1848 by Mr. William Whittaker, in partnership with a Mr. Wright, originally in Victoria Street. They subsequently removed to larger premises in Watling Street, and the partnership was dissolved in 1857. Mr. Whittaker then opened a printing establishment on his own account, attached to his dwelling at No. 41, Turner Street, and likewise had a small works in Red Lion Street. He also then added the business of Paper Merchant, and Paper Bag Maker. He was the first in Manchester to make paper sugar bags. In 1860 he built a much larger works, with dwelling-house attached, in Union Street, Lower Broughton, and still retained the house and shop in Turner Street. The paper business having largely developed, he left Turner Street and took larger premises at 25, Withy Grove. This was in the year 1867. When his eldest son, Mr. Wm. Henry, attained his majority, in 1870, the warehouse and works began to be worked as separate concerns — the paper warehouse maintaining the original name, and the printing and paper bag making taking the style of W. Whittaker and Son. The streets committee of the City Council requiring this property (Withy Grove) for street improvement, he removed in 1880 to No. 57, Shudehill. Here he opened out a considerable business in stationery and account books, and also a large connection in chromo almanacks for Christmas presentation.

Mr. Whittaker was elected a member of the Salford Borough Council in 1874, which position he retained up to the time of his death in 1880; he was well known and highly respected in Salford arid the district, and had long taken a keen and active interest in all matters connected with the welfare of the borough. Mr. Whittaker’s two sons now were appointed managers under the executors, Mr. James taking the warehouse and sales department, and Mr. William Henry the works. In 1881 larger premises had to be found for the printing and paper bag making. The extensive ground floor of a mill at Ducie Bridge was taken, and fitted up in the most careful and complete manner. Upwards of forty hands are here busily employed in general printing and the manufacture of paper bags of all sizes, the latest addition to their establishment being the extensive warehouse and shop at No. 13, Shudehill, the firm now giving employment in the aggregate to over one hundred hands. They undertake all kinds of letterpress and lithographic printing (special attention being given to printed tea-papers and flour bags), bookbinding, the manufacture of drapers and grocers check books and paper bags. Large and thoroughly representative stocks are always on hand, ready for immediate delivery, and the firm have every facility for executing the largest orders on the shortest notice, and at prices that will bear favourable comparison with any house in the trade. In addition to a large staff of clerks, w»rehousemen, and assistants, four travellers are continually on the road. The business is still rapidly developing, and is conducted with marked ability, energy, and enterprise.

RICHARD GARSIDE, MANUFACTURER OF ENGINE WASTE, &C., SPONGE CLOTHS, COTTON ROPES, COTTON AND WOOLLEN MOPS, ENGINE PACKING TWINES, &C., &C.,
ELIZABETH STREET MILLS, BUTLER STREET, MANCHESTER: LONDON OFFICE, 16 AND 17, POULTRY, E.C.
TELEPHONE NO. 1,533.

IT is now some forty-eight years ago since Mr. Garside first commenced business, in humble premises, in Turner Street. From thence he removed to a larger place in Back Maynes Street, Miller Street, Manchester. After twelve years of successful trading in these premises, a further extension became necessary, and Mr. Garside purchased the site now known as German Street Mills, rebuilding the mills to suit the requirements of his now extensive business. Success still waiting on Mr. Garside’s efforts, these last-named mills became too small for the expanding business, and in the year 1889 he became proprietor of the fine Elizabeth Street Mills, Manchester, where a most comprehensive trade is carried on in the articles enumerated above, in addition to which extensive contracts are carried out with the principal British and foreign railways, both in the supply of new materials and the purchase of old stores.

The Elizabeth Street Mills are in every point of character arid situation exactly adapted to the vast business transacted. They consist of a huge seven-storied structure, splendidly appointed with well-organised offices, warehouse accommodation, and elaborately equipped works, where a very large staff of hands is actively employed in the production of the commodities for which the house has acquired an international reputation, and of which a fairly correct notion may be gathered from the following list of leading lines represented. The firm operate on a very extensive scale as manufacturers of engine waste, sponge cloths, lamp and candle wicks, cotton and woollen flocks, cotton wools, engine packing, hemp twine, ticking, sheeting, &c., and as soap, oil, and metal merchants, distributing these goods principally to the foreign markets. The firm have a very extensive and high-class connection, which is well-founded upon the eminent reputation it has so long enjoyed, being one of the oldest established and best known in the trade. Personally, Mr. Garside is a gentleman possessing the advantage of long experience and a perfect knowledge of all the intricacies of the business which he still so vigorously and successfully conducts. He devotes a large amount of time to questions of social importance, takes a deep and beneficial interest in the promotion and support of local charities, and is everywhere esteemed and respected by all those who have had the privilege of his acquaintance.

J. HILTON & SON, ESTATE AGENTS AND VALUERS,
55, MARKET STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS well-known firm was established in 1864, by Mr. Joseph Hilton. Mr. Fred Hilton, son of the founder, is now a partner; and these gentlemen are at the head of a large and valuable connection. They occupy a large suite of handsomely furnished offices on the first floor of the extensive premises, No. 55, Market Street, and employ a staff of clerks numbering six or eight. As estate agents and valuers their reputation extends throughout the city and surrounding districts. They have the entire confidence of a number of large landed proprietors and house property owners, who have for many years entrusted their affairs in the hands of the firm. They are fine judges of the market value of property, both house and land, and undertake the buying or selling of either. Their large connection enables them to arrange mortgages on suitable terms, and they act with strict impartiality between borrower and lender. They do a large business in transferring, preparing valuations for probate, and other branches of their profession. They also act as rent collectors for a large number of property owners in Manchester and around it. Messrs. Hilton & Son are the agents for the General and Yorkshire Insurance Companies. They are connected with the Mutual Telephone, their number being 546.

W. T. ROTHWELL, HEATH BREWERY,
NEWTON HEATH, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the brewing businesses of the Manchester district there is probably none which, has been more successful than that which forms the subject of our present brief sketch. When Mr. Rothwell commenced this concern about twenty years ago, the premises (which had for some time previously been used for brewing purposes) were open to considerable improvement, and he at once set to work to transform them by degrees into what they now are — one of the best organised and most compact breweries in the district. Mr. Rothwell began his operations upon a comparatively small scale, but the rapid growth of his trade encouraged him to provide the best accommodation for it, which thus brought about the gradual rebuilding of the premises in a much improved style. Thus the Heath Brewery, as it is now known, came into active existence, and it has nothing to fear from comparison with the best breweries in the county, either as regards equipment or general convenience for the conduct of a large business. Mild and bitter ales, and porter of superior quality and purity, are the products of this brewery, and are evidence of the use of the best materials combined with a good arrangement of plant and a practical knowledge of the brewing art; the effect being that Mr. Rothwell maintains and steadily extends the reputation attaching to his beers, the demand for which shows a marked increase from year to year. The trade has now assumed large proportions, and the concern stands deservedly high in the esteem and confidence of an influential connection.

Besides personally supervising this steadily-extending business, Mr. Rothwell, the sole proprietor, has from the period when he considered his business to be soundly established, devoted a considerable portion of his time to public affairs. By his earnest advocacy and substantial support he has shown great confidence in the future success of the Manchester Ship Canal, and all movements of a more local character initiated for the benefit of his fellow citizens, amongst them being that for the erection of public baths, free libraries, and science and art schools, have received his hearty support. For some time Mr. Rothwell was a member the Newton Heath Local Board, but resigned when that body decided upon the amalgamation of the district with Manchester, to which he was opposed in principle. When, however, the township became part of the adjoining city, he was elected a councillor for one of the new wards then formed, and received a larger number of votes than were recorded for any of the other successful candidates. Mr. Rothwell is a Churchman and in politics a Conservative. He is strongly opposed to intemperance in any direction, and takes every opportunity of denouncing the drunkard as the brewer’s worst enemy. In the sphere of literature Mr. Rothwell takes considerable interest, and if we may judge from his own productions, he wields an effective pen. He has written several pamphlets in support of the principles of bimetallism, of which he is a strong advocate; he is a member of the Bimetallic League, the Manchester Chamber of Commerce, and the Manchester Geographical Society. Other articles of his have also attracted attention. Mr. Rothwell is possessed of an even and considerate disposition, together with an evident desire to arrive at sound conclusions. He is a Lancashire man, and is now in the prime of life, and in the fullness of his ability to follow up the various lines of study and public work with which he has identified himself. Added to all this, Mr. Rothwell is a liberal patron of many societies of all kinds which have been established for improving the social condition of the people, without distinction of party or sect.

W. H. BAILEY & CO., LIMITED, HYDRAULIC ENGINEERS, PUMP MAKERS, AND BRASS FOUNDERS,
ALBION WORKS, OLDFIELD ROAD, SALFORD.

THIS eminent house was founded in the year 1834, by Mr. John Bailey, father of the present head of the firm. The premises, which are known as the Albion Works, are very extensive, and comprise a number of departments, each of which is devoted to some special branch of the firm’s industry. Thus we find one division of the establishment turning out water motors and caloric engines, steam pumps, air compressors, hydraulic lifts, valves, &c., while another manifests equal activity in the production of injectors and ejectors, testers, and other engine-room sundries. In addition to the articles already mentioned, their long list of specialities also includes — (1) steam kettles, steam ovens, water heaters, and high-pressure filters, (2) pyrometers, or heat indicators, for boiler flues, furnaces, ovens, stoves, cooking ranges, hot-air chambers, baking and drying kilns, and for maltsters and laboratory use, (3) every description of testers and testing machinery, (4) all kinds of steam, air, and hydraulic pumps and pumping machinery, (5) hot-air engines for power and for pumping purposes, (6) turret clocks, bells, and lightning conductors, (7) autographic diagram recorders, tell-tale indicators, counters, anemometers, &c., (8) gas fittings, screwing tackle, &c., (9) general machinery, and tools in great variety, including tools, machines and appliances for all the mechanical crafts.

For all these productions Messrs. W. H. Bailey & Co., Limited, are famous at home and abroad, and in some of their principal specialities they stand unrivalled. They possess working resources of exceptional completeness, and are never at a loss for means to meet the heaviest demands of their enormous trade. Wherever the manufactures of this noted firm have been exhibited they have carried off high honours, and they were particularly successful at the recent Melbourne and Calcutta Exhibitions, where some of the Bailey specialities elicited very high commendation. The pumping machinery of this firm is unsurpassed, and the same may be said of the Bailey dynamometers, thermometers, and other delicate instruments for engineers. Their pyrometer, or heat indicator, is a particularly useful and efficient appliance, thoroughly reliable, highly sensitive, and indicating heat up to a very high temperature.

In recent years Messrs. Bailey have become famous as makers of turret clocks, and they erected a splendid specimen of their work in this department at the Manchester Exhibition of 1887. This clock was much admired for its beautiful chime of bells. The firm have also a fine clock called Bailey’s British. Empire clock, constructed in accordance with a patent taken out by Mr. W. H. Bailey, the present head of the house. This clock has a dial twelve feet in diameter, and the hours are struck upon Harrington’s patent tube chimes, producing a more musical effect than bells. The mechanical details of this patent are elaborate and highly ingenious, and render the clock extremely useful, very comprehensive information being given regarding the “time of day” in all parts of Her Majesty’s dominions.

Altogether, Messrs. W. H. Bailey & Co., Limited, are in control of one of the most interesting and noteworthy mechanical and engineering businesses in Salford or Manchester, and their influential connection takes effect in all parts of the world. In the various departments of their industry they employ between 300 and 400 highly skilled workmen. Mr. W. H. Bailey personally supervises the entire business, and also finds time to devote a good deal of attention to the public service. He is an alderman of Salford, and stands among the most prominent and respected residents of the borough.

WILLIAM WILLMOTT HILL, PAINT, COLOUR VARNISH, SIZE, AND GREASE MANUFACTURER, OIL REFINER, AND DRYSALTER, BROUGHTON. BRIDGE FAINT WORKS,
ST. SIMON STREET, SALFORD, MANCHESTER.

FEW men in the district are so well and so deservedly known as Mr. Hill. As a manufacturer of over thirty years' standing in Salford, he has all along maintained that high standard of strict integrity that has made him so universally admired. If Mr. Hill is well-known personally so are his works and so are the many most useful goods manufactured there, all bearing a superior name. Mr. Hill’s specialities are numerous and valuable, and the fame of them has gone throughout the United Kingdom. Amongst the rest is his renowned rust preventer and dipping grease, a preparation most invaluable to engineers. It should be at once introduced — if not already in use — into all large engineers’ firms, for it certainly is a most wonderful and money-saving discovery. When used it preserves the bright parts of machinery from rust, and effectually resists all atmospheric influences, and when removed after twelve months’ exposure to the weather the metal remains as bright as when the rust preventer was first applied. It is not affected by salt water or the changes of climate. Just as good is his soluble disinfecting and cleansing liquid, which is non-poisonous. This valuable preparation can be put to a thousand uses: For cleansing stables, kennels, and piggeries, it cannot be equalled. For washing dogs, flushing drains, destroying weeds on garden walks, for closets, lavatories, and for laundry purposes it is admirable. His gasometer paint, specially prepared to resist the action of sulphide of hydrogen, is extensively used, as is also his famous varnish paint for lamp pillars, and his white enamel for the interior of lamps, which is a permanent white and will not change colour. Mr. Hill also makes a special paint for workhouses, hospital walls, corridors, and dormitories, which is largely used for disinfecting and beautifying. His engineers’ lead colour paints, prepared specially to dry with or without gloss, are extensively used by machine and tool makers. They are very durable and of good appearance. For this branch of trade he makes a filling-up composition for imperfect castings which sets in a few hours as hard as the metal itself, also a splendid varnish for wood patterns. His oxide paints in all colours, which are prepared in oil or in varnish, are extensively used by the gentry for painting their iron hurdles, park rails, seats, and general estate work. We must not forget to mention his railway waggon and colliery paint, which has obtained for itself the reputation of being the most durable paint in the market.

In addition to the standard preparations just mentioned, Mr. Hill manufactures countless other and valuable compounds. The list is too long to be introduced here, but the utmost reliance can be placed on his paints, colours, varnishes and size. He issues a very exhaustive list, which is well worth sending for. Mr. Hill’s connection with all kinds of machinists, wagon builders, gas companies, carriage builders, landowners, painters, &c., has for many years been most valuable. His position may be said to be unique, for he holds the entire confidence of all his clients, which is indeed a great matter in these days of competition, when articles of such inferior quality are continually being placed on the markets. The works are very extensive, and are fitted with all the latest improvements in grinding mills, paint mixers, steam boilers, tanks, vats, &c. The offices are at the entrance gates to the works, and are roomy and well fitted up. The respected proprietor is to be congratulated on the proud position he has so long and so honourably maintained in the great battle of business. He may very safely “rest on his oars.” His good, faith with all those who have for so many years done business with him is showering its reward on him, and he is now enjoying his well-won triumphs.

JOHN HEYWOOD, PUBLISHER, PRINTER, WHOLESALE BOOK-SELLER, STATIONER AND NEWSAGENT, AND MANUFACTURER OF CHURCH, SCHOOL, AND OFFICE FURNITURE,
DEANSGATE AND RIDGEFIELD, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the many great commercial concerns associated with the production and dissemination of general and educational literature and periodical publications, we know of none whose operations are conducted upon a more extensive scale than are those of Mr. John Hey wood of Manchester. This house stands in the front rank of the British publishing, printings and stationery trades, and its many vast establishments in Manchester are among the most notable centres of industrial and mercantile activity in the city and district. The business has been established just half m century, and has been conducted during the whole of that period with such uniform success and progressive enterprise that it is now undoubtedly one of the largest and most influential undertakings of its kind in existence. For the purposes of the various departments of this vast business several huge blocks of buildings in Manchester have been specially erected and equipped, and these now comprise the bookselling and fancy stationery warehouse in Deansgate, the stationery warehouse in Ridgefield, the church and school furniture showrooms in Deansgate, the City Printing Works in Brazenose Street, the printing and book-binding works in Holme Hall Road, and the church and school furniture manufactory at Cornbrook.

Besides the above establishments (each which is of colossal size and splendid organization throughout), the firm have a London warehouse at 1, Paternoster Buildings, E.C., and the usefulness of this metropolitan depot is at once apparent when we call to mind the fact that the name of John Heywood is known throughout the English-speaking world, and that the trade carried on in that name is universal in its ramifications. In addition, to exemplify every branch of the publishing, printing, bookselling, stationery, newsagents’, and school and church furniture manufacturers’ trades, the firm of John Heywood stands among the foremost in the matter of journalistic enterprise, and publishes the “Scholars’ Magazine,” the “Textile Recorder,” the “Sporting Echo,” the “Ship Canal News,” and other well-known and successful papers and periodicals, among which John Heywood’s “Railway Guide” and “Tourists' Guides” are prominent, as being among the most useful and popular publications of their kind extant.

To adequately describe any one of this firm’s gigantic establishments in Manchester would require the space of a volume, and we shall not attempt the Quixotic task of trying to condense such an enormous mass of interesting matter into the few lines at our disposal here. John Heywood’s works and warehouses demand the fullest description if any endeavour is to be made to portray their wonderful features, and no condensed report of their construction, arrangement, equipment, and operations could do them justice. To most of our readers, however, it will be readily apparent that such a vast business as they are fully aware is carried on by this firm must have its foundation upon some peculiarly vast and effective system of practical organization. No great effect can be achieved without a sufficiency of cause, and the fact that John Heywood’s business is probably unrivalled and certainly unsurpassed among contemporary British concerns in the same line affords ample evidence of another fact — that his various establishments, in which that business finds scope for its operations, are types of perfection in their several classes.

The fine new warehouse in Deansgate is one of the architectural ornaments of the city, a notably proportioned edifice of six stories, with a frontage of sixty-four feet and a depth of one hundred and two feet, and here, in many admirably arranged departments, may be found a stock of fancy stationery such as no other house in the kingdom can surpass. The elegantly appointed book depot is a feature of this warehouse, and contains an immense array of books, embracing new and standard works in every department of literature. The stationery warehouse in Ridgefield calls for equally high commendation. It is a world of business in itself, and its many spacious show-rooms afford a revelation of the resources of the stationery trade calculated to astonish the uninitiated visitor. An enormous stock of paper of every kind is kept among the many other commodities of this branch of the business, and there is absolutely no requirement in the matter of stationery that cannot be met and satisfied here.

When we pass on to the church and school furniture showrooms in Deansgate, we are reminded of the fact that artistic taste and inventive ingenuity have been exceedingly busy in this connection during recent years. The old-fashioned high-walled pew (a sort of ecclesiastical stronghold in which worthy church members could serenely and securely slumber through the long paragraphs of a soporific sermon) has gone the way of many another institution of antiquity. It has well-nigh disappeared from our churches, and in its place we have neatly made and handsomely designed seats which beautify the building in which they are placed, and which are sufficiently comfortable without affording too seductive facilities for the wooing of the “drowsy god.” All items of church furniture have been equally improved, both as regards appearance and utility, and the newest and handsomest designs can be seen in John Heywood’s showrooms.

Similarly there has been great advancement in school furniture, and the rising generation have reason to be grateful for the ingenuity and thoughtfulness that have done so much for their comfort and convenience in the matter of desks, seats, and other requisites of a well-appointed schoolroom. A host of notable novelties in this line are displayed by the firm under notice, and all these excellent articles (as well as the church furniture already referred to) speak volumes for the productive resources of Mr. Heywood’s manufactory. This factory, by the way, is at Cornbrook, and has been expressly built and equipped with the very best modern machinery for the making of church and school furniture of every kind.

John Heywood is a sort of universal provider in the direction of education, and his school publications, maps, stationery, &c., are not less famous than his school furniture. In printing and bookbinding there are few houses in the north of England that can seriously compete with this great Manchester concern, and all branches of these trades receive splendid exemplification at the “City Printing Works” in Brazenose Street, and at the newer printing and bookbinding works at Hulme Hall Road. Both these immense establishments play parts of the highest importance in the routine of John Heywood’s business, and being provided with appliances and machinery of the highest efficiency, they produce work that is practically unsurpassable. The new premises in Hulme Hall Road are regarded by all who have seen them as forming one of the finest printing and bookbinding works in the United Kingdom. They cover an area of 16,317 square feet, rise to a height of five stories, and afford an instructive illustration of the best modern methods in almost every branch of the printers’ art and industry, besides accommodating a bookbinding department of exceptional extent and most complete equipment.

At the Excelsior Works, Hulme Hall Road, the firm carry on an extensive business as type-founders, not only making all the type for their own use, but they also supply the trade - in fact, they are prepared to thoroughly equip a printer’s office. Altogether, the various establishments that are united under the sway of this great printing and publishing house possess resources fully equal to meeting every demand made upon them by the gigantic business to which they are all devoted, and when we say this we can pay no higher tribute to their excellence of organisation. No firm in the United Kingdom handles a larger quantity of literature than the one here under notice, and at certain seasons of the year it is not uncommon for one railway company alone to deliver at Mr. John Heywood’s principal warehouse about ten tons of books in a single day, all of which are speedily distributed to the many customers of the house. The news agency department is a vast business in itself, and when we consider the firm’s trade in its entirety, the word “colossal” is the only one which can adequately indicate its magnitude.

As an example of the manner in which a vast trading concern can be built up by the industry and perseverance of resolute men, the house of John Heywood has no superior. Its founder, Mr. John Heywood, commenced his operations half a century ago in a very small way as a bookseller in Deansgate, and that modest beginning was so developed by his thrift and sterling commercial qualities that it became a substantial foundation for the immense concern to which this brief review has been devoted. The son of the founder, whom we may designate John Heywood secundus, commenced life as a solicitor’s clerk, but after a time he abandoned that calling, and decided to cast in his lot with his father. His remarkable energy and foresight caused the already rapidly growing business to increase by great leaps and bounds, and ere he had been many years in touch, the development of the concern surpassed all anticipations. It was he who, after the death of his father, carried out the organisation of the present great system of works and warehouses, and built the great establishment in Hulme Hall Road, to which we have briefly referred above.

Mr. John Heywood secundus died on May 10th, 1888, deeply regretted by the many friends he had made in all walks of life, and not less sincerely mourned by the hundreds of employees whose respect and affection he had gained. Ever at the call of duty, and always to be found in the thickest of the commercial strife, Mr. John Heywood also showed himself to be possessed of a remarkably sound practical knowledge of every branch of his trade, and he brought his own individual experience to bear upon the training of his employees, giving them valuable advice in their work, and encouraging them to act their parts in life with the earnestness and straightforwardness that had always been his own chief characteristics. Never did man set a better example to those around him, and there are few among the thirteen hundred hands employed in the several divisions of this great business who cannot trace to his influence the timely learning of some valuable and practical lesson. Since the death of John Heywood secundus, the business has been continued by his son, also named John Heywood. This gentleman’s experience fully qualifies him to direct the affairs of the house and maintain its best traditions, and the fact that he carefully and judiciously follows in the footsteps of his father is a fine feature in his highly successful administrative policy.

It is particularly worthy of note that, although the rush of business in all departments of this enormous concern is continuous and tremendously exacting, yet there is no semblance of confusion anywhere, and the whole of the great machine moves onward with a regularity that constantly proclaims the perfection of the arrangements made to ensure its systematic working. It has been our fortune to visit many a great seat of British trade, and to examine the operations of many a famous firm engaged therein, but never have we met with a business which has reflected higher credit upon the abilities of its principals than does that of Mr. John Heywood upon the practical skill and well-directed enterprise of the men who have guided it to the high position and prosperous condition it now maintains and enjoys.
For the convenience of our readers we may add that the telegraphic address of this house is “Books, Manchester,” the telephone number, 553.

EDWIN WOODALL, AGENT FOR THE ULTRAMARINE MANUFACTURING COMPANY,
3, CHATHAM STREET, PICCADILLY, MANCHESTER.

THE large and influential business well represents a most important branch of industry intimately connected with the manufactures of the district. At the above address Mr. Woodall occupies very extensive and commodious premises, which comprise spacious and well-appointed offices and counting- house, sale and sample rooms, together with extensive storage accommodation, and every convenience for the successful working of a large and increasing business. Commodious as are these premises, the requirements of the business are fast outstripping the accommodation, and a removal to still more roomy quarters is in contemplation. Mr. Woodall holds a very large and comprehensive stock of chemicals and colours, including ultramarines of various shades, tannic acid, tartar emetic, dyewood extracts, albumens, albumen paste, zinc preparation, glycerine, commercial and medicinal, also special colours for paperstainers, papermakers, &c., &c. Mr. Woodall is the agent in the North of England for the Ultramarine Manufacturing Company, of Poole, Dorset, a very large industrial establishment known as the “Hamworthy Blue Works,” which was founded in 1885 by Mr. W. D. Dugdale for the manufacture of superfine ultramarine for all purposes and metal polishing paste. The works at Poole are laid out on a very extensive scale, and have been fitted up in the most careful and complete manner to ensure the effective and economical working of the various departments, the company giving regular employment to upwards of a hundred hands. Both in his own line and as agent for the Ultramarine Manufacturing Company Mr. Woodall does a very extensive and steadily increasing business, and with the superior facilities at command he is in a position to give his customers exceptional advantages, and to compete on favourable terms with any firm in the trade. Mr. Woodall has an excellent connection with dyers, bleachers, drysalters and manufacturing chemists throughout the northern and midland counties. The business is conducted with commendable energy, and no effort is spared to meet the convenience of customers in the punctual execution of orders.

THE STOCKPORT MACHINE CAKE COMPANY, LIMITED,
HEAD OFFICES, COBDEN STREET, PENDLETON.

THE operations of this concern were commenced at Stockport in 1887, and the push and energy displayed in the management soon carried the undertaking to a decided and substantial success. Repeated additions and enlargements have been necessary. The Pendleton factory was opened during the year 1891, and still all the capabilities of the different factories are taxed at times to keep pace with the immense increase in the demands. The superiority of the articles manufactured and the unapproachable prices at which they are offered, have secured for the company the leading position in their business; and the popularity and patronage of the firm are daily increasing.

The factories are large and thoroughly well arranged for the purposes of the trade, and have been built with special regard to the requirements of the business. The one recently opened in Cobden Street, Pendleton, is replete with every modern appliance and improvement. The premises comprise ample office accommodation for a staff of clerks, with warehouse, store-rooms, bakery, &c. There are four capacious ovens at Stockport and eight at Pendleton, all of the latest and best construction. The various processes of manufacturing are carried out by machinery which has been made specially for the purpose, and which is among the most complete of its kind that has yet been introduced to the trade; the motive power is supplied by a powerful gas engine. The factory at Stockport is devoted chiefly to biscuit baking, both fancy and plain, and is under effective control; while the Pendleton works, ably and energetically managed by Mr. Croasdale, are occupied mainly in the manufacture of cakes and fancies. Every process is carried out with the] greatest care, so that the absolute purity of the article produced may be maintained.

An enormous trade is done and one that is continually and rapidly growing. Everything produced is guaranteed of first-class quality, perfect purity, and rich and palatable in taste. The ingredients employed are chosen with the utmost care by experienced buyers. The purest cane sugar is used, obtained direct from the refiners, and all ingredients are procured from the best and most reliable sources of supply, the milk coming from the celebrated dairy belonging to Lord Vernon, at Sudbury, in Derbyshire. The surprising success of this notable company has been followed by the usual result, imitators have sprung up all round who make inferior goods after the same style and pattern, and vend them on the same lines as the original makers. This company is not connected with any other cake company in existence. It was incorporated under the Companies Acts, 1862-88, and is bound by law to trade under its registered name.

The company is known everywhere throughout Manchester and the country for many miles round. They are the makers of the original Barnum Cake, which was introduced to the trade some years ago. Its success has been exceptionally great, and to insure against imitations of this popular article, every cake has the letters P.P.P. (which is the company’s registered trade mark) printed on the bottom. This enterprising firm deal also in tea, and to promote business a two-pound Barnum Cake, either currant, seed, or Madeira, is presented to every purchaser of half a pound of their celebrated two shilling tea. The managing director (Mr. A. H. Davies) is fully alive to the necessity of keeping the company’s commodities constantly before the notice of the public, and under the direction of Mr. F. O. Bridge, a staff of boys has been formed, dressed in uniform and wearing a cap bearing (in gold letters) the well-known name “Stockport Machine Cake Company, Limited,” and who go from door to door introducing the high-class cakes, manufactured by the company. Fresh supplies of the goods are made every day, and absolute perfection of quality is always guaranteed.

The leading lines for which the company are most noted are the “Champion Cake,” the “Vernon Cake,” the “Bastin Cake,” the “Special Oval Cake,” the “Barnum Cake,” family and finest Genoa cakes, Shrewsbury biscuits, rich rice biscuits, digestive biscuits, mince pies, Eccles cakes, French rolls, currant buns and scones, tea cakes, Bath buns, &c. An immense business is controlled in these articles, extending to every part of Manchester and suburbs, and to most places within a radius of 120 miles. The large staff, consisting of clerks, bakers, confectioners, assistants, &c., is constantly engaged, to keep pace with the vast demands. Retail branches have been established at the following addresses:— 46, Swan Street, 136, Oldham Road, 173, Ashton Old Road, 180, London Road, 107, Stretford Road, 79, Moss Lane West, 153, Chester Road, 34, Regent Road, Salford, 4, Bairstow Street, Blackpool, &c. The managing director,

Mr. Arthur H. Davies (who is also the chairman and founder of the company), the secretary, Mr. Herbert E. Bridge, and the general branch manager, Mr. A. H. Bridge, are thoroughly enterprising and energetic men, who by their assiduity, ability, and tact, are building up a concern which in the extent of its operations and the value of its connection, has no equal in the north of England. A conspicuous success been achieved, and the future of the company is fully secured.

OLLIVANT & BOTSFORD, GOLDSMITHS AND JEWELLERS,
12 & 14, ST. ANN’S STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS eminent house is one of the oldest and most notable concerns engaged in the goldsmith’s and jeweller’s trade in Manchester. There is evidence to show that the business was in existence over a hundred years ago, and it was at that time (and until within the last few years) carried on in a well-known block at the comer of Exchange Street and St. Mary’s Gate. Those premises have since been taken down to make way for new buildings, but their long association with the local history of this neighbourhood secured for them an article in “Manchester Faces and Places,” May 10th, 1890. That interesting journal advanced a good deal of information regarding the locality of Exchange Street, and referred especially to the disappearance of Messrs. Ollivant & Botsford’s attractive shop, that firm having lately moved to their present premises in St. Ann Street. From the same source we learn that Mr. John Ollivant, one of the originators of this firm, “was one of the deputy treasurers, along. with Mr. Benjamin Joule, father of the late Dr. Joule, the eminent scientist, of St. Mary’s Hospital, established in 1709.” He was also one of the committee of the Manchester Eye Institution (established 1815), and a subscriber to the Manchester Auxiliary of the British and Foreign Bible Society. Mr. Ollivant was greatly respected in Manchester for his liberality and philanthropy. He died in 1868, and for about twelve years subsequent to that date the business of which he had been the guiding spirit was continued under the old style by the late Mr. J. W. Botsford. The latter gentleman, who also became a very prominent and esteemed member of the business community in Manchester, died in 1881, and the house then passed into the hands of his son, Mr. J. W. Botsford, who was joined two years ago by his brother, Mr. C. W. Botsford. These two gentlemen constitute the present firm, but the old title of Ollivant & Botsford is still retained.

From the first this historic firm have been high-class silversmiths, and the business is continued upon the same lines by the present principals. The premises now occupied in St. Ann Street afford increased facility for the development of a superior trade, and whatever may be lacking in historical interest is more than compensated by the many other advantages of the situation. The large and elegantly appointed showrooms (all the fittings of which are completed in the most costly and elaborate style), have six fine windows facing St. Ann Street and Police Street, and form one of the most commodious and attractive establishments of the kind in the city. Here the firm hold exceedingly large and valuable stocks of gold and silver plate, high-class jewellery, and diamonds and other gems in great variety, and we have never seen anything finer in its way than the rich assortment of toilet and fancy goods in gold and silver, and elegantly designed dinner and tea sets and general table ware, exhibited in these interesting showrooms. The firm have a most noteworthy speciality in high-class fans, painted by well-known artists, and displaying exquisitely beautiful workmanship. The designs painted on these goods are all signed by the respective artists, and each fan is a splendid work of art.

Messrs. Ollivant & Botsford hold the largest stock of hand-painted fans of this class in the north of England, and are among the very few northern firms who have any extensive dealings in these beautiful and fashionable goods. All branches of the goldsmith’s, silversmith’s, and jeweller’s trades are fully exemplified by this well-known firm on their own premises, and the shop, showrooms, workrooms — in fact the whole establishment — is illumined by the electric light, which adds greatly to its rich and attractive appearance. The power for this light is generated by an engine and dynamos on the premises, and we believe that Messrs. Ollivant & Botsford are the only firm of jewellers in Manchester who have the entire plant of an electric light installation on their own premises. All the affairs of this notable business are administered by the principals with conspicuous ability and enterprise, and the firm enjoy the support and confidence of a large circle of distinguished patrons. Their house is, par excellence, the leading one in its line in this part of England, and the entire establishment, both in appearance, stock, and general organization, is one of the finest we have had the pleasure of visiting in any quarter of the United Kingdom.

JOHN CHADWICK & SON, STEAM, HYDRAULIC, AND GENERAL ENGINEERS,
PRINCE’S BRIDGE IRON WORKS, MANCHESTER.

THIS immense business dates its history back as far as the year 1846. The concern was founded in Allport Town, but has occupied its present establishment for the last twenty years, and has been conducted for about six years under its present title. Prince’s Bridge Iron Works, as Messrs. Chadwick’s establishment has been named, are situated near Ordsall Lane Railway Station, and about ten minutes’ walk from the Manchester Royal Exchange. They comprise a large two-storey block of buildings, very conveniently laid out as offices, machine shops, and all the usual departments of an extensive and perfectly equipped modern engineering establishment. The principal shop is considered to be a “model” one in every respect, and contains a splendid outfit of machinery, the usefulness of which is much enhanced by the manner in which it is disposed in the different parts of the space at command. The gallery system has been largely employed in the structure of these works, and by this means each department has plenty of light and air, as well as ample space for its special operations. The pattern-shop, fitting-shop, brass-finishing shop, foundry, smithy, &c., are all replete with the best working facilities, and all present highly interesting scenes of industrial activity.

Messrs. Chadwick employ an average staff of about one hundred and fifty skilled workmen, in addition to numerous clerks and a staff of experienced draughtsmen in the drawing-offices. Their industry is a most comprehensive one, embracing all three branches of steam, hydraulic, and general engineering, and the leading specialities of the house may be briefly enumerated as follows:— High-pressure and condensing steam engines, with the latest improvements; winding engines and pumping engines of high-class quality; Cornish, vertical, and portable steam boilers; pumps and all kinds of hydraulic machinery; cranes, hoists, and crabs for steam, hydraulic, or hand power; wood-working machinery, grinding mills; calico printers’ machinery; all kinds of machinery for bleachers, dyers, and finishers; iron and brass valves and taps; and shafting and mill gearing of every description. In these important lines the productions of the firm under notice are not surpassed by those of any other house in the trade, and enjoy a splendid reputation wherever they have become known.

Engines for driving electric lighting plant receive special attention, and are turned out in very superior style, and the firm have supplied steam-engines for this purpose to several of her Majesty’s war-ships. This eminent firm are the sole makers of Harrise’s Patent Square and Flat Bottom Paper Bag Making Machinery; they are also makers of highly improved railway ticket, printing and numbering machinery, and envelope-making and folding machinery; and they enjoy great renown for their diagonal steam-engines used in connection with calico printing plant. They have large numbers of these engines in use in many of the leading works in Lancashire and elsewhere.

Altogether, the business is one of the most important concerns of its kind in Manchester, and enjoys the support of a connection of the most valuable and influential character. Mr. John Chadwick is a gentleman widely known and greatly respected in this trade, and in the general routine thereof he is very ably assisted by his son, Mr. J. A. Chadwick. The house does not, therefore, lack energetic and effective management, and its progress and prosperity in the future bid fair to be of a character fully justifying all the hopeful anticipations that its past career and present high standing naturally give rise to.

BROOKS & DOXEY (LATE SAMUEL BROOKS), MANUFACTURERS OF COTTON, &C., MACHINERY,
UNION IRON WORKS, WEST GORTON; JUNCTION IRON WORKS, NEWTON HEATH, AND 15, MARKET STREET, MANCHESTER.

IT is a characteristic of the great manufacturing centres of England that they nearly all can claim to have given birth to some business that has become unrivalled, in its particular line of operations. Manchester, owing to the multiplicity of its industries, affords many illustrations of this fact, and probably among all the interesting examples forthcoming in this flourishing district, there is none more noteworthy than that presented in the great business which forms the subject of the present article. The house of Mr. Samuel Brooks which, with the advent of 1892, became Messrs. Brooks & Doxey, founded many years ago by the late Mr. Samuel Brooks (father of one of the present principals, Mr. Samuel H. Brooks), has won an international fame for its manufactures of cotton machinery generally, and may well claim to have taken and maintained the lead in the special branch of this industry, to which its attention has been so closely devoted for a long time past, viz., the production of “ring” spinning and twisting machinery. We do not think we exaggerate in saying that in this department the firm stands facile princeps.

In tracing the history of this celebrated concern, it may be well to follow the career of its founder, whose vigorous personality and progressive spirit have been so largely embodied in the business of which he was the originator, and for many years the guiding spirit. The late Mr. Samuel Brooks was born in the year 1826, at Middleton, near Wirksworth, in Derbyshire, and was educated at Wirksworth Grammar School. At the age of fourteen he made a start in the serious business of life, taking a situation as junior clerk with the late Mr. J. G. Bodmer, whose engineering works were near Oxford Road, Manchester. For three years he remained in Mr. Bodmer’s service, and during that time he acquired much sound practical knowledge regarding mechanics and engineering, two branches of industrial science in the study of which he showed very remarkable aptitude. Mr. Brooks then entered the employ of Messrs. Elce & Cottam, who were at that time widely and favourably known as cotton machinists. With them his energy and talent found ample scope, and such progress did he make, and ability did he manifest, that he soon came to be regarded as the leading spirit of the establishment.

The health of Mr. Elce failing about this time, the entire commercial management of the concern came into Mr. Brooks’s hands, and eventually, when Mr. Elce died, Mr. Brooks continued the management under trustees. He had now been at these works for about fifteen years, and as his knowledge of the trade was most complete in every industrial and commercial detail, he naturally began to think about starting a business of his own. He made the first step in this direction in 1859, when he took a room in Union Mills, Minshull Street, Manchester, fitted it with machinery suitable for the manufacture of loom temples and accessories, and for the general repairing of cotton machinery, and called into his service a staff of workmen numbering no more than half a dozen hands all told. This was a modest nucleus, indeed, from which to develop a great business, and probably neither the proprietor nor the most sanguine of his friends then thought that it would grow and grow until it has become one of the most extensive and notable undertakings of its kind in the country. However, Mr. Brooks speedily proved himself the possessor of all the essential qualifications of a successful trader, his business increased rapidly and prospered beyond anticipations, and before long he added to it a department for the making of engineers’ tools. He knew the value of a good tool himself, and he soon found that there were plenty of engineers and machinists who could and did appreciate the excellent appliances he turned out for their use. We have now arrived at a period which marks a great epoch in the career of this house.

The American Civil War, which began in April, 1861, brought about a crisis in the cotton trade, and stopped the supply of long-stapled cotton from the United States. The short-stapled cotton from India and elsewhere formed but a poor substitute, as the machinery then in use was not adapted to its manipulation upon a large scale. Mr. Brooks at once saw his opportunity, not only of developing a very important branch of business, but also of conferring a lasting benefit upon the English cotton industry, and this he undoubtedly did when he introduced changes in the existing cotton machinery which completely solved the problem of handling short-stapled cotton, and surmounted the serious difficulty which then beset the manufacturing interest of Lancashire. He presented to the trade his first cotton- drawing frame upon a new and improved principle, and its success was immediate and remarkable, as, indeed, it could hardly fail to be under the circumstances.

By the end of 1863 Mr. Brooks’s staff had increased to sixty hands, and he found himself almost unable to keep pace with the influx of orders he received. The encouraging prospects thus created led him to recognise the expediency of acquiring larger premises, and an opportunity soon presented itself. He secured a considerable plot of land, together with a three-storey building, in Thomas Street, West Gorton, about two and a half miles from the Manchester Exchange. These premises, having been altered and extended to meet the requirements of his business, Mr. Brooks named them the “Union Iron Works,” and at once transferred his plant and his industry thither. From that day to this the work of expansion has been steadily going on to meet the demands of a constantly-increasing trade, and as years passed on Mr. Brooks not only increased his working resources, but also added new and important features to his business, such as the making of flyer spinning and doubling frames. He invented the improved doffer comb for carding engines, and he also introduced frequent and valuable improvements into his drawing-frame, which was then the principal speciality of his trade. So greatly was this drawing-frame esteemed by all the leading cotton-spinners that, even in giving large orders for machinery to other makers, they were in the habit of expressly exempting the drawing-frames, placing these with Mr. Brooks.

In 1872 another epoch in the business was inaugurated, Mr. Brooks then constructing his first “ring” doubling-frame; and a year afterwards he brought out his famous “ring” spinning-frame, which still remains the leading and unrivalled speciality of this house. By occasional travelling on the Continent, and in America, Mr. Brooks was enabled to personally meet many of his more important customers. He thus placed himself in touch with their work and requirements, and was the better able to study and satisfy the same by his productions. The demand for his various specialities, and particularly for his “ring” spinning-frames, became so great that the works had to be much enlarged from time to time, and, to make a long story short, we may say that the process of extension has been going on ever since, and is still continuing, for we certainly have not by any means reached the limit of the development of this great business or of its interesting works.

In December, 1886, Mr. Samuel Brooks died, and his loss was deeply and sincerely deplored by the many friends he possessed in private life, and by the still larger number of business supporters who had learned to admire his practical abilities and to respect him for his sterling qualities of integrity, indomitable perseverance, and straightforwardness. The founder was succeeded by his son, Mr. Samuel H. Brooks, who on the 1st of January, 1892, took into partnership with him his brother-in-law, Mr. Richard Alexander Doxey, the two now carrying on the business under the style of Brooks & Doxey, the management and staff being as hitherto. Mr. Doxey was for many years closely associated with the late Mr. Brooks in the business, acting as chief assistant, and has frequently travelled over the various parts of the Continent, and has also visited America and India. He has thus come into personal contact with large numbers of customers, in different cotton-spinning centres of the world, and learned their requirements, which has been of no small advantage in dealing with so extensive a business.

The founder of the firm had the happy fortune of gathering round him, in the early stage of his business career, a number of skilled and reliable men to take charge of the various departments, and as the works have developed, this policy has been continued, the firm endeavouring to secure and retain at all times the best talent. There is, therefore, now a large staff of skilled and experienced managers, foremen, and workmen, many of whom have been in the service of the house for a number of years. As we have already pointed out, the late Mr. Brooks began to make a speciality of the “ring” frame in 1872, and the “ring” spinning and twisting machines still produced by this house are unsurpassable. In 1888, however, the firm purchased the whole of the business, works, plant, patterns, &c., of the Junction Iron Works Company, Limited, at Newton Heath, and these works — originally designed and erected as model machine works by the late Mr. Evan Leigh, the inventor of the loose boss roller, and the pioneer of the modern revolving flat-carding engine — are now being carried on as a branch establishment by Messrs. Brooks & Doxey.

In consequence of the increasing demand for the firm’s machinery, new buildings are at the present time in course of erection at the branch works, and large plots of land adjoining the principal works in West Gorton have recently been purchased, the total area of the two works being about fourteen acres. The branch works are devoted wholly (or very nearly wholly) to the manufacture of preparation machinery, among the productions being carding-engines, slubbing, intermediate and roving frames, which are being produced, very largely and from entirely new models. Wilkinson's patented, revolving flat-carding engine is a special product of these works, and it contains many valuable improvements which strongly commend it to the notice of cotton spinners. Although the firm only commenced to make this carding-engine two or three years ago, its principles are now being acknowledged by the trade to be of the utmost importance, and it is believed they will form the basis of all cards to be produced in time to come. Already some hundreds are at work, and a very large number are now in hand for many leading cotton-spinners. Such articles as may he required for replacements in machines sold by the late Junction Iron Works Company, are here produced and supplied by Messrs. Brooks & Doxey.

As to the chief works of the house at West Gorton, they form a wonderful industrial world. It would require a volume to properly describe this vast establishment and its splendid organisation, and even then justice would hardly be done to one of the busiest and most interesting scenes in Manchester or the district. Suffice it just now to know that these works, covering a great area of ground, possess the most extensive and elaborate facilities for all the purposes of Messrs. Brooks & Doxey’s industry, the immense plant in use being composed of the newest and most improved machinery known in the trade, a good deal of which, by the way, is of the firm’s own design and manufacture. An indication of the remarkable growth of the firm’s business is found in the augmentation of the staff. At the present time close upon two thousand workhands are engaged at the two works.

The spindle department should be mentioned as one of the most interesting features of the Union Iron Works, and it is capable of turning out spindles at the rate of about ten thousand per week. Amongst the specialities of the house we noted, in the course of our survey of these works, is the Hill & Brown’s patent winding-frame, with or without patent stop motion, to wind up on paper tubes or bobbins without heads. This machine will build the yarn any width and any diameter, either parallel or conical. Another speciality is the Kitson patent waste-picker and thread extractor, by which waste can be picked more effectually and at one-twentieth the cost of hand picking. By a characteristic stroke of enterprise the firm has become the sole licensees and makers of this highly-esteemed American machine for Great Britain, the continent of Europe, India, China, and Japan.

Summarised, the productions for which the firm are famous embrace their revolving flat-carding engines, drawing-frames, slubbing, intermediate and roving frames, ring-spinning, ring-twisting and flyer-twisting frame, Hill & Brown winding-frame, &c., and they have latterly added the making of upright spindle winding frames, cop and bobbin reels, bundling-presses, &c. They have also long enjoyed a high reputation as makers of special tools required for machinery makers, and also for the equipment of mill mechanics’ shops. They are further the sole makers of the celebrated “American Standard Ring Traveller,” for spinning and doubling, in steel or composition, and have put down a special plant for this important accessory for ring-spinning and twisting machines. Altogether, as will be readily seen, Messrs. Brooks & Doxey control a business which is far above and beyond the ordinary standard of magnitude and influence, and few firms can claim credit for such a splendid array of labour-saving and efficient textile machinery.

The connection maintained by this house is world-wide, and the trade is so large that overtime was for years the rule at the works, the ordinary working day being insufficient time in which to meet the excessive pressure of orders, but in deference to the request of the men themselves, and by reason of the extensions of the premises systematic overtime has now been abandoned. Contracts are carried out for the complete equipment of mills with spinning, weaving, and finishing plants, and also special plants for the complete manufacture of sewing cotton, from the raw cotton to the finished spool or ball of thread, and special plants for the manufacture of hosiery, and some immense works have been fitted in this way. One house alone has now upwards of one hundred and eighty thousand ring spindles at work, supplied by the firm under notice, and numerous other establishments have been equipped upon an almost equal scale of magnitude. When the extensions now in hand of both the Union and Junction Works shall have been completed this firm will give employment to considerably ever two thousand hands.

The whole business is under the personal supervision of the principals, and a most capable staff generally, and bids fair to enjoy increasing prosperity as long as the capable and far-seeing policy of administration remains in force. The management is experienced, enterprising and thoroughly practical, and well qualified to direct so vast a concern as this, and the principals are — like the late Mr. Brooks - greatly esteemed by the employes. As a member of the Manchester City Council Mr. Brooks has done good public service, well representing the ratepayers of St. Mark’s Ward, West Gorton, and he stands high in the esteem of a wide circle of friends. He is also a captain in the 4th V.B. Manchester Regiment. Besides the works at West Gorton and Newton Heath, Messrs. Brooks & Doxey have a town office at 15, Market Street; and are represented at Pillar No. 4, Royal Exchange, Manchester, on Tuesdays and Fridays, from 1 to 3 PM. We should add that this house has at the various International Exhibitions won many medals of the highest class for its manufactures, and that it has agents in almost every cotton-spinning centre in the world.
Telegrams should, be addressed “Union, Manchester;” the telephone number is 605.

JOHN HALL & CO., GOLD AND SILVER SMITHS, DIAMOND MERCHANTS, WATCH AND CLOCK MAKERS, &C.,
56, KING STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE old-established and eminently reputable firm named at the head of this article was founded, in 1832, when the business was opened under the style of Hatfield & Hall, and carried forward with considerable ability and success. It is no small compliment to the courage of the founders of the business that they should have begun their operations in a street which, sixty years ago, was entirely occupied by private residences. In 1844 Mr. Hatfield retired, and the business was carried on solely by the late Mr. John Hall for thirteen years, when he was joined by Mr. John Clapham, the title of the firm being then changed to John Hall & Co., which title it still retains. Mr. John Hall, the founder, retired in 1876, and the co-partners in this noted, house are now Mr. John Clapham, Mr. John Hall (the nephew of the founder), and Mr. George Herbert Clapham, son of the senior partner. The premises occupied are spacious and convenient, prominently situated, and admirably adapted to the special requirements of a trade of this description, and they comprise extensive double-fronted shop with spacious windows that display a splendid selection of high-class silver plate and diamond work. The remainder of the building, which extends into South King Street, is occupied from basement upwards by the workmen of the firm engaged in the various branches of the business.

A large and influential trade is controlled by the firm as gold and silver smiths, diamond merchants and watch and clock makers. This establishment has achieved a high and enviable name in the trade for the superior and intrinsic excellence of all the articles it supplies. The proprietors are thoroughly acquainted with the most desirable sources of supply, and in the matter of designs and novelty of pattern the house possesses special claims to patronage. A special feature is made of watches, and the productions of the firm are unsurpassed in excellency of work and reliable accuracy in timekeeping. A still more important feature is the gem work of Messrs. Hall. As they buy diamonds, pearls, sapphires and rubies, in large quantities direct from Amsterdam and London, and mount all stones to their own designs, they are in a specially favourable position for supplying the newest designs at the lowest prices. We were specially interested by being shown the large stock of unmounted gems, cut and polished ready for the mounter, and as we gazed at the flashing little heaps, in their tidy envelopes, we were puzzled to know whether they were more beautiful seen in this way or when the designer and setter had exercised their skill on them.

Extensive and costly stocks of mounted gems are held, which should be inspected by all intending purchasers. They include rings from £5 to £300, diamond and pearl necklets and pendants from £50 to £1,000, diamond, pearl and gold bracelets; gem and other Brooches, silver plate and electro-plate of all kinds for presentation, marble and gilt clocks, and ladies’ and gentlemen’s gold and silver watches from 50s. to £150. By the excellence of everything it handles and the honourable treatment all patrons receive, the house has acquired a connection of the most valuable kind.

The proprietors are gentlemen of large experience in their speciality, to which they devote their constant personal attention. In social circles they are everywhere respected for their sterling character and their many good personal qualities, and Mr. John Clapham, the senior partner, is an active participant in every religious and philanthropical movement in the city. He has filled many public offices with distinction, and his valuable and long continued public services have been fittingly acknowledged by his appointment to the magisterial bench.

G. & E. PEARSON, WOOLLEN MANUFACTURERS, AGENTS, &C.,
19, MARSDEN SQUARE, MANCHESTER. ALSO 226, SWAN ARCADE, BRADFORD.
TELEGRAPHIC ADDRESS:- Pearson, Marsden Square, Manchester.

THIS time-honoured house has been intimately associated with the trade of Manchester for more than a century. The inception of the business dates back to about the year 1770, when operations were commenced in Marsden Square by Mr. Benjamin Brierley as a manufacturer of mohair. He used to entertain John Wesley on his visits to Manchester. The founder was succeeded by his son, Mr. James Brierley, in 1791. At first he lived in the Square, as his father had done before him, but he afterwards removed to the then aristocratic quarter of Ardwick, and ultimately, in 1825, to Congleton, in Cheshire. This gentleman, having no sons, adopted two of his sister Elizabeth’s sons, John and Benjamin Pearson. Mr. James Brierley was joined in partnership by his brother, Thomas Brierley, in 1800, and they commenced business as calico printers. In this they were highly successful, and their establishment soon became recognised as a leading one. The title and personnel of the firm underwent several changes, at one time being known as Brierley & Harrison, then as Brierley, Harrison, & Pearsons, and later as Brierley & Pearsons.

Mr. James Brierley, the head of the firm, was a conspicuous figure in these stirring times. He was a Justice of the Peace for the counties of Lancaster and Chester, and in the discharge of his duties he was one of the magistrates who was alleged to have read the Riot Act on that memorable occasion, August, 1819, when the Cheshire Yeomanry charged the people on the spot now occupied by the Free Trade Hall. Some time after he was made Boroughreeve for Manchester, and in that capacity had the honour, on August 19th, 1822, of laying the foundation-stone of the Town Hall. This building still exists, though diverted from its original purpose. It is at the corner of King Street and Cross Street, and is used as the Chief Free Reference Library of the city. After a long, successful, and distinguished life, this gentleman died on the 13th January, 1842.

Meanwhile changes had been going on in the business. In 1828 the firm became Messrs. John and Benjamin Pearson (the two adopted brothers already alluded to), and the house shortly afterwards gave up the print trade and became the agents of Thos. Fox & Sons, of Wellington. Somerset, afterwards Fox Brothers & Co., the famous manufacturers of serges, worsted coatings, and pure Southdown-wool blankets, and to-day the house still conducts this agency. In 1857 Mr. Benjamin Pearson died, and his sons, George and Edward, were admitted into partnership. The deceased gentleman was an active participant in public matters, and was always to the front in every movement affecting his native city. He was a member of the local Anti-Slavery Committee when Manchester so powerfully raised its voice in the cause of negro emancipation. He was also a distinguished member of the Anti-Corn-Law League and of the Chamber of Commerce. He was intimately associated with Mr. Richard Cobden, and was in the habit of taking part in the meetings of the Anti-Corn-Law League held in the old Free Trade Hall erected for the purpose. It was to this gentleman that Mr. Cobden, being congratulated on his success in educating Sir Robert Peel, gracefully turned with the compliment, “If I have educated Sir Robert Peel, it was Mr. Benjamin Pearson who educated me.”

Mr. John Pearson, who survived till 1867, had retired in 1861, after an active business career, leaving his two nephews, the present heads of the firm, as sole proprietors. This is the only business in Manchester that has been carried on on the same spot for more than one hundred and twenty years. The old building was pulled down in 1836, but the original panels upon which John Wesley looked are still to be seen, carefully preserved, in the rebuilt warehouse. The present firm is well and favourably known in commercial circles. Mr. George Pearson is a member of the literary and archaeological societies in Manchester, and Mr. Edward Pearson is prominently connected with the United Kingdom Alliance, and took up a conspicuous and determined position in the controversy anent the bill for giving compensation to brewers and distillers, which was introduced by the Government.

SEDGWICK & WOODHEAD, GENERAL WAREHOUSEMEN AND MANUFACTURERS,
23, HIGH STREET, AND 20, MARSDEN SQUARE, MANCHESTER.

THE foundation of this old-established and highly-important business was originally laid at Bury in the year 1868, when Messrs. Sedgwick and Heap commenced operations in a very small way as drapery warehousemen. They threw plenty of energy and enterprise into the management of the venture, however, and in due course they succeeded in developing a remarkably large and prosperous trade. This success encouraged them to enter into a large field, of action, and in 1886 they made their first start in Manchester, opening up an establishment in Church Street. This business, increasing very rapidly, it was transferred in 1887 to the present address in High Street, where Mr. Joseph Sedgwick took as his partner Mr. Henry Woodhead. Subsequently, Mr. Robert Beveridge, who had been linen buyer to the firm since the commencement of the Manchester business, was taken into partnership. Still the Manchester undertaking continued to develop very considerably, and in 1889 the old Bury partnership was dissolved, Messrs. Sedgwick & Woodhead retaining the Manchester business, while Mr. Heap (in partnership with his son) continues the retail establishment in Rock Street, Bury.

The headquarters of Messrs. Sedgwick & Woodhead, in High Street, Manchester, have a very advantageous situation and contain six stories, arranged in such a manner as to afford every convenience for the conduct of an immense business. The departmental plan of the warehouse is as follows: basement — greys, dyes, and packing-rooms; ground floor — linens, Oxfords, handkerchiefs and general offices; first floor — flannels, stays, corsets, lace, blinds, and curtains; second floor — dress goods, hosiery, and shirts; third floor — manufactured baby-linen, underclothing, wool shawls, &c.; fourth floor — spacious work-rooms for making-up baby-linen, shirts and underclothing. Each of these departments is most commodiously arranged, the goods being well displayed, and the general facilities excellent; and there can be no doubt that Messrs. Sedgwick & Woodhead have gathered together here one of the largest and best stocks in Manchester in the several lines of goods above referred to.

The firm have a well-appointed shirt factory and warehouse in Watling Street, and have also another warehouse at 20, Marsden Square. A large stockroom, is maintained at 13-and-a-half, Castlegate, Nottingham, and plays an important part in the general routine of the trade; and the house is ably represented “on the road” by at least seven travellers, whose journeys cover the entire country from the south midlands north to John o’ Groats. It is estimated that the stock in warehouse frequently approaches £20,000 in value, and the turnover is very large and rapid, great energy being displayed by the firm in the conduct of the business and the distribution of their goods. Messrs. Sedgwick and Woodhead are thoroughly capable and experienced business men, devoting their personal attention to all the affairs of the house; and the widespread support and confidence they have won throughout the trade is unquestionably due to the fact that they have from the first adhered closely to the sound policy of responding to their customers’ orders by the prompt despatch of the best and most reliable articles in the class of goods called for.

MURCH & EVERETT, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANTS,
39, PICCADILLY, MANCHESTER.

MANCHESTER, like other large centres of population and commerce, has been conspicuous during past years for its extensive and enterprising development of the wine and spirit trade. Among its foremost representatives must be mentioned Messrs. Murch & Everett, of Piccadilly. This well-known and highly-reputed firm of wine and spirit merchants was founded about seventeen years ago and is a continuation of the firm of M. Feeney & Co., established in 1835. The late senior partner, Mr. Murch, was formerly manager of the older firm before commencing business with Mr. Henry Thomas Everett, the present principal. The very handsome and commodious premises occupied by the firm have an excellent situation in Piccadilly.

In point of equipment and organisation the establishment is one of the finest in the city. It comprises large cellars, stores, and offices, with every facility and convenience for carrying on a very extensive and high-class trade. Few firms in Manchester hold such complete stocks as Messrs. Murch & Everett, and nowhere is to be seen a collection of wines, spirits, and kindred goods more carefully or more judiciously chosen. All the best and most highly-esteemed growths and vintages of Port, Sherry, Claret, Champagne, Burgundy, Hocks, and Moselles (still and sparkling) are fully represented, together with Australian wines (red and white), choice spirits, and all descriptions of foreign liqueurs. The character of the stock, bonded and duty paid, speaks exceedingly well for the firm’s thorough knowledge of the trade and for their intimate acquaintance with the resources of every market from which they draw their supplies. Messrs. Murch & Everett are also agents for Messrs. Allsopp & Sons, Limited, Messrs. Bass, Ratcliffe, & Gretton, Limited, and Messrs. Ind, Coope & Co., Limited, supplying the products of all these renowned brewing firms in splendid condition. Especially noteworthy is the fact that they hold the local agency in Manchester and district for Messrs. J. J. Murphy & Co., of Cork.

Messrs. Murphy are the proprietors of the cultivated Lady’s Well Brewery, of Cork, the largest and most perfectly-appointed brewery in the south of Ireland; and the fame enjoyed by their high-class, stout throughout Ireland is being rapidly supplemented by a widespread reputation in England, to which the Manchester agency in the hands of the firm here mentioned, and their representative for the north of England, is contributing in a notable degree by the energy with which its operations are conducted. In view of the rapidly-increasing popularity of this famous Irish stout in England it may not be inappropriate to describe briefly the plant and machinery of the brewery here referred to. En passant it maybe remarked that the present head of the firm, Mr. James Murphy, is the same gentleman who, a few years ago, successfully floated the Munster and Leinster Bank. The same energy, enterprise, and resource with which he conducted this national undertaking are apparent in the management of his great brewery in Cork. This brewery, founded in 1854, is erected on the site of the old Foundling Hospital. The buildings, being both spacious and lofty, were admirably suited for a brewery. It is needless to say that alterations and additions had to be undertaken even within a short time after the founding of the firm. Since then it has grown and developed to such an extent that, irrespective of clerks and travellers, the number of persons employed at the Lady’s Well Brewery and cooperages cannot be less than four hundred. Enclosed within the premises are three wells of exceedingly cold water, used for attemperating purposes.

The malt-house is an extensive block of buildings, five storeys high, constructed of stone, and of handsome elevation. Each floor measures one hundred and sixty-five feet by forty feet, three of which are used for malting purposes, the other two for storing grain, the barley being delivered thereto by elevators. The storage building for malt, which abuts on the malt-house, is capable of holding twenty thousand barrels. The metal steep is at the north end, and will wet two hundred barrels at one time. There is a lofty kiln erected at the south end of the building, measuring thirty-five feet by forty feet, the floor of which is laid with perforated Worcester tiles, and also a second kiln, twenty feet square, for drying barley. In the mill-room are malt-rollers for crushing the malt as it falls from the rollers. The malt is lifted to the room over the mill by powerful elevators and screened before it reaches the mill hopper. The screens used are of the barrel kind, and contain meshes of various sizes, and are made by Nalde & Co., of Wantage. This mill building of four storeys, measuring sixty feet by twenty-five feet, is one of several structures which have been built on to the front of the warehouse, or what was once the old hospital. Adjoining is the heating-tank room, its front being of corrugated iron, which contains three heaters, constructed of copper. The mashing-loft, the floor of which is laid with iron plates, resting on massive iron girders, contains two covered mash-tuns, constructed of metal. There is an iron grist hopper to each of the mash-tuns, and the malt is withdrawn therefrom in the following very simple manner. One man works a wheel which withdraws the sluices of the four down-feeds of each hopper, and thus the charge is sent into the tuns simultaneously. Exactly under the mash-tuns, in a sub-basement, is a circular copper underback, enclosed in a timber frame. The liquor is pumped therefrom to the wort coppers by three sets of powerful three-throw pumps. The coppers are fine vessels of immense circumference. The two hopbacks are set on a lower stage. Attached to them there is a revolving lift for raising the spent hops to the copper for a second boiling.

The brewer’s office, adjacent, is so placed as to command a view of all the proceedings below and both sides of the quadrangle. The coolers, where the wort runs from the coppers, are reached by crossing another gallery and ascending a flight of steps which leads direct to the refrigerating-room. This apartment is quadrangular in shape, with Venetian shutters all round, and measures one hundred feet by seventy feet. On the floors are two open coolers, and five of Morton’s refrigerators. Also, in a new building just erected, which is a continuation of this floor, there are two other refrigerators of the same pattern and cooling power. The tun-room, to which the wort runs from the refrigerators, is a spacious place, lighted by four very lofty windows, and its extensive floor is covered with fermenting-tuns, constructed of oak, and hooped with iron. The cleansing houses, which are four in number, abut on to John Street, and are on a level with the road. At the end of the largest of these rooms is the yeast-house, containing one of Johnson’s patent presses, driven by steam-power. The settling-tank house is situated at the opposite corner of the quadrangle, the floor of which is covered with two settling slate tanks holding each 570 barrels, close by which is placed the usual attemperator. This house, being sheltered by much larger buildings .and lighted only from the north, is always cool in summer.

The vat-house occupies a large floor over the racking department. From the settling-tanks the porter or stout is pumped to these huge vessels through large copper mains by means of three-throw pumps. This great vat-house is rather an interesting building, as it is a part of the historic old St. John’s Mill, and joins the walls of the Foundling Hospital. Below the floor of the racking-shed underneath is the junction of the three streams, now arched over, which turned the mill-wheel in times gone by. The firm were sorry to be obliged to cover up “the meeting of the waters,” but the increase of the business compelled them to build over the stream. In a small chamber, near the brew-house, has lately been put up a Tangye’s twenty-horse power horizontal engine, to work a new dynamo, which lights one half of the brewery with electricity, the other; half being lighted by a dynamo worked off the cask-engine in the lower yard. Behind the vat-houses are situated the racking and another series of malt-bins.

The principal engine-house occupies the ground floor of the mill buildings, and is floored with iron plates. It is a lofty place, and contains two engines, one vertical the other horizontal, of thirty and sixty horse-power respectively. Adjoining these is a battery of four Lancashire boilers, by West, of Cork, and the Cork Steam Packet Company. In a smaller house, near here, there is a large quadruple acting steam fire-pump, by Cameron, of Manchester, capable of throwing 12,000 gallons per hour to the most distant part of the works. In the north yard there is a freezing-house, containing two of Pontifex & Wood’s ice-engines, each freezing at the rate of nine tons every twenty-four hours. They are in close proximity to the tanks, from which the cooled water is pumped up to the refrigerators. Distributed about the premises there are as many as eight sets of three-throw vertical pumps for wort and beer, three of Cameron’s feed-pumps for the boilers, and six smaller engines for driving fans and other machinery.

The local industries connected with the brewery occupy one side of the quadrangle, and consist of fitters’, carpenters’, and coppersmiths’ shops, cooperages and copper stores. In the large yard between the porter-cellar and the malt-house, is the cask-cleaning shed, containing a large number of cradles, which will wash 1,500 casks per day. A special engine and boiler house is attached, the latter containing two steel boilers by Daniel Adamson, of Hyde, the engine being by Roby, of Lincoln. The hot-water tanks, heating apparatus, circulating boilers, economisers, blowers for supplying hot and cold air, &c., are of the most modern and perfect character, and were erected by James Roberts, St. Kevin’s Foundry, Dublin. After washing the casks go through the cooperage, at one end of the shed, and are then sent on rails by gravitation into the cellars, where they are filled.

The general offices, which are situated to the left of the public entrance, comprise — on the ground floor, cashiers’, ledger clerks’, and general offices; on the first floor, managing directors office, private apartments, and the board- room; whilst overhead are the junior brewers’ rooms and mess-rooms. Opposite this building there is a cask manufactory, built round an enclosure of half an acre in extent, containing also the wheelwrights’ shop. Last, but not least, must be mentioned the magnificent new stables, fitted and ventilated in the most approved style, every horse stalled having his name on an enamelled shield over his stall. It speaks highly for the integrity, stability and masterly management of the firm of Messrs. Murch & Everett that they should be chosen as the sole Lancashire agents for such an important and representative Irish firm as that of Messrs. J. J. Murphy & Co., of Cork.

Reverting to the wine and spirit stock held by Messrs. Murch & Everett; it may not be inappropriate to mention the source from which their supplies are drawn. The port wines are shipped to them by all the principal shippers at Oporto, particularly Messrs. Offley, Forrester & Co. of that place. Messrs. Offley’s are one of the oldest shippers of port wines. Mr. Joseph James Forrester, in a pamphlet written in 1848, entitled “A Word or Two about Port Wine,” denounced the method employed by some of the Oporto houses in the sophistication of the wines of that country, and by drawing the attention of the public to the practice then in vogue, suppressed to a great extent the evil. All wines shipped by Messrs. Offley & Co. are the produce of the Alto Douro, and the vintage wines of 1863, ’68, ’70, ’73, ’75, and ’78 of that firm are the finest of their kind, and cannot be surpassed by any known wine of their class, except the 1887 vintage of the same shipper, which promises to become the wine of the century. Their sherries are purchased from Messrs. Offley, Forrester & Co., and Messrs. B. Vergard, Robertson & Co., of Jerez de la Frontera, and comprise the finest growths of Amontillados, Montillos, Manzanilla, Vino de Pastos, Amorosas, Olorosas, and Soleros of those noted houses.

The well-known firm of Messrs. Cossort, Gordon & Co., of Madeira, the oldest shippers of Madeira wines, are fully represented in all their growths and vintages. The Hocks and Moselles, “still and sparkling,” are purchased from the most noted shippers, particular attention being given to the ages of those wines, in consequence of the amount of free tartaric acid existing in young wines of this class, which make them less agreeable and wholesome. Many fine samples of Champagne are held by the firm, particularly Theo Roederer, 1884 and 1887, Le Forestier & Fils (“Meteore”), 1884, and such well-known brands as Moet’s, George Goulet’s, Heidsieck’s “Dry Monopole,” Pommery & Greno, and Piper Heidsieck. Particular mention should be made of the large stock of Binet, Fils & Co.’s Dry Elite, 1884 vintage. Mr. Henry Thomas Everett showed remarkable Judgment in selecting this wine, it being one of the finest cuvees of its year. Of the wines grown in the Cote d’Or and supplied by this house, may be mentioned such wines as Romanee-Conti, Clos Vouget, La Tache, Volnay, and Pomard. The latter two are shipped by Messrs. Duvergey, Taboreau & Co., of the Hospice de Beaune, Meursault. The lower growths, such as Beaujolais, Macon, and Beaune are exceedingly fine wines of their class.

All the Australian wines of Messrs. P. B. Burgoyne & Co. are here kept in stock, particular attention being given to such wines as Cabernet, Sauvignon, and Tintara, the last three mentioned wines being bottled by Messrs. Murch & Everett for Messrs. P. B. Burgoyne, that firm supplying capsules and labels as a guarantee of their genuineness. Dr. Druitt, in his report to the “Medical Times,” describes Tintara as being a wine of generous quality, grown on ferruginous soil. It contains high tonic and invigorating properties, and very nutritious.

The stock of Clarets held by the firm are particularly noteworthy, these wines being a speciality with the firm. Mr. Everett informs us that in 1855 the wines of the Gironde were arranged by a syndicate of brokers into various classes, these classes comprising five growths. Wines from that portion of the department known as the Medoc produce such high-class growths as Chateau Margaux, Chateau Lafitte, Chateau Latour, Haute Brion, Ducru Beaucaillon, Cos d’Estournel, and many other of the various crus.

In point of equipment Messrs. Murch & Everett can successfully compete with any house in the north of England in these particular wines, possessing nearly all the best vintages of the above-mentioned growths. Their principal shippers are Lalonde & Co., Messrs. Schroder & Schyler, Calvey, Chantecaille & Co., and Henri Gaden of Bordeaux. A speciality of the firm is bottling for the trade, and their judgement of the qualities of the wine purchased and bottled by them for their clients has given every satisfaction in the past, causing a rapidly increasing trade in these particular wines day by day. Few firms possess more thorough technical knowledge of the subsequent treatment of wines than they do, and from an interview with its present principal, Mr. H. T. Everett, and the information obtained from that gentleman concerning the diseases that wines are sometimes subject to, we, were perfectly satisfied that he had completely mastered all the secrets of the vintner’s art.

Mr. Everett having described the wines held by his firm, promised to show us the stock of spirits held. Many samples of Irish and Scotch Whiskies being produced, samples of Taylor’s Coleraine of the 1878, 1879, and 1882 period were shown. These are the finest samples of fully matured malt whiskies we have met. This whisky obtained the highest award at the Edinburgh Exhibition in 1886. John Jamieson’s 1881 and 1886 were fine samples, and well selected. George Ross 1882 was as near perfection as it is possible to get a whisky of its class. A very fine sample of the Banagher Distilling Co.’s whisky 1887 period was shown, and we anticipate a big future for this whisky, it being a fine clean spirit, and with more maturity would be hard to match. The Scotch Whiskies comprise such high-class makes as Cragganmore, Glen Grant, Aberlour, J. & G. Smith’s, Glen Rothes, Highland Park, Ardbeg, Caol Isla, and Mackenzie’s celebrated Blair Athole. No blended whiskies are bought by this firm, all whiskies being blended by them at their bonded warehouses, and such blends are guaranteed pure malts and of the ages speciffied. A speciality of the firm is their V.O.S., a fine Highland malt ten years old.

Jamaica and Demerara rums (brown and white), also John Reid Wright’s celebrated London Gin, were samples of fully matured spirits seldom met with. The Brandies shown were Otard Dupuy’s, Pinet Castillon, Ferdinand Drouhet, Martell’s and Hennessey’s, comprising various vintages from 1865, all old bonded. A sample of Martell’s brown Brandy of the 1865 vintage, landed in 1866, submitted for our judgment, was one of the finest samples of a cognac Brandy we have ever tasted. Having completed our inspection of the stocks, we concluded that few houses are in a better position to supply the public and private trade than the firm whose name appears at the head of this article, and to its courteous and genial proprietor we wish a continuance of his success.

WILLIAM AYRTON & CO., GOREBROOK IRONWORKS,
LONGSIGHT, MANCHESTER.

A VERY eminent firm of engineers, tool makers, and machinists is that of Messrs. William Ayrton & Co., whose large and handsome works are situated at Longsight, Manchester, and whose name is widely and favourably known in connection with several highly important tranches of the trade in which they are engaged. This thoroughly representative house was founded in 1870, and has become famous, during the twenty years that have elapsed since then, for its productions in all kinds of thread machinery for spooling and balling by hand or automatic machines; for polishing in the beam, hank, or bobbin, and for bobbin making. Mr. Ayrton, the head of this house, has succeeded to the proprietorship of the patents of the late Mr. Wm. Weild, whose valuable invention of an automatic spooling machine attracted so much attention and won such high approval at the great exhibitions of London (1862) and Paris (1867). This spooling machine continues to be the leading speciality of the house; and maintains its unsurpassed position as a thoroughly practical and effective apparatus. It won a gold medal at Paris in 1867, and gained a prize medal at London in 1862, “for judicious arrangement and fitness of the several parts and their adaptation to the object intended, combined with good workmanship.”

At one time the spooling of sewing cotton and silk was done exclusively by machine» requiring a great deal of hand labour in placing the spools, guiding the cotton or silk, severing the same when the spools were filled, making the notch at the end of the spool, and securing the end of the silk or cotton into the notch. But this method is being rapidly superseded by the very ingenious self-acting machines invented by Messrs. W. Weild & Co., and manufactured by Wm. Ayrton & Co., of Gorebrook Ironworks, Manchester. With these machines from six to eighteen spools can be wound at once, according to the number of spindles or heads comprised in the machine. For instance, the machines are made with 6, 8, 12, and 18 heads respectively, and the number of spools that can be wound at one time correspond with the number of heads of which the machine consists. The only hand labour requisite, is that of placing the reels in a long hopper containing a dozen bobbins, and the attendant has simply to keep these hoppers filled, and from these the bobbins are supplied automatically to the spindles. This machine presents a neat appearance, and those comprising eight heads occupy no larger amount of space than fourteen feet by three feet.

Though to a casual observer its mechanism might appear very elaborate, a close investigation would prove that such was not the case, governed as it undoubtedly is by principles and motions at once simple and ingenious. The cotton is wound on bobbins much larger than those in ordinary use, to save frequent changing, and is placed in the rear of the machine, the thread being brought over a highly polished rod to the guide, which places it on the spool. When the spool is sufficiently full, the winding movement ceases, and then begins the prettiest series of actions it is possible to suppose a machine capable of performing. The instant the winding is complete a knife makes the necessary incision into the edge of the spool; a hook seizes the thread, and, while the knife assumes such a position to the gash as to prevent the thread slipping past, adroitly secures the thread, which a second knife severs; and the spool released from the parent bobbin, falls into a recess, and is ready for a label and the market. No sooner has the finished spool fallen from the guide or spindle than another mechanically assumes its place, being picked up automatically from the hoppers, in which it has been placed by the attendant, and the operation is repeated till the thread on the large bobbins is exhausted. The duties of the attendant are but slight, and need no lengthy education or natural cleverness. They simply include the maintenance of the supply of thread on the supply bobbins or stock reels, knotting when the threads break, placing spools in the vacant hoppers, and removing the finished work. Ordinary spools are used, the only extra care required being to secure regularity of bore; any size from twenty to four thousand yards may be filled.

Messrs. William Ayrton & Co. also make a special feature of Patent Improved Jacquard Card-Cutting, Card-Lacing, and Repeating Machines, including Piano Reading-in Machines. They also intend making a speciality of oil-cloth machinery. For many years in the early portion of the worthy proprietor’s career he was connected-with this branch of industry, and it is one that he thoroughly understands in every department, and with the costly plant and machinery at his command there is no doubt that he stands in an unrivalled position for turning out first-class work; and their manufacture of Higgins’ Carding Engines is well-known and much esteemed. They invite correspondence with regard to their specialities, and furnish all particulars on applications. Telegrams should be addressed “Spooler,” Manchester.

The works at Longsight were specially erected for the industry to which they are devoted, and are equipped with every resource and facility for carrying on the same upon a very extensive scale. Over a hundred highly skilled workmen are here employed, and the place is kept in a state of constant activity by the demands of the firm’s large and ever-increasing home and export trade. Mr. Ayrton personally superintends the entire industry in every department. His attainments are of an eminent order, and he is a well-known member of the Society of Arts. His administration of this business has been in every respect worthy of the high standing of a concern which is one of the most important of its kind in England.

JOHN MOUNTFORD & CO., ENGINEERS, MACHINISTS, AND GENERAL SMITHS,
2, HULME STREET, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

AS A vast manufacturing centre, calling into operation almost every form of engine and mechanical contrivance yet invented, Manchester is necessarily well provided for with practical engineers and smiths, who devote their attention to both the production of new implements and the repairing of machinery and appliances out of order, and in this connection it would be difficult to indicate a more noteworthy house than the above. This thriving concern was organised about half a «century ago by a Mr. Simcox, finally being acquired by the present firm some twenty years since. The premises occupied are very extensive, and cover a very large area of land in Hulme Street. The large and elaborately equipped works are replete with planing, boring, turning, and other machinery incidental to the industry. They have also a large and experienced staff of smiths, steam hammer, forging machinery, and other tools requisite for this department. The firm operate as engine, machine, and general smiths, undertaking every conceivable kind of work in connection therewith, such as the production of all kinds of forgings to order: turning, drilling, and boring work; the building of special machinery from specifications; practical engineering work in connection with theatres, builders, and tramway companies, collieries, and mills; and the general manufacture of packers’ tools, warehouse trucks, screws, bolts, rivets, chains, and kindred commodities. In every department of their work they have gained a well-merited renown, and there can be no doubt that their present prosperity stands not only as evidence of past energy and well-directed enterprise, but as an earnest of enhanced reputation and augmented success in days to come.

RICHARD NEWTON, BRISTLE MERCHANT, HORSEHAIR AND FIBRE MANUFACTURER,
60, DANTZIC STREET, MANCHESTER.

MR. NEWTON'S well-known business was established seventy years ago, Messrs. George Jeeves & Sons being the founders. Mr. Newton purchased the business, which was at that time carried on at Green Street, Tib Street, in 1869. Rapid increase of trade on every hand made a removal to larger and more suitable premises absolutely necessary, so that operations were transferred from Green Street to 60, Dantzic Street, Mr. Newton’s present address. This change was effected in 1878. The business has long ago assumed far larger proportions than in the time of the founders, and is one of the largest of its kind in the country. Travellers visit the whole of the United Kingdom and Ireland, and a heavy and increasing trade is done on the Continent and in the Colonies. Mr. Newton manufactures in various forms the bristles, horsehair, and fibre which has made him so widely known, and year after year sees the spread of his operations. The premises in Dantzic Street are of the following dimensions, viz., thirty yards by ten yards, and are four stories high. On the first floor are the offices and warehouses. The second floor is devoted to the dressed bristles department and storeroom, while on the third is the department for the dressing and preparation of hair and fibre. The basement is occupied by the bass-dressing room. Upwards of sixty hands are employed, who, under the supervision of the respected owner, are all experts in their respective departments. Part of the neighbouring warehouse is also occupied, and a separate works in Rochdale Road is used for part of the processes. Mr. Newton was a member of the City Council up to 1890, when he vacated his seat. Shrewd and fair-dealing in all his transactions, it is always a pleasure to come in contact with the I head of the large and important establishment we have been describing.

RICHARD TOTTIE, CABINET MAKER, UPHOLSTERER, LINOLEUM AND CARPET FACTOR, AND GENERAL DECORATOR,
113 & 115, STRANGEWAYS, MANCHESTER.

ONE of the most interesting and attractive business establishments in the city of Manchester is the well-known and flourishing house of Mr. Richard Tottie, cabinet maker, linoleum and carpet factor, general decorator, &c., 113 and 115, Strangeways, Manchester. This thriving business was established in the year 1861, and has since pursued a continuous and unbroken career of striking prosperity, being to-day one of the most prominent and representative houses in the trade. In 1886 he had the honour to supply the bedroom furniture for the use of Her Majesty the Queen at Newsham House, Liverpool, during her visit to that city. The premises consist of substantial, buildings of handsome exterior, centrally situated in an excellent business position. There are two entrances, with imposing and extensive plate-glass windows. The whole interior of four floors has been built into large and lofty rooms, and presents a very attractive, elegant and imposing appearance. There is a large and comprehensive stock of all kinds of cabinet work, upholstery and carpets, &c. Mr. Tottie has many original and special designs, which display much taste combined with good workmanship, and the whole of the stock shown has been selected with much judgment and knowledge of effect. A large staff of makers and well-chosen hands in the other branches are kept constantly and actively employed. Mr. Tottie’s business operations have witnessed an amazing development within the last few years, and the extent and scope of his transactions continue to expand and increase steadily every year, with the gratifying and noteworthy success which may be attributed to the fact that in price, style, and elegance, his goods will compare very favourably with those of the largest houses in the United Kingdom.

HENRY HALL, TAILOR,
12, JOHN DALTON STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS well-known and flourishing business was originally founded about the year 1858, by Mr. John Grierson, who commenced operations in Police Street. At a later period Mr. Hall joined forces with Mr. Albert Grierson, son of the above, in 1869, They removed in 1874 to the present more commodious premises, which are better adapted and more suitable for the efficient carrying on of the business. A large proportion of the business connections of the firm belonging to the church, a special feature has always been made of the making of clerical garments, and in this connection a very fine reputation has been built up; but Mr. Hall has also a very large business in general circles, and the work sent out from his establishment is universally appreciated as unsurpassable in quality, fit, and style. The show-room, which is well lit by windows on two sides, contains a very choice and attractive selection of all kinds of the newest and most fashionable materials, skilfully and effectively displayed, and comprising goods to suit the most varying tastes of his numerous patrons. The business, which has always been conducted with much success, continues to extend and develop with markedly satisfactory results, and the success achieved is mainly due to the undoubted taste and experienced skill of Mr. Hall, as well as to his ever-watchful and unremitting personal supervision of the minutest details of the affairs of the firm. Personally, Mr. Henry Hall is very popular, not only with his business connections, but also with a wide circle of private acquaintances, by whom he is universally respected and esteemed.

JOHN ROSE & CO., CHINA, GLASS, AND EARTHENWARE DEPOT,
39, 41 AND 43, KING STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS old-established and influential firm originated as far back as the year 1750 at Coalport, where the works are still located, and where traces of Roman pottery are said to have been found some time ago. The business was founded by a member of the Rose family, and in 1820 the then head of the house opened the Manchester branch, which has long been one of the most famous depots of its kind in the city. This establishment was formerly at 71, King Street, but was removed about six years ago to its present address, where the premises occupied are most handsome and extensive, comprising a fine block of buildings four stories high, and admirably arranged throughout to meet the requirements of the business.

The first floor forms a magnificent show-room, in which the firm make a display of high-class china. The goods here shown being of the most beautiful and recherché character, embracing all the newest and most artistic designs. Another suite of rooms of noble proportions and fine equipment are found on the next floor, filled with all the beauties of modern glass manufacture, together with a comprehensive stock of earthenware. The floors above, and also the cellars, are used as stock rooms, and contain a vast collection of superior goods. In the two lofty and spacious plate-glass windows that face upon King Street there is an exquisite display of the firm’s leading specialities, tastefully varied from time to time and not long ago one of the most attractive features of this interesting exhibit was a new toilet service entitled the “Leafage,” in which the utmost elegance of design was very happily and effectively combined with the richest and most artistic colouring.

The firm have a very large sale in this and other districts for their celebrated Coalport goods, but they also deal in the productions of other makers of high repute, and have thus built up a business of much more than ordinary magnitude. Their trade extends all over the world, and it may be said that they are still liberally patronized by customers whose families have dealt with the house for upwards of a hundred years. They have the honour of supplying the Queen and the Royal Family, as well as a great many members of the aristocracy, and their connection from first to last has been of the most eminent and distinguished character. The firm employ a numerous staff of hands, and many of the best workmen of the last fifty years have been trained at Coalport.

Many members of this firm have occupied prominent public positions at Coalport, notably as justices of the peace; and the late Mr. John Rose, besides possessing a masterful knowledge of his own trade in all its details, was regarded as a high authority on commercial matters generally, and was frequently consulted thereupon by the ministers of the day. The present head of the firm in Manchester has family connections with the founder, and has been associated with this business during a busy and active life. Under his administration the house continues to maintain its almost unrivalled position; and by his enterprise and energy the depot at Manchester has become one of the chief sources of supply in England for every description of high-class productions in china, glass, and earthenware.

STEPHEN E. JUPP, DEALER IN MUSIC AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS,
227, STRETFORD ROAD, AND 14, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS excellently ordered institution was opened about ten years ago, under the auspices of its present talented proprietor, Mr. Stephen E. Jupp, a gentleman of recognised ability and extended experience in connection with the important profession and trade to which he now so vigorously and successfully devotes his attention. Mr. Jupp, it may be mentioned, passed his novitiate and won his laurels in the musical world in the service of the celebrated firm of Messrs. John Broad wood & Sons, of London. His premises consist of a large and elegantly appointed shop in the Stretford Road, and a new emporium, consisting of a very handsome double-fronted shop, show-room, and basement store-rooms at 14, St. Peter’s Square, Oxford Street, adjoining Prince’s Street. The stock in both establishments comprises a most carefully chosen selection of pianofortes by all the leading English and best foreign makers of the day; superb American organs, harmoniums, and small instruments, and musicians’ requisites of every description. Mr. Jupp operates on a large scale on the hire and the three-years’ hire-purchase system, and devotes the most careful and competent attention to the tuning and repairing of instruments of all kinds, employing none but skilled and trustworthy men. He is a gentleman possessing the advantage of a long and thoroughly practical experience of his business in all its most intricate details, and is, moreover, an accomplished artist of considerable merit, having appeared as tenor vocalist at many of the leading Manchester concerts. He holds the position of musical director of the Royal Botanical Society’s concerts, and at the Society’s annual meeting of 1889 was voted a special vote of thanks for the interest he had taken in furthering the musical interest of the gardens at Old Trafford, and is everywhere esteemed by his numerous patrons, in virtue of the altogether admirable manner in which he conducts his difficult undertaking.

S. & J. WATTS & CO., MANUFACTURERS, MERCHANTS, AND GENERAL WAREHOUSEMEN,
PORTLAND STREET, AND SILVER STREET, MANCHESTER.

EVERY visitor to Manchester has seen and admired the magnificent warehouse of Messrs. S. & J. Watts & Co., in Portland Street, and few need to be informed that for nearly a century the great house whose headquarters are here situated has maintained a position of remarkable and constantly increasing prominence among the representative commercial institutions of England. At the present time no British firm enjoys greater distinction than that of Messrs. S. & J. Watts & Co., in connection with the distribution of those multifarious classes of textile goods which appertain especially to “the Manchester trade.”

As far back as the year 1796, this great business originated under the auspices of Mr. John Watts, who opened a small retail establishment in Deansgate, and subsequently removed to the “Bazaar,” on the site now occupied by Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co. He was afterwards joined in partnership by his brothers, Mr. Samuel Watts and Mr. James Watts, and the business was transferred to larger and better premises in New Brown Street. The wholesale department was now further developed, as well as the retail, and the trade grew so rapidly that the firm found it necessary to remove to Fountain Street, where they remained until they finally took up their quarters in the present warehouse, the site of which was purchased in 1855 by the late Mr. Samuel Watts. This colossal structure (of which it has been truly observed that it has more the appearance of a royal palace than of a place devoted to business) is unquestionably the finest building for commercial purposes in Manchester, and is admitted by all to be one of the city’s greatest architectural ornaments. It took two years to build and equip it, and it was first opened to the firm’s customers on the 16th March, 1858. In the year preceding this event (viz. 1857) Sir James Watts was mayor of Manchester, and he then received the honour of knighthood from Her Majesty the Queen, he having entertained H.R.H. the Prince Consort, during his visit to the “Art Treasures Exhibition,” at his residence, Abney Hall, Cheadle, where Lady Watts now resides.

To revert to the warehouse, it is hardly any exaggeration to say that it is without a rival in its class in the kingdom, and it forms the seat of a business which is proportionately vast and important. Glancing for a moment at the structural characteristics of this gigantic pile, we find it occupying an area of no less than 3,000 square yards, its greatest length being 300 feet, its greatest width 90 feet, and its height 100 feet. Above the main body of the edifice there rise at intervals four towers, which are lighted by rose windows of beautiful design; and the great expanse of roof has a series of bays filled with ground glass, and admitting an abundance of light to the interior. The style of architecture may be described as composite Italian, the Venetian element being particularly prominent, and the whole design has been boldly carried out, so that the building unites the qualities of elegance and majesty in a notable degree. There are 115 windows in the imposing facade in Portland Street, and as the windows of each storey are of a design different from the others, there is both variety and beauty in the entire aspect of this noble frontage. Solid granite forms a basement of massive strength to support the weight of the lofty superstructure, and the five upper stories are carried out in stonework which loses none of its strength and solidity by being ornamentally treated in a very rich and tasteful manner.

The following figures convey some remarkable facts in regard to this huge structure. There are 70,000 cubic feet, or about 550 tons, of stone in the building, 700 tons of iron, 40,000 cubic feet of timber, and 27,000 square feet of plate glass, exclusive of what is contained in the internal fittings. The aggregate area of the united floors is about 19,360 square yards, or, say, four acres. The land upon which the building stands cost (including the old buildings that were on it) £29,000, or close upon £10 per square yard, which is, perhaps, not too extravagant for what has now become an unrivalled site; and the warehouse itself, with its internal fittings, cost fully £80,000, so that the gross outlay on the land and building was nearly £110,000. Few firms could afford so vast an expenditure as this, but Messrs. S. and J. Watts & Co. have doubtless been amply recouped for their outlay, and by their enterprise they have added a supreme attraction to the many architectural beauties of which modern Manchester can boast, and among which the Watts warehouse was a pioneer.

For the general conduct of the business every arrangement is singularly complete and appropriate, and the systematic working of the many departments speaks volumes for the efficiency of the management in each and for the excellence of the general administration. The grand staircase, which is one of the finest structural features of the building, rises through the many floors from bottom to top, and is lighted from the dome. It is protected by a beautiful ironwork balustrade, and where it passes, as well as generally throughout the building, the several floors are supported by elegant Corinthian columns, artistically decorated. There are no less than four hoists in constant use in the warehouse. At the back of the warehouse is a strong fireproof staircase, available in any case of emergency, and at the top of the building there is a huge water cistern, while every floor is fully equipped with hose pipes and all requisite fire-extinguishing apparatus. An amateur fire brigade has been formed by the employes, and on many occasions they have rendered valuable assistance. Hydraulic presses, cranes, measuring machines, &c., form part of the necessary equipment of this great warehouse, and the steam power required for various purposes is supplied by two steam engines, situated on the premises.

Each floor of the building is filled to repletion with merchandise representing all phases of the Manchester trade, and embracing every article pertaining to the silk, mercery, millinery, outfitting, hosiery, drapery, and haberdashery businesses. Vast as the stock is, there is no semblance of confusion in handling it. The disposition of the different classes of goods is perfectly systematic and convenient, and the well-ordered departments (32 in number) are arranged as follows: on the ground floor, hosiery, linens, carpets, flannels, whites, greys, fustians; on the first floor, merinos, dresses, woollens, ready-mades, dyed goods, Scotch and muslin, worsteds, &c.; on the second floor, umbrellas, trimmings, fancy haberdashery, bags, satchels, portmanteaus, small wares, stays and corsets, waterproof goods, table oil baizes, boots and shoes, gloves; on the third floor, ribbons, bandanas, silks, skirts and underclothing, mantles and costumes, prints, and fancy flannels; on the fourth floor, flowers, millinery, lace, sewed muslins, furs and straws.

Messrs. Watts’s warehouse is a market from which are drawn the supplies of thousands of drapery and mercery establishments at home and abroad, and its reputation as such is so distinguished that no word of comment is needed concerning the quality of the goods dealt in. This firm are under no obligation to advertise their wares, and for many years their great business and its far-reaching connections have been augmented and expanded solely by the increased orders of regular customers and the unsolicited recommendation of the same. Each department has its able, experienced and responsible buyer, under whose management its individual operations are conducted, and a total force of fully 600 hands forms the assistant and working staff of the warehouse. An elaborate plan for the division of labour has been here matured to such perfection that each member of the staff has some particular thing to do, and is expected to devote all his attention thereto. This system being closely adhered to gives the most satisfactory results. All the employes of the firm are treated with a degree of kindly consideration that commands high praise and approval, and many members of the staff have been with the house for years. Among the departmental chiefs, for example, there is Mr. Cookson, of the “prints,” with a record of over thirty years in the service of this firm. Many others might be mentioned in a similar connection, such as Mr. C. J. Kelly and Mr. Thomas Johnson (of Charter Street Ragged School fame); and when we look amongst the rank and file, we find servants of thirty-five and forty years standing, while one old gentleman in the “entry department,” is the doyen of the staff, he having been in the employ of Messrs. S. and J. Watts & Co. for no less than fifty-two years. We have every reason to believe that each member of the staff, from the youngest clerk to the senior buyer, is an enthusiast as regards the progress of the business and the maintenance of its great fame and prosperity; and nothing less than a feeling of the highest esteem and respect for the principals of the house (Messrs. James & Edward Watts) could arouse and foster such a splendid spirit as this in so large a body of employés.

There is a capital choral and orchestral society in connection with the warehouse, and its success proves that the refining and elevating influences of music can make themselves felt and are fully appreciated in an establishment which is the very ideal of all that is busiest and most energetic in commercial activity. Concerts are frequently given on the premises, and in these very enjoyable events Mr. James Watts, one of the partners, always takes a most active and influential part. Employés are allowed to bring members of their families to the concerts, and various outside friends are also invited. To those who still believe that we are not such a very “unmusical nation,” in spite of all assertions to that effect, it is encouraging to find here in one of the largest and most typical of British mercantile houses a band of no less than forty instrumentalists, under the direction of an able conductor, and competent to perform good music in a highly effective and creditable manner.

The variety of goods held here is well-nigh incalculable, embracing, as it does, contributions from every manufacturing centre and noted source of production under the sun, and 384 pages of the firm’s bulky trade list are barely sufficient to convey an adequate idea of the range of textile wares of every description that Messrs. Watts are offering to their host of customers. In one magnificent room there is a stock of ribbons alone which is valued at £40,000, and over £110,000 worth of ribbons were sold during 1890. Messrs. Watts keep in stock something like 20,000 designs in prints, 10,000 dozens of ladies’ silk squares, 5,000 kinds of tape, fur capes ranging as high as £500 in price, and as low as a few shillings. No fewer than thirty-six travellers represent the firm in town and country, and the trade controlled is one of enormous volume and international influence. Messrs. S. and J. Watts & Co.’s warehouse in Silver Street (formerly used for packing purposes), was entirely rebuilt about three years ago, and now forms a substantial and commodious structure of three stories and basement. It is devoted to the ready-made clothing and shirt departments and possesses a splendid equipment of the best modern machinery and appliances for these trades, besides giving employment to upwards of 300 workpeople.

Altogether, the business of Messrs. S. and J. Watts & Co. is one of the commercial colossi of Great Britain, and the country contains no grander monument to the energy and enterprise of a mercantile firm. The present principals, Messrs. James and Edward Watts, adhere to a policy of administration which is fully calculated to sustain the house in its unrivalled position, and by their own individual qualities of sound judgment and practical skill in affairs of trade they amply preserve the traditions of proprietary capability which have always been conspicuously associated with the records of this great and world-famous firm. Branch warehouses, fully stocked and under capable management, are situated at 44, Gutter Lane, E.C., and 9, Leigh Street, Liverpool.

HULL BROTHERS, LONDON, BIRMINGHAM, AND SHEFFIELD WAREHOUSEMEN,
43, SWAN STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE position occupied by the above house in the commercial world of Manchester and district is a very important one. It was founded previous to 1834, by the late Mr. Thomas Hudson, in the buildings now occupied by the branch of the Union Bank of Manchester, Swan Street. In 1834 Mr. J. Hull acquired the business, and carried on operations at the old address until 1855, when he removed to the present commodious premises. Mr. J. Hull died in 1865, and his two sons, Mr. J. E. Y. Hull, and Mr. W. H. W. Hull, then took charge. The partnership was dissolved in 1884, Mr. John Edmund Yates Hull becoming the sole proprietor. The convenient premises are about seven yards by thirteen yards. The well bought stock of goods is of a most miscellaneous nature, and comprises what is familiarly known as London, Birmingham, and Sheffield products, as well as French, German, and other fancy merchandise. There is an immense and superior show of clocks, watches, jewellery, silver plate, gold wedding rings, diamond and fancy rings, Albert chains, watch guards, brooches, earrings, electro-plated articles, spoons, forks, tea and coffee services, &c. These are further supplemented by cutlery, opera glasses, telescopes, pebble and other spectacles, stationery, combs, brushes, tin, metal, and japanned goods, general ironmongery, &c. Everything is in the best of order, and goods can be dispatched in large quantities at very short notice. The ground covered by the travellers is Lancashire and Yorkshire principally. Every attention is paid to customers, and the well-deserved success which has attended the efforts of Mr. Hull and the other members of his family is the direct outcome of merit.

JOHN HETHERINGTON & SONS, LIMITED, MAKERS OF ALL KINDS OF COTTON SPINNING MACHINERY, ENGINEERS, TOOL MAKERS AND MILLWRIGHTS,
VULCAN WORKS, AND ANCOATS WORKS, POLLARD STREET, MANCHESTER.

FROM the date of its foundation, over half a century ago, down to August 1st, 1890, the concern was conducted as a private enterprise with steadily-increasing success, and at length, on the date mentioned, it was deemed advisable to form a limited liability company. The company was therefore created, under the title of John Hetherington & Sons, Limited, with a highly influential directorate and a share capital of £250,000. All the operations of the industry have been continued as heretofore, though upon an enlarged and still enlarging scale, and the house, under its new constitution, more than maintains its old-time position as one of the recognised leaders of the trade in which it is engaged.

Vulcan Works, one of the busy seats of this company’s undertakings, forms an enormous establishment, which is devoted entirely to the making of cotton-spinning machinery of all kinds. In this department alone the firm give employment to upwards of 1,600 workpeople. Messrs. Hetherington’s cotton-spinning machinery is universally famous for its many merits in design, construction, and workmanship, and the improvements introduced by the firm in the various kinds of apparatus employed in spinning factories have placed its name high among those that are most creditably associated with the advancement of the Lancashire cotton industry. At Ancoats Works, another vast establishment, adjoining the Vulcan Works, Messrs. John Hetherington & Sons devote their attention to the various branches of the engineers’, millwrights’, and tool-makers’ trades. These allied industries they carry on under highly favourable conditions, and upon an exceedingly large scale, engaging the services of 400 hands (exclusive of the counting-house and drawing-office staff), and employing an immense and costly plant of the most powerful labour-saving machinery.

The products of these works, as may be imagined, are of great variety, and include everything that comes within the scope of the trade, from a steam engine to the smallest article of mill gearing. There are numerous specialities which have been particularly successful, and of these may be mentioned the famous “Hetherington” saw, for cutting cold iron or mild steel bars, angles, tees, bulb bars, channels, girders, and “gits” from steel casting; the double-ended cam lever punching and shearing machine, which is an enormously powerful apparatus, capable of punching and shearing steel plates one and a half inch thick; Stephen & Carter’s patent swing jib countersink driller, for shipbuilders, a remarkably useful and effective machine, designed to cope with the large steel plates now used in shipbuilding, and also to save the labour employed in moving the plates for each hole. Besides the above, there are such notable apparatus as Carter’s patent saw, for cutting cold metals, Hetherington’s rope-driven power cranes, and Hetherington’s overhead hand-power travelling cranes, all of which have many advantages adapting them to a great variety of special requirements.

The company have also perfected an improved cage hoist, of great usefulness and safety in action, and their special cotton bale hoists have achieved widespread favour. Probably no engineering and mechanical firm in Manchester does a larger trade than Messrs. John Hetherington & Sons, Limited, whose connection is worldwide, and whose productions are always sure of ready acceptance in any market into which they find their way. Perhaps there is hardly a country in any part of the world in which some item of machinery from either the Vulcan or the Ancoats Works cannot be found, and there is certainly not a single industrial centre of any importance in Europe where the name of John Hetherington & Sons, Limited, is not known and respected. In all its characteristics this house presents, a splendid type of the great British engineering and machine-making concern.
Telegrams for Messrs. John Hetherington & Sons, Limited, should be addressed “Heth, Manchester.”

J. & A. STOTT, MANUFACTURERS OF LINENS, COTTONS AND UNIONS, TICKS, &C.
10, FAULKNER STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS large and successful business was founded in the year 1852 by its present proprietors, and has developed into one of the most important concerns in Manchester in the manufacture, dying and bleaching of linen, union, and cotton fabrics. The premises occupied in Faulkner Street form a commodious warehouse on the ground floor, with offices in connection, and in the sample-rooms at this address are to be found specimens of Messrs. J. & A. Stott’s much esteemed productions. These goods include linen, union, cotton, and fancy mattress ticks; sun-blind ticks, jeans, contils, nankeens, galateas, and regattas, white twills and plain calicoes (“S.” finish, imperial “R.” finish), shrunk Croydons, heavy collar cloths, lustres, sheetings and stay linings. An immense trade is also carried on in mattresses and blind tickings, which are produced in excellent quality, and supplied to all the principal shipping firms and home trade warehouses. The mills of the firm are situated at Flixton, near Manchester, and are of considerable size and splendid equipment. They afford every facility for the conduct of a large and constantly-increasing industry, and give employment to some hundreds of hands. Messrs. J. & A. Stott also have a London warehouse at 10, Foster Lane, Cheapside, E.G. Their name is well and favourably known to all the great export merchants, warehousemen, and wholesale dealers in Manchester and district, and their house is justly regarded as one of the leading concerns in the trade with which it has been so creditably associated for nearly forty years.

GIDDINGS & DACRE, MANUFACTURERS OF SHEET LEAD, LEAD WATER AND GAS PIPES, PAINTS AND VARNISHES, BRASS FOUNDERS AND FURNISHERS, MERCHANTS IN SHEET, ROLLED, ROUGH AND PLATE GLASS, HOT WATER BOILERS, PIPES, AND FITTINGS, SANITARY ENGINEERS, &C.,
JUNCTION LEAD WORKS, DUCIE STREET, LONDON ROAD, MANCHESTER

THIS old-established and influential house dates its history back as far as the year 1842, when it was founded in Dale Street, Manchester. In 1868 the concern was transferred to its present headquarters in Ducie Street, London Road, and for some years past it has been under the control of Mr. Alfred Giddings and Mr. George Dacre, sons of the late proprietors. These gentlemen have directed the business with conspicuous ability and energy, and the result of their administration has been a very notable development of the trade in all its departments, necessitating considerable additions to the premises and plant.

The Junction Lead and Glass Works, as the firm’s establishment is called, now comprise four large and commodious buildings — three in Ducie Street, and one in Mather Street. These are all substantial structures, admirably arranged, and equipped in a very complete manner with the best class of machinery and plant for the lead-working and other industrial processes in which the firm are engaged. We were most favourably impressed with the careful and thoroughly practical organisation of each department in these extensive works. Long experience and technical skill are exemplified in all the details of plan and equipment, and it may at once be said that Messrs. Giddings and Dacre possess unsurpassed facilities for the rapid production of all the various articles for which their house has so long maintained a distinguished reputation. A great deal of the plant in use in the Junction Lead Works appeared to us to possess several unique features, and it is well known in the trade that this establishment has specialities in a number of valuable new processes. By one of these new methods lead pipes are now made with tin linings, whereby blood-poisoning and other ailments arising from water or other liquids remaining in contact with the pure lead are prevented. This constitutes a great boon to householders and others.

Besides manufacturing upon a large scale a great variety of hot-water boilers, hot-water pipes, and fittings of every description (of which large and comprehensive stocks are always on hand), Messrs. Giddings and Dacre have for many years engaged extensively in the designing and making of sanitary appliances. In this latter department they have many specialities of a most important character, all embodying excellent improvements, and among these we may mention such well-known and highly approved articles as Twyford’s “Deluge” wash-down closet basins; Twyford’s “Unitas” combined closet basin, urinal, and slop sink; “the Crown” sanitary closet, basin and trap, which gained the highest awards in London (1883), Newcastle (1882), and Glasgow (1883); and a series of new sanitary closets of the most improved construction, produced in very elegant and artistic designs, and remarkable for beauty of finish and workmanship. We strongly advise the trade to send for Messrs. Giddings and Dacre’s illustrated sheets, which give drawings and descriptive particulars of all the above-mentioned articles. There are no better goods of the kind in the market, and they command a steadily-increasing sale everywhere, having fairly won the favour of the public.

Among the many other sanitary specialities of this noted firm special prominence must be given to the “Newport” syphon water waste preventing cistern, a high-class and thoroughly well-fitted and finished syphon cistern; the improved “Well” valve and syphon cistern, a cheap article, but one of very good value in construction, material and workmanship; the patent “Times” baths, with fittings complete, forming probably the cheapest combined bath in the market, and giving the highest satisfaction in wear and general convenience; and the patent “Torpedo” ventilator and chimney top, a distinct novelty in design, and a most efficient automatic air exhaust.

Besides the above named articles for purposes of sanitation, Messrs. Giddings and Dacre have associated their name with the Swedish patent gas-producing soldering lamp, a most valuable invention, which was awarded first prize at the Machinery Exhibition, Stockholm, 1886. The advantages of this soldering lamp are, (1) absolute safety from explosion; (2) durability, standing constant use for years; (3) no wind, however strong, will extinguish the flame, thus enabling the lamp to be used advantageously out of doors; (4) remarkable cheapness in use, about a pint of benzoline being sufficient for two hours’ work. For laboratories, machine works, gas and water-works, and for painters’, plumbers’, glaziers’, tinkers’, wire workers’, coppersmiths’ and jewellers’ use, this lamp is invaluable, and the large demand for it amply attests its merits and practical utility. The “Merritt” cork drawer and, the “Merritt” bottle rest (both of which are improved and exceedingly useful articles) may also be mentioned as having a place among the numerous specialities produced by Messrs. Giddings and Dacre. The firm have also acquired an enviable reputation for leaded light work in embossed glass. They have turned out some splendid work in this direction for the decoration of churches, banks, public buildings, and private dwelling houses, which has given universal satisfaction to their extensive clientele. In its entirety, the business of this firm is one of the most important and comprehensive concerns of its kind in the north of England, and, as large stocks are held in each department, the warehouses connected with the Junction Lead Works are particularly worthy of the inspection of buyers for wholesale and shipping houses.

An immense trade is controlled, and employment is given to a very large staff of skilled workmen, many of whom served their apprenticeship to the founders of the house, and have remained in the service ever since. Each and all of the firm’s employes appear to take a keen interest in the business — a circumstance conducive to the prosperity of the concern, and indicative of the good feeling that exists between the principals and the staff in general. Mr. Giddings takes an active part in the management of the business, and among the representative manufacturers of Manchester none are more highly esteemed than they for practical ability, enterprise, and straightforward methods. That the success of their business is fully assured, and that their connection increases continuously at home and abroad, are facts which speak eloquently for their administrative capacity and sound judgment. It is especially satisfactory to note the progressive tendencies of this firm, every effort being made to excel in all departments of the trade engaged in and to attain the highest possible standard of merit in the design, quality, and workmanship of the various goods produced.

JARDINE & CO., ORGAN BUILDERS,
CITY ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE origin of this business in Manchester dates back as far as 1823, when operations were commenced by Mr. S. Renn. In 1825 the partners were Messrs. Renn & Boston; in 1850, Messrs. Kirtland & Jardine; in 1874, Messrs. Jardine & Co., the proprietors being Messrs. James Alfred Thorold and Charles Woodfield Smith, the latter of whom has been connected with the firm for thirty years, and who, for the last three, has been sole proprietor. Under the able and honourable administration of this gentleman, the progress of the house has been of the most satisfactory character, and it may justly rank as second to no similar establishment in the provinces.

The premises occupied are commodious and convenient, arranged for all the purposes of the trade; they comprise private and general offices, large work-rooms, spacious erecting-room, machine-rooms, voicing-rooms, metal pipe-shop - where the metal pipes are made — storerooms for pipes, also a convenient casting-shop where the process of melting the ingots of tin and lead into sheets takes place; other material of all descriptions, and abundance of yard accommodation for timber, vehicles, &c. The various departments are well arranged and thoroughly fitted up with all the necessary plant and appliances, the motive power for the machinery being supplied by a powerful gas engine. An efficient staff of skilled workmen is engaged and a complete system of order and organization is maintained throughout the establishment.

Under circumstances so favourable, a large and important business is controlled in the building of high-class organs for church and chamber. For nearly three-quarters of a century these famous instruments have held a leading position in the country. With all the vast strides made in the manufacture of organs during this long period, the proprietors have always kept perfectly in touch, and they have been among the first to adopt all new improvements of any practical value. Every care is bestowed upon the manufacturing in every process, and none but the most experienced workmen are employed, some having been with the firm for over fifty years. Every part of the instrument is made on the premises. All timber is most carefully selected and thoroughly seasoned before being used, and every attention is given to the instrument in all details until its completion.

The organs supplied by Messrs. Jardine & Co. are noted for the superior excellence of their mechanism and solidity of construction; the tone is remarkable for purity and dignity, and the touch of the instrument for its elasticity. Among the many admirable points in these^ instruments, attention should be directed to the characteristic quality of the various reed-stops: the vox humana, for which the firm has an unsurpassed reputation, the diapasons for their fulness, and the various solo flute stops for their individual quality of tone. Messrs. Jardine & Co. introduced a special pneumatic action of their own to the sound-board pallets which produces a light and agreeable touch. This has found much favour amongst eminent organists, who have highly commended it. The firm have also introduced many practical improvements in the mechanism of organs, the most recent being the electro-pneumatic action (Hope Jones’s patent), and they have built an organ for exhibition in their factory on this principle.

An extensive and influential trade is carried on, and this has been built up by the excellent character of their work and without any of the adventitious aids of advertising, and numerous unsolicited testimonials from the highest authorities are in possession of the house. The proprietor is a gentleman of great skill in his profession, and his able and constant supervision is given to the business in its entirety, the voicing department receiving its full share of attention at his hands, and to his vigilant and careful attention much of its success and reputation may be justly attributed, and all transactions are marked by honest and honourable principles. Mr. Smith, the worthy proprietor, is much respected and esteemed in private life.

WALKER & CARVER, LIMITED, MANUFACTURERS OF ALL KINDS OF ARTISTIC PAPERHANGINGS,
WHIT LANE WORKS, ORCHARD STREET, PENDLETON.

MESSRS. Walker & Carver’s immense business (the largest of its particular kind in England) presents an instance of very rapid development, for it was founded as recently as the year 1885 by Mr. J. Walker, who was soon afterwards joined by Mr. Carver. The inventive talent, practical skill, and commercial energy of these gentlemen have had ample scope in the development of the business, and their combined abilities have achieved eminently creditable results. Starting with a very small place on part of the site now occupied by the Whit Lane Works, they have steadily extended their premises until a very large area is now covered by the various departments, and the establishment thus built up is in many respects the most perfect and interesting of its kind that we have ever seen. The firm’s method of producing wall papers has revolutionised the trade, and it is a well-known fact that Mr. Walker was the first to suggest the printing of sanitary papers in multiple colours. His ideas were regarded as impracticable by many, but he was convinced of their soundness, and so energetically has he carried them into effect, with the able assistance of his partner Mr. Carver, that the firm of Walker & Carver now leads the trade in the matter of sanitary wall papers, and stands unsurpassed in the production of all kinds of artistic paperhangings.

The various departments of their works, from the room in which the rollers for printing are engraved to the machine rooms where the many beautiful and original designs in wall papers are worked off by thousands of yards, present a constant succession of interesting scenes to properly describe which would require a volume. Not alone have Messrs. Walker & Carver been content with what they have been able to gather at home, but they have gone far afield in their quest after information, and in the work of extending their connection; and the result is that their industrial processes like their productions are practically perfect, as far as modern knowledge extends, while their high-class, serviceable, and economical manufactures are known and esteemed in well-nigh all parts of the world. It is safe to say that the very latest and best developments of the paperhangings industry are all known to and fully utilised by Messrs. Walker & Carver, in addition to their own unique and valuable devices for improving and facilitating production; and no house is in a better position than theirs to meet all the requirements of the modern trade, and to introduce such attractive novelties as shall satisfy the improved taste of the public of to-day.

While this firm produce all kinds of paperhangings of an artistic character, they particularly specialise sanitary goods, and in this line they are our largest manufacturers. Their latest production is the now highly approved and recommended “Sanitum” wall paper, a patented paperhanging which, from the nature of its composition, and the manner in which it is prepared and printed (in washable, antiseptic colour, which will never decompose), possesses health properties of the very highest order. The “Sanitum” paper is produced in new and artistic designs and colourings, can be hung more quickly than ordinary paperhangings, is guaranteed to hang solid and clean, is perfectly washable, and is as cheap as watercolour hangings. It is made in all qualities, from the cheapest cottage paper to the most expensive grades, and the large sale it already commands at home and abroad speak for the favour it has secured in the eyes of the public. In this and in all their other specialities, Messrs. Walker & Carver are now doing an immense and constantly increasing trade, the routine of which is considerably facilitated by a branch warehouse at 27 and 29, Frederick Street, Edinburgh. The two principals of the firm (who are both very popular and much esteemed in the Manchester district) personally superintend the entire business, and the effect of their able and enterprising administration is visible in the steady growth of the trade from year to year.
The firm’s telegraphic addresses are, “Sanitary, Pendleton,” and “Paperhangings, Edinburgh.”

GEORGE SMITH, WHOLESALE MANUFACTURER OF BASSINETTES, PERAMBULATORS, INVALID CARRIAGES, &C.,
SHARP STREET MILL, ROCHDALE ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was established by Mr. Smith in the year 1870 at 159, Rochdale Road, and afterwards to Barlow Street, Sophia Street, and subsequently to the present address, Sharp Street Mill. This extensive and flourishing business quickly attained a very gratifying measure of success and has since expanded and developed with continuous and progressive increase. The premises are very large and commodious, the offices being conveniently arranged on the basement floor communicating with the principal workshops, while there are farther roomy workshops and storerooms on the floors above. The goods made include all kinds of basinettes, perambulators, invalid carriages, toy bassinettes, tricycle horses, go-carts, &c., and the trade done is entirely wholesale, large quantities being supplied to the Co-operative Wholesale Society, Balloon Street, with whom Mr. Smith has an important running contract for the delivery of a large monthly quantity of the various articles. He has also very large dealings with perambulator dealers and toy shops all over the kingdom, and does a large business in supplying the trade with bodies, springs, and ironwork. A considerable trade is also done in the execution of repairs of all kinds, this work being done with commendable promptitude, and the very best, workmanship only.

Mention must also be made of Mr. G. Smith’s patent “Run Straight,” which is applied to all bassinettes on his price list. The utility and importance of this patent cannot be over-estimated, for by this simple invention the trouble, annoyance, and difficulty which was formerly experienced, of steering a bassinette when it was always inclined to run sideways, has been overcome, and when it is remembered that nine-tenths of the complaints have arisen over the difficulty mentioned, it will be at once evident that a bassinette which will run absolutely straight, as proved by the last twelve months’ test of this patent “Run Straight,” is the success of the future. About forty skilled and competent hands are generally employed, and there is a very valuable and complete plant of tools, appliances, and machinery for the different processes of manufacture. The house has an excellent reputation for the high quality and finished style which characterise all the goods turned out, and the business done is very large indeed. Mr. George Smith is a thoroughly practical man, possessing valuable experience and considerable business capacity. He is well known in commercial circles, and is much esteemed and greatly looked up to by all with whom he comes in contact.

LANCASTER & TONGE, ENGINEERS, MILLWRIGHTS, &C.,
THE LANCASTER WORKS, PENDLETON, MANCHESTER.

VERY few among the great centres of industrial activity, abounding in the environs of modern Manchester, are better known than the celebrated Lancaster Works, and none have gained more eminent renown within the brief space of a dozen years. Not that the Lancaster Works, as they are now known, have existed for even that period; they are the outcome of the more recent growth of the immense business of which they now form the headquarters. This business originated in the year 1879, and was started in a very small way, in the same street now associated with the Lancaster Works, viz., Withington Street, Broad Street, Pendleton — a locality which, we may mention, can be reached in about ten minutes by tram from the Royal Exchange. The founders of the firm were Messrs. Henry Lancaster and Richard Fletcher C. Tonge, trading under the title of Lancaster & Tonge. That title is still retained, although Mr. Lancaster died in 1887, and the concern has since that date been under the sole proprietorship of Mr. Tonge.

When the business was commenced they occupied only a very small establishment, the buildings being in the form of dwelling-houses and yards, and here for a time they continued to develop their trade and increase the extent of the premises until they had accommodation for about thirty hands. Soon, however, the business quite outgrew the facilities at their command, and they resolved to erect new premises, which soon rose up in the immediate neighbourhood and received the title of the Lancaster Works. This was in 1883, and the new place was in full working order in 1884, the original premises being devoted to various incidental departments associated with the general routine of the industry engaged in. It may here be mentioned that when the firm first started they employed four men, now the number of skilled hands numbers over one hundred, and, as a proof of the class of workmen employed, we may state that the firm pay probably the highest wages in the engineering trade; they were also the second firm in Manchester to concede the fifty-three hours per week.

We might fill many pages of this volume (had we the space at our disposal) with a description of the Lancaster Works in their present very complete and interesting form. It can truly be said that there is not a more carefully planned or a more effectively equipped establishment of the kind in Manchester, and Messrs. Lancaster & Tonge are in a position to be congratulated upon having surrounded themselves with productive facilities capable of overcoming the difficulties of any branch or department of engineering and millwrighting industry.

The works present an aspect of activity that is distinctly noticeable even in this busy quarter of the Manchester district, and the visitor is at once impressed by the magnitude of the operations carried out and by the perfect system which governs their progress. In every department of their fine establishment (the various workshops of which must be specially commended for loftiness and good light), the firm have laid down valuable plant of the most improved modern type, and all mechanical arrangements have been carried out upon a scale of the utmost completeness and adequacy. Vast advances have lately been made in this matter, and so great is the change that has been effected under Mr. Tonge’s able and progressive rule, that at the present time there is hardly a machine, in operation here which was in use when the Lancaster Works were first built, all the old appliances and tools having been replaced by new ones of the greatest possible efficiency. Yet, in addition to this immense plant, which is capable of accomplishing a vast amount of work in the most satisfactory manner, the firm give employment on the premises to fully one hundred skilled mechanics, and have many other workmen in their service outside. This abundance of working resources and improved means of production is undoubtedly the most salient characteristic of the Lancaster Works, and indicates in a striking manner the spirit of enterprise and advancement in which the affairs of this growing business are administered.

We cannot help remarking the very special machinery used by this firm for cutting the quick threaded screws for their famous “steam-traps,” thousands of which are now made and sold every year; and the splendidly-equipped foundry is also deserving of mention as one of the most important departments of the works. Here Messrs. Lancaster & Tonge prepare the special combination of cast-iron from which their celebrated piston-rings are made. The mixture in question contains a proportion of various metals, of which aluminium bears a part, the amalgamation of which produces a substance of beautiful face and extremely close texture, and from an inspection of this valuable metal we can readily understand that such a thing as a flaw in one of the “Lancaster” Piston Rings is unheard of, and practically impossible. The pattern-shop is also very interesting to anyone making a general survey of these works, and here the characteristic foresight of the firm has made provision for the rapid production of patterns in any case of urgency, every appliance for this purpose being ready to hand. A very notable feature in the splendid organisation of these, works is the fact that, if required, any particular department can be kept worked all night, at a small expense, as each one can be driven by a separate engine, this convenient arrangement thus effecting a great saving.

From first to last the visitor is deeply impressed by the energetic and “go-ahead” policy displayed in all the undertakings of the firm, and every characteristic of the Lancaster Works stands as an explanation of, and a reason for, the great reputation and widespread favour the productions of the establishment have achieved at home and abroad. Messrs. Lancaster & Tonge’s leading specialities consist in their renowned “Lancaster” Steam Traps, “Lancaster” Spiral Spring Pistons, “Lancaster” Serpent Coil, “Lancaster” Vibration and Sight-Feed Lubricators, “Lancaster” Malleable Iron Union, “Lancaster” Adjustable Bearings, and “Lancaster” Condenser and Feed-Water Heater. They also have a large staff of men for repairing and altering existing engines, and have shown us savings of over 30 per cent, effected by such. They have about ten boring bars and engines always ready. These have gained a reputation that is practically world-wide, and although all their specialities are covered by patent rights, yet they are not usually advertised as such, being amply introduced and fully protected by the simple use of the widely-known registered trade mark of the house — “The Lancaster.”

Besides producing the above-named specialities in vast and ever-increasing quantity, Messrs. Lancaster & Tonge are always largely engaged in every other branch of mechanical engineering and millwrights’ work, and make an immense variety of various machines, fittings, and appliances in connection with these very comprehensive trades. The “Lancaster” specialities are always sent out on approval, and the firm are always pleased to receive intending purchasers at the works, and there to show them their specialities in action, as well as to lay before them the many eulogistic testimonials they have received from engineers and steam users everywhere. To give a description of the varied and almost innumerable manufactures of this eminent house would be quite impracticable in this necessarily brief article; but to those of our readers who may as yet be unaware of the special merits of these widely-known articles, we recommend a careful perusal of the “Lancaster Catalogue,” a very remarkable publication, issued by Messrs. Lancaster & Tonge, and forming one of the most complete and comprehensive indexes we have ever seen to almost every appliance and requisite of the engine-room and boiler-house.

We need hardly add that Messrs. Lancaster & Tonge control an immense and far-reaching trade; the fame of their productions has won for them the support and confidence of an international connection. Mr. R. F. C. Tonge, the sole principal of the house, is a gentleman who stands very high in the esteem of all who have the privilege of knowing him. A thorough man of the world, and a traveller in many lands, he has amassed a vast store of useful knowledge, and gained a mastery over various subjects which he has turned to excellent account in the development of his great business. At the same time his personal geniality and unfailing courtesy have made him widely popular, and there is not a large employer of labour in the Manchester district who enjoys in a fuller degree the respect and goodwill of his workpeople. In every particular Mr. Tonge is eminently qualified to guide this important house upon the path of progress and prosperity it has pursued from the inception of its career.
Messrs. Lancaster & Tonge’s telegraphic address is “Pistons, Manchester,” and they use the “A.B.C.” code. Their telephone is No. 559 National and 5,001 Mutual.

J. & K. PATTESON, IMPORTERS OF AND DEALERS IN FOREIGN AND BRITISH MARBLES; WORKERS IN MARBLE, GRANITE, AND STONE; MONUMENTAL MASONS, AND ARCHITECTURAL AND DECORATIVE SCULPTORS,
36 AND 38, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS old and widely-known house, which takes rank among the most eminent of English concerns in the several interesting branches of art industry with which its name is associated, was founded as far back as the year 1805, by the grand-father of the present proprietors. These latter gentlemen, Messrs. J. and H. Patteson, have now been in joint control of the house for a good many years, and have always devoted their personal attention to the management of its affairs. The firm’s premises in Oxford Street, Manchester, comprise a large and handsome block of buildings with a street frontage of about 250 feet, and here there are two tiers of spacious show-rooms and galleries, splendidly lighted, and exhibiting an immense variety of Messrs. Patteson’s special designs and productions in architectural and decorative stone and marble work, sculptures of all kinds, chimney pieces in marble and wood, marble pavements, wall linings, English and foreign tiles for floors, tiles for walls and fireplaces, pedestals for busts and statuettes, and every description of high-class work in marble, granite, &c , ceramic wall and floor decorations, architectural terra-cotta and faience, enamel mosaics for walls and ceilings, marble mosaic pavements, fonts, reredoses, and all the higher grades of work incidental to their important art. The stock also embraces a number of utilitarian articles of a high order of merit, such as grates, fenders, and kitchen ranges, slate slabs, cisterns, &c.

Messrs. Patteson are fully prepared to execute any of the stonework or marble work required in the fitting-up of a house or public building of any kind, and they are equally at home in every branch of this trade, attaining the highest results in all. Their working facilities are most complete, and everything is done under the eye of the principals, who spare no effort to give continuous satisfaction to all their clients, and thus to duly maintain the high reputation their house has so long enjoyed. A few local examples may be mentioned here. (1) The main entrance to the Lancashire and Yorkshire bank, Manchester; (2) the interior of the banking chamber in the same building, and particularly the noble and unique chimney piece; (3) the new altar and reredos at St. James’s Church, Marsh Lane, Bootle; (4) the beautiful and imposing memorial to the late John Rylands, in the Manchester Southern Cemetery; (5) the main staircase and hall of the Midland Railway Hotel, Bradford; (6) the banking chamber of the Manchester and County Bank, Blackburn, and many other works. They speak for themselves in every instance, and are more eloquent than words in proclaiming the skill and resources of the firm undo* whose auspices they were completed.

J. SMEDLEY & CO., MANTLE AND APRON MANUFACTURERS,
OGDEN’S MILL, OPPOSITE LONDON ROAD STATION, MANCHESTER.

A CONSPICUOUS place among the principal manufactories of Manchester is occupied by the well-known and eminently reputable establishment of Messrs. J. Smedley & Co., of Odgen’s Mill, opposite London Road Station, mantle and apron manufacturers. Operations in this line were commenced in 1874, in Temple Street, and by energy, ability and tact, the business was developed rapidly into a very important concern. The original premises becoming too small for the increased requirements, the present quarters were taken about a year ago, and with greater accommodation and facilities, the advance the house has made has been of the most satisfactory and encouraging kind. For the uniform excellence of its productions and the promptness and punctuality with which all commands are executed, the house has obtained a name in the trade; and the future of the establishment is full of promise of augmented success and prosperity.

The premises occupied are large and commodious, and are situate in the upper stories of Ogden’s Mill, a spacious, lofty and massive block of building. They comprise a well-appointed suite of offices, together with warehouses and numerous workshops. The interior arrangement of the various departments has been carried out in a very effective manner, and the workshops are thoroughly equipped with machinery of the most modern and suitable kind, and every apparatus and appliance requisite for the adequate and successful control of an important business of this character. Everything is conducted in an orderly and systematic manner, and every attention has been paid by the worthy proprietors to the comfort and sanitary condition of their numerous body of workpeople.

Here is controlled an extensive and valuable business in the manufacture of mantles and aprons. The productions of this responsible establishment are guaranteed of superior and uniform quality. They are recognised in the markets as standards of excellence, and are universal favourites among all classes of buyers. The materials employed are of the best and most select kind, nothing of an inferior or secondary quality ever being used. The workmanship is such as is seldom surpassed, being carefully done by skilled workpeople under the constant and vigilant supervision of experienced managers. The establishment is to be congratulated on the possession of special ability and talent in their cutting department, and their goods are among the best offered to the public in cut, shape, and style.

Three separate departments are maintained at this representative establishment, each of which is thoroughly provided with the best means, and is perfectly prepared to turn out (and, in fact, is turning out) high-class work in great abundance. The ladies’ jackets and dolmans are of splendid style and appearance, and are braided in the latest fashion by patent machinery belonging exclusively to the firm. In this line Messrs. Smedley have achieved a good reputation, and the demands are such as manifest unmistakably the high appreciation these goods receive from critical and judicious buyers. Plain tailor-made jackets are also a leading feature, which for shape and finish are rarely equalled. Ladies’ ulsters constitute a leading line, and the productions of the firm in the selection of all the most approved materials, and in the variety of styles and patterns, are reckoned among the best procurable. The leading feature in the productions of this house is that of braiding and embroidering, for which the firm possess the most perfect appliances, specially constructed for this class of work. The firm, too, are well and favourably known for their children’s reefers and mantles, of which they offer a wide selection, thoroughly well made, and of the most fashionable cut and appearance.

An important branch of this business is centred in the apron department. The firm produce these charming articles in great profusion, and in endless shapes, patterns and designs. All their work is of the best and most complete character, and the designs and styles are always fresh, artistic and pleasing in the highest degree. Washing aprons are made in various durable cloths, and high-class aprons (specialities blacks) are manufactured in black Italian, alpaca, grenadine, satin and silks, and are braided and embroidered in numerous quaint and beautiful devices and patterns in the most skilful and artistic manner. Stocks are held of the various excellent articles manufactured by the firm, and important orders can generally be completed in an exceedingly short time.

An exclusively wholesale trade is done, and the connection of the house is large and influential among the principal buyers throughout the kingdom, and a valuable export trade is controlled by means of the foreign merchants. A large staff of clerks, foremen and skilled workmen is employed, together with some three hundred girls, in the various departments, and the continually increasing nature of the business taxes the resources of the establishment to the utmost, and at the same time indicates the high appreciation in which the matchless productions of this representative house are held. The London office is at 37 & 38, Gutter Lane, with Mr. Henry Eccles as manager; and the Glasgow agents are Messrs. J. Gartshore & Son, of 43, Virginia Buildings.

E. HARRISON & CO., MANUFACTURERS AND PRINTERS,
10, MINSHULL STREET, MANCHESTER.

ONE of the oldest and most considerable of the leading manufacturing houses that flourish in Manchester is the important and flourishing firm of Messrs. E. Harrison & Co., whose extensive operations have for a number of years found their headquarters at the above address. This substantial and prosperous concern was originally founded in the year 1840, and has since from year to year been developed and increased in scope and extent with gratifying and continuous success. The premises consist of a bold and commanding building of six storeys, prominently situated in an excellent business position and having a frontage of ninety feet and a depth of ninety-six feet, with a side entrance conveniently arranged for heavy goods. The basement is used as a large grey cloth stock room; the ground floor is occupied by the counting house, grey sale rooms, and packing room; the first floor contains sale and sample rooms, offices, &c., and the other floors comprise capacious warehouse and stock-rooms, the whole being connected by hoists and other time-saving apparatus. From seventy to eighty clerks, assistants, and others, are employed on the premises, and each department is under a responsible manager.

The goods for which the firm is chiefly known consist of satteens, jeans, royal ribs, jeanettes, galateas, attaleas, quiltings, welts, satins, sateen quilts, cotton drills, fancy cotton dress goods, and similar fabrics in great variety. Also white sateen cloth, which is exceedingly durable and makes the best blotting-pads. These various manufactures are produced at Messrs. Harrison & Co.’s own mills at Oldham and Todmorden, where the work is carried on upon a very extensive scale and a very large number of hands are kept in constant and busy activity. The goods are well known and have a very favourable reputation for excellence of quality and superior finish, and the connection is very widespread and influential, extending, through agents and other means, to all parts of the world. The success and prosperity which have at all times attended Messrs. E. Harrison & Co. in their multifarious transactions are mainly to be attributed to the energy, ability, and organising power displayed in the management, and the firm is a conspicuous example of sound and substantial commercial enterprise conducted with vigorous spirit and keen commercial foresight.

THOMAS HASSALL, HIGH-CLASS SALT, SPICES, DRYSALTERY, MINERALS, &C.,
MERCHANT, DUCIE STREET (ADJOINING LONDON ROAD STATION), PICCADILLY, MANCHESTER.

FEW firms in the North of England can boast of so old a relationship with the salt trade as that of Mr. Thomas Hassall, of Manchester. Indeed, this is probably the oldest concern of its kind in Lancashire, for Mr. Hassall’s great-grandfather was engaged in the business long before the introduction of railways. The canals were then the principal means of transport, and when they chanced to be frozen up every ton of salt had to be carted from the works to its destination, a proceeding both laborious and expensive. As showing the antiquity of this notable house it may be mentioned that there are still to be found in its books current accounts which were opened over half a century ago; and a thriving trade was done by this firm in the “good old days,” when salt sold at eighteen pence a pound, owing to the duty upon it, and was usually packed in baskets for the market. The business has developed very greatly since its commencement, and other associated departments have been added to it, such as minerals, chemicals, drysalteries, and spices. Thus we find that Mr. Thomas Hassall (who has directed this influential concern for a long time with conspicuous success) now deals very largely in a great variety of this class of goods, of which immense stocks are held in the large and admirably-arranged warehouses and stores now maintained by Mr. Hassall in Ducie Street, and at Canal Wharves, London Road, and most of the principal shipping ports.

The leading speciality consists in high-class salt, brought from the important works at Northwich, where every facility exists for rapid transport by rail and by water. Mr. Thomas Hassall’s table salt and household and dairy salt are very widely and favourably known, and it would be difficult to find an English household in which they are not in more or less constant use. They are remarkable for their purity and strength of saline properties, and the high standard of excellence by which they have always been distinguished is carefully maintained. Other notable specialities of this firm are freezing, fishery, crystal, chemical brine; bath, and rock salts; and these are sold daily in enormous quantities, not only in this country, but in all the leading export markets. Of the dairy salt the sale is something immense, over two hundred thousand bags having been sold in a twelvemonth, and this salt is now solely used on the Royal dairy farms, from the director of which Mr. Hassall has received flattering testimony as to its high efficacy. Saltpetre, soda crystals, alum, drysalteries, chalk, whiting, Devonshire clay, Paris white, silver sand, baker’s oil, Bath bricks, and many other articles of drysaltery, &c., are stocked and supplied by this noted house to an international connection; and the business is equally remarkable for the comprehensiveness and for the magnitude of its operations. At the Manchester Jubilee Exhibition the display of Mr. Hassall’s specialities met with much favour, and a fine salt model of the proposed aqueduct at Barton over the Manchester Ship Canal was greatly admired.

We should, before concluding this necessarily brief review of a great representative business, draw the attention of our readers in agricultural circles to the fact that Mr. Thomas Hassall can supply, upon the most favourable terms, first-class salt for manurial purposes, and we need hardly dwell upon the widely recognised efficacy of salt as a cheap fertilizer, or speak in detail of its well-known usefulness in the farmyard and in the pasture. Another important article among Mr. Hassall’s varied supplies is “Kieselguhr,” or infusorial earth, which is fireproof, acid proof, a non-conductor of heat or cold, and remarkably porous and absorbent. “Kieselguhr” can be advantageously applied to a vast number of purposes in which its peculiar properties are of benefit — from the lining of floors and cellars, or the packing of fire-proof safes, to the preservation of hides or the manufacture of glass. Its varied usefulness is extraordinary, and persons interested should send to Mr. Hassall for particulars.

The immense business we have herein briefly glanced at dates back in its history at least as far as the year 1810, and has always been a successful and progressive concern, noted for prompt payment of accounts, prompt execution of orders, and strict observance of all the rules of commercial rectitude in the administration of its affairs. At the present time it is under the sole proprietorship of Mr. Thomas Hassall, who is one of the best-known men on the Manchester, Corn, Royal, and Coal Exchanges, where his favourite blue serge suit, pilot jacket, and light necktie are familiar as details of costume from which he rarely departs. He may be seen any Tuesday at No. 5 pillar of the Corn Exchange, also Royal Exchange, as well as the Coal Exchange, where his many friends in the trade are always glad to meet him for the transaction of business.

Mr. Hassall is equally respected as a man and as a merchant, and his courteous and unassuming demeanour has won for him general esteem. In the routine of his immense trade he is ably assisted by the numerous members of his family, who are being gradually trained in every detail of the business, and also by a large staff of employes, most of whom have been for many years in his service, and are likely to continue therein to the last. Mr. Hassall has his own barges and canal boats continually running on the rivers and canals, and are a credit to him on account of the order and cleanliness they are kept in, saying nothing of the excellent teams of horses and beautifully-painted lorries and carts which are kept particularly clean for delivering salt, &c., for human consumption.
The well-known telegraphic address of this house is “Sel, Manchester”; and the telephone is No. 946. Mr. Hassall is an old resident of the ancient village of Eccles, near Manchester.

JOSEPH HOLT, ALE AND PORTER BREWER,
DERBY BREWERY, CHEETHAM HILL ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE history of this noted house dates back to 1850, and its career since its inception has been of a continuous and highly satisfactory character. A reputation was early obtained for the uniform excellence and superiority of its productions, and a substantial connection was acquired which has gone on increasing, year by year, down to the present time, until now, in its extent and worth, it will bear comparison with that belonging to any brewery in the district. At frequent intervals enlargements in the premises were necessitated by the continued increase in the business, and, about two years ago, the whole building was remodelled in accordance with the latest and most improved methods of scientific brewing. The buildings, which form a quadrangle in shape, are four stories in height, and comprise a suite of offices and every department requisite for the expeditious and successful control of a large business of this description.

A glance at the large granaries, the malt floors, the spacious brewing houses, the extensive cellaring and the vast piles of barrels stocked about the yard, must convince the most superficial observer that a business of more than ordinary magnitude and importance is carried on here. The machinery is of the most modern and best type, and the establishment throughout commands the admiration of all interested in this important branch of business for the perfection of its equipment. An extensive trade is done both with licensed houses and private families; and wherever their ales and stouts are once introduced, they find permanent and continued favour. They are brewed from the best hops procurable, and every process is carried out on the most approved principles, and the product carefully watched and tested at every stage. The water used is of a very superior kind, and has been pronounced by skilled analysts to contain, in an eminent degree, all those special chemical qualities and ingredients necessary to the production of the very best results. The utmost neatness and cleanliness are maintained in every department, and every precaution is taken to insure the most perfect purity in all beverages emanating from this old-established house. For brilliancy, palatableness, and fine flavour these ales can be warmly recommended, and also as possessing exhilarating and tonic qualities of a very superior kind.

The popularity the house has acquired for their beverages is evidence that they have succeeded in hitting the public taste. A valuable connection is maintained, both public and private, and the firm also possess a good number of tied houses. The plant in operation is what is known as a twenty-five quarter one; about twenty-five skilled brewers are employed, and ten horses, with five single and two double drays, and various carts, are occupied in delivering orders in Manchester and the suburbs. Mr. Edward Holt, who is now sole proprietor, possesses a thoroughly practical knowledge of his business, and is an acknowledged expert and representative man in this branch. Mr. Edward Holt is a magistrate, a member of the Town Council, and Vice-President of the Brewers’ Association. He is deservedly popular with all classes of people, and in commercial circles he is held in high estimation for his personal worth, his ability, and strict business principles.

JOHN HENRY LEES, WELLINGTON BREWERY,
OPENSHAW, MANCHESTER.

CONSPICUOUS among the establishments in Manchester engaged in its special line, and eminently noteworthy for the extent of its operations and the superiority of its productions, is the house of Mr. John Henry Lees, of the Wellington Brewery, Openshaw. This well-known brewery has been in operation for more than a quarter of a century, and since its inception it has enjoyed an uninterruptedly prosperous career. It was acquired by Mr. Lees in 1888, who brought large and sound experience and high executive ability to bear upon it, and during his control the transactions of the firm have increased very considerably both in extent and value.

Mr. Lees is related to the well-known brewers of the same name at Denton, and it was there he obtained his intimate knowledge of the trade. By his high-class beverages and fair and honourable dealings, he has already gathered round him an important connection, and there is every indication that the immediate future of the house will be one of great prosperity and success. The premises are ample in size and convenience, and in every way fully adapted to the purposes of the business carried on. When Mr. Lees took possession he reconstructed the establishment and fitted it up with the latest and most improved plant and machinery. It is now thoroughly efficient in every department. The premises comprise a suite of offices, brew-houses, and splendid cellaring. The yard is very spacious, and contains numerous sheds and outhouses, a long row of stabling, and every accommodation for a large stud of horses. The visitor to this establishment cannot fail to notice the neatness and cleanliness which pervade every department, and the strict and efficient system of discipline and organisation maintained among the employes.

A large and valuable trade is done in the brewing of mild, bitter, and strong ales, and celebrated porter and stout. All the beverages emanating from this noted brewery are of a reliable and superior character. They are well known for many miles round, and are prime favourites with all classes of buyers and customers. They are brewed entirely from malt and hops, and these of only the finest growths and such as have been carefully selected by competent judges. All the processes are conducted by competent brewers, and the results systematically tested. The water is specially suitable for brewing purposes, and it has been pronounced by eminent analysts to contain every ingredient requisite for the production of the best results. The stout and porter Mr. Lees sends out are agreeable in taste and highly nutritive in quality, and they are every day increasing in popularity. For purity, brilliancy and palatableness, his ales have few or no equals in Manchester. They please all tastes, and give entire satisfaction to every one.

From the extensive nature of the productive resources of the establishment and the magnitude of the operations, the proprietor is able to quote such terms as cannot be duplicated elsewhere, and customers will find that in both price and quality the house is hard to be beaten. The business connection covers an area of from fifteen to twenty miles round. A large force of experienced brewers is employed, and all orders of whatever magnitude receive prompt and careful attention. Mr. Lees is a thoroughly practical man, and is a recognised authority on all matters connected with his speciality. His able and energetic personal supervision is bestowed upon the concern, and he is always solicitous to maintain to the full the high and enviable reputation his house has acquired. His business methods are characterized by fairness and honesty, and by his. creditable policy he retains the esteem of all those who come into relationship with him. In private and commercial circles he is much respected for his well-deserved success, the active interest he takes in every movement that has for its object the welfare of his fellow citizens, and for his personal integrity.

W. WALKER,
THE EXCHANGE LABORATORY, MARKET PLACE, MANCHESTER.

MR. W. WALKER commenced business as a manufacturing dispensing family chemist and canine specialist in 1870, and for his many valuable preparations has acquired a reputation extending far beyond the limits of this city. The establishment, which is known as the “Exchange Laboratory,” is situated at 18, Market Place, and comprises a spacious and handsome shop, together with well-appointed workrooms at the rear. The shop and warehouse are well stocked with drugs and chemicals of well-attested purity, all the best known patent medicines and proprietary articles, surgical appliances of all kinds, deodorisers, disinfectants, and sanitary preparations of all kinds, a choice selection of perfumes and fancy soaps, brushes, sponges, and toilet requisites of every description.

Amongst the specialities may be mentioned “Walker’s Miraculous Cough Cure,” the “Worcester Gout and Rheumatic Mixture,” and the celebrated “S. P.” charcoal, which is specially prepared for lawns, cricket grounds, bowling greens, &c.; it annihilates worms and produces luxuriant lawn grass. Walker’s dog remedies, “The Champion Jeannie Deans Brand,” include “Ear and Canker Lotion,” “Mange Liniment,” “Aperient Pills,” “Alterative Pills,” “Condition Pills,” “Tonic Pills,” “Worm Pills,” “Antiseptic Dog Soap,” “Cough Pills,” “Jeannie Deans Fluid,” and “Distemper Mixture.” Mr. Walker has also introduced an exquisite adjunct to the toilet, called “Carbo Neroline” (for the teeth). It removes tartar and polishes the teeth without destroying the shell, a result often produced by advertised preparations of an inferior kind.

Also Walker’s Remedies for poultry and pigeons, (Welbird brand), known as the “Right-Away Pill,” a constitution pill which rectifies the liver, digestive organs, and the blood; “Pick-Me-Ups,” or tonic pills, for invigorating, strengthening, and restoring the bloom of birds; “Compound Aconite Pills,” for colds and roup, “Compound Charcoal Pills,” for sour crop, indigestion, and diarrhoea; “Copaivines,” for asthma and wheezing; “Aperients”; the “Squeaker’s Pill,” for strengthening and sustaining young pigeons and chicks from one week old and upwards; “Stimulants,” for colds; “Ointment,” for lump in wing; “Red Lotion,” for diphtheria and canker of mouth and throat; “Antiseptic Lotion,” for obstinate cases of canker of mouth and throat; “Pigment Liquid,” for external canker; “Pigment Powder,” for canker of ear; “Cod Liver Oil Capsules”; “Tonic Capsules,” for “going light,” and to assist moulting in old and young birds; “Castor Oil Capsules”; “Roup Capsules,” for obstinate cases of roup; “Anti-Feather-Rot.” Many testimonials have been received from the leading exhibitors and breeders in the United Kingdom. These are remedial agents that are undoubtedly producing the happiest results, and their increasing popularity is well attested by the continued demand upon the resources of the laboratory for their production.

Mr. Walker also gives special attention to the careful compounding of physicians’ prescriptions and family recipes, a large high-class patronage in this important department being a leading feature of the establishment. An efficient staff of duly qualified assistants is busily employed, and no effort is spared to meet the convenience of customers. Mr. William Walker, the sole proprietor of the business, possesses the advantage of long and thorough professional and practical experience. As a canine and poultry specialist Mr. Walker has achieved a marked success, and as a dispensing and family chemist he enjoys the confidence and support of a very extensive and high-class patronage.

THE INTERNATIONAL OKONITE CO., LIMITED, ELECTRICIANS AND CABLE MANUFACTURERS,
NEWTON HEATH ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING WORKS, NEWTON HEATH, MANCHESTER.

THE important electrical industry carried on at the above address by the International Okonite Company, Limited, was founded in the year 1883 by Mr. John Shaw, who was afterwards joined as partner by Mr. Thomas Connolly. They continue to jointly direct its affairs, the former as commercial manager, the latter as manager of the works. Both gentlemen are possessed of high scientific qualifications, and their success in the line of operation they are now pursuing may clearly be traced to their earnest study and long-continued investigation of all matters connected with the transmission of electrical force, and its economical and effective insulation and protection. For six or seven years Messrs. Shaw & Connolly carried on their work and researches in what is now only a part of the extensive buildings occupied by the International Okonite Company, Limited, which company was formed by the amalgamation of the business of Messrs. Shaw & Connolly with that of the Okonite Company, of Passaic, New Jersey, U.S.A. At this latter place a most extensive trade is carried on, the works there existing being large, and the American interests of the concern increasingly important.

Since the formation of the present company in 1890 great extensions have had to be made in the premises at Newton Heath, and this interesting establishment now covers a large area, of ground, and stands in a condition of perfect organization for all the purposes of the industry in which it is engaged, there being a splendid plant of new and specially-designed machinery in operation. A large extent of canal wharfage places the Company in direct communication with the Ship Canal, and altogether about ten acres of ground are covered by the yards and buildings. At these busy works no fewer than five hundred specially trained and selected hands are employed in the manufacture of the Company’s specialities, which embrace every description of cable and wire for electrical purposes, in okonite, guttapercha, vulcanized indiarubber, &c. These goods are applicable for telegraphic, telephonic, and electric lighting uses, and are divided into three classes — (1) “Cables,” or conductors of large size; (2) “Wires,” which signify single wires and small stranded conductors; and (3) “Flexibles,” or stranded conductors made up of fine wires. The Company also specialize a compound and lead-covered cable of an anti-induction type for special purposes. It may here be mentioned that okonite is the highest insulating medium known to electricians, and is, moreover, possessed of great tensile strength.

The Company’s list of manufactures is so comprehensive and includes so many varieties of conductors for every conceivable purpose of electrical power-transmission that it would be idle to attempt an enumeration here. For the details that are unavoidably excluded, our readers are referred to the Company’s catalogue, a most exhaustive publication of its kind. As to the quality and practical usefulness of these goods, it is admitted that none better are to be found in the market for any of the numerous purposes to which they are applicable, and the large and constantly increasing trade carried on by the Company is an ample evidence of this fact. It is also noteworthy that Messrs. Shaw & Connolly were awarded a Diploma and Gold Medal at London, 1885, in recognition of the superior merits of their specialities; and the Company are on the list of contractors to the Admiralty and the War Office. Their registered telegraphic addresses are, “Exsiccant, London,” and “Dielectric, Newton Heath.” The cablegram address is “Okonco, London”; and the telephone numbers are (London) 1560, and (Manchester) 413.

The London offices are at 98 and 100, Queen Victoria Street, E.C., under the managing directorship of Mr. A. Vaughan-Stevens. Both Mr. Shaw and Mr. Connolly, the managers at Newton Heath, are gentlemen who have rendered great and valuable service to the cause of electrical science. Personally they are well known and much respected in this neighbourhood, and give active support to all movements designed to promote the welfare of the district.

WILLIAM RUMNEY & CO., CALICO PRINTERS, SPINNERS, AND MANUFACTURERS,
53, PORTLAND STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS old-established and widely known house is one of the most prominent concerns engaged in the calico printing and spinning and manufacturing trades in Manchester. Its history dates back over a period of nearly forty years, and it was founded by the late Mr. Wm. Rumney, who died in 1882. Since then the business has been very successfully continued by his late partners, of whom Mr. G. W. Taylor and Mr. A. S. Young are the sole survivors, trading as William Rumney & Co. The business of Messrs. William Rumney & Co. is a most extensive one, and as they print immense quantities of their own cloths in every style and design, they have erected fine mills at Bury and Ramsbottom for the weaving of these goods. The yarns are also spun on their own premises, and the whole industry is a well-organised and self-contained concern, possessing a very influential and extensive connection. The bleach and print work are situated at Stubbins and at Blackford Bridge, and like the mills and factories at Bury and Ramsbottom, are splendidly equipped with the best modern plant and machinery, including several special and unique appliances of the most effective type. The firm employ a large number of hands, and in addition to their fine six-storey warehouse, Portland Street, Manchester, they have their own branches in London, Belfast, Glasgow, and Paris. Through these an immense amount of business is transacted, over and above the very large trade conducted with local merchants at Manchester. The administration of the firm’s affairs is marked by conspicuous ability and enterprise.

BERTENSHAW & TURNER, MANUFACTURERS OF PRESERVES, MARMALADE, CANDIED FEEL, LEMON CHEESE, AND SAUCES AND PICKLES,
BRITANNIA WORKS, BASLOW STREET, BESWICK, MANCHESTER.

THIS widely known and important firm commenced business in Bedford Leigh about thirteen years ago in the line of industry with which their name has become so creditably associated, but, finding their original locale unsuitable, and requiring more extensive premises, they looked about them for increased accommodation. This they eventually found at their present headquarters, the Britannia Works, and as soon as they secured possession of this establishment they commenced enlargements and improvements which have nearly trebled the size of the place, and which have made it one of the most perfect works of its kind in the county. The departmental organisation of these commodious premises is practically perfect. Messrs. Bertenshaw & Turner now possess in the general arrangement of this establishment, and in the special mechanical equipment of each division thereof, the most complete facilities that can be desired for the proper conduct of their important industry. All the processes of manufacture here engaged in are carried out under conditions favourable to the attainment of the highest results in the quality of the goods produced, and the scrupulous cleanliness prevailing in all parts of the works is particularly creditable to the firm.

It was as makers of sauces and pickles that Messrs. Bertenshaw & Turner first achieved their distinguished reputation, and their “National” pickles and condiments are famous both at home and abroad. Vast supplies of onions, cauliflowers, gherkins, and the various other vegetable commodities employed in pickle manufacture are purchased by the firm in the fertile districts of Bedfordshire, others are imported from Holland, and to these are added suitable quantities of spices, fruits, &c., for flavouring and for preparing sauces. After passing through the dressing and peeling departments, the principal ingredients are carefully washed and strained, and after this they go to an immense store-room where there are nineteen huge brine-vats. In these they remain until thoroughly pickled. These vats contain about one thousand tons of vegetables — a fact illustrating the remarkable magnitude of the firm’s business, and the great demand existing for their goods. It may also be said that five hundred tons out of the above-mentioned one thousand tons consist generally of onions, which appear to be held in very high favour as pickles all over the world.

Proceeding to the bottling department, a large spice store and blending-room are passed, from which issues a pungent, aromatic odour. There is also a vinegar store with two gigantic vats, each containing 1,500 gallons of celebrated pure vinegar of the Midland Vinegar Company, Aston Cross, Birmingham. These vats are replenished daily. During the night the process of “settling” goes quietly on, and next morning the liquid comes out as clear as crystal, without a trace of sediment. After a month’s work the vats are subjected to a careful cleaning, but as the heavy matter then accumulated at the bottom of each of the huge receptacles is only about half an inch, it is quite evident that the vinegar they have contained can only be of the purest and finest quality. The packing, bottling, and filling up with vinegar are important processes, which are all carried out in a large, lofty room by a small army of bright-looking girls, who, deftly and with the expedition of long experience, place the component parts of the pickle in an ornamental position in the bottles. It is not a case of merely filling the bottle — the whole operation is performed with notable taste, and a certain degree of artistic effect is gained which greatly enhances the appearance of a goodly array of Messrs. Bertenshaw & Turner’s pickles on the grocers’ shelves. The bottles and jars used vary in size from those containing half a pound to those of fourteen pound capacity. When filled they are placed in a lift which conveys them to a department where they receive “finishing touches” in the shape of bright and attractive labels, a matter upon which this firm expend no small amount of money.

The firm recently received the following unsolicited testimonial to the purity of their pickles:— “To Messrs. Bertenshaw & Turner, Pickle and Sauce Manufacturers, Beswick, Manchester. Gentlemen, — Our Chief Constable took a bottle of your mixed pickles a month since for the Public Analyst to examine; and I am pleased to inform you they were pronounced pure and quite satisfactory. Our Chief Constable said we might make what use we thought proper of the result; he said we could advertise them as perfectly genuine, as certified by Mr. Estcourt, the Public Analyst of Manchester. No doubt you will be quite pleased with the testimony of the analyst to the genuineness of your goods. I thought that you might, perhaps, wish to know, that being my only motive in writing you. — Yours, &c., Samuel Greenwood, Branch Manager, 22, Market Street, Bacup, September 21st, 1891.”

In the sauce department Messrs. Bertenshaw & Turner prepare their famous “King of Sauces,” which they send out in bottles of various sizes, the sixpenny bottle being claimed to be the largest and best at that price in the world. The skilful combination of choice fruits and spices effected in the making of this excellent sauce has been singularly successful in producing a condiment which is not only a grand appetiser and a delicious adjunct of the table, but also a deadly foe to dyspepsia. On all these points it has received the highest commendation from the host of chefs and epicures who have used it. The firm also make a splendid “Worcester” sauce, from an original recipe, and their “National” sauce (like their “National” pickles) has become a veritable “household word,” being unrivalled as a cheap and wholesome sauce.

A few years ago Messrs. Bertenshaw & Turner gave their attention to the associated industry of preserve and marmalade manufacture, and in this branch they have achieved an unequivocal success, which is based upon the fact that they employ the very best machinery and appliances, use the best fruit and finest sugar, and conduct all the operations of the trade in a manner which cannot fail to obtain the most satisfactory results. They produce an immense variety of jams of the most delicious and wholesome character, together with superior marmalade, lemon cheese, and all kinds of candied peel, and their goods in these departments are everywhere received with a degree of favour and confidence no less marked than that which is bestowed upon their pickles and sauces.

Messrs. Bertenshaw & Turner maintain a wide and influential connection in the home and export markets, and their business is continuously increasing under the able and enterprising administration of the principals, who equally promote their own and their customers’ interests by personally supervising all the industrial and commercial operations of their house. Extensive as are the present premises, the business has outstripped their capacity, and Messrs. Bertenshaw & Turner are now engaged in building a new jam works alongside the existing premises.

JOHN TURNER, HATTERS’ MACHINIST,
DENTON, NEAR MANCHESTER; DANBURY, CONNECTICUT, UNITED STATES, AMERICA. OFFICES, PARIS, MELBOURNE, AND RIO DE JANEIRO.

THIS immense business, which, has now developed into the foremost concern of its kind in England, was founded upwards of thirty years ago by Mr. John Turner, whose numerous inventions and improvements in all kinds of hatters’ machinery have long keen highly esteemed by manufacturers throughout the world. Mr. Turner’s sons, who received from their father a sound practical training in every detail of the trade, have already manifested conspicuous ability and inventive powers, a sure proof that they have made speedy and intelligent use of the excellent instruction imparted to them by the founder of the house; and now, in the administration of a constantly increasing and highly influential business, Mr. Henry Herbert Turner, Mr. Albert Turner, and Mr. Arnold Turner find ample and congenial employment for their skill and energy. Each year they put forth increased efforts to add to the already great renown of their house, and to achieve still more notable successes for the future; and in order to allow full scope and space for the expanding tendencies of their business, Messrs. Turner have this year made very considerable additions to their premises, rebuilding the greater portion in the most perfect modern style for a large and progressive engineering and machine-making trade.

The entire works now cover about four acres of ground, the greater part of this space being occupied by buildings, of which the principal structure is the fine new three-story turning, fitting, and erecting shop, two hundred feet by sixty-five feet wide. Several of the other shops are also very large, and all are substantially built and arranged upon a most convenient plan. Each department is equipped with the most powerful and effective plant and machinery for its special purpose, and the whole establishment presents an example of perfect organisation rarely met with even in these days of industrial advancement. Years of experience and the judicious use of a large amount of capital could alone achieve such an excellent result; and undoubtedly the Messrs. Turner now possess the most complete facilities for wood-working, iron, and steel working, copper-smithing, brass-finishing, and all other processes of their great and important industry.

No small portion of the splendid outfit of machinery that may be seen in operation here is quite unique, a good many of the apparatus having been specially designed and constructed for the purposes of this trade. The firm’s offices - drawing, general, and private — form a large and handsomely appointed suite, situated at the left of the main entrance to the works. There are now upwards of one hundred highly skilled mechanics and other workmen engaged on these premises, in addition to the numerous clerical staff; and besides doing a general engineering trade of great magnitude, the firm stand second to none in the world as makers of all kind of machinery, tools, &c., for the manufacture of fur and wool hats.

Their leading speciality at present consists in their improved and patented machines for finishing and shaping, and they have effected great practical improvements in all kinds of planking machines, shaving or pouncing lathes, proof mixers and appliances, patent blocking machines, hydraulic presses and pumps, hat moulds, rounding and curling machines, ironing and flattening machines, wire twisting machines — in short, every conceivable appliance for the hatting trade. Messrs. Turner produce every kind of machine or appliance necessary for hat manufacturing, without exception. Recently they have patented several important improvements in machines for opening, cleaning, blowing, and forming fur. The Messrs. Turner give special attention to the complete equipping of hat factories with engines, boilers, gearing, and every other requisite; and for this work they supply plans, estimates, and specifications on application. An immense home and export trade is controlled, and the house stands very high in the esteem and confidence of the trade wherever hat manufacture is carried on to any important extent. The firm have large branch works at Danbury, Connecticut, U.S.A., managed by Mr. H. H. Turner.
The firm’s telegraphic address is “Machines, Denton.” National Telephone, No. 5.

THOMAS COLLIER & CO., WHOLESALE AND EXPORT WAREHOUSEMEN,
33, 35, 37, 39 AND 41, HIGH STREET, AND PEEL BUILDINGS, PEEL STREET, MANCHESTER.

FOR many years past the records of commercial advancement in Manchester have been a continuous chronicle of deeds of enterprise and steady perseverance accomplished by the energy and perceptive faculties of the city’s merchants, and during the last thirty years the eminent house whose title heads this sketch has been one of the prominent landmarks, so to speak, in this unbroken course of progress, and has held a place among the most notable of those great mercantile institutions to whose efforts Manchester owes such a large measure of its modern commercial supremacy. The vast business of Messrs. Thomas Collier & Co. was founded in the year 1857 by Messrs. Richard and Thomas Collier, who traded under the style of R. & T. Collier. In 1857 they began at 47, High Street, at a rent of £65 per annum; this was soon found too small, and in 1861 they removed to two rooms at No. 33, and here they gradually enlarged the scope of their operations until they occupied the entire building. We may say that in 1861 there were fourteen firms doing business in this same building, and when Messrs. Collier came in 1861 these were gradually pushed out, as it were, one by one, to make room for this ever-increasing business. Between 1861 and 1870 Messrs. R. & T. Collier not only acquired possession of the whole of No. 33, High Street, but also purchased Nos. 35 and 37, and rebuilt the whole block in accordance with their own requirements. In 1870 Mr. Richard Collier died, leaving the concern in the hands of the surviving partner, Mr. Thomas Collier, and the title of the house then became Thomas Collier & Co. Since that date Mr. Thomas Collier’s sons have been admitted as partners, and the firm have opened very important and successful warehouses in Sydney and Melbourne. Moreover, they have purchased Nos. 39 and 41, High Street, adding these to their original premises in this thoroughfare, and the warehouse thus formed is one of the finest in Manchester — indeed, it ranks among the mercantile Colossi of the city, and is admittedly unsurpassed in any of its details of plan and equipment.

When the Colonial houses above mentioned were first opened Messrs. Thomas Collier & Co. began to develop an export department upon a very large scale, and for this branch they obtained very suitable accommodation in Peel Street. These latter premises were formerly occupied by Sir Robert Peel, and when Messrs. Collier had acquired them they made a subway under Friday Street, connecting the new establishment with the High Street block, thus securing uninterrupted communication and all the advantages and conveniences accruing therefrom. During all this time the business was steadily growing, and in its present condition of almost unsurpassed magnitude it stands as a memorial of the untiring energy and enterprise of its present principal, Mr. Thomas Collier, who has personally directed all the operations of the concern from the first, and who is intimately acquainted with the minutest details of its manifold departments. He is ably assisted by his sons, Mr. Thomas A. Collier, Mr. Frederick Collier, and Mr. Edward Harwood Collier, and the firm have a staff of buyers whose skill and judgment are almost proverbial in the trade.

As already remarked, Messrs. Collier’s High Street warehouse (a noble and imposing block six storeys high and covering a great area of ground) is one of the largest and best-organised establishments in the Manchester trade. The firm intend before long to add to the many other advantages and conveniences here possessed the further one of the electric light, which is to be substituted for gas throughout the premises. Some idea of the extent and magnitude of these vast premises may perhaps be best formed by anyone who can conceive, beneath one great expanse of roof, an aggregate of upwards of thirty trade departments, each one of which forms a huge business in itself the like of which has, in many cases, been the work of a lifetime to build up. This gigantic congeries of mercantile undertakings takes in the entire range of the drapery and textile trades; and the warehouse is literally packed with tons upon tons of stock in the following varied branches: — Wools, trimmings, velvets, ribbons, buttons, furs, braids, lace, smallwares, haberdashery, corsets, hosiery, gloves, fancies, dyed goods, outfittings, umbrellas, dress goods, grey and white calicoes, prints, flannels, blankets, hats, caps, dress and mantle ornaments, macintoshes, and many other lines of goods of a nature akin to these or commonly associated with them in modern trade. The variety of this enormous stock, considered within its own legitimate limits, is extraordinary and inexhaustible, and in many cases Messrs. Collier seem to have fairly outstripped all their competitors in the trades they exemplify.

The stock of wools is something marvellous in its immensity, occupying as it does the whole of the great basement floor, which it fills from floor to ceiling; and in this department alone the turnover during 1890 amounted to the very remarkable sum of at least £100,000. Then again, in haberdashery and smallwares Messrs. Collier hold probably the largest and most varied stock in the world, and practically the same thing may be said of their trimmings department. In not a few other lines they stand among the acknowledged leaders, both at home and in the export markets, where their influence is well-nigh universal; and in the matter of umbrellas they are not surpassed in the city. They manufacture umbrellas at all prices, from 5s. 6d per dozen (wholesale) to 70s. each, and turn out about ten thousand gross per annum. Separate work-rooms and frame and stick factories are kept going in connection with this umbrella department, and the stock-rooms devoted to it in the High Street warehouse (fourth floor) contain as a rule a wonderful assortment of about six hundred gross of sticks, ranging in value from pennies to pounds.

Each department in this colossal business is represented by its own special staff of travellers who cover the whole country in their journeys, and who take with them samples weighing many hundredweight in boxes and skips. All the operations of the house are conducted upon a gigantic scale, yet so perfect is the system of business routine pursued that each customer of the firm, wherever he may be located, is sure of the most prompt and careful attention, and has learnt by experience that he can implicitly depend upon this old and reliable house, for the speedy and accurate execution of his orders. In Messrs. Collier’s business we have a grand illustration of what may be achieved by well-directed energy and sound personal capability, and these qualities continue at the present day, as in the past, to afford ample assurance of the firm’s uninterrupted progress in time to come. Few houses in any branch of trade in Manchester have gained such extended renown; and of Messrs. Thomas Collier & Co. it can truly be said that there is hardly a land under the sun in which their name is not known, while universal appreciation has rewarded the honourable methods and sound principles that have at all times and in all places characterised the administration of their commercial affairs.

CHARLES E. AUSTIN & BRO., COTTON AND COTTON WASTE MERCHANTS, MANUFACTURERS OF ENGINE WASTE, SPONGE CLOTHS, LAMP WICKS, &C.,
MARLBOROUGH MILLS, MANCHESTER.

THIS old-established and widely-known firm, dating its history back as far as the year 1865, holds a very prominent position among the representative industrial concerns of the Manchester district. The name of Messrs. Charles E. Austin & Brother is well and favourably known throughout the United Kingdom, on the Continent, and in the United States, in connection with the trade in cotton waste, engine waste, sponge cloths, lamp wicks, and other textiles of a kindred nature, and this firm’s headquarters (the Marlborough Mills at Manchester) form one of the principal sources of supply for the above-named commodities in England and abroad. The works in question are very extensive, and comprise a fine six-storey mill building of substantial construction, with three-storey warehouse, and a long range of weaving sheds adjoining, forming one immense block, bounded by four streets. The whole establishment presents an example of very complete industrial organisation, and is equipped with the most perfect machinery and appliances for the purposes of the manufacturing operations in which it is engaged. A very large staff is employed on the premises, and the general activity prevailing in all departments affords a striking indication of the magnitude of the business in its entirety.

The sponge cloth department is a perfect model, and is the most interesting of the various departments, by reason of the beautiful machinery employed in it. The weaving shed in which this portion of the business is conducted is the largest and most compact in the sponge cloth trade, and is filled with the newest and most approved machinery. The looms, which are all driven by steam power (though some firms in this trade still stick to the old-fashioned hand looms), are very intricate, weave three cloths in a width, while adding the various coloured stripes, and finish off each border with fine weft to strengthen the edges of the cloths. These superior looms cost ton times as much as a hand loom or an ordinary calico loom. The winding machinery is equally intricate and ingenious. The machines for winding from the cop on to the bobbin, and those for winding from the bobbin on to the pirn, are all supplied with an automatic action, so that when a thread breaks, that portion of the machine stops until the winder has repaired the break when it starts again. The doubling machinery is also very extensive and perfect, as also is the warping machinery, as the firm make all their own warps and perform on their own premises all the processes connected with the manufacture of sponge cloths. This firm is fully alive to the vital importance of keeping abreast with the times. In this, as in all their other departments, only the latest and newest machinery is used. A short time ago they threw out a new pirn-winding machine, which had only been working a few months, and replaced it with a newer machine which came out, and which does the work better and cheaper. This bold and enterprising spirit has placed them at the very head of the sponge cloth trade.

Perfect order and discipline prevail in every department of this immense concern. Precautions against fire meet one at every turn. Buckets filled with water, hand extincteurs, &c., are placed in every room. All shafting boxes are enclosed in sheet iron cases. In the event of fire, all the fireproof rooms simultaneously, or any one of them separately, can be filled with steam in a minute or two. A dozen of the men are trained as firemen and form one of the most efficient amateur fire brigades of the city. A few years ago this brigade put out a large fire in an adjoining street, and saved a large cotton mill. The fire was extinguished in ten minutes from the time the alarm was given, and two minutes before the arrival of the Manchester brigade.

Messrs. Austin conduct an immense trade in cotton waste and cotton, and manufacture vast quantities of sponge cloths, lamp wicks, and engine waste, which they supply to customers in all parts of the country. They fulfil many large and important contracts with Her Majesty’s Government and with leading railway companies at home and abroad; and their general connection is one of exceptional extent and influence, being well developed in all quarters of the United Kingdom and abroad. Mr. C. E. Austin is the sole surviving principal of this gigantic and thoroughly representative business, all the affairs of which receive his personal attention; and his administration of the entire concern is conspicuously marked by all the qualities of enterprise, practical ability, and sound judgment, which tend to the continuous promotion of its interests in the commercial world.

JOSEPH BRADBURY, STEAM, HYDRAULIC, AND GENERAL ENGINEER,
BROOK IRON WORKS, CHARLES STREET, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE initiation of this noted business dates as far back as 1846, when operations were commenced by Mr. George Bradbury, who developed the concern with considerable energy and ability. In 1864, the present proprietor, the son of the founder, assumed the control of affairs, and under his spirited and skilful administration the increase in the extent and value of the business has been of the most gratifying kind. The premises occupied consist of a commodious three-storey block of building, with frontage of forty feet and depth of the same extent, comprising floor and basement, fitted up with machinery driven by a powerful steam engine, and used for general workshops, well-appointed offices and fitters’ rooms on the second floor, and store-rooms on the third floor’. The internal arrangement and equipment are of the most satisfactory kind.

The proprietor conducts a large and important business as a steam, hydraulic, and general engineer, maker of hay and straw presses, and all kinds of wood-working machinery. All the work issuing from this establishment is well known through the country for its general excellence and thoroughly reliable quality. For nearly half a century the house has occupied an honourable position in the trade, and the ability and unceasing efforts of the proprietor are devoted to the maintenance of his enviable status and the improvement, where possible, of his manufacture. No material of an inferior or faulty character is used, and none but skilled workmen are employed, their operations, too, being thoroughly supervised by competent and trustworthy foremen.

One of the great specialities of this firm for which they have gained no inconsiderable reputation, is Mr. Bradbury’s patent hay press, the cheapest, most durable, and fastest worker in the market. Another one, their latest production, is a straw-trussing machine, by which straw is received from the thresher, and by simply moving one lever, the truss is pressed, bound by automatic knots, and then thrown out of the machine automatically. The demand for these excellent machines has been very satisfactory, and it is continually increasing both at home and abroad. The Gloucestershire Agricultural Society signified their appreciation of the high merits of the former in 1889 by awarding it their medal, and the trials that were instituted by the Royal Agricultural Society at Nottingham demonstrated unmistakably the absolute superiority of these machines; in fact, wherever shown, used, or tested, it has received universal commendation. Simplicity is one of its chief recommendations, as it never gets out of order. The machine is portable; it can be used by one man, who can cut, compress, and tie from three to four tons of hay in a day.

Mr. Bradbury has effected many valuable improvements in the construction in machinery, and everything he turns out is sure to be absolutely up to date in its construction and accessories. His band-sawing machines are among the best procurable. Among other specialities for which the house is noted, we may mention Mr. Bradbury’s self-acting saw bench, with rising and falling spindle; with his latest patent apparatus for tennoning, which is almost equal to an ordinary tennoning machine and the cost about one-eighth. This has proved to be of great value to joiners and builders, especially to those in a small way of business. One great feature is that when not in use this does not interfere with the utility of the saw bench in any way. Also pendulum cross-cut saw machine, steel saw spindles, bow saw frames for cutting cold iron (a most ingenious and valuable invention), all kinds of planing and moulding irons for machines, and every other requisite for sawmills. Every article is fully guaranteed to be of superior quality, and terms are so arranged as to suit all customers.

A large and increasing connection has been acquired by the house both at home and abroad, and a large force of skilled workmen, together with competent managers, is required to meet the demands made upon the establishment, while two commercial gentlemen are occupied in representing the interests of the house on the road. Mr. Bradbury is a man of exceptional ability as a machinist and engineer, and he devotes the whole of his attention to the supervision of his business. All contracts entrusted to him are carried out in a satisfactory and conscientious manner, and by his honourable treatment he retains the support and confidence of his wide connection.

ABEL HEYWOOD & SON, PRINTERS, PUBLISHERS AND WHOLESALE STATIONERS,
56 & 58, OLDHAM STREET, MANCHESTER.

IN connection with the printing, publishing, and stationery trades in Manchester a position of special prominence has been held for many years by the well-known firm of Messrs. Abel Heywood & Son, whose extensive business originated as far back as the year 1832. The founder of this notable concern was the present senior partner, Mr. Abel Heywood, with whom is now associated his son (Mr. Abel Heywood, junior) and his grandson. From the date of its inception the business has shown a tendency towards steady and continuous development, a circumstance largely due, no doubt, to the very capable management it has always enjoyed; and at the present time it is one of the largest and leading concerns of its kind in the city. The firm’s headquarters in Oldham Street are very extensive and commodious, and the two fine shops at the front contain large and varied stocks of stationery and stationers’ fancy goods, embracing a wide range of the newest and most attractive articles in these lines.

To describe the contents of the several departments would be impossible in the limited space at our disposal here, but it may be said without hesitation that everything pertaining to the business of a wholesale or retail stationer or printer may be found in complete variety in these spacious and handsomely-appointed shops. At the rear of No. 58, Oldham Street is situated the firm’s news department, a large and well-ordered place; and adjoining this (both having frontage in Spear Street) is a commodious paper warehouse, fully stocked with every description of paper known to the stationery trade. Crossing Spear Street and entering Lever Street, we find Messrs. Heywood’s printing works, which are admirably equipped with the best modern machinery, new type, and all other requisites for the expeditious execution of first-class printing of all kinds. Very superior work is here turned out in every department of the trade, and moderate prices are the established rule.

Altogether, Messrs. Abel Heywood & Son employ about one hundred and forty hands, and an exceedingly large trade is controlled, with influential connections in all parts of the country. The principals personally supervise the entire business, and their policy of administration fully maintains its high standing and substantial prosperity. Abel Heywood, Esq., the senior partner, is a gentleman holding a very prominent position as a citizen, and greatly esteemed and respected for the duration and value of his public services. At the time when Mr. Heywood commenced business, the sale of printed matter was often a matter of considerable peril to the vendor. Every newspaper was subject to a tax of 3-and-a-half d. and every almanack to one of 1s. Newsagents who ventured to protest against these iniquitous taxes were fined and imprisoned, and two hundred and fifty men were at one time or another imprisoned, principally for the sale of a little quarto paper of eight pages called “The Poor Man's Guardian,” which was issued in spite of the legislation at a penny. Among those imprisoned was Abel Heywood, and he suffered four months’ incarceration, although the judges of the Queen’s Bench afterwards declared that the “Poor Man’s Guardian” was not a newspaper at all, according to the act. Mr. Heywood is probably the only man left who thus suffered unjustly.

Mr. Heywood is the “Father” of the Manchester Town Council, and is chairman of several committees, his interest in all municipal matters having long been of the most active and beneficial character. A recent incident in Mr. Alderman Heywood’s public career is well worthy of mention here. The Manchester City Council, at a special meeting held lately, resolved to express their recognition of Mr. Heywood’s valuable and long-continued services to the community by conferring upon him the freedom of the city — the highest honour in their power to bestow. The resolution to this effect was moved by the Mayor (Mr, Alderman Mark), seconded by Alderman Sir John Harwood, and unanimously adopted by the meeting. Mr. Alderman Heywood returned thanks for this signal mark of honour in a characteristic speech, concluding with the declaration that, “as long as his life lasted it would be his privilege to do all he could in the Council” - a promise which, as his past record shows, he will assuredly not fail to redeem.
Telegrams for Messrs Abel Heywood & Son should be addressed “Abel Heywood, Manchester.” The firm’s telephone is No. 1,009.

HENRY BANNERMAN & SONS, LIMITED, SPINNERS, MANUFACTURERS, AND MERCHANTS,
33, YORK STREET, MANCHESTER.

EARLY in the present century this business was originated in Marsden Square, Manchester, by Mr. David Bannerman, in conjunction with a partner; and so successful did the venture prove that Mr. David Bannerman’s father, Henry Bannerman, was induced to leave his home in Perthshire (where he was a prosperous farmer) and come south to Manchester with his family. He appears to have sent out his son David to act as a sort of pioneer, and that young man’s first essay in the cotton trade having turned out well, the father and three other sons (Alexander, John, and Henry) joined David, thus founding the firm of Henry Bannerman & Sons. They had their first warerooms and offices in Market Street Lane, between Cleveland Buildings and Spring Gardens. Subsequently a move was made to larger premises at the comer of Marsden Square and Cannon Street, and here the house made great progress, becoming famous, especially for Scotch, Bolton, and Blackburn muslins, and having many customers in all parts of Scotland, the North of England, Wales, and Ireland.

The death of Mr. Henry Bannerman, senior, in 1823, brought his eldest son David to the head of the concern, and under his administration the business continued its prosperous and progressive career, growing at such a rate that it became necessary to move again to a more extensive warehouse in Market Street. Mr. David Bannerman, who died in 1829, was elected Boroughreeve of Manchester, and had the distinction of being the first Scotsman and Dissenter who had been raised to that important municipal office. After his death the surviving partners continued the business successfully, and departments for printed calicoes, merinoes, Bradford stuffs, and flannels were added to the trade. The premises were extended, and land in York Street was acquired, upon which the firm erected a large and imposing block of buildings, divided at first into several warehouses. In a few years’ time, however, Messrs. Bannerman found themselves occupying the whole of this great block, and in 1844 the personnel of the firm was increased by the accession of several new partners — Mr. William Young, a grandson of the founder; Mr. James Alexander Bannerman, one of the three sons of the late Mr. David Bannerman; and Mr. Archibald Winterbottom, who had been for some time manager of the Bradford and Silesia departments of the business. Mr. Alexander Bannerman (who had been appointed one of the first borough magistrates under the Manchester Incorporation Act) died in 1846, and in 1848 Mr. Phillip Gillibrand was admitted into partnership. This latter gentleman had been with the firm since 1829, and had occupied a prominent position in the counting-house. In 1850, Mr. Henry Bannerman withdrew from active business life, and two years later Mr. David Bannerman, another son of the late Mr. David Bannerman, was taken into partnership. In the following year Mr. Archibald Winterbottom withdrew, and commenced business for himself. Meanwhile the Bannerman business had continued its course of development, many departments being added, and the Canadian trade being vigorously engaged in.

In 1864 the firm became spinners and manufacturers as well as merchants, and took over in succession a number of large mills which in 1889 were converted into a private limited liability company. These are now carried on under the style of the Bannerman Mills Company, Limited, though they are directly connected with the mercantile branch of the business. Mr. John Bannerman, in due time, withdrew from close association with the business, and took up his residence at Wyastone, Leys, in Monmouthshire, where he died in 1870. A year later, Mr. Henry Bannerman died at his residence, Hunton Court, Kent, of which county he had been High Sheriff. In 1874 Mr. David Bannerman became one of the city magistrates of Manchester. Mr. Gillibrand retired in 1879, and in 1880 several new partners were admitted, these being Mr. Charles Wright Macara, Mr David Alexander Bannerman (son of the present Mr. David Bannerman), and Mr. William Henry Young (son of Mr. William Young). Mr. Macara became the managing partner, and is now the managing director of both the mercantile and manufacturing companies. The business was then reorganised upon a plan which effected a great development of its operations in what is known as; the “Manchester trade.” By an accident at a swimming bath Mr. David Alexander Bannerman died in 1886, at the early age of twenty-nine, and this sad event deprived the house of a partner of great promise and popularity. In 1890 the concern was formed into a limited liability company of a strictly private nature, and the remaining partners (Mr. William Young, Mr. James Alexander Bannerman, Mr. David Bannerman, Mr. Charles Wright Macara, and Mr. William Henry Young) are included in the directorate. Few businesses in Manchester possess such a perfect mercantile and industrial organisation, and none can claim a more eminent or a more honourable position in the city’s trade.

At the present day Messrs. Henry Bannerman & Sons, Limited, have dealings in the following departments:— Flannels, blankets, oilcloths, greys, twills and sheets, linens from the Irish, Scotch, and Barnsley factories, silesias, dyed linings, white calicoes, scoured greys, woollens, haberdashery, velveteens (with a notable speciality in their celebrated “County ” velveteen), jeans, lambskins, cords and fustians, stuffs, French goods, fancy dresses, winceys, skirtings, quilts, toilet-covers, prints and cretonnes, oxfords, ginghams, zephyrs, cotton handkerchiefs, Turkey twills, Lancashire and Scotch muslins, lace curtains and blinds, wool covers, coloured cotton covers, &c., &c. Enormous stocks are held in the great warehouse in York Street, which is opened at 7.30 a.m., so that prompt attention may be given to urgent orders — passenger trains or other - received by letter or telegram.

The Bannerman Mills are as follows:— Brunswick Mill, Ancoats, telephone No. 61; North End Mill, Stalybridge, telephone No. 103; River Meadow Mill, Stalybridge, telephone No. 103; Old Hall Mill, Dukinfield, telephone No. 6. These great industrial establishments are splendidly equipped with the very latest and most improved modern machinery, and have efficient volunteer fire brigades and every general working resource and convenience. Some idea of their productive powers may be gathered from the fact that they consume two hundred tons of coal and one hundred and twenty thousand pounds of cotton per week. A most complete and extensive telephonic system connects these mills with the Liverpool Cotton Market, the Manchester Exchange, the York Street Warehouse (telephone No. 416), and the private residences of the managing director and the mill managers. Messrs. Henry Bannerman & Sons’ yarn office is at No. 26, Royal Exchange, Manchester (telephone No. 950); and they have branches at 2, Wood Street, London, E.C.; 31, Carr’s Lane, Birmingham; and Swan Court Long Row, Nottingham. This great business is one of the giants of Manchester commerce and industry, and stands as a monument to the energy and ability of those who in the past laid the foundations of its modern greatness, and those who at the present time are so well maintaining its prestige and reputation as a representative British mercantile concern, the connections of which extend to almost every quarter of the globe.

JOHN STANDRING & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF BRAIDS, BOOT LACES, CRINOLINE STEEL, LINES AND SMALLWARES,
57, NEWTON STREET, MANCHESTER; AND AT 13 AND 15, MAIDENHEAD COURT, ALDERSGATE STREET, LONDON, E.C.

THE house possesses the honourable distinction of having been founded more than sixty years ago by the late Mr. John Standring, father of the present sole proprietor, and of having carried on a business, during the interim, with uninterrupted progress and prosperity. Operations were originally commenced in 1829, and the energy, ability, and skill brought to bear by the founder soon resulted in the formation of the nucleus of a good and valuable connection. They early achieved a reputation for the superior and reliable nature of their products, and the business rapidly grew in extent and solidity; repeated enlargements of the premises became necessary from time to time to keep pace with the increased demands, and at the present time in the magnitude of its transactions and the value of its connection, the house is second scarcely to any other house in the trade.

The firm possess two mills, the Livesey Street Mills and the Lion Mills, at Blackley. Both are spacious in size and ample in accommodation, the Livesey Street Mills being one of the largest and most complete works devoted to this class of business. These mills have been specially erected for the trade, and are replete with all modern conveniences and arrangements to facilitate the process of manufacture and to improve the character of the produce. The equipment is of a perfect kind, and is the outcome of the firm’s long experience in this branch of industry — it includes all the latest and best machines that science and ingenuity have supplied to the manufacturer; and steam engines of great power are in operation at both mills.

An extensive and valuable trade is here controlled in the manufacture of braids, boot laces, crinoline steel, lines and smallwares of different descriptions. The goods manufactured by this house are recognized standards of excellence in their line, and are eagerly sought after among all classes of buyers. Superiority of quality is constituted a leading feature, and customers can place implicit reliance upon the fact that nothing of a faulty or inferior character is ever offered for sale by this responsible house. Owing to the perfect nature of their productive resources together with the skilled labour employed, the firm are able to turn out goods which in soundness of workmanship, uniform excellence, and admirable finish, cannot possibly be beaten. The proprietors are thoroughly enterprising, and every new pattern or design introduced in any of their special commodities is freely adopted, while they are conspicuous for the variety and worth of the new things brought out by themselves, some of which have become the leading specialities in the trade. Everything they make is the best of its kind, and is of guaranteed superiority.

With their extensive business and vast resources the firm are able to produce goods with the minimum of cost, and patrons will always find prices of the most reasonable and satisfactory kind, and such as cannot be surpassed by any other rival establishment. The proprietors are well acquainted with the trade in every detail, and they keep well abreast with any improvement made in any of the articles in which they are interested; they are anxious to do business, and every inducement is offered to patrons, samples are freely provided, and special quotations are furnished on application for large quantities and shipping orders. Extensive stocks are held of all the leading lines, and orders of any magnitude for current kinds can generally be filled by return. This is a special feature of the house, and is highly appreciated by patrons. A large and influential connection has been developed at home and abroad, and the high-class goods manufactured by this house are known and sought for all over the world. A force of three hundred hands is kept in constant employment in filling the immense and continually increasing demands made upon the resources of the house.
The telephone number of this house is 1,266, and the telegraphic addresses “Thistle” Manchester, and “Standring, London.”

E. T. WHITELOW, C.E., INTERNATIONAL PATENT OFFICE,
70, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

THE above institution was established in. 1865 as Messrs. Julius Allmann & Co., Consulting Engineers, and Patent Agents, &c., and has, since the retirement of Mr. Allmann, been carried on by his partner, Mr. E. T. Whitelow, C.E., who conducts the business on the same lines as previously. The premises occupy an excellent position in Deansgate (No. 70), and comprise a spacious suite of offices, general and private, a well-appointed drawing office, and all the accessories of a thoroughly organized establishment. Mr. Whitelow has an excellent practice as a civil and consulting engineer; he is well known in the profession and a recognised authority on all matters relating to patents, &c. This international patent office is authorized under the Board of Trade rules. Patents are obtained and trade marks and designs are registered in all countries. Mr. Whitelow has special agencies in all the principal foreign and colonial capitals. Searches and reports are undertaken, and opinions given on all questions relating to patents; amendments and disclaimers are made; opposition and appeal cases are personally conducted before the law officers; plans, drawings, and expert evidence are prepared, and arbitrations in patent and other technical matters are undertaken. The business in every department receives the direct personal attention of the proprietor, who possesses the advantage of long and thorough professional experience and a most intimate knowledge of the patent laws of all countries.

SHAW & CO., PAINT, COLOUR, AND VARNISH MANUFACTURERS,
56, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER AND 136 & 138, CHAPEL STREET, SALFORD,
PROPRIETORS OF THE “MANCHESTER” BRANDS OF PAINTS AND VARNISHES.

THIS most useful and popular firm has been established for many years. The specialities in which Messrs. Shaw & Co. excel are in paints, colours, and varnishes for decorators, coach painters, artists, and others. The firm manufacture every possible colour and tint, and their price list is of large proportions, and the prices named are exceedingly low. The varnish list is equally representative. There are all kinds made for various purposes, but their copal oak and coach varnishes, for lustre, durability, and quality cannot be excelled. Here, too, low prices are observed throughout. The firm do an enormous trade in sundries for decorators, artists, coach painters, &c., and hold a large stock of every kind of requisites connected with these trades. Their brushes (all sizes) are very greatly in favour. The stores and warehouse at 136 and 138, Chapel Street, Salford, are very large and in every way adapted for the purposes of the immense business, being the only representative establishment of its kind in the locality. The offices in Deansgate being centrally situated, are well calculated to greatly facilitate the business. The huge dealings of the firm enable them to quote very reasonable terms for large quantities, and they are well able to compete with any firm in the country. They have an agency in London, and also large branch houses at Hull and Newcastle. The members of the firm are first-rate business gentlemen, and their pleasing and most straightforward manner of doing business has won them hosts of friends. They have the satisfaction of knowing that their efforts in producing goods which cannot be excelled are being widely appreciated.

HOLMES, TERRY & CO., MANTLE AND JACKET MANUFACTURERS, AND WAREHOUSEMEN,
34, 36, AND 38, HIGH STREET, MANCHESTER,
Telegraphic address, “Terry’s,” Manchester.

IT IS now upwards of twenty-seven years since Messrs. Holmes, Terry, and Bowman, three gentlemen who had all occupied responsible positions in one of the largest home-trade houses in this city, commenced business in co-partnership in premises in Market Street, which are now a part of Messrs. Ryland’s vast establishment. At the time of which we write the mantle industry in Manchester was in its infancy, and the firm of Holmes, Terry & Co were among the first (perhaps, indeed, they were the very first), to make it a leading speciality. The rapid increase of their business and the necessity of securing premises for manufacturing obliged them to remove to a larger establishment at 29, High Street. Even this increase of accommodation was not sufficient, however, for the trade soon outgrew it, and once more the firm moved, taking up their quarters in premises at the corner of Church Street and High Street. Since then they have taken the two adjoining warehouses, and now occupy the whole of the large block comprised in Nos. 34, 36, and 38, High Street. This establishment is one of the largest and best in the trade in Manchester, and will be found very conveniently situated as regards its proximity to all the leading home-trade houses; indeed, it is acknowledged to command the best position in the city.

The premises consist of a basement and five stories, all of large dimensions and excellent arrangement throughout. The basement is devoted to the storage of surplus stock, and contains also a fine plant of steam cutting-out machinery. The ground floor is set apart for the vast stock of mantle cloths, to which it affords splendid accommodation, and a portion of the space here is occupied by the busy packing department, in which may be noted many evidences of the magnitude of the firm’s trade. Upon the first floor we find the skirt, costume, and fur departments, together with the counting-house. The second floor is taken up with the children’s mantle department and the fine stock of shawls and Manchester goods for which this house is noted. The remainder of, the premises is devoted entirely to the departments for ladies’ mantles and macintoshes, in which no other firm in the trade enjoys higher repute than the one under notice. It will thus be seen that, with the exception of millinery, Messrs. Holmes, Terry & Co. cater for the entire requirements of ladies’ and children’s upper garments, from pelisses, tunics, and costumes for infants and children, to ladies’ cloaks, macintoshes, mantles, furs, and costumes; and their many novelties for each season in these different lines rank among the most elegant and stylish productions of the kind in the trade. We have nothing but the highest praise for this firm’s new and beautiful designs in beaded visites, cloth capes, dolmans, jackets, costumes, &c., all of which combine artistic elegance and perfect taste with the most complete exemplification of prevailing fashions.

During the whole of Messrs. Holmes, Terry & Co.’s career as a firm they have aimed not at increasing the number of their departments, so much as developing the volume of trade in each of them. Consequently they have been enabled to concentrate their energies upon improvement, and have introduced every new feature in machinery and appliances for their industry, besides engaging the most efficient workpeople. They are always to the front in the various changes of styles and fashions, and are well-known throughout the Kingdom for their promptitude in bringing out attractive novelties. They are ably represented in all the great centres of trade, and possess every claim to be regarded as a leading firm, unsurpassed in resources and unexcelled in quality of production. Their magnificent stocks form a sight which it is worth a journey to Manchester to see, and we place their establishment high among the most perfectly organised warehouses we have had the pleasure of visiting.

Soon after the commencement of the business Mr. Bowman retired, and the subsequent death of Mr. Holmes left the entire management of the concern in the hands of Mr. Henry Terry, who is still the sole principal. Mr. Terry has acquitted himself, in a manner almost beyond praise, of the gigantic task of organizing and developing this great business — a task the magnitude of which is simply incomprehensible to anyone who has not essayed a similar undertaking. He has had a splendid commercial experience, dating from his boyhood (some forty years ago), down to the present time; and every quality that such an experience can engender - self-reliance, enterprise, perseverance, and a perfect command of all the details of the trade — is manifested in his administration of this house at the present day. “Peace hath her victories not less renowned than war,” and few instances of able generalship and administrative capacity can be cited which are worthy of higher commendation than the skill and sound judgment with which Mr. Henry Terry has piloted his immense business to the position of influence and supremacy it maintains to-day in that important branch of Manchester’s trade with which it is now, and has been from the first, so honourably associated.

J. G. METCALFE, MANUFACTURING CHEMIST AND DRYSALTER,
ZARA CHEMICAL WORKS, SACKVILLE STREET, AND 32, ALTRINCHAM STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS leading and eminently representative concern was originally established nearly a century ago, and it is therefore one of the oldest manufacturing houses in the district. The business was formerly under the proprietorship of Mr. Joseph Bowden, and after his death was for some time carried on by his executors, until the concern was acquired by Mr. J. G. Metcalfe, who has since steadily and continuously increased the scope and extent of his operations with highly satisfactory results. The premises are very extensive and cover a considerable area of ground having a frontage of two hundred and sixteen feet and a depth of ninety feet, and containing a substantial factory of two floors with several sheds and outbuildings, the whole being admirably adapted for the manufacture and storage of chemicals, &c., upon a very large scale. There are capital and conveniently arranged offices on the ground floor, as well as extensive store-rooms and an excellent laboratory completely fitted with all necessary apparatus and appliances. The principal goods made include tin crystals; tin, iron, and copper solutions of all kinds, for cottons, wools, and silks, dye-stuffs, decoctions of every description, and numerous other chemicals used in the different manufacturing processes employed in the various industries of the district, as well as numerous drysalteries and sundry goods. A special feature is made, in particular, of the composition for sizers, dyers and manufacturers, which has been much appreciated and finds a very ready sale. An adequate staff of competent and experienced hands is employed, and the business done, both home and export, is very considerable and important. As a business man Mr. J. G. Metcalfe is very smart, capable and energetic, while in his private and personal relations he is alike respected and esteemed by all who know him.

HARRY H. MAINWARING, BOOT AND SHOE MANUFACTURER,
60, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

IT appears upon an inquiry into the antecedents of this thriving institution — which is reputed to be the oldest- established boot and shoe manufactory in the city — that it took origin in the year 1783, in what was then known as a cordwainer’s shop. The business continued to prosper under the control of its founder, Thomas Manwaring, until the year 1810, when it was acquired, by the father of the present proprietor, who worked the concern to a successful issue during the thirty-nine years of his regime, wholly and solely as a result of painstaking industry. A capital story in illustration of the motto that “the industrious shall prosper,” is told by Mr. Mainwaring of his grandfather’s regular habits. It seems that the old gentleman made it a rule to rise to his work at five o’clock every morning, usually pursuing his duties during dull and dismal days by the aid of a series of several tallow candles of the “dip” order, placed in tiny tinned scallops, and he often thus worshipped at the shrine of St. Crispin till after eight at eventide. Mr. Mainwaring passed his novitiate as an apprentice at one of the largest boot manufactories in England, and thus entered upon his career of activity under peculiarly favourable auspices, being well grounded in all the practical details of a business in which he was destined ere long to rise pre-eminent. In 1855, upon the decease of his father, Mr. Henry Mainwaring, the business was continued by his mother until the subject of the present article was of sufficient age and ability to continue and still further the present splendidly-organised business.

It may be mentioned, that the old cordwainer’s shop had been abandoned in 1829 for the headquarters in Deansgate, and, as the business increased, branches were opened at 102, Stretford Road; 83, Oxford Street; 42, Stretford Road, and 64, Moss Lane West. All of these depots are large, and admirably arranged to hold and display a very select and superior stock of goods, and to provide for the comfort and convenience of both ladies and gentlemen in fitting-on, measuring, and the like. The stock held comprises a vast and varied selection of boots, shoes, slippers, gaiters, leggings, and kindred commodities, by all the leading English and Continental makers of the day — from the dainty ball-room shoe to the heavy winter boot, and the elegant boudoir or house slipper to the strong walking or riding or athletes’ boot.

In his executive department Mr. Mainwaring operates on a very large scale as a maker, by exclusively skilled labour, of bespoke goods, produced from the most reliable leathers; and he has also gained a well-merited renown as the manufacturer of the now celebrated “Waukerz” boot, which has been universally acknowledged to stand unexcelled for ease and comfort to the feet whilst walking. The Deansgate depot is under the personal supervision of the proprietor, whilst the four branches, already alluded to, are under careful and competent managers. The trade controlled is one of the largest and best of its kind in Manchester, and one visit to the Deansgate emporium would be quite enough to convince the most sceptical of those facts. Personally, Mr. Mainwaring has, by emulating the example of his worthy father, developed his business with almost phenomenal success, and in spite of his arduous business duties, he yet finds time to devote to matters of municipal importance, having for some years past taken an active and beneficial part as Councillor of the City of Manchester, for the Medlock Street Ward, and also as a Guardian of the Chorlton Union.

WILLIAM HARRIS & SONS, FINE ART AND GENERAL PRINTERS,
21, CANNON STREET, MANCHESTER.

MR. William Harris, the head and founder of the house under notice, is a native of Hereford. After a sound practical training he removed to Birmingham, where much of his commercial experience was acquired (he is not yet by any means old, be it understood). Mr. Harris came north to Manchester in 1878, as manager for the London Printing and Publishing Company, Limited. During the several years thus engaged in this capacity, his two sons were at work in the printing rooms of a well-known fine art firm in the city; and eventually in 1886, the three united their energies in the formation of a printing business which is one of the most capably conducted concerns of its kind. The trade premises are admirably situated in Cannon Street, and possess every modern appliance and facility for the proper exposition of the “art preservative” in all its varied branches, and besides their splendid mechanical equipment they have the advantage of manual skill and artistic talent of a remarkably high order, without which it would be quite impossible to turn out anything half so beautiful and tasteful as the work which is regularly executed here day after day.

Messrs. Harris can print on anything, from a roseleaf or a piece of muslin to a wooden board, and they are downright enthusiasts on the artistic side of their industry. Moreover, they have surrounded themselves with a staff of men who are proud of their employers, zealous in the maintenance of the reputation they all share, and perfectly confident of their own ability to do anything that can be done with type at least as well as, and perhaps better than, it has ever been done by anybody else. Messrs. Harris have produced Christmas cards of the most beautiful character in type; they have produced exquisite and perfectly clear impressions from type (plain and ornamental) upon Japanese paper so thin as to be almost diaphanous; they have executed multi-coloured work and tint work in type, and borders so perfect in register and so mathematically accurate in design as to arouse astonishment in those who are perfectly familiar with the best resources of modern printing.

The “Printer's Register” (1888) said that Messrs. Harris make better use of the elaborate German borders than the Germans themselves; and nothing can be more graceful or tasteful than some of their work in ornamental brass rule, the combinations effected being exceedingly fine from every point of view. The “Paper and Printing Trades Journal” alludes to Messrs. Harris’s establishment as “an office which has turned out some of the best printing ever done in Manchester.” This opinion will be echoed by anyone who has had the pleasure of inspecting the firm’s work. All the work of this firm is of the first class essentially, and they execute every imaginable description of printing, from a poster to a portrait, or from the simplest trade circular to the most elaborate and resplendent show-card. They are “great” on programmes and menu cards, and altogether unsurpassed in any class of work calling for the exercise of real artistic talent and ingenuity. At the same time their general commercial work is produced in splendid style. A very large and valuable trade is controlled, for the firm have solved the problem of doing the finest quality of work at the most reasonably prices, and the principals of the house are well known as being among the most pushing, capable, and straightforward business men in Manchester. They are very popular with all who know them, and all that has been said in their favour is simply a case of rendering “honour to whom honour is due.”

BINNS KERSHAW, BAG MANUFACTURER,
62, LIVESEY STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS is a very thriving and important manufacturing business that has been in existence a considerable number of years, having been established by the present proprietor in 1880, and has gained a first-class reputation in a widely-extended circle, embracing Manchester, Liverpool, London, Cardiff, Bristol, Buenos Ayres, Rio de Janeiro, Monte Video, Callao. The premises consist of a large three-storied mill, admirably fitted with steam-power and appliances for driving a large number of sewing-machines, which are in constant use in the carrying on of the business. Mr. Kershaw is extensively engaged in the manufacture of all kinds of bags—cotton, linen, and calico (grey or white), for beef, mutton, hams, shoulders, flour, salt, coffee, bird seed, gunpowder, &c., &c. The firm also do printing on bags, for which special machines are used, and these are of the best and most approved type. Some idea of the extent of the operations of the house may be gathered from the fact that a force of from fifty to sixty hands are regularly and constantly engaged in their manufacture. The firm has become widely renowned for the superior excellence of their productions both in material and workmanship. A very extensive and rapidly increasing trade is controlled, the business connections extending to all parts of the United Kingdom, Argentina, Brazils, Chili, New Zealand. A very extensive export trade is carried on. The business is well developed in all its branches, and is personally conducted with enterprise and ability. The house is well known at home and abroad; the position it holds in the department of meat clothers with which its name is closely identified has been attained by faithful devotion to the observance of sound and honourable principles, and the practice of commercial methods.
The telegraphic address is “Wrappers, Manchester.”

JAMES CRONSHAW, ALEXANDRA BREWERY,
ERSKINE STREET, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the most notable brewing businesses in Manchester stands that conducted by Mr. James Cronshaw, of the Alexandra Brewery in Erskine Street. This important concern was founded in Mather Street, Hulme, in 1862, and was removed two years later to its present address. The brewery is one of the largest in the district and is splendidly equipped throughout. The various departments are provided with plant and appliances of the best type for their several purposes, and all the processes of a very extensive brewing industry are conducted under the most favourable conditions. The buildings occupy a great area of land, and there is very extensive cellarage beneath the establishment, affording ample storage accommodation. We have seldom seen a more effectually organised brewery, and from the air of activity prevailing in all parts of the establishment, it is evident that a trade of much more than ordinary magnitude is carried on. The weekly output of beer and stout is, indeed, no less than one thousand barrels, and the products of the Alexandra Brewery bear an eminent reputation for sound quality and purity. For many years the “Star Ale” (a mild ale of extra quality) has been one of the leading specialities of this house, and has enjoyed unsurpassed popularity.

Mr. Cronshaw owns a large number of fully licensed houses, and the trade derived from them is very large, although the firm’s tenants (unlike most others in a similar position) are not exactly “tied” to take their beers from the Alexandra Brewery. Mr. Cronshaw has always advocated freedom of trade in this matter, and his beers are always sold on their own merits. Those merits, however, are amply sufficient to keep them in great demand wherever they have become known to the public. Mr. Cronshaw also carries on a large business as a wine and spirit merchant and bottler of ale and stout; and likewise manufactures mineral waters upon a very extensive scale. For this latter industry (in which he has been highly successful), as well as for the brewing, the supply of water is obtained from a fine well on the property, which yields water of a specially suitable quality. In all departments of the firm’s business employment is given to a very numerous staff of hands, and the affairs of the house are administered with conspicuous ability and sound judgment. The principal is highly esteemed in the trade, and retains the favour and confidence of a most extensive and valuable connection.

MR. JOHN NOBLE, GENERAL WAREHOUSEMAN,
78, PRINCESS STREET, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the many noted drapery houses of Manchester, none has gained greater popularity or higher reputation than that of Mr. John Noble, whose very extensive and successful business was founded in the year 1870. From the original premises in Dale Street a move was made to more commodious quarters in Piccadilly, in 1880; but the business still increasing and demanding more accommodation, Mr. Noble removed once more, in 1891, to much larger premises at the present address in Princess Street. Here there is every desirable facility for the conduct of a steadily-developing trade, and the new establishment certainly stands among the most attractive and commodious of its kind in the city. The building is admirably situated at the corner of Princess Street and Whitworth Street, and comprises a fine six-storey warehouse, with its main entrance at the point of junction of the two thoroughfares, and a goods entrance in Whitworth Street. Internally the arrangement of the place is excellent, and the various stock and show-rooms (laid out in eight sections for the sake of greater convenience) exhibit a splendid collection of high-class goods, all of which are sold at popular prices.

Mr. Noble is still adhering to the policy he has pursued from the outset of his business, viz., that of supplying the public direct at wholesale prices. Not only has he found that this can be done at a fair profit to himself, but he has also found that the plan is an exceedingly popular one with the general public, who, naturally enough, like to make their purchases at a source of “first supply,” and thus avoid the added charges of middlemen. His method being, therefore, both beneficial to himself and agreeable to his patrons, Mr. Noble has stuck to it boldly, and has made it pay to such an extent that his business has become one of the largest of its class in the country. Of course, it is only by an enormous and rapid turnover at cash prices that any profit of a reasonable character can be made out of such a business as this; but it is exactly in this way that Mr. Noble has achieved his success. His energy and enterprise are boundless. He is constantly coming to the front with something new and worth having; and his continuous introduction of fresh and attractive goods at “bottom” prices is calculated to make one wonder where on earth all the novelties come from in the first place, and then how it is possible to place them in the market at such exceptionally low figures. But capital, experience and active enterprise can accomplish wonders in these days, and, as a matter of fact, it is hardly possible to keep from buying something at “Noble’s,” so many and so irresistible are the attractions of the vast stock held at this establishment.

Equally extraordinary is the comprehensiveness of the stock, which embraces everything that can possibly be regarded as drapery, from calicoes, linens, flannels, carpets, sheetings, and curtains, to dress-fabrics, underclothing, laces, fancy-goods, hosiery, shirts, woollen cloths, and juvenile outfittings. There is an important tailoring department, in which the best class of work is executed in first-quality materials at very moderate prices; and the house has long been famous for its manufacture of underclothing. This latter is a speciality, and goods of exquisite workmanship and finish are produced at Mr. Noble’s own factory and supplied direct to the public from the warehouse at remarkably low prices. The house has a great number of specialities with which its name is popularly associated, and Noble’s “Sovereign” and “Lily” longcloths, Noble’s “Victoria” cotton flannels, Noble’s “Natural Wool Heath Flannels” (now sold under the registered title “Ool Roi”), Noble’s “Household Linens,” and many other fabrics in which this house has an enormous trade, are familiar and esteemed in hundreds of thousands of English homes. Orders of any dimensions are executed with promptitude, from the few yards of print required to make a servant’s dress to the bales of linens, blankets, &c., required for the complete outfit of an infirmary or an Atlantic liner. Ladies residing in the remotest hamlet of the United Kingdom, may supply all their wants in the way of drapery goods, as completely to their satisfaction as if they were to undertake the most toilsome shopping expedition round the largest establishments in London, and have the further satisfaction of knowing that they are saving at least twenty percent. on their purchases.

We might fill pages in mere brief references to prominent features in Mr. Noble’s wonderful stock, but our limited space forbids the further extension of this review, and we can only, by way, of conclusion, recommend our readers to send for one of his exhaustive illustrated catalogues, containing about one hundred and thirty pages of information, forwarded post free on application, which will show how large an amount of money those may save who are wise enough to profit by it. Mr. John Noble gives employment to upwards of three hundred hands in the various departments of his immense establishment, and his influential trade connections extend largely into the export markets, as well as throughout the United Kingdom. Mr. Noble deserves unstinted praise and credit for the courageous and successful manner in which he has followed out a bold and original course of trading. His enterprise has brought goods of first-rate quality within easy reach of the great body of the people, and the public service rendered by such an establishment as his is in direct ratio to the magnitude of its operations, which, in the case under notice, is simply marvellous.

E. HALLIDAY & SON, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANTS, IMPORTERS OF THE FINEST HAVANA CIGARS,
2, ALBERT SQUARE, MANCHESTER.

THIS important business was established in 1827, by the grandmother of the present proprietor (Elizabeth Halliday), which by the present partners has been developed and fostered with energy, until to-day it is one of the most extensive concerns of the kind in Manchester. Ample and commodious premises are occupied, consisting of handsomely appointed offices, sample room and store rooms on the ground floor, together with extensive and admirably suitable cellaring. The premises altogether are thoroughly well adapted to the special requirements of the business carried on. They are fitted up with every requisite and a noteworthy system of order, and arrangement is maintained by the worthy proprietors. The bonded stores are in Manchester and Edinburgh, and wines and spirits of the best kind, and to a large amount in value, are held there. An extensive and high-class family trade is controlled, and the house also maintains a valuable connection among the local licensed houses and hotels and restaurants.

Messrs. Halliday are acknowledged connoisseurs, and the wines they offer are of the most famous vintages. The ports and sherries are well selected, and many of them are very rare and choice. The whiskies, too, are of the most celebrated brands and thoroughly matured. They have been blended in a special manner, so as to please the palate of different judges. A speciality is made of a fine Scotch whiskey, eight years old, which is supplied in cask, jar, or bottle, at 24s. per gallon, or 48s. per dozen. This very rare and choice old whiskey has been pronounced by connoisseurs to be the finest spirit yet produced. Wherever a pure stimulant is required, nothing can be more highly recommended. The firm have been bonding this whiskey for many years, in order to enable them to keep it the same age before introducing it to the public. This whiskey is protected by a distinguishing blue capsule, and with the firm’s name branded on every cork. Single bottles are supplied at wholesale prices.

The proprietors possess some rare old brandy, which is pronounced by old patrons to be unequalled in the trade. The long and varied experience which the firm have had in every department of their business gives them a perfect knowledge of all the best sources of supply, and a considerable influence in buying, consequently they have the most favourable opportunities of selecting the choicest wines and spirits that come into the markets, and they are able, not only to offer their customers a wide range of choice, but also to give them many advantages in the way of prices. The firm are agents for Barclay, Perkins & Co.’s famous London stout, (for over sixty years) and for Bass & Co.’s no less renowned India pale ale. In these they do a large and increasing trade. The stouts and ales are well kept and are always in fine sound condition, and prices are exceedingly satisfactory.

Messrs. Halliday’s stocks comprise splendid selections of port wine, Sandeman’s, Dow’s and Graham’s special vintages, sherry, Vino de Pasto, Amontillado, and Peter Domecq’s, Clarets, such as St. Julien, Chateau Lafitte, Margaux, Mouton, and La Rose, Sauterne, Hocks, Rhenish, Liebfraumilch and Hocheimer, Moselle, Champagnes of all the most celebrated makers, Deutz & Goldermann’s, Moet & Chandon, Mumm’s Veuve Cliquot, Pommery and Greno and Louis Roederer, Marsala, Madeira, red and white Burgundy. There is a fine range and splendid selection of the best brands of brandy, rum, Scotch and Irish whiskey and gin, together with ales, porter, mineral and aerated waters and choice Havana cigars. Messrs. E. Halliday & Son are men of large and varied experience, and are acknowledged authorities on all matters connected with their business. Their best efforts are always directed to extending the area of their operations by supplying only wines and spirits of the soundest and most reliable character, and to maintain in full the esteem and confidence of their old and influential connection.

GEORGE LEE & SONS, LIMITED, MANUFACTURERS OF SCOTCH FINGERING, GERMAN WORSTED, AND OTHER YARNS.
WORKS: WAKEFIELD; WAREHOUSES: 31, HIGH STREET, AND 81, CANNON STREET, MANCHESTER.

ONE of the largest English firms engaged in the manufacture of knitting yarns is that of Messrs. George Lee & Sons, Limited, whose immense business was founded in 1830, by Mr. George Lee, at Wakefield, where its industrial operations are still carried on. In the same year a Manchester house was opened in Bridgewater Place, and eventually, in 1870, a move was made to more commodious works at 81, Cannon Street. Subsequently the firm added their second Manchester warehouse, the commanding block numbered 31, 1830, High Street. This gives them great facilities for the conduct of their large trade, and affords the most complete and convenient accommodation for the vast stock held in Scotch Fingering, German Worsted, and Alloa Yams; Fleecy Petticoat, “Victoria,” “Britannia,” “Eider,” “Cable,” “Sylvia” (soft finish), “Princess” Knitting Wools; Kendal Worsted, Lamb’s Wool; Merino, Shetland, Andalusian and Berlin Wools, Machine Knittings, &c. These are all specialities of the house, produced at their works at Wakefield, where nearly one thousand hands are employed, and from our survey of the firm’s methods and arrangements we are convinced that there is not a more perfectly organised or more resourceful business in the United Kingdom.

The trade conducted is of great Volume, the manufactures of this firm having won favour and secured a large and steady demand in well-nigh every quarter of the globe. In all the varieties of Yarns and Wools with which they have identified their name, Messrs. George Lee & Sons, Limited, produce a class of goods unsurpassed in quality and finish, and their manufactures are received and treated as standard articles in every market into which they find their way. The firm have adopted the word “Leemont” as their cablegram address, and the same word should also be used in addressing telegrams to the house, either at Manchester or at Wakefield.

FORREST & SYM, IRON FOUNDERS,
PHILIP’S PARK ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE firm of Messrs. Forrest & Sym, founded originally in the year 1867 by Ezard & Co., the present partners Mr. Campbell Forrest and Mr. Alexander Sym, who took over the place from the above firm in 1883, has come very rapidly to the front in connection with the iron founding trade in Manchester. The premises occupied are of great extent and the several large workshops are departmentally arranged in a manner promoting the utmost convenience in each branch of the important industry carried on. The whole establishment is fitted with the most improved and effective plant and machinery, and the several manufacturing processes are carried out under such favourable conditions that the very best results are attained in the goods produced, in ashpans, stands, round and square, top bars, trivets, and general household light castings, together with patent gas stoves and patent Venetians. Their assortment of parlour ashpans is one of the largest and most varied in the trade, and all their leading productions; are well displayed in their spacious store-rooms.

Messrs. Forrest & Sym are very enterprising in the introduction of novelties, and among their latest new productions may be mentioned their patent double arch ashpan, which has a particularly fine appearance. The brass or steel bars which form the arches of this ashpan are so securely slotted into the three upright supports that, it is impossible for them to revolve or shake. Another novel and very useful idea is the combined ashpan and top bar. When not in use the top bar hangs down in front of the ashpan and forms quite an ornament. When required it is simply raised to a level with the top of the ashpan, and is there fixed in position by a simple but very secure attachment. It will thus bear a far greater weight than it is ever necessary to place upon it; and it forms a capital bar on which to warm plates or cook small dishes.

Another noteworthy matter is the highly artistic tile-work shown in bars, ashpans and fire-stands, some very happy effects being obtained in this way. This firm’s excellent and interesting new illustrated catalogue will be forwarded free of charge, on application. Messrs. Forrest & Sym’s trade extends all over the United Kingdom, a most valuable connection being maintained among wholesale ironmongers, &c. The business, which is rapidly increasing, gives employment at present to about sixty-five skilled workmen, under the direct personal supervision of the able and experienced principals, Mr. Forrest being a practical master of the trade, and Mr. Sym having for twelve years been traveller and part manager of the late firm of Ezard.

ALFRED SMITH, THE EXCELSIOR CHEMICAL WORKS,
CLAYTON, MANCHESTER.

PROMINENT among the many important centres of chemical industry in the Manchester district stand the well-known Excelsior Chemical Works at Clayton, where for the past thirty-five years the extensive business conducted by Mr. Alfred Smith has had its headquarters. This thoroughly, representative concern was founded as far back as the year 1856 by the father of the present proprietor, and the latter gentleman succeeded to the control of it in the year 1885. Besides having had the advantage of a thoroughly practical training in the chemical trade from his father, Mr. Alfred Smith has devoted some years to special researches in chemical science on his own account, and studied for a considerable time under some of the foremost professors of the day, at Owens College, and elsewhere, and has obtained several diplomas and certificates for the thoroughness of his knowledge in the chemistry of oils and fats especially.

Being of an active and enquiring disposition, and having made many experiments of a searching character, with a view to the improvement of known results and the achievement of new ones, it is not surprising that Mr. Smith should have produced a number of excellent preparations for the public benefit; and among the various specialities with which he has identified his name in a particularly creditable manner, the following are conspicuous by reason of their merit and the success they have won:— The “Excelsior” fluid disinfectant, a non-poisonous, non-corrosive, and singularly economical and efficacious preparation, recommended by the highest medical authorities, and sanctioned by the approval of distinguished analysts. This disinfectant is unsurpassed in efficacy by any in the market, and may be employed with safety and satisfaction for all deodorizing and antiseptic purposes. It is perfectly miscible with water, in which it has advantage over carbolic acid, and it leaves no strong and unpleasant odour after use. Mr. Smith is to be congratulated upon this splendid disinfectant, and also upon those excellent developments of it which he has introduced under the names of “Excelsior” Fluid Dog Wash, and the “Excelsior” Sheep Dip, both of which have met with a most favourable reception, being non-poisonous, perfectly safe to ise, and thoroughly satisfactory in effect.

Another of Mr. Smith’s notable specialities is a new transparent varnish specially prepared for preventing oxidation or rusting in bright ironwork. This is a most valuable production, and one that commends itself at once to the consideration of machine and tool makers, locomotive builders, exporters of machinery, &c. To his enterprise and ingenuity the engineering world is also indebted for the “Excelsior” Boiler Composition, which effectually prevents incrustation and corrosion in steam boilers. Mr. Smith has published a readable and instructive little brochure on this subject, treating of the causes and the dangers of boiler-incrustation, and showing how the same may be avoided by the judicious use of the “Excelsior” composition, which has won a high reputation after long-continued practical tests. Many testimonials have been received by the firm, in which those who have used this boiler composition speak in very high terms of its efficacy.

Mr. Smith has gained renown for his carbolic powder and carbolic acid, for black varnish for steam boilers, fencing, &c., and for his “Eclipse” belting and rope composition; and among the many general products, of his admirably equipped works at Clayton we note bisulphide of carbon, chloride of sulphur, sulphite of antimony, indiarubber substitute, solvent naphtha, liquid ammonia, lamp black, caustic soda, a great variety of lubricating oils, safety and open lamp oils, and greases of every description. These are all specialities of Mr. Smith’s industry, and in them he maintains an unsurpassed standard of purity and excellence. His trade extends not only throughout the United Kingdom, but also to all the principal export markets. The house is held in the highest confidence by a widespread and valuable connection, and its energetic principal (whose years of Study, and industry have assuredly not been in vain), is respected and esteemed by all who have commercial intercourse with him.
The telegraphic address of this noted house is “Compo, Bradford, Lancs.,” and the telephone number at the works (where the offices are situated) is 5108.

AN old-established and leading house in its line is that of Messrs. James and William Lees, of the Town Lane Brewery, the well-known brewers of ales, porter, and “Invalid Stout.” This noted business was established as far back as 1848 by Messrs. James and William Lees, who soon gained a name for the superior excellence of their productions, and the fair and liberal treatment all customers received. The present proprietor is Mr. William Lees, the son of one of the founders, a gentleman whose thorough knowledge of the business, joined to sound business habits and good commercial status, places him in a position to maintain to the full the enviable reputation the house has acquired. The premises occupied are ample in size, covering some four acres of land, and there is besides a farm attached of considerable extent, which will allow any further extension of the works to be easily effected.

The buildings are large and commodious, and arranged in a manner most conducive to the successful control of the business. They comprise well-appointed offices, laboratory, capacious malt and hop stores, cooling-rooms, &c., are fitted up in a thoroughly complete style, with modern and improved appliances and machinery; and the pumps, refrigerators, attemperators, vats and boilers belonging to the establishment are of the newest principle. The establishment is furnished with what is known as a sixty-barrel plant, and it is second to none in the neighbourhood for its efficiency. The barrels are filled by gravitation in such a manner as to render their contents free from any kind of sediment. The cellars attached to this establishment are spacious and eminently suitable, and the sheds are literally packed with barrels and casks of every size, while ample accommodation is provided for the large team of horses the firm employ in the delivery of their goods. A numerous staff of skilled operatives is employed; the brewer was for many years in the service of a celebrated Burton firm. An extensive trade is controlled by the firm in the production of superior mild and bitter ales and stout. The beverages emanating from this house are widely known for their purity, flavour and excellence; they have no superiors, and few equals, in the locality. The best malt and hops only are used, and the perfection of the appliances, together with the experience brought to bear in the brewing, enables the best results possible to be obtained.

The water, too, is of the character best adapted to the brewing of good ales and stout, and the situation of the works themselves is open and healthy. The establishment is particularly famed for its “Invalid Stout,” which is highly recommended by physicians for its invigorating and nutritive qualities. A splendid connection has been developed among the leading hotels and publicans, and a large and influential family trade controlled which is growing every day. The proprietor is a gentleman of large experience in every part of his business, and his constant and earnest supervision is bestowed upon the concern to maintain the high standard of excellence for which the products of his house are so widely recognised. All his business transactions are marked by methods of strict fairness and inflexible integrity.

CARR, PARKER & CO., COTTON MANUFACTURERS,
CHARLES LANE MILL, HASLINGDEN, MANCHESTER.

THIS thriving institution dates back in its foundation to the year 1860, and its commercial development has been both rapid and continuous from the very commencement. The personnel of the firm are its founders, Mr. Thomas Swinburne Carr and Mr. Thomas Parker, the gentleman last named representing the house on ’Change. The firm operate on a very extensive scale as makers of every class and grade of grey sheets, sheetings, waste, twills, and kindred commodities, for the Manchester market, calling into active operation some hundred and six looms, and a very large staff of skilled and experienced workers. The town office of the house is at 17A, Rook Street, and the entire business is conducted with marked ability and spirited energy and enterprise, and no firm could have won by more honourable and legitimate means, the high reputation and eminent position which this house has so long and so worthily enjoyed.

SAMUEL HANDLEY, MANUFACTURER OF ROPE, TWINE, COTTON BAND, AND PRINTERS’ AND BLEACHERS’ COTTON SEWING,
SEEDLEY ROPERY, HARRISON STREET, PENDLETON, MANCHESTER.

THE history of this noted house dates back to the year 1830, when it was established by Mr. John Handley, the grandfather of the present proprietor. A reputation was soon earned for the superior quality of the goods and their thorough reliability, and the house gradually advanced in popularity and patronage. Additional enlargements have been necessitated, until at the present time the house takes a foremost position among similar local establishments. Large and commodious premises are occupied, consisting of an extensive brick and slate structure, two stories high, and comprising a suite of well-appointed offices, warehouses, storerooms and workshops, the hemp picking being carried on on the second floor. There is ample yard accommodation, containing a range of excellent stables and coach-houses, while the rope-walk is an exceptionally fine one, being one hundred and fifty yards long, with brick and slated sheds, each eight yards wide on either side.

The establishment has been well arranged for the purposes of the trade, and the plant and machinery are of the most modern and suitable kind. Under most favourable conditions, a large and important business is controlled in the manufacture of every description of rope, twine, cotton band, and printers’ and bleachers’ cotton sewing. Wherever these goods have been introduced they have obtained a ready appreciation, and among the best judges of this class of work they are immense favourites and in constant demand. They are known specially for their reliable quality, and buyers can confidently rely upon receiving exactly what they require and what they order. Every care is exercised in the proper selection of the material, and each process of manufacture is carefully watched, as the proprietor is desirous to fully maintain the high reputation the house has enjoyed for so many years. The admirable efficiency of the productive resources of the firm, and the extent and weight of the transactions they engage in, enable them to produce good articles at the least possible outlay, and to quote such prices as cannot be beaten in the trade. A speciality is made of cotton ropes, much used now for driving purposes in cotton mills, as they work very much more steadily than leather bands, last longer, and are less expensive.

Extensive and varied stocks are held of the different goods manufactured, which have been selected with due regard to the requirements of the trade, and most orders for current goods of any magnitude can be executed from their ample stores with promptitude and completeness. By the superior merits of its manufacture, the house has developed a connection of a widespread and influential kind, its patrons being found among the principal mill-owners, manufacturers, rope and twine merchants in the United Kingdom, and export shippers. A large and efficient staff of experienced hands are kept constantly employed to meet the continuously increasing demands. Mr. John Handley, the sole proprietor, has had large experience in this department of industry, and is recognised as a skilful and successful manufacturer. His personal supervision is bestowed upon the business to its manifest advantage, and every effort is made to oblige patrons and to merit their continued support. His transactions are based upon principles of strict fairness and honesty, and in social and commercial circles alike he is held in great esteem for his personal worth, his high sense of public duty, and his uprightness.

JOSEPH STUBBS, MAKER AND PATENTEE OF SPECIAL MACHINERY FOR WINDING, CLEARING, GASSING, REELING, PREPARING, BUNDLING, AND WARPING YARNS,
MILL STREET WORKS, ANCOATS, MANCHESTER.

IN_connection with certain special developments of mechanical industry at Manchester, for the benefit of the cotton trade, a very prominent and widely known house is that of Mr. Joseph Stubbs, of the Mill Street Works, Ancoats. This old-established and notable concern was founded nearly half a century ago by Mr. Joseph Hetherington, uncle of the last proprietor, at premises situate in Store Street, Manchester. Mr. Joseph Stubbs succeeded to the business in 1870, and at once began to carry on a far more extensive trade. Being a man of very high inventive powers, he associated himself with a great number of novelties and improvements in the several classes of machinery for which this house has become so justly famous, and besides this he patented from time to time entirely new machines, many of which have achieved unsurpassed results in the kind of work for which they have been designed. To such an extent did the business expand under the able administration of Mr. Stubbs that it soon became necessary to find more commodious quarters than the old premises in Store Street. Accordingly, in 1883, part of the present magnificent block of buildings (which from time to time has been extended) was erected in Mill Street, and has since been the headquarters of the house.

These fine works were built at very considerable cost, and it is no exaggeration to say that they could not be surpassed for the purposes of the industry to which they are devoted. They include a large foundry (200 feet long by 100 feet wide), with two large blast furnaces, also malleable iron foundry, producing annealed and malleable iron castings of the highest quality. These castings, which are highly esteemed by a large circle of customers to whom they are supplied, are also used in the making of the various machines produced by this firm for the use of the cotton-spinning and manufacturing trades. Prominent among these machines are the following:— Winding frames, for winding from mule cops, ring and flyer throstle, or doubler bobbins; hank and new patent pirn winding frames; patent quick traverse winding frames; patent stop-motion doubler-winding frames, made from new patterns, and possessing the most simple stop-motion made; gassing frames for cotton, worsted, and silk yarns, with latest improvements; reels for mule cops, ring and flyer throstle, or doubler bobbins, all reels being now made with the new patent “Bridge” doffing motion, consisting of one piece only, and preventing any soiling with oil in doffing. In addition to the above, for which this house has an unsurpassed reputation, the list of machines includes yarn bundling presses, of all descriptions, with new lifting motion, preventing break-downs; also yarn preparing machines, warping mills, warping hecks, yarn clearers, &c., &c.

In these various productions Mr. Joseph Stubbs has presented to the trade a splendid class of machines, in which, the highest operative efficiency is attained, and any of them may be seen in operation at the show-rooms in Mill Street, where inspection is specially invited. Upwards of three hundred and fifty hands are employed at this firm’s busy works, where the greatest activity prevails as the result of the immense trade controlled, and all these skilled workmen perform their duties under the personal supervision of the present principals of the house, who are sons of the late proprietor. Mr. Joseph Stubbs died a few years ago, leaving a noble record of industry and integrity. His successors — Messrs. William T., Robert O., and Joseph H. Stubbs — have all had a sound practical training in the trade with which they are associated, and all take an active part in the administration of this very successful business. They are ably seconded by several competent foremen, some of whom have been as long as thirty years in the service of the house. The firm are represented in India by their agents, Messrs. Sorabjee, Shapurjee & Co., Bombay.
Telegrams should be addressed “Winding, Manchester.” Telephone No. 440. Attendance at No. 12 Pillar, Manchester Exchange, Tuesdays and Fridays, 1.30 to 3 p.m.

ANDERSON & DUCKWORTH, AUCTIONEERS AND SURVEYORS, VALUERS AND ESTATE AGENTS,
37, BRIDGE STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE above prosperous and flourishing house was founded in 1882 in the same premises, and it has since increased by leaps and bounds. The four floors of a substantial building are fully occupied by the various departments of the business. The ground floor, lighted by large double windows, is used as a sale-room and furniture warehouse, containing pianofortes and all kinds of household furniture destined to be included in the periodical sales. A wide staircase gives access to the first floor, the whole front of which is filled by one large plate-glass window attractively displaying a splendid show of every description of furniture and the offices and other showrooms are on the second floor. Among the multifarious business matters which the firm undertake are valuation for probate duty, fire assessments and surveys, &c., this part of the business being looked after more especially by Mr. J. R. Duckworth, whilst the senior partner, Mr. Robert Anderson, undertakes the supervision of the other departments generally. Many sales are from time to time held at private houses in the neighbourhood, and the business has expanded so satisfactorily in many directions that it has become necessary to open a branch establishment at Richmond Chambers, Blackburn. The partners both devote considerable personal attention and close supervision to every detail of the varied transactions undertaken by the firm, and it is to their untiring energy and business foresight that the exemplary success of the business must be ascribed. Messrs. Anderson & Duckworth bear a very high reputation and are very highly esteemed and respected.

HANS RENOLD, MAKER AND PATENTEE OF IMPROVED STEEL CHAINS FOR CYCLE AND GENERAL DRIVING PURPOSES,
GREEN LANE, BROOK STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE business carried on by this able and experienced mechanician was founded in quite a small way at Salford, in 1869, by a Mr. Slater. Ten years later Mr. Hans Renold became sole proprietor of the concern, and under his energetic management the business speedily began to develop at such a rate that it had to be transferred to its present address. Some idea of the manner in which this concern has advanced may be gathered from the fact that Mr. Renold now gives employment to no fewer than one hundred and fifty hands, while he has upwards of one hundred and thirty machines at work in his establishment producing his special improved chains for bicycles and tricycles, and also other kinds of steel driving chains for cotton machinery, elevators, cranes, electric traction, and other purposes. The premises, moreover, are being considerably enlarged, and when completed they will have a frontage of ninety-nine feet, and a depth of one hundred and twenty feet from front to rear, the block, containing six spacious floors, all fully equipped with steam-power machinery for the purposes of this notable industry. Another large building at the rear comprises the smithy and forge on the ground floor, with counting-house, offices, and stock-rooms on the next flat, and extra stock-rooms on the top floor.

Altogether, Mr. Renold may be said to have a thoroughly well-organised establishment, admirably adapted in every respect to the requirements of his business, and not the least notable feature of his busy workshops is the large outfit of unique and special machinery made expressly to perform the peculiar and important operations incidental to this industry. Twelve years ago Mr. Renold supplied the late Mr. James Starley with the first chains ever used on a cycle, and since then he has ever been among the foremost in the great improvement of the chain that has subsequently been made. Mr. Renold, in all his work, has constantly kept in view the three great essentials of a really good chain, as proved by his own and by cyclists’ experience:— (1) To be strong and not too heavy; (2) To give, by usage, as little stretch as possible; (3) To be of such construction, as will least waste the riders’ power. He has also considered carefully a number of secondary points:— (4) That the chain should have a neat and light-looking appearance; (5) That it can be easily taken off the machine or put on again; (6) That it should allow of being shortened or lengthened by as short a piece as possible, viz., one link.

It may be safely asserted that no one has done more than Mr. Renold in the direction of sound practical improvement, and perhaps no one has progressed so far towards the realisation of the perfect cycle chain. To the true mechanic, however, perfection is always some distance ahead; but when we examine his latest product for 1891, the “Renold” Patent Non- Stretchable Chain, with all its valuable new features “up to date,” it would be difficult to an outsider to point out in what direction improvement is necessary. Similar care is also bestowed in the production of the Humber pattern or block chain, with middle block of solid steel. This form of chain is also made in a series of larger sizes for heavy driving purposes, and we found that all the main shafting in these works was driven entirely by steel chain. Mr. Renold’s specialities in cycle chains have given him a leading position in the trade to which his attention is so successfully devoted, and have won for his productions the highest esteem among cycle makers and cycle riders throughout the kingdom.

We strongly recommend to the notice of all interested persons Mr. Renold’s descriptive pamphlet, in which he gives at ample length, and with lucid illustrations, particulars of his excellent improvements in chains, and of the principles embodied in his valuable patents. We also understand that Mr. Renold is engaged upon, and will shortly issue, a treatise dealing exhaustively with the whole subject of chain driving and chain gear, both as to the underlying principles and the purposes to which this method of driving is applicable. A very large and steadily increasing trade is controlled, and the entire business (personally administered in all its departments by Mr. Renold) must be ranked among the most flourishing and interesting of Manchester’s “younger generation” of representative modern industries.

THOMAS EMERY & SONS, TIMBER MERCHANTS, JOINERS, AND BUILDERS,
45, GRANBY ROW, MANCHESTER.

OPERATIONS were commenced by the above firm in 1880, at the Leamington Saw-Mills, by Mr. I T. Emery, who, by application and ability, developed the business into a prosperous concern. Before long the business had outgrown its accommodation, and a removal was made to the present quarters, where the extent and importance of the business have been considerably augmented. The premises occupied are large and commodious, with a frontage of forty-six feet and a depth of one hundred and twenty-seven feet, and consist of three floors and a basement. The basement is occupied by a number of large circular saws and other plant and machinery employed in wood-cutting. On the ground floor is a suite of well-appointed offices and a range of convenient shops in which the packing-cases are made, and the second floor contains shops for the plumbers, gas and water fitters and glaziers, while the third floor is used for the manufacture of tin and zinc packing-cases and for the joinery department. Every department is fully equipped with plant and machinery of every desirable kind, and the establishment possesses in the amplitude of its accommodation and the abundance of its resources, unsurpassed facilities.

The proprietor has had much experience in the various branches of his business, and has gained a good reputation in Manchester and the district for the excellent character of the work he turns out. The leading feature of the business is as contractors for house and warehouse buildings. In box and case making he takes a leading position in the trade for soundness of material and reliability of work, while the extent of his transactions and the productive resources he possesses enable him to successfully compete in prices with all comers. The house is no less noteworthy for the superiority of its work in the tin-case department, the joinery, and in the gas and water fittings; and all orders with which Messrs. Emery may be trusted are sure to be carried out in the most satisfactory manner.

A glance at the immense stocks of timber and builders’ materials at this establishment, will convince the spectator that this is a business of no common importance, and that the firm are fully prepared to undertake the most important contracts in any of the departments in which they are so largely concerned. The stocks include good supplies of English and foreign timber, floorings, skirtings, mouldings, deals, battens, door- pieces, window-pieces, staircases, balustrades, banisters and turnings for cabinet-makers. The connection of this noted house is large and influential, extending throughout Manchester and the surrounding district. A force of from forty to fifty skilled hands is kept in constant employment in the various departments, under the superintendence of competent managers, and the firm is represented on the road by a traveller. The proprietor is an eminently practical man and well skilled in every department of his industry, and his personal supervision is given to the whole of the business, which derives undoubted benefit therefrom. His business principles are strictly fair and honourable, and he is always anxious to maintain the reputation his house has so deservedly obtained. He is much respected in private and commercial circles.

JAMES COLLINS & CO., MERCANTILE AND EXPORT STATIONERS, PRINTERS, ENGRAVERS, LITHOGRAPHERS, AND ACCOUNT BOOK MAKERS,
76, KING STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS old-established and eminent firm of manufacturing stationers and printers was founded as far back as the year 1840 by Mr. Gavin Hamilton, who in 1845 sold it to Mr. Thomas Booth, from whose trustees Mr. James Collins bought the business, in January, 1849. Shortly afterwards he took Mr. Frederick James Hale into partnership. In March, 1855, Mr. Hale retired through ill-health. Up to 1859 Mr. Collins remained sole proprietor. In December of that year he took into partnership Mr. Edgar Wilding, the present title of James Collins & Co. being then assumed. In 1886 Mr. Wilding died, and in 1887 Mr. Collins was joined by Mr. Joseph J. Alexander, and in 1889 by Mr. Arthur Kingston. The business in its entirety is one of great magnitude and importance, having developed continuously from the date of its foundation, and its headquarters in King Street comprise a spacious double-fronted warehouse, opposite the old Town Hall, now the Free Library, with general and private offices at the rear. This warehouse contains an immense stock of stationery of every description, and the range and variety of the goods kept show how completely the firm exemplify this department of their trade.

The paper stock is particularly large and comprehensive, and embraces a quantity of high-class writings and special papers for the making of account books, which latter branch of industry Messrs. Collins & Co. carry on upon an extensive scale. They enjoy an eminent reputation for the superior finish and durability of their ledgers and other account books, requiring great strength for long wear and tear. The firm under notice are also well known as general and artistic printers, lithographers, and engravers, and to these departments the upper floors of the premises in King Street are devoted. There is a fine plant of the best modern machinery land appliances for letterpress and lithographic printing, and the firm turn out a large quantity of first-class work, which their excellent facilities enable them to execute at moderate prices.

Upwards of one hundred skilled and experienced hands are employed in the different working departments, and the whole business is personally superintended and managed by Messrs. Alexander and Kingston, Mr. Collins having retired from active work, though he still remains at the head of the concern. A very large and steadily increasing trade is carried on, and not only do the firm enjoy the favour and confidence of a large and valuable home connection, but they are also patronised by a number m£ customers in the export markets, a particularly good business being done with India and America. The telegraphic address of this old and highly reputed house is “Index, Manchester.”

We may add that the principals are all prominent men in the trade, and Mr. James Collins is a well known and much respected Mancestrian, with a very creditable record of public services rendered in connection with various charitable institutions during the course of a long and active life. The continued increase of business requiring more room, the firm is about to remove in March to larger and more commodious premises, No. 4, Southgate, King Street, W., within three minutes’ walk of their present warehouse, February, 1892.

W. J. ADAMS & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF ELASTIC FABRICS, SMALLWARES, BRAIDS, &C.,
6, WHITWORTH STREET, PRINCESS STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS old-established concern, originally organised by a Mr. L. Turner, was for a very long period run under the auspices of the late Messrs. John Gorton & Co., with whom the present able proprietor had remained for a period of twenty-four years prior to the time when, in 1SS7, the entire proprietary control passed into his hands. Mr. W. J. Adams has since then been the life and soul of this magnificent business, which he recently transferred from Oxford Road to its present extensive quarters, Eagle Mills, in Whitworth Street. These mills are replete with all the latest and best special machinery and appliances for the production of the wares for which the firm has acquired a world-wide celebrity. These comprise every conceivable kind of elastic goods, of the nature of cords and braids, garter webs, suspenders, girdle and corset cords, and hat guards, as well as all descriptions of non-elastic braids in silk, cotton, and worsted, and every variety of square and round cords for tailoring, millinery, and other purposes, also boot laces, window and picture cords, fines, and general smallwares. Then the firm are also makers of fishing tackle, such as plaited fishing lines in silk, flax, and other substances, suitable for both fresh and salt-water fishing.

Their great speciality, however, and one which has become almost phenomenally popular, on account of its easy manipulation, surpassing beauty, and economic price, is their Patent Flange or Insertion Trimming and Flange Elastic. These goods consist essentially of a ready-made piping or edging, in a vast variety of artistic designs, supplied with a kind of marginal flange or dvage, which permits of its being sewn without any difficulty in between the cloth and lining, or in the seams of the material to which it is attached; or it may be used for embroidering purposes; in all cases forming an essentially neat and effective trimming, which modistes and milliners ought to hail with delight. The business in all its branches is conducted, under the personal supervision of Mr. Adams, with spirited energy and enterprise; and no circumstance could more strongly accentuate the merits of the firm’s productions than the world-wide reputation they have acquired and successfully sustained for so many years.

MITCHELL, JOHNSTON & CO., CALICO AND MUSLIN PRINTERS,
31, DICKINSON STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE above firm took origin in the year 1879, by the association in business of Mr. William A. Mitchell and Mr. Duncan T. Johnston, trading under the style and title above designated at 12, Faulkner Street. In 1886 their trade had increased to such an extent as to necessitate a transference to larger premises in 26, Princess Street, and again in 1891 to the present more commodious quarters. The premises occupied are in every particular exactly adapted to the requirements of a brisk and large business of the kind. They consist of a handsome suite of offices, augmented by capacious stock and pattern rooms, and private offices for the partners, the whole being located conveniently on the second floor, and having a separate entrance for goods. The firm operate on a very extensive scale as printers of calicoes and muslins, dealing principally with local shippers, and catering chiefly for the various oriental, colonial, home trade, and other markets. They have a branch establishment at 143, West George Street, Glasgow, and control a trade which may with every justice be said to be in the first rank of its kind in the kingdom, and which proclaims its principals to be men of experience, and “light and leading” in the difficult industry which they so faithfully represent.

CUNLIFFE AND CROOM, MAKERS OF SPECIAL AND GENERAL MACHINE TOOLS,
BROUGHTON IRON WORKS, EDWARD STREET, BROUGHTON LANE, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable house was founded in 1864 by Mr. Richard Cunliffe, who commenced his operations in very small premises, executing only the finishing processes himself, and having all castings made outside. From this modest beginning the extensive Broughton Iron Works have grown up, and the business now possesses ample resources for all its undertakings, from the rough castings to the finished machine. Mr. Cunliffe had had valuable experience before commencing this business, and in 1879 he admitted into partnership a Mr. Croom, who died a few years ago, and since then Mr. Cunliffe has remained, as at first, sole principal of the concern. He attends daily at the works, personally supervising every operation, and his customers may rely upon a careful maintenance of the high standard of accuracy in construction and fine finish in workmanship which has so long characterized the productions of the Broughton Works. The premises, which have been greatly extended from time to time, have been enlarged in an especially notable degree during the past three years, and they now cover upwards of six thousand square yards. For the most part the work is carried on upon the ground level — a very convenient and labour-saving arrangement.

Mr. Cunliffe was at one time foreman at the works of Messrs. Sharp, Stewart & Co., formerly of Manchester, but now removed to the Clyde. He is consequently acquainted with every practical detail in the arrangement of works of this kind, and supplementing his sound experience with his own personal skill and inventive faculty, he has built up an establishment which is practically perfect in plan and equipment, while the plant and machinery in use are of the highest order of efficiency. Upwards of two hundred hands are regularly employed here, whereas, in 1864, the staff numbered only ten workmen. This fact illustrates the remarkable growth of the business.

Messrs. Cunliffe and Croom are famous for high-class lathes, planing and drilling machines, milling, shaping, and slotting machines, chucks, slide rests, surface plates, and many other important engineers’ requisites. Leading specialities of the house consist in hand and power planing machines, all sizes, foot and power lathes, and brass-finishing and milling machines, for all of which an unsurpassed reputation is enjoyed. Specially noteworthy are this firm’s improved self-acting boring and turning gap lathe, improved foot turning lathes, improved automatic turret lathes, capstan head lathe, carding-engine cylinder turning and ending out lathes, special milling machine for cotton machinists, hand and power planing machines, shaping machines, self-acting milling and grooving machine, universal milling machines and dividing heads.

Messrs. Cunliffe and Croom also devote special attention to the production of machines suitable for use in technical schools, and they have done a large amount of high-class work in this respect for the Manchester Technical School, Owen’s College, Cheetham Hospital (Blue Coat School), Bolton Technical School, and various other important institutions giving attention to technical instruction. So well has this class of work been executed by the firm that they have had the honour of supplying to Mr. William Mather, M.P., “the leading member of the House of Commons on technical education,” a number of machines for his own workshop use. Messrs. Cunliffe and Croom are also on the Admiralty list of contractors, and are doing some important work for this department at the time of writing. The whole business is a monument to the energy, perseverance, and practical skill of Mr. Cunliffe, and upon his sterling qualities the house can safely depend for the adequate maintenance of the high reputation at present enjoyed.

THE MANCHESTER WATER METER COMPANY, LIMITED,
TIPPING STREET, ARDWICK, MANCHESTER.

NO review of the many industrial pursuits, whose successful development have made Manchester famous, could claim a degree of completeness without embodying some mention of the firm which is the subject of this notice. One peculiarity is that it is the only firm engaged in the manufacture of water meters in the County of Lancashire, or indeed in this part of the country. It was established in the year 1860, on a comparatively small scale, and has gone on gradually increasing until it is now a business of considerable importance. The Company was founded to manufacture the water meters patented by Mr. H. Frost, which even at that time were allowed to be the most ingenious and mechanical instruments for the purpose. The leading mechanical journal, “The Engineer,” speaking of these meters at that time, said, “It is a very ingeniously contrived and compact machine. With regard to the main requisites of an efficient water meter, accuracy of measurement, and protection from fraud, by tampering with the register or working parts, we imagine this to be the very best working meter we have seen.” These have been succeeded by further improved patents which have been produced by its Managing Director, Mr. Frost, who by his long practical experience has acquired an exceptional mechanical knowledge of this special subject.

It may not be out of place to mention that the object of these instruments is to measure the water supplied by corporations and waterworks companies to the consumers of water, although in this country water meters are comparatively little known to the general public, being chiefly used for measuring water for trade purposes. Abroad, however, where water is scarce, and where the construction of waterworks has been a very costly and difficult matter, it is of necessity very valuable; for this reason, coupled with the vital necessity of its economy, all water is measured by meter, which is the only fair and equitable way of selling this important necessity of life. Many are the troubles arising from a deficient supply, which would have been avoided in this country, in many cases, if the same method had been adopted, as many people so little value that which comes to their hands so freely and in apparently unlimited quantity, that reckless and culpable waste is constantly going on, to meet which water companies and public bodies find it necessary to keep increasing their sources of supply and their means of storage; and even then, when an exceptionally dry season comes, the consequence is often a curtailment of the service, and great domestic inconvenience. Almost all other commodities of life are sold or distributed by weight or measure; why not water, which is at the present price, bulk for bulk, so much more costly than gas None ever think of retailing gas except by measure with a gas-meter, as it is universally sold; and yet in, say, the City of Manchester, where, if water was sold by the cubic foot the same as gas, and at its present price, it would be, we believe, more than four times the price of gas, yet, except for trade purposes, the more costly article is sold unmeasured.

Frost’s patent water meters are now in use in all parts of the globe, especially in places where water is the scarcest and the dearest — this on account of their accuracy, their durability, and special fitness for the purpose. In all public tests and exhibitions where they have been tried and seen, we believe they have always stood in the very first rank, and received the very highest commendation.
Telegraphic address, “Watermeter, Manchester.”

HOWARTH & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF OIL OF VITRIOL, SPIRITS OF SALTS, SALT CAKE, &C.,
CHEMICAL WORKS, MILES PLATTING, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was initiated in 1854, and since that period its progress has been steady but highly satisfactory. The founders brought to bear large experience, skill, and industry on their new undertaking, and the superior and reliable nature of the products was recognised at an early date. A progressive policy was adopted. All the latest advances of science in this department of investigation and discovery were speedily and skilfully utilized by the enterprising proprietors. The present proprietors of this noted business are Mr. R. S. Howarth and Mr. E. B. Harlock. Operations are carried on in spacious premises specially built for the purpose of the trade; they comprise offices and laboratory and long ranges of buildings of various sizes, in which the different processes of manufacture are conducted, together with numerous store-rooms, and every requirement for the control of a large business of this description.

The vitriol chambers are three in number, and in size and capacity are not surpassed by those of any firm in the district. The fitting up and the equipment are the outcome of the proprietors’ long experience and spirited policy. An organised system of labour is maintained, under the constant personal supervision of the partners, and the management throughout reflects the highest credit on everyone concerned, while the care and consideration which have been manifested in every department for the comfort and health of the employes are deserving of the highest encomia. A large business is done in the manufacture of brown and rectified oil of vitriol, spirits of salts, salt cake, and other chemicals.

The productions of this house have acquired a well recognized position in the markets, and are everywhere looked upon as among the very best of their kind procurable. An important feature to consumers is their thoroughly reliable quality. From the care with which every process is conducted, and the skilled labour and perfect resources brought to bear during the whole time of manufacture, their articles are always of one high standard of excellence. This reliable uniformity renders them great favourites in all cases where similarity of results is indispensable in using them. All acids emanating from this responsible firm can be confidently accepted as being free from arsenic. Prompt and efficient attention is given to all orders; estimates and quotations are freely supplied on application. Prices, too, at this house will be found to be of the most satisfactory character, and such as cannot be beaten by any first-class house in the same trade, regard being had to the genuine and superior nature of the articles supplied. An extensive connection has been developed in Manchester and district, and its constantly-increasing character is adequate proof that both in quality and price the firm are giving thorough satisfaction to their patrons.

W. BENNISON & SON, MARBLE MERCHANTS AND MANUFACTURERS,
25 & 27, LOWER MOSLEY STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE great reputation of this firm for the high quality of their productions has been maintained over a long series of years. Excellence of design, combined with first-class material and workmanship, has given them most deservedly a large place in the confidence of their patrons and the public. The variety of their manufactures in marble and granite is most extensive, comprising chimney pieces, memorials, fenders, slabs for lavatories, all kinds of work for interior and exterior uses, as well as embellishments of public and private buildings. They deal largely in tiles of every kind for floors, hearths, walls, and for every conceivable purpose. Kitchen-ranges and grates for drawing, dining, and other rooms, with all the latest developments and improvements, are dealt in and supplied very largely to their customers.

The present proprietor, Mr. John Bennison, has added some most valuable inventions to the business which he has patented. These inventions are of the most important nature, and of great public utility and advantage. They are for the complete cure and prevention of smoky chimneys — the “Acme Chimney Top,” and the “Imperial Ante-syphon.” The former is for the cure of simple and well-defined evils, as “blow-down.” It has been most extensively patronised and sent out in very great numbers all over the country. For cases of a complex character, the “Imperial Anti-syphon Flue” is used in combination with the “Acme Top,” which combination absolutely cures and prevents any chimney from smoking, whatever may be the state of weather, force or direction of the wind, surroundings and conditions of the building. In their application to old chimneys, the success attending has been wonderful, no failure having occurred out of many hundreds operated upon. By the complete success, Mr. Bennison has won the gratitude of numberless patrons, which has induced him to bring them prominently before the notice of the architectural profession and building constructors for introduction to new buildings while in process of erection, thus providing a complete flue that will save any chimney constructed with them from the remotest possibility of smoking. These inventions should meet with the heartiest response, and have a wide and most extensive sale. It will be readily admitted that any one providing such appliances as will save the possibility of having a smoky chimney (one of the most annoying, troublesome, and destructive evils of modern civilised life) should be considered a public benefactor. Mr. Bennison has written a scientific treatise on the causes of smoky chimneys, their cure, &c., which is most instructive and useful.

THE CORNBROOK BREWERY CO.,
CHESTER ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS successfully conducted brewery was established over thirty years ago by the late Mr. Lawrence O’Neil, and was purchased by the present proprietors about eight years ago. As a producer of the finest mild and bitter ales stouts, &c., its reputation extends far and wide, and the sale and connection is very extensive. The premises are very large and commodious, and consist of two blocks of handsome buildings, which are elaborately fitted up internally. The brewery stands in a large yard and is a well built and substantial concern. It consists of a forty-quarter plant, which can easily be converted into an eighty-quarter plant. It has been fitted throughout with the best brewing appliances for ales, also stouts, and is managed with great ability and enterprise. There are upwards of one hundred and fifty houses belonging to, and tied by, the company. Many of them are in excellent positions, doing an increasing trade and consuming a very great quantity of the firm’s productions. Ten horses, lorries, &c., are employed, and the animals are in the pink of condition. There is also a large wine and spirit business carried on, in addition to the brewery, also an extensive bottling trade, for bottling beers and stouts, Bass’s Ales and Guinness’s stouts, the output being over seven hundred dozen per week. The wine and spirit department is wholesale, and it is composed of the choicest brands, in each case, carefully blended and matured. The brewery is the property of the Weld-Blundell family, and is carried on under the above title, as a private limited company. It has achieved a great reputation, not only for the quality of its productions, but also for the honourable nature of its transactions. About seventy men are employed.

JOHN TOMKINSON & CO., WHEEL MANUFACTURERS AND COACH AND RAILWAY CARRIAGE IRONMONGERS,
66, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was established in 1834, and being conducted with energy and ability, from time to time enlargements of the works were necessitated, and in every department the highest standard of efficiency was maintained. Mr. Joseph M. Leigh is the sole proprietor, carrying on the business under the time-honoured and respected title of John Tomkinson & Co. The premises in Oxford Street consist of a substantial and attractive block of three-storey building, with fine, capacious plate-glass windows, and a commanding frontage of twenty-five yards in extent; they comprise offices and extensive and admirably fitted up show-rooms on the first and second floors. The works are situated at the rear of these premises, with entrance from No. 1, Angle Street. They are conveniently built to form, with the offices and show-rooms, three sides of a hollow square. They comprise large and lofty warehouses, and a number of well-arranged workshops; one side of the premises is occupied exclusively by the timber sheds, and the central space affords ample yard accommodation. The works are thoroughly equipped, and a splendid plant is in operation, which includes all the latest productions of mechanical ingenuity for facilitating and improving the processes of manufacture in this branch of industry.

The firm conduct a large and valuable trade in the manufacture of wheels and coach and railway carriage ironmongery. In this department their reputation is secured, their goods being recognised in the markets as standard productions, and as being unsurpassed in quality, material, finish, and uniform and general excellence. Nothing but superior and well- seasoned woods are used, especial care being taken in procuring them from the best growths, and they are all subjected to the severest tests before being used in the manufacture, while equal attention is bestowed upon all other materials to insure their being of the best and most suitable kind. A staff of from forty to fifty skilled hands is employed in the several departments. Ample stocks are held of the various goods manufactured, including wheels of every description, coach bodies, under carriages, Collinge’s axles, mail axles, lancewood shafts, lamps, door handles, carriage poles, springs, and plated hames; and also all kinds of coach and railway carriage ironmongery and sundries, such as silver and brass beading, whips, coach bolts, carriage trimmings, wool mats, varnishes, &c. A special feature is made of repairing in all its branches. This business is of a large and important character, the connection lying among the best and oldest wholesale buyers in Lancashire and the surrounding counties.

HENRY BOND & CO., QUILT MANUFACTURERS,
109, PORTLAND STREET, MANCHESTER.

FORTY years have now elapsed since Mr. Henry J Bond organised this flourishing concern, which in due course came under the control of his sons, Messrs. Walter and John Thomas Bond, and assumed its present style and title. The Manchester headquarters of the house were formerly located in Calender Street, Palace Square, but the present splendid premises were entered upon about a year ago, and here every accommodation is afforded for a grand display of the goods for which the house has become world-famous. The magnificent factory of the firm is known as the Milton Mills at Bolton, and calls into requisition the active services of a very large staff of skilled operatives, whose labours are assisted by a valuable plant of the most modern special machinery and appliances, in the production of the following distinct lines of goods:— toilet quilts of every description, class, and grade; patent Milton quilts, which may be described as wonderful imitations of quilting by a peculiar process of weaving; rich tapestry quilts, for which special awards have been won; honeycomb, Alhambra, and Novelty quilts, &c., specimens of which have gained for the firm a well-merited renown at numerous exhibitions, notably at Melbourne, in 1889, when a Certificate of the First Order of Merit was obtained. The trade is a large one and extends all over Great Britain, and to the foreign markets through shippers; and the business, under the capable and energetic administration of its joint proprietors, is conducted with a skill and judgment that prove their value and good effect in the manner in which the firm has, during an age of keen competition, been enabled to hold its own.

PARRY, SONS, AND HANSON, WHOLESALE OUTFITTERS AND MERCHANTS,
19, 21 AND 23, MOSLEY STREET, MANCHESTER.

A LEADING position has long been held by the eminent firm of Messrs. Parry, Sons and Hanson, of Mosley Street, who also have branches at Liverpool, Birmingham, Newcastle-on-Tyne, and Glasgow. This old-established and most extensive concern originated upwards of half a century ago, under the style of Jones and Parry, and so continued until about the year 1860, when the present title of Parry, Sons and Hanson was adopted. Mr. Thomas Hanson is now the head of the house, and with him is associated in partnership Mr. D. W. W. Parry, one of the sons of the late Mr. Parry.. Mr. Hanson has been associated with the house for fully forty-five-years, first as an assistant, and eventually as a partner. He continues to personally superintend the entire concern, and is indefatigable in his exertions to ensure its proper management. In the routine work his very large and competent staff (numbering in all about one hundred and twenty persons) affords valuable assistance, and everything combines to keep this noted house in the front rank of the trade it so well exemplifies.

The premises occupied in Mosley Street form an immense five-storey warehouse, imposing in its outward aspect, and remarkable for the handsome character of its interior appointments. In this commodious and finely equipped establishment Messrs. Parry, Sons and Hanson hold one of the finest and most extensive stocks of outfittings of various kinds to be found in the United Kingdom. The departments contain really wonderful array of novelties in ties, scarfs, handkerchiefs, braces, belts, mufflers, umbrellas, travelling rugs, hosiery, and gloves, Cardigan jackets, jerseys, and jersey suits, collars, cuffs, fronts, shirts, studs, solitaires, and other jewellery, linen threads, and an immense variety of tailors’ trimmings and buttons, gent’s cashmere summer vests, black and coloured Italians, serges, satteens, and dyed goods. A little novelty, in the shape of a fine steel spring for keeping the collars and lapels of coats always in shape, is also among this firm’s many specialities, and is undoubtedly a most useful idea. Altogether, Messrs. Parry, Sons and Hanson’s warehouse presents a complete illustration of the outfitting trade in all its features, and in every one of the many departments here so well represented the firm do an immense wholesale business, supplying the trade with the best classes of goods on the most favourable terms, and maintaining a most valuable and influential connection in all the principal markets. The requirements of the export trade are carefully considered, and a very large business is done in this department through the medium of shipping houses. Messrs. Parry, Sons and Hanson’s warehouse is opened every morning at eight o’clock, and immediate attention is then given to all urgent letters, the prompt execution of orders received in this way being greatly appreciated by the firm’s many customers in all parts of the country. The trade controlled is entirely wholesale, the connection being developed among hosiers and outfitters in nearly every quarter of the kingdom. The firm’s branches are as follows: 3, Williamson Street, Liverpool; St. John Street, Grainger Street, Newcastle-on-Tyne; 10, Dr. Johnson’s Passage, Bull Street, Birmingham; and 179, Trongate, Glasgow.
Telegrams should be addressed, “Cravat, Manchester.”

W. FELL & CO., WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANTS,
9A, NEW BROWN STREET, MANCHESTER.

FROM an inquiry into the antecedents of this thriving concern, it may be fairly said that it was originally projected in the year 1860 by a Mr. Muller, in Lower King Street. It was afterwards transferred by him to premises in Blackfriars Street, and was there continued by him, and after his decease by his executors till the year 1887. On the then proprietors in that year leaving the business, Mr. Wm. Fell and Mr. Wm. Edmund Greenhough, who constitute the personnel of the present firm, and both of whom are gentleman of recognised ability, and the former of whom was associated with the early management of the business for many years, took up the old connection; and under their fostering care it has been developed to its present proud proportions. The premises now occupied are in every point of character and situation exactly adapted to the wants of a brisk, first-class wholesale concern of the kind. The firm operate on a very large scale as importers and bonders of all the leading growths and blends of wines and spirits; and are the sole proprietors of the celebrated “Crown Special Blend” of Scotch whisky. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume, and extends throughout the United Kingdom, being actively promoted through the agency of a staff of travellers under the direct guidance of Mr. Fell, while the mercantile department receives the personal attention of Mr. Greenhough at headquarters. Thus judiciously organised the business has attained a foremost position in the trade, and it is manifestly the resolution of the proprietors that the prestige of their house shall not only be consistently maintained but steadily enhanced and developed in days to come.

JAMES WILLCOCK, FISH, GAME, AND POULTRY SALESMAN,
SMITHFIELD MARKET, MANCHESTER.

MR. WILLCOCK occupies the most spacious and prominent range of premises in the above market, at which he conducts the largest business of its kind in the provinces. The present Fish Market is comparatively a new building, having been erected about twenty years ago. It was preceded by the Strangeways Fish Market, and still earlier by the Old Shambles Fish Market, which was the first market established in Manchester for gathering the wholesale fish-dealers to one centre. The two latter markets are now extinct. The tenants and trade formerly attached thereto were transferred to the present handsome structure and more appropriate Smithfield Market. Mr. Willcock’s early history extends back to the days when these former markets flourished in the early part of this century, and his interests and business career were closely connected with them. During the time when the Old Shambles Market held sway, the railway communication with Manchester was in a very imperfect state, and fish from Scarborough, Southport, and other distant places were conveyed the whole distance by horse and cart. Notwithstanding the difficulties of transmission, soles, salmon, and turbot, that are now so dear, were then exceedingly cheap, and could be obtained at prices that would bring gladness to the hearts of the community were it possible now — as it was then — to buy the choicest soles, salmon, and turbot at threepence to fourpence per pound, which we are assured by Mr. Willcock was the case in the good old days referred to. Many tons of fish are disposed of by Mr. Willcock daily at his premises in the Smithfield Market to the fishmongers and dealers residing within a radius of twenty miles from his place of business.

An important contribution to the food supply of Manchester is the large and continuous consignments of rabbits which Mr. Willcock, after much difficulty, is enabled to place on the market by a well-devised system in connection with the landowners and rabbit-dealers residing in distant parts of Scotland, Ireland, and other places, who are furnished with all appliances by Mr. Willcock for quick despatch and conveyance by passenger trains of the rabbits to secure their early arrival in Manchester whilst perfectly fresh, which is now accomplished daily to the entire satisfaction of all concerned, and thus many thousands of couples of rabbits reach Manchester that otherwise could not do so but for the facilities and appliances furnished by Mr. Willcock.

In the game and poultry departments we find every species of bird in profusion, enough and sufficient for all. Fish, game, poultry and rabbits from Holland, Sweden, Norway, France, Italy, Austria, Germany, Russia, Canada, America and Australia, anxiously cared for by a courteous salesman awaiting the arrival of customers, who, being tempted by the favourable prices at which the goods are offered, are induced to benefit themselves by snapping up the bargains to their hearts’ content. In this way the business in each department proceeds vigorously and without hitch, amidst noise and bustle, from six until ten o’clock each morning, when the din of business is replaced by a calmness of a market partially deserted, the customers having suddenly left at the last-named hour for their respective establishments to make the best of their bargains, returning again next morning when a similar cycle of operations is repeated.

The efforts made by Mr. Willcock to obtain large and regular supplies of the goods in which he vends has greatly augmented the food supply of Manchester, and these efforts are not undertaken by him solely for the purpose of acquiring money or profit, but to benefit the working classes, and to place within their reach a cheap meal of the best fish, game, and poultry obtainable, at the most reasonable prices. To a great extent he has succeeded in doing this, and he hopes that in the near future, when the trade is more in touch with the consumers, that fish, game, and poultry will reach hundreds of householders who are now indifferent to the advantages, of a cheap food supply lying at their own door, and who rarely or never patronise the fishmonger and game-dealer.

Mr. Willcock’s is the oldest established house in the trade. About thirty hands — chiefly salesmen and clerks — are employed at his Smithfield Market, establishment. He has a warehouse in Tortworth Street, standing On two thousand square yards or thereabouts. These premises are set apart for stabling fifteen horses, and provide cover for a large number of carts and vehicles used in his trade, and include, besides three fish-curing houses, a fishing-net manufactory, a steam sawmill, a blacksmith’s and joiner’s shop, and extensive stores for boxes. Mr. Willcock is the owner of a fine steam trawler, named Kingfisher, built on most modern principles, provided with ice stores, &c., and propelled by compound surface condensing engine, indicating up to three hundred horse-power. This ship proceeds to sea, three and four hundred miles, in all states of weather, returning to harbour after an absence of eight or nine days with her catch of fish weighing many tons. He has also two smaller steam fishing vessels, built expressly for the herring and mackerel fishings. They are the only steam-fishing vessels on British waters engaged solely in the herring and mackerel fishings; each of the two latter boats is provided with a herring or mackerel net two miles long, and it does not surprise Mr. Willcock to hear that one of these boats has landed fifteen tons of herring or mackerel at one haul.

If we take a glimpse at Mr. Willcock’s leading characteristics, or the qualifications that he is possessed of, and which have contributed to his success in life, we find him to be a man of great mental force and physical strength, above the medium height and weight. It is natural to him to make business a pleasure, and he never looks down upon it as drudgery. His attitude or bearing towards customers or friends, and in particular to his employes, is characterised by strong social and benevolent qualities and sympathetic ties. His servants never leave him until death severs the connection; above all, Mr. Willcock is a man of unflinching perseverance, and devotes most scrupulous care and attention to all matters great or small that pass through his hands or demand his consideration. He is a man of tact and ability, daring and enthusiastic in his undertakings. The erection of the Manchester Patent Ice Works seventeen years ago, on a large and costly scale, was mainly due to him, and at that time the manufacture of artificial ice was not developed beyond the bounds of an experiment, and had not been tested on a commercial scale. The adventure, however, fully justified Mr. Willcock’s prognostications, and proved a great success. Scientific men from all parts of the world have visited it. Success has in no way spoiled Mr. Willcock, and his numerous friends hope that he may long be spared to push on the enterprising business of which he or any man might justly be proud.

SCOWN & NEWLING, BABY-LINEN AND LADIES’ OUTFITTING ESTABLISHMENT,
64, KING STREET, MANCHESTER.

IT would be a matter of impossibility to ignore the claims of this well-known establishment to be classed among the leading concerns of its kind in the city. The extent and the superiority of the connection alone renders it eligible for the distinction. The very best class of customers are attracted to it, and have become to recognise it in connection with all that is new, novel, and beautiful in the particular branches to which attention is directed. This is essentially an establishment for ladies, whose principal delight is to see their children comfortably, as well as prettily, dressed. Here the mistake so often made of making children’s clothing too tight is obviated, by allowing as much room as is compatible with style in all garments for children’s wear. Baby-linen is the great feature of the house, and every requisite that can possibly be required can be supplied in one day. A complete range of goods to suit all purchasers, from medium qualities to finest goods, being always in stock. Cots, bassinettes and baskets are all made and fitted in the very lightest and prettiest style, the drapery being arranged to take on and off for washing; and their reputation for success in this branch of their business is unrivalled. All kinds of ladies’ outfitting is undertaken, and the articles — either in stock or to order — are of the finest material and workmanship. The very latest patterns are regularly received. All orders are executed under the direct supervision of the firm. The selection on view is more than enough to satisfy the wants of the most exacting, and it speaks volumes for the taste and ability of the lady principals of this concern, that though the business was only founded about the year 1884, and on its real merit has enjoyed a large measure of prosperity.

The proprietors are Miss Emily Scown and Miss Clara Newling. These ladies have made themselves popular with their aristocratic customers, by the ready way in which they have met their wants and requirements, and by the skill with which they have conducted their establishment. Nor has the commendable enterprise of the ladies escaped observation. It is appreciated and supported by all who visit the premises. These consist of a handsome single-fronted shop, well furnished and fitted, &c. The stock-rooms are on the basement floor. The whole place is conducted in that refined manner which betokens the cultured tastes of the principals, and we recommend ladies to take their friends there, where at any time goods will be shown and estimates given; even if the lady does not require to purchase at the time.

GEORGE LITTLE, WHOLESALE PROVISION MERCHANT,
35, LONG MILLGATE, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the notable houses whose names have become closely and creditably identified with the development of the Wholesale Provision trade in Manchester, a place of prominence must unquestionably be accorded to the old-established and well-known business, which, organised some forty years ago, is to-day presided over by Mr. George Little. The premises occupied consist of a large and substantial five-storied building. The well-appointed offices are situated on the first floor, while the whole of the remaining accommodation is fully utilised for the storage of an enormous stock of provisions, fresh consignments being received every week from the Continent and America, and twice weekly, or even daily, from Ireland. Mr. Little operates on a very extensive scale as an Importer of Irish, American, and Danish bacon of the best brands; Kiel, French, and Irish Butters; Margarines; Canned goods; and the freshest of Irish and Continental Eggs. These goods are promptly distributed to dealers in all parts of the country, and the entire business, which entails the full employment of a very large staff, receives the careful personal supervision of the proprietor, in conjunction with his eldest son, Mr. Geo. W. Little, and is conducted in the best possible manner, upon principles which have gained for him a high reputation and widespread patronage.
His telephone number is 1,160, and his telegraphic address, “Zeta, Manchester.”

SAMUEL MCLARDY & CO., WHOLESALE JEWELLERS, LONDON, BIRMINGHAM, AND SHEFFIELD WAREHOUSEMEN, IMPORTERS OF FOREIGN TOYS AND FANCY GOODS, AND PIPE MANUFACTURERS, &C.,
69, SHUDEHILL, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable business was founded in the year 1865 by the present principal, Mr. Samuel McLardy, and was for a long time carried on at Nos. 14 and 16, Miller Street. In March, 1890 the concern was transferred to its present headquarters in Shudehill, a large and very handsome five-storey warehouse, the general plan and organisation of which is conducive to the utmost, convenience in the administration of the immense business engaged in. Here the system pursued allows each department to deal exclusively in its own special line, and although the entire concern is under the one proprietorship, this great warehouse may be said to accommodate six large and important businesses, each engaged in operations of the most extensive character within the scope of its own particular constitution. These several busy departments may be enumerated as follows:— (1) jewellery, comprising gold and silver watches, and all manner of jewellery and jewellers’ sundries, electro-plate in full variety, marble clocks, bronzes, regulators, barometers, combs, brushes, &c., &c., table cutlery of all classes; (2) leather, cabinet, and fancy goods, with carved wood brackets, Japanese and papier mache goods, ladies’ companions, work-boxes, plush brackets and mirrors, writing desks and jewel cases in wood and leather, ladies’ and gentlemen’s hand and travelling bags, fitted bags, school bags, portmanteaux and travelling trunks, fire screens, and all manner of fancy novelties, together with a specially fine array of purses, albums, and photo frames in all the newest designs; (3) hardware and furnishing goods, including coal vases in wood and iron, brass and iron bedsteads, fenders and fire-irons, tinware, hollow ware, enamelled ware, household brushes, toilet and chimney glasses, wood and nickel clocks, door mats, galvanised goods, &c., &c.; (4) glass and china, comprising all the newest and choicest productions in Bohemian vases and lustres, French and German china in figures and vases, English cut and ornamental glass, Parian figures, birds, fruits, flowers, shades in all styles and sizes, and other kindred articles; (5) toys and dolls, a department containing a wondrous variety of goods of all classes. The selection here is made from all the best English, continental, and American markets, and as Messrs. McLardy are constantly in direct communication with the various manufacturers, they are always in a position to secure the first consignment of bona fide novelties.

In each of the departments named above the stocks held are of a thoroughly representative character, and the extent of the firm’s trade enables them to offer their goods at prices which command the instant attention of retail dealers everywhere. A word of special commendation is due to the efficient manner in which each department is worked by its own special staff, an arrangement which ensures the careful execution and quick despatch of every order received. The whole routine of this great business is facilitated to a very notable extent by the internal plan of the premises, which has been specially designed and erected to suit the purposes of this particular trade. In 1877 Mr. McLardy added the above named departments to his original trade in pipes and tobacconists’ requisites. In this latter branch (which dates from the foundation of the house in 1865) he has attained an almost pre-eminent position, both as a merchant and a manufacturer. Indeed, there is probably no other house in the British Isles doing a larger trade in everything that appertains to the use of tobacco; and at Newton Heath Mr. McLardy has a wonderfully interesting factory, where clay pipes are turned out at the rate of about twenty millions per annum. Mr. McLardy has built up an enormous trade in all kinds of smokers’ fancy goods, and holds in this department a stock which cannot be surpassed in interest and variety. His goods always sell well, having been before the public for a quarter of a century, and he has from the first pursued the sound policy of considering the interests of his customers as in a large measure identical with his own. A tobacconist starting business can have his establishment equipped and stocked with absolutely everything essential to his trade, by simply placing himself in communication with Mr. McLardy and stating the extent of his requirements. This fact will serve as an illustration of the magnitude and comprehensiveness of the business controlled by this great Manchester house.

Mr. Samuel McLardy is a Scotchman by birth, and has all the shrewdness and keen commercial instincts of the North Briton. At the same time he is esteemed and respected by all who know him for his kindliness and manly, straightforward methods. He is a hard worker, never sparing himself any labour in the affairs of his business; and years of persevering industry and fair dealing have placed him at the head of a concern which takes high rank at the present day among the foremost English houses of its kind.

JOHN CRAMPTON, DRYSALTER, SEED AND SPICE GRINDER,
12, 14, 16, AND 18, CHAPMAN STREET, HULME, MANCHESTER.

THE origin of this prominent business dates back for some fifteen years, when operations were commenced in Moss Lane East. Under the able and vigorous control of the founder the business rapidly developed, and, the premises becoming too small for the increased requirements, a removal was made to the present quarters in 1885. The premises are spacious and commodious, consisting of private and general offices, warehouses, packing-room, stores, drying-rooms, and the departments in which the various processes of manufacture and preparation are earned on, together with a large covered yard. The whole of the establishment has been arranged in a manner most convenient for the despatch of the business, and fitted up with the most improved machinery and appliances of every description, including an eight-horse power gas-enginë, silk siftings for rice, pepper, gingers, and spice; French burr stone mill for grinding pepper; Edge roller mill for acids, &c., and six various makes of mills for grinding spices, &c. A force of nine hands is employed, and orders of any magnitude receive prompt and efficient attention.

Everything emanating from this noted firm is of thoroughly reliable quality and of guaranteed superiority. The proprietor’s long experience and skill in his business, combined with the perfection of his resources, enable him to produce the best of everything he manufactures, and to offer his commodities at prices which cannot be equalled elsewhere. In peppers of every kind, herbs, both dried, rubbed, and ground, and spices, the house offers an unequalled variety, while in rice, essences, and seeds it can hardly be beaten. Crampton’s Meat Preservative is widely known and appreciated in the trade, and Crampton’s Milk Preservative (used also for gravies, jellies, soups, wines, and beer) is having an increased demand among farmers, dairymen, and dining-room keepers, &c. Another important line with this house is its rusk and biscuit powders, which are largely used in the manufacture of sausages, polonies, saveloys, German sausages, &c., by the chief makers in the country, and are giving every satisfaction both to the users and their customers. Large and well-selected stocks are kept of all kinds of seasonings and spices for pork butchers, sauces, rice, and varied selections of drysaltery goods. Mr. Crampton is a man of acknowledged ability in his craft, and his constant attention is bestowed upon the business in its entirety. All his dealings are marked by fairness and strict honesty, and by his creditable and liberal policy he retains the support and confidence of all who once come into business relations with him.
Telegrams for the firm should be addressed, “Signapore, Manchester.”

THE MANCHESTER EDISON-SWAN CO., LIMITED, ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS AND CONTRACTORS FOR CENTRAL STATIONS, MILL, HOUSE AND SHIP LIGHTING; SOLE OWNERS OF THE EDISON & SWAN PATENTS FOR THE INCANDESCENT LAMP AND HOLDER AND THE EDISON DYNAMO, &C., IN THE MANCHESTER DISTRICT,
14, ST. ANN’S SQUARE, MANCHESTER.

THE company alcove named plays a very important part in connection with electric lighting in the provinces, and holds a unique position in England, being the only company out of London which owns the patents for its lamps, holders, and dynamos. The concern was founded in 1882, and in that year the valuable Edison patents were purchased. Subsequently the Edison and Swan Companies were amalgamated under the title which heads this article, the Swan patents thus becoming the property of the company as well as those of Edison. These two important sets of patents cover all incandescent lamps and their holders, together with many forms of dynamos and fittings. Thus, Edison and Swan lamps can only be obtained wholesale, within the Manchester district, at this company’s stores in St. Ann’s Square and Barton Square, or at the works, Little John Street. Dynamos, holders, &c., under the Edison, Swan, and other patents are constructed only under the licence of the company.

These particulars indicate the important character of the concern under notice and the great influence it exercises upon all matters connected with electric lighting. When the company commenced operations in 1882, its headquarters were in Victoria Buildings, but shortly afterwards a move was made to St. Mary’s Gate, and about four years ago the present premises in St. Ann’s Square were secured. This establishment is admirably adapted to the requirements of the business, and comprises an extensive and well-appointed show-room, extending through to Barton Square, end having commodious offices on the first floor, with board room, &c. So largely, however, is the business of the company increasing that it is shortly intended to move to much larger premises.

In the show-room there is a very large and interesting display of the company’s standard specialities for electric lighting, and in surveying these productions we observe that many of them are produced under patents which are the company’s own property, such, for example, as the following:- All kinds of incandescent lamps on the Edison and Edison-Swan patents, the Edison-Hopkinson dynamo, and the Fawcus-Cowan slow-speed dynamo, a great variety of lamps, holders, safety fuses, ceiling roses, main and branch switches, and various other electric light fittings which are indispensable to a complete and effective installation. Besides the above-named articles the company supply a great number of other apparatus for electric lighting, among which we note the excellent Manchester and Lancashire dynamos, accumulators and portable batteries, fancy shades and globes, ship and colliery fittings, brackets, electroliers and standards in polished brass and wrought-iron, ammeters, voltmeters, and other electrical testing instruments, wood casings and coverings, arc lamps, &c. In many cases the fittings show great beauty and elegance of design, and in every instance they are of the highest excellence in material and finish. The company also supply gas, petroleum, and steam engines, boilers, shafting, pulleys, belting, and other mechanical accessories of a character specially adapted for use in electric lighting, and we need hardly say that they have always on hand supplies of electric light wires and cables, of special quality, ready for any demand. In fact, this company maintains a complete emporium of supply for every article required in an electric light installation. They are at all times prepared to give estimates free of charge for complete installations of electric light and motive power.

The company’s works are situated in Little John Street, where a large staff of skilled mechanics and electricians and a plant of the most improved and effective modern machinery afford superior facilities for the production of the highest class of work. During the past nine years this company have carried out a large number of installations on the premises of leading manufacturers and merchants in the north of England, as well as in theatres, hotels, private houses, ships, yachts, &c., and the trade controlled is constantly increasing as the public more fully recognises the immense usefulness and advantage, as well as the economy and healthfulness of electricity as an illuminating agent. There is no necessity for us to dwell upon these advantages here, as they have been so very generally admitted by this time; but, should there be any of our readers who have not as yet thoroughly convinced themselves of the value of the benefits conferred upon humanity by the “good fairy, Electra,” in the matter of light, we strongly recommend to their consideration a little pamphlet issued by the company here under notice, the purpose of which is to act as a guide to intending users of the electric light, showing the cost they will incur in fitting their houses, factories, &c., with the light, and also pointing out by means of figures and comparisons the advantages they may expect to reap from its use. The electric light is no longer the “light of the future” merely, it is the light of the present, and everything points to the fact that it has “come to stay.” Its economy and superior efficiency have been repeatedly proven, and wherever it is now in use it is recognised as a most valuable acquisition and a distinct improvement in every respect upon all other methods of illumination. Its high place in public favour can no longer be questioned, and its popularity is shown to be constantly augmenting by the continuous growth of the great business we have briefly reviewed above.

The Manchester Edison Swan Co., Limited, has an influential directorate, consisting of Mr. V. K. Armitage, Manchester Chairman; Sir J. C. Lee, Bowdon; Mr. F. B. Ross, Alderly; Major Flood Page, London; Mr. J. C. Waterhouse, Prestbury; Mr. W. P. James Fawcus, C.E., Manchester, Managing Director; and the secretarial office is filled by Mr. John E. Sharpies.
The company’s telegraphic address is “Edison, Manchester,” and their telephone is No. 532.

THE ROSSENDALE GLASS AND WOOD DECORATING COMPANY,
53, PORTLAND STREET, MANCHESTER

FEW decorative ideas have been so extensively studied, or have produced more satisfactory results on the whole, than the application of artistic designs in various ways to glass, and in this connection a new and very noteworthy departure is that which is now being so successfully developed by the Rossendale Glass and Wood Decorating Company. This important concern, which has its headquarters at 53, Portland Street, Manchester, and its works at Stubbins, was founded a few years ago for the purpose of working upon a large and practical scale the valuable patents of Messrs. A. S. & J. Young. Mr. A. S. Young is a member of the firm of William Rumny & Co. The glass is printed upon by the Messrs. Young’s patent process, and the work thus produced in very artistic designs and in all effective colours, is designed to take the place of coloured enamel, embossed glass, &c. Of course, in addition to its beauty of appearance, this new form of decoration has the merit of great economy, and the price is brought down so low that it can be made applicable to almost any purpose with distinct advantage. The material is found to be specially suitable for glazing partitions, offices, warehouses, &c.; and it may also be used with the very best effect for the permanent decoration of ceilings, wall panels, dadoes, pilasters, friezes, facias, and in all positions, where cleanliness and permanency are desirable. Thus nothing could be better for use in restaurants, public rooms, smoking rooms, billiard rooms, and on steamships, as the glass thus prepared needs only occasional wiping with a damp cloth or leather to keep it perfectly clean, and it effectually withstands the action of smoke and vapours. Its durability has been amply proven, and its lightness, extreme cleanliness, and general adaptability to the covering of extensive surfaces, all strongly recommend it as an exceedingly useful and valuable decorative material.

This printed glass is made in sheets of any shape or size up to 60 inches by 38 inches. In ornamental effect there are very few decorations in the market that can compare with it, and the Company exhibit at their showrooms in Portland Street a large variety of designs of very great beauty, novelty, and artistic elegance. These were shown with much success at the Manchester Arts and Crafts Exhibition, held a few months ago. “The Plumber and Decorator and Journal of Gas and Sanitary Engineering” reviewed this direct glass printing process about a year ago, and concluded its remarks in the following terms: “Of all the various substitutes for flashed, embossed plate, stained, pot metal, and pictorial glass decorative work, we can with confidence say that none have been put on the market with really greater hope of a big success — if it is properly worked — than that invented and introduced by the Rossendale Glass and Wood Decorating Company.” From what we have seen of the Company’s work thus far we can fully endorse the above competent opinion, and as the affairs of the concern are in able and experienced hands, there is no doubt that the invention will be “ properly worked” in every respect essential to its ultimate and complete success.

It should also be noted that wood for doors, blinds, window frames, &c., as well as glass, can be printed by this valuable process in a great variety of designs and colours, to suit any apartment. Architects, builders, and other persons interested should send for designs and estimates to the Company, who are already doing a large and progressive trade, and building up an influential and widespread connection. One striking feature in this new industry is the adaptability of the process for advertising tablets, and from the specimens shown is sure to lead to a very extensive business. The artistic beauty and catching effect cannot be described unless seen, and for advertisers wishing to bring their articles effectually before the public at a moderate cost this process stands unrivalled.

WILLIS & ROBERTS, TOBACCO MANUFACTURERS,
16, MARK LANE, MANCHESTER.

THE large and flourishing tobacco manufactory of Messrs. Willis & Roberts, in Mark Lane, was established in 1846. In that year Mr. Edward Robinson commenced the business, at the corner of Garden Street, Withy Grove. Messrs. Willis & Roberts acquired the business, and launched out as manufacturers in l860. The firm continued for some few years in this manner, when Mr. Willis retired, and Mr. John Robinson joined Mr. Roberts, the firm still trading under the title of Willis and Roberts. On the death of Mr. Roberts, Mr. John Robinson acquired the business. The original buildings being required for improvements, were pulled down, and the business was transferred to the present fine premises, which were specially constructed for the purpose of manufacturing tobacco on the highest and most scientific principles. Mr. Robinson died in 1883, and the present proprietors, his two sons, Henry and John Edward, succeeded him.

The firm hold a great name for the excellence of their goods, and have long had the confidence of the entire district of Manchester, as is evidenced by their immense and widespread trade. They possess every facility for producing tobaccos of the highest possible standard, and turn out many specialities, their blended flakes (Storm Cloud and Tiger’s Head brands), Smoking Mixture, Golden Navy Cut, Golden Bar, Golden Flakes, Black Flakes, in various qualities and every kind of roll, pressed, and cut tobaccos, being greatly praised for their purity and flavour. The eighty hands employed are kept constantly going to supply the orders which pour in from every quarter, and the firm’s travellers have a rich connection all through the north and midland counties.

The manufactory stands on about 380 square yards of ground, and is of a three-storey elevation, together with basement. The latter is used for storing leaf tobacco, cutting, stoving, and preparation rooms. The engine and boilers are also fixed here. The ground floor is devoted to the offices and warehouse and sale-room. On the first floor are located the spinning room, and general works; and the second floor contains the ovens for baking tobacco and the pressing and general finishing room. A visit paid at any time to these splendid works reveals the same uniform activity and evidence of prosperity and good management. The members of the firm give their personal attention to every detail of the business, and are most agreeable and obliging in their manners and dealing.

HULME & LUND, STEAM AND HYDRAULIC ENGINEERS,
POMONA ENGINE WORKS, CORNBROOK, MANCHESTER.

THIS important and widely-known firm of engineers was founded in 1873 at Wilburn Iron Works, Salford, by Mr. Robert Hulme, who was soon afterwards joined by Mr. Edward Lund. Subsequently the firm removed to Egerton Street Iron Works, Chester Road, Manchester; in 1890 they purchased land and built new and commodious works at the present address in Cornbrook, and to these the business has been transferred. Mr. Hulme has had over thirty years, and Mr. Lund some twenty-five years’ practical experience in general steam and hydraulic engineering, and the firm of Hulme & Lund has achieved widespread renown for its numerous patents and valuable productions in such plant and machinery as the following:—automatic long-stroke double-acting horizontal and vertical steam pumps; hydraulic dip pumps; all kinds of vertical donkey pumps, mining pumps to work by steam (simple, compound or condensing), compressed air, endless rope, or horse power, pumps and boilers combined on one bedplate; stationary steam fire-engines for mills; air compressors and vacuum pumps driven by steam or belt, capstan engines and steam-engines in general; independent air-pump condensers, pumps for tar and semi-fluids, bilge and water ballast pumps, special pumps for chemicals; Lund’s patent pulsating pumps for sewage, coal washing, &c., sinking pumps, water-engines, hydraulic rams, and all kinds of steam and water valves.

The Patent Automatic Horizontal and Vertical Direct-acting Steam-Pumps, and Lund’s Patent Pulsating Pumps are leading specialities, and the many merits of these two important patents are proven by a large number of testimonials. The steam pumps of this firm are particularly high-class productions, thoroughly reliable and of great working capacity, and they gained a special silver medal at the Royal Pomona Palace Exhibition, 1874. At their works in Cornbrook (conveniently adjacent to the new Manchester Ship Canal Docks) Messrs. Hulme & Lund possess every facility for meeting the demands of their extensive and influential connection in the home and export markets. The works are splendidly equipped and systematically organised, and all the operations of the industry are supervised by the principals in person.
Telegrams for this firm should be addressed, “Pulsating, Manchester.”

HENRY TETLOW, MILES PLATTING REED, HEALD AND WIRE WORKS,
VARLEY STREET, OLDHAM ROAD, MANCHESTER.

AN industry very closely and influentially associated with the great textile trades of Manchester and the north of England is ably and energetically conducted at the above establishment by Mr. Henry Tetlow, who, during the last twenty-five years, has effected immense improvements in the manufacture of reeds and healds for cotton, woollen, linen, silk, and other fabrics. In this class of machinery, as it formerly existed, Mr. Tetlow detected many faults and flaws which he set himself to remedy; and so great has been his success that his business as a reed and heald maker has now become the largest and most important concern of its kind in the world. His self-acting loop and mail heald machine, and his self-acting reed machine (three hundred dent per minute) embody his most notable improvements, and these are in themselves sufficient to establish the fame of any house. They are now made in very large numbers for the home and export trade, and experience a constantly increasing demand, which is the natural and inevitable outcome of their conspicuous merit.

Besides these valuable machines, however, Mr. Tetlow has identified his name with a number of other celebrated apparatus, among which must be mentioned his patent spacing motion for heald machine, heald brushing machines for varnishing or sizing, wire polishing and rolling machines, dent cutting machines, steam chests for heating pitch or varnish, polished wire or rims (or in coils or cut dents), reed ends, reed ribs, &c. All these productions bear signs of Mr. Tetlow’s improving hand, and his energy and progressive efforts have certainly placed the trade largely in his debt for some of the best appliances now at their disposal. Another highly important branch of Mr. Tetlow’s business consists in the doubling of all kinds of cotton yarn for making healds. This is done with the aid of his own improved machinery, and large quantities of yarn thus doubled is supplied to other heald makers in various parts of the country. Mr. Tetlow’s works in Varley Street are very extensive and are equipped and organised to perfection for all the purposes of the industry to which they are devoted. Every process of this industry and all the operations of the widespread trade resulting therefrom are personally superintended and directed by Mr. Tetlow himself, who is a highly popular man in this busy locality, and who has for some time been the chosen representative of the district in the Manchester Town Council.
Telegrams for this house should be addressed “Esperance, Manchester.” Mr. Tetlow’s telephone is No. 1733.

DANIEL J. FLATTELY, LONGSIGHT BREWERY,
DUCIE STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS well-known brewing business was founded as long ago as the year 1840 by the firm of Messrs. Barber & Co., and in 1868 it was acquired by the present proprietor, Mr. Daniel J. Flattely, who has since conducted it under his own name with conspicuous success. The brewery is a fine one, with a 25-barrel plant, and the extensive and admirably organised buildings contain a full equipment of the best modern machinery and appliances known in the trade. The premises also include spacious yards, stables, and large well-stocked stores, where the beer undergoes that passive but highly important process of “getting into condition”; and here it may be remarked that no beer is ever sent from this establishment until it has got into condition, and perfect condition at that. On this point Mr. Flattely has a strict rule which it never departed from under any circumstances, and herein we can discern one at least of the causes which have contributed to the great and continued success of his business.

The Longsight Brewery in its entirety covers a large area of ground, and in all its features of equipment and working organisation it is likely to favourably impress any visitor. In the matter of its products an equally favourable impression may be anticipated. The porter brewed here is of very superior quality indeed, and is held in the highest esteem by those who know what a really good article of this kind should be. Other beers brewed at the Longsight Brewery also maintain an excellent reputation, and Mr. Flattely is to be congratulated upon the high and uniform standard of merit preserved in all his productions. A very large trade is controlled, and the house enjoys the support of a wide and influential connection.

Mr. Daniel J. Flattely is a very popular local man, and has always manifested a deep interest in the welfare of this district. He is a magistrate, and was County Councillor for Longsight prior to its amalgamation with Manchester. A liberal supporter of deserving charities, and a prominent figure in every movement tending to advance the general interests of the neighbourhood, Mr. Flattely has won and retained the esteem of a widely extended circle of friends, who will join us in wishing him a continuance of the prosperity he enjoys in business life.

BRIERLEY & CO., LIMITED, SHIPPERS,
62 AND 64, CANNON STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was founded upwards of sixty years ago by Mr. W. Crossley, who was succeeded by Mr. H. B. Jackson. This gentleman continued the business up to the year 1861, when the firm became Jackson, Brierley and Briggs, and it was converted into a limited company, as Messrs. Brierley & Co., in the year 1889. This may be justly described as a thoroughly representative Manchester house, its history during the last sixty years having been most intimately associated with the progress and development of the shipping trade of the city. At the above address the company occupy a large and commodious stone and brick building, of five storeys, with a frontage of fully eighty feet and running back a depth of seventy feet. The basement is utilised for packing; on the ground floor is the room for grey cotton goods and making-up room. A spacious and handsome suite of well-appointed offices and counting house, together with sale and pattern rooms, occupy the first floor. The second floor is chiefly devoted to prints and fancy goods, another making-up room is located on the third floor, whilst the remaining rooms are devoted to warehouse purposes.

The various departments are completely stocked with goods of a quality and character admirably suited to the trade, including cottons, woollens, prints, stuffs, dress fabrics, and in fact, all articles known as Manchester goods. These stocks represent the best productions of the leading manufacturers, and are selected with that great care and sound judgment which are acquired only by long practical experience and a thorough knowledge of the requirements of the markets for which they are intended. A staff of warehousemen, packers, and assistants is regularly employed, the trade being of a widespread and steadily-growing character. The company ship goods direct to the principal ports on the West Coast of Africa, the Brazils, Central and South America, and the West Indies. These extensive business relations are well founded on the eminent reputation so long enjoyed, and the high commercial standing of the house. Mr. R. B. Brierley, the managing director, is a gentleman well known and highly esteemed in mercantile circles. The business in every department receives his direct personal supervision, and is conducted throughout with a vigour and energy worthy of the best traditions of Manchester enterprise.

THE PATENT OIL GAS LAMPS CO. (FLOOD’S PATENT, NO. 2372),
226, STRETFORD ROAD, MANCHESTER.

INVENTION has of late years been remarkably busy in respect to lamps, and the public has been necessarily bewildered in its choice when seeking the best attainable article. An invention, however, has recently been perfected which entirely alters these conditions and places before the public generally, a lamp which they will find in every way a real boon, while it combines in itself so many advantages without any of the usual drawbacks to lamps, that those who have tried its capabilities are unanimous in the belief $hat it has only to be known to come into universal use — we allude to the Patent Oil Gas Lamp (Flood’s Patent, No. 2372).

The lamp consists of two compartments, an air chamber and an oil holder. As soon as the lamp is filled with oil it is ready for use; the heat of a match is more than sufficient to light it. The action is as follows — by means of perforations below the oil holder and an air-tube going through the lamp into the air-chamber the light thus receives a permanent supply of air; the air thus admitted acts partly as atmospheric pressure upon the oil through perforations in the air-chamber. Another current of air finds its way into the top of the fitting or burner, which forms a vacuum. The nitrogen and oxygen are thus continually being mixed with the vapour of the oil, producing a brilliant white and harmless gas light at a surprisingly low price. There is no mechanical contrivance or complication about these lamps and the greatest care is taken in their construction so that they cannot possibly get out of order; moreover, the patent Oil Gas Lamps, unlike all others, require no trimming, no replacing of wicks, no chimneys, and they are absolutely safe, inexplosive, smokeless and odourless. In fact, with their latest improvements the combustion is perfect, an achievement that cannot be claimed for any other lamp. They can be carried about or upset with perfect safety and they will stand considerable draught.

At No. 226, Stretford Road, the company occupy a spacious and well-appointed shop and warehouse, well stocked with a large assortment of their Patent Oil Gas Lamps in various forms. A very extensive and rapidly-increasing business is in operation, and among other firms using the company’s hand lamps may be mentioned the Royal Arsenal, Woolwich; the Manchester Ship Canal Co.; the L. & N. W. Ry. Co.; Messrs. Hicks Hargraves & Co., Bolton; Messrs. Platt Bros. & Co., Limited, Oldham; Ley’s Malleable Coasting Co., Limited, Derby, and many similar leading concerns, to which they have given every satisfaction; they are also used and recommended by the medical profession. The works are located at No. 64, Grosvenor Street, Charlton-on-Medlock, and the increasing popularity of the Patent Oil Gas Lamps is well attested by the continual demand upon the resources of this establishment for their production.

In these popular lamps simplicity has been the golden rule observed in their construction, and as all the parts are made in the most durable manner, there, can be no doubt whatever that the Patent Oil Gas Lamps will be preferred to every other kind wherever their many and substantial merits are once really known. It should be the first study of every intending purchaser to find an inexplosive lamp, and such are those of the Patent Oil Gas Lamp Co. (Flood’s Patent No. 2372), and the terrible lamp accident in Liverpool, where three lives were sacrificed, should be a sad but wholesome lesson.

JAMES EVANS & CO.,
BRITANNIA WORKS, CROSS STREET, BLACKFRIARS, MANCHESTER.
Telegraphic address “Ladles, Manchester.”

THIS firm, who commenced business some twenty years ago on a very small scale, have by the exercise of an enterprising spirit and the general excellence of their goods, succeeded in raising themselves to the front rank, and are now doing a very large business both at home and abroad. They manufacture foundry requisites of every description, and the quality of the work, and careful finish of all articles turned out from their premises, has made them so much in request that they have been able to extend their foreign business to America on the one hand, and Australia, China and New Zealand on the other, with the result that they now have an almost universal reputation. Their works, which cover a large area, are liberally fitted with excellent machinery and steam-power; and they purchase their material from the very best producers, being most particular on this point. Although they employ a large number of hands, the extensive resources of their works are taxed to the utmost at the present time with the large number of home and foreign orders they have in. These gentlemen are much to be congratulated on their success, the result of hard work and good management, and must reap their reward in seeing their efforts so highly appreciated as well as in the fact that they bear the goodwill of clients and workmen alike.

WM. HADFIELD BOWERS, MANUFACTURING CHEMIST,
BROOKFIELD CHEMICAL WORKS, WEST GORTON, MANCHESTER.

IT was in the year 1856 that Mr. William Hadfield Bowers entered upon his career of activity by forming the nucleus of his now prosperous concern. Mr. Bowers operates on a very extensive scale as a manufacturer of red liquor, iron liquor, acetic acid, wood acid, charcoal, and kindred commodities, for the use of dyers, calico printers and others, and for each and every one of his products has gained a well-merited renown; but more especially for his acetic acid, for use in the manufacture of white lead, in which he stands practically unrivalled. Mr. Bowers is the inventor and sole patentee of a most useful and ingenious retort for carbonising waste wood. His works, the Brookfield Chemical Works, hard by the monastery of West Gorton, are of great magnitude, and elaborately equipped with a splendid plant of the most modern machinery and appliances, calling into requisition the services of a large staff of skilled hands. Enormous quantities of each preparation are produced to meet the large home and export demands, and the entire business is conducted with rare energy and ability in both its executive and mercantile departments. Personally, Mr. Bowers is a gentleman possessing the advantage of a long and thoroughly sound experience in every branch of his business, and is everywhere esteemed, both in business and social circles, for his well-known integrity, and the deep and beneficial interest he takes as an ex-member of the Gorton Local Board in the promotion of the welfare of the community in which he lives.

S. MOORE & SON, PRINTERS, PUBLISHERS, LITHOGRAPHERS, AND ACCOUNT BOOK MANUFACTURERS, MERCANTILE AND EXPORT STATIONERS,
27, NEW BROWN STREET, AND 62, PORTLAND STREET, MANCHESTER.

FOR considerably over half a century the well-known house of Messrs. S. Moore & Son has held a prominent place in connection with the printing and stationery trades in Manchester. Founded in the year 1837 by a Mr. Hatton (who speedily built up a first-class trade), this notable concern was acquired in 1872 by the present senior principal, Mr. S. Moore, who then became proprietor of the premises and the business in all its branches. Mr. Moore admitted his son into partnership in 1887 thus forming the firm of S. Moore & Son, and under this proprietorship the business continues its successful career. The principal establishment of the house is admirably situated in New Brown Street, and comprises large and well-equipped works (with offices), in a fine six-storey building. This block is very spacious, and has been laid out and arranged upon a most convenient plan, yet we understand that it now hardly affords sufficient accommodation, so largely has the business grown during recent years.

The various workrooms present a scene of great interest and activity, and are all equipped with the best modern machinery and appliances for their several purposes, Messrs. S. Moore & Son having at all times shown unmistakable enterprise in keeping the resources of their works up to a high standard of efficiency. They are now, therefore, in a position to execute first-class work at moderate prices in all branches of letterpress and lithographic printing, account-book making and stationery manufacture, and in these departments they effect an immense annual output for customers both at home and abroad. In account-book making and bookbinding the firm have a leading speciality, and Mr. Moore gained the First-class Prize at the London Exhibition of 1873 for the excellent workmanship and finish of his binding. As regards the printing, lithographing, and engraving departments, we were most favourably impressed with all that we saw therein on the occasion of our visit, and wherever we have met with Messrs. Moore’s work, either in ordinary letterpress or mercantile printing, or in elaborate lithography for artistic or commercial purposes, we have found it to be excellent in every detail of design, execution, and general appearance.

The principals of this house are masters of their trade in all its departments, and have brought their long experience and practical knowledge to bear upon the organisation of their works in such a manner as to develop an establishment which might be taken as a model of its class. With the aid of the most effective machinery and of the most skilful labour a very superior order of work can be produced at such an establishment, and Messrs. S. Moore & Son are careful that the standard shall be fully maintained. Those who remember the beautiful work shown by this firm at the Jubilee Exhibition at Old Trafford will be able to compare the work done to-day by Messrs. Moore, and will not fail to notice that in many instances advancement still continues to be made.

The firm hold vast stocks of mercantile and general stationery of all kinds, besides materials for printing, binding, &c., and they carry on their entire business upon a scale that is not only very large, but also remarkably complete in every requirement. Success has attended this house from the first, and everything points to the fact that it has been honestly and worthily achieved. Especially noteworthy is the consideration shown to the employes, whose health and comfort are carefully studied, and the workpeople manifestly appreciate this, their duties being performed all the more satisfactorily by reason of the good feeling existing between them and their employers. The staff engaged at these works numbers upwards of one hundred and fifty hands.

We have alluded to the fact that Messrs. Moore’s trade is of a most comprehensive nature, including every branch of the printing, lithographing, bookbinding, and stationery industries. Very high finish and excellent general appearance appear as the main characteristics of all Messrs. Moore’s productions, and an immense trade is controlled, extending all over the United Kingdom, and also taking effect in the Continental and Colonial markets. An important branch establishment has been opened at 62, Portland Street, for the convenience of the firm’s many customers in the heart of Manchester, and this is connected with the New Brown Street house by Telephone No. 216, and Mutual No. 861. Either Mr. S. Moore or his son, Mr. Harry Moore, may be seen in person at one or other of the establishments daily. Both are active and painstaking business men, well known and well liked in the city, and fully qualified to-carry on with uninterrupted success the important and representative concern over which they jointly preside.

J. TOBIAS, ARTISTIC CABINET MANUFACTURER AND HOUSE FURNISHER,
130, 132, & 134, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

ONE of Manchester’s most notable and successful high-class furnishing houses is that conducted in Deansgate by Mr. J. Tobias. This large, important, and very select business was founded in 1865 at the above address under its present title and proprietorship, and during the quarter of a century that has elapsed since then it has played a very prominent and creditable part in the trade with which it is associated. The premises occupied in Deansgate are of large extent and very fine appearance, and besides these spacious and elegantly appointed showrooms, with their rich and varied displays of superior cabinet and upholstered furniture of every description, there are commodious workshops in Southgate Street, where the facilities existing for manufacturing operations are of the most complete character, and where employment is given to a large staff of skilled workmen.

Mr. Tobias has developed his business upon the most comprehensive plan, and there is no department of it which is not fully and creditably represented in the Deansgate warehouse. The fact that he supplies every furnishing requisite affords the purchaser a valuable opportunity of seeing the various articles placed together whilst buying — an advantage very rarely obtained elsewhere, and at the same time a saving of at least 25 per cent, (to say nothing of the economy of time and trouble) can generally be effected by furnishing throughout at this establishment, where every article is marked at the lowest price consistent with its real intrinsic worth. The business, moreover, is conducted upon that safest and best of all principles, the “cash system,” the benefits of which are equally shared by the house and its patrons, and estimates are given by Mr. Tobias for the complete furnishing of a house of any size, from six to fifteen or more rooms. By “complete furnishing” we mean the supplying of every requisite for the proper appointment of the different parts of the house, from the suite for the drawing-room to the outfit for the kitchen, and comprising carpets, hardware and ironmongery, fenders and fire-irons, floorcloths, clocks, bronzes and ornaments, cutlery, bedsteads and bedding, pianofortes — in fact everything that is essential to the furnishing of the house in any style upon any scale and richness or expensiveness that may be desired by the purchaser.

Mr. Tobias holds one of the largest and finest stocks of furniture in Manchester, and his showrooms present a magnificent appearance. All goods are sold at the lowest possible prices for cash on or before delivery. We need not stop now to point out to our readers the benefits of the “cash system” here pursued, its advantages will be readily apparent to every judicious or woman who will pay a visit to Mr. Tobias’s establishment and compare his prices with those of the general run of furnishing houses. His idea is to secure the largest possible turnover, and to divide the profits of an immense business with the patrons who have helped him to build it up. He does this by producing the best goods it is possible to obtain by the superior manufacturing resources at his command, and selling them at prices which would be disastrous to a smaller or less perfectly-equipped house. Herein lies the whole secret of this firm’s conspicuous success.

The showrooms and works cover an area of 10,000 square yards, which allows the goods to be well laid out in separate departments, easy of access for inspection, and every article sold is thoroughly examined by competent persons before being sent to the purchaser, thereby ensuring its arrival in perfect condition at its ultimate destination. We may add that Mr. Tobias is also prepared to undertake and carry out in the best style and on moderate terms the furnishing of merchants’, bankers’, assurance, railway, barristers’, solicitors’, and every description of counting-houses and offices, a special department in his establishment being devoted to this class of furniture. To anyone who contemplates the furnishing of a house or office we can cordially and confidently recommend the establishment of Mr. J. Tobias, which enjoys a reputation of more than twenty-five years’ honourable duration, and we also strongly advise a careful perusal of the excellent “Furnishing Guide,” published by this house, from which householders will glean a vast amount of valuable counsel and information as to prices, styles of goods, &c., all of which will tend to lighten their labours in the work of furnishing and at the same time to prevent any excessive lightening of their pockets in the course of the transaction.

A department for the supply of second-hand furniture has been added by this firm within the last few years. In this branch none but furniture of the highest class is kept. Mr. Tobias spares neither trouble nor expense to secure the best specimens, made by some of the most eminent makers in England. Every visitor to this excellent establishment must be very favourably impressed by the display of unique and uncommon specimens of antique oak sideboards, bookcases, hall tables, &c., elegantly designed Chippendale cabinets, writing escritoires, chairs, and various tables; also massive oak, mahogany, and walnut dining-room furniture, amounting in value to some thousands of pounds. Mr. J. Tobias personally conducts all the operations of this extensive business, of which he remains sole proprietor; and all who have had dealings with him will, we are quite sure, be ready to speak favourably of his courtesy, his straightforward methods, and the sound quality and economical prices of his goods.

ARTINGSTALL & HIND, AUCTIONEERS, VALUERS, AND ARBITRATORS,
45, PRINCESS STREET, MANCHESTER.

IT IS an undeniable fact that in every great commercial centre, a most important and responsible duty falls to the lot of the modern auctioneer and valuer to perform, and a notable House in this line in Manchester is that which, organised in the year 1874 under the style and title above designated, is now under the sole proprietary control of Mr. John Hind, a gentleman possessing the advantage of twenty-six years’ experience of the business in all its highest phases. The premises occupied are in every particular of situation and accommodation exactly adapted to the requirements of a brisk and substantial business of the kind. They comprise a splendid suite of spacious sale rooms, with offices adjoining, commodious rooms at the rear, for the storage of goods entrusted to the firm for disposal, and a large basement for sales of stock and horticultural products, the whole being lighted throughout by electricity. The firm operate on an extensive scale as auctioneers of high-class furniture, works of art, antiques, valuable goods, wines, and all kinds of household effects, their name being well-known throughout Lancashire and the Northern counties as disposers to the best advantage of household appointments and general merchandise. The business is under the personal supervision of the principal, assisted by his son, and an efficient staff, and their reputed high characters as business men, added to the principle they have adopted, to care scrupulously for the best interests of their clients, have materially helped to raise them to the high position they hold in the profession.

JOHN BOOTH & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF JEANS, &C.,
BRIDGEWATER BUILDINGS, 18, HIGH STREET, MANCHESTER.

ABOUT the year 1869 Mr. John Booth became a partner in a small firm of manufacturers, at the Walkden Mills, Walkden, Worsley, near Bolton, then the property of Mr. William Walker, and met with such signal success, that having turned the tide of its prosperity, he endeavoured to secure a part of the mill for himself. Unable to do this, however, he retired from the business, and with assistance, in 1877, built the now celebrated Bridgwater Mills, in Sandwich Street, Walkden, near Bolton, and then, in association with his brother, Simeon and Mr. Richard Boardman, commenced operations, trading under the style and title of J. & S. Booth & Co., at the same time opening a small office at 6, Palace Street, Manchester, which in 1880 he removed to 9, Marsden Square, and finally, in 1885, to its present more convenient quarters in High Street. The city premises are principally offices, the bulk of the stock being stored in the mill warehouses near Bolton. These efficient works are provided with one hundred and twelve looms, and all the latest and best preparatory machinery for the production of jeans, grandrills, ticks, florentines, coutills, shirtings and kindred commodities, and call into active requisition the services of a staff of upwards of a hundred operatives, the entire property being taken over in 1883 by Mr. John Booth, assisted in his onerous duties by his two sons, both of whom possess the advantage of a thoroughly sound practical training in every department of technical weaving.

In the year 1890 Mr. Booth, sen., relinquished the more active control of the undertaking, retiring to a villa which he had purchased at Southport, leaving the active management in the able hands of his sons, Mr. W. A. Booth and Mr. F. Handel, both the former gentlemen officiating at the mills, the latter at the Manchester warehouse. In 1891 Mr. Booth very considerably augmented his concern, by purchasing the Walkden Mills and business of Mr. Walker, of Walkden, and 42, Cannon Street, Manchester, this undertaking having been founded in 1860. These extensive mills are furnished with four hundred and forty looms, and preparation room for six hundred and Mr. Booth has, moreover, already built the foundations for doubling the resources of the Bridgwater Mills. Needless to say, the trade controlled is exclusively wholesale amongst warehousemen and shippers.

Personally, Mr. Booth’s whole career has been one of unremitting activity, and by his constant energy, enterprise, and sound principles he has firmly established under his name a business which extends its present operations Over a universal field of action, and enjoys the full confidence of an extensive connection.

HUGO SHAW, THE BESWICK POTTERY,
MANCHESTER.

THE distinction of being at once the oldest pottery in Lancashire and the only one in the Manchester district belongs to the famous Beswick Pottery, conducted under the able and energetic proprietorship of Mr. Hugo Shaw. This notable establishment was founded in quite a small way in the year 1831 by Mr. Robert Edwards, from whose executors it was purchased twenty-five years ago by Mr. Shaw, the present owner. Under his administration the Beswick Pottery has become renowned for certain classes of products in which it stands admittedly unsurpassed, and for all manner of yellow and brown domestic earthenware, seakale pots, rhubarb and flower pots, and colour mugs for calico printers, it enjoys a reputation which is international. The “Beswick yellow glaze” is a leading speciality of the establishment, and this class of ware has been turned out here in enormous quantities. The works are situated between Newton Heath and Bradford, near Phillip’s Park, and in a thoroughfare appropriately named Pottery Row.

In the old days very primitive methods were pursued in the making of Beswick ware, and though excellent results were obtained in the matter of quality, the output could hardly have been overwhelming in quantity. Since Mr. Shaw assumed command here the very best and most effective modern appliances have been brought into requisition with excellent effect. The famous colour mugs for calico printers, with which the name of this pottery is inseparably identified, are now produced at the rate of two hundred and fifty a day by one machine alone; and flower-pots are turned out at about three thousand five hundred a day by another machine, which forms only one item in the outfit of the place. In addition to the several productions already referred to, and for which the house is especially famous, there is always on hand a large and superior stock of fire-bricks and tiles, chimney pots, sanitary pipes, ground fire-clay, and garden edging tiles. The business in its entirety is one of great magnitude and importance, and is conducted with conspicuous ability and judgment under the personal supervision of the sole proprietor. Telegrams should be addressed “Pottery, Manchester,”

Mr. Hugo Shaw is a very prominent figure in the public life of this busy district, and is one of the oldest of Manchester’s civic representatives, having served the ratepayers as councillor and alderman for upwards of twenty years, and he is a magistrate of the city. Besides numerous other social and economical questions Mr. Alderman Shaw takes a deep and practical interest in the subject of popular education, and is at the present time actively associated in a ruling capacity with the work of two large and useful National Schools - those of St. Mark’s, Newton, and St. Philip’s, Bradford Road. Mr. Alderman Shaw is greatly respected by all who have the privilege of knowing him, and in his public, private, and commercial life he has set an example of industry, honesty, and integrity which the young man of to-day would do well to emulate.

JOHN QUILLIAM & CO., MANUFACTURING CHEMIST,
COWBURN STREET, PARK STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS highly important business was established in 1871, and its course has been signalized by a large measure of success. To the esteemed proprietor, Mr. John Quilliam, belongs most of the credit of bringing things to so successful an issue. Possessed of considerable ability, he has turned it to the best possible account, and has won the confidence of a large section of the community with which he is surrounded. The premises are conveniently situate, and are within three minutes’ walk from Victoria station. They consist of a large three-storied building, with spacious offices and warehouse, with workshops at the rear. The business also combines that of Messrs. J. J. Watts & Co., in the adjoining warehouse. Messrs. Watts & Co.’s homoeopathic medicines have a very high reputation, and have an extremely extensive sale. The list of articles includes everything connected with homoeopathy. This valuable wholesale business was recently purchased by Mr. Quilliam, and added to his own.

In his warehouse is a most superior and costly stock of all kinds of drugs and chemicals, all of the best and most pure description. Various chemicals are manufactured on the premises. Both establishments are well fitted throughout with all the necessary appliances for the various processes carried on, and these are of the most recently improved kind. A very heavy stock of homoeopathic medicines is constantly on hand. Quite a large branch of this very useful place is the manufacturing of surgical plaster, the department employing several expert hands. The business is entirely wholesale, and is the sole property of Mr. John Quilliam - trading as John Quilliam & Co. Throughout the whole place there is ample evidence of careful and capable management. All the routine of the various sections is gone through without hesitation. Speaking of long and large experience, the respected proprietor occupies a prominent place in the good wishes of his numerous customers, and is admired for his genial and kindly disposition.

J. HALL & CO., IMPORTERS AND MERCHANTS,
50, SHUDEHILL, MANCHESTER.

THIS widely-known business was established in 1863 by Mr. L. S. Knight, and succeeded to by Messrs. J. Hall & Co., the present proprietors, in 1868. It occupies the whole of 50, Shudehill, and rooms over Nos. 52 & 54. The building is of four floors and basement, and has a frontage of twenty-four by sixty feet. The basement is used for stock-room and packing, the ground floor for show, sale, and stock rooms, and the remaining rooms are stock and show-rooms. The firm have won great fame as importers of French, German, and other foreign merchandise, jewellers’, London, Birmingham and Sheffield warehousemen, &c. They constantly hold an enormous stock of the goods peculiar to the productions of the above manufactories, and the whole present a costly, useful and well bought selection. Toys of all kinds are represented by dolls, games, dissections, puzzles, German, French, and English productions; glass by lustres and vases, jugs, figures, English and foreign flint glass, &c. Hardware and cabinet ware has trays, waiters, coal vases, looking glasses, photo frames, accordions and concertinas, electro-plate tea and coffee services, &c. The handsome stock of jewellery includes gold and silver watches, chains and alberts, gold and silver brooches, lockets, seals, signet rings, ladies’ companions, albums, pipes, combs, hair and cloth brushes, is of a large and varied description, and wonderfully cheap. There is cutlery, clocks, pocket knives, razors, and a well-nigh countless miscellaneous stock of goods of every-day use. The trade is wholesale and for exportation. Travellers cover the home, northern and midland counties. The firm for the energy and enterprise they display are a power in the trade, and command an ever-increasing connection. The house is well known for its upright character, and for the care taken in the execution of all orders.

JAMES BUTTERWORTH’S EXECUTORS, ENGINEERS AND MACHINISTS,
ALBERT IRON WORKS, LOWER KING STREET, AND ALBERT STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE Albert Iron Works are large, commodious, and admirably adapted to the requirements of an industry of this land, and are equipped with a splendid plant of improved machinery, much of which has been designed and made by Mr. Butterworth expressly for the purposes of this trade. The show room attached affords excellent facilities for the display of goods, and here we find an interesting assortment of Mr. Butterworth’s noted manufactures, among which are improved sliding, surfacing and screw-cutting lathes, planing machines, drilling and boring machines, screwing machines, single and double-geared hand turning lathes, slide rests, jaw chucks, and numerous other mechanical appliances of the highest order of merit in design and workmanship. Mr. Butterworth’s productions have been received with great favour by engineers and machinists everywhere, being esteemed for their many valuable improvements, and superior construction. He has been particularly fortunate with a new small-power steam engine, a beautiful little production, neat in design, faultless in finish, and thoroughly self-contained. This admirable speciality embodies a great many new features that make it quite unique, and in matters of economy, convenience, and efficiency it rivals the gas engine, besides being capable of being used where a gas engine should be out of the question. This new engine contains as few parts as is consistent with efficiency, and has great strength and durability throughout. It has been favourably spoken of in the mechanical press, and for small power users we know of no engine that is likely to give greater satisfaction. The excellence of the firm’s manufactures has become a matter of widespread repute, and has brought them into demand both at home and abroad. At the present day the house controls a very large and influential trade, extending all over the United Kingdom, with considerable export to India and other parts of the world. All the affairs of the business are personally administered by the able and experienced manager, Mr. Jos. Howard, to whose skill and energy the concern owes its continued success and the high position it has so long enjoyed in the esteem and confidence of a valuable connection.

THOMAS HUDSON’S EXORS., WHOLESALE WAREHOUSEMEN,
17, 63, AND PORTIONS OF 59, 61, 65, SHUDEHILL, MANCHESTER.

THIS representative concern was organised as long ago as the year 1820, by Mr. John Hudson, at No. 78, Shudehill, on a comparatively small scale, and by him developed with such rapidity that it was in 1874 transferred to the more commodious premises at 61 and 63, Shudehill. In 1876, upon the decease of the founder, the business was continued by his son, Mr. Thomas Hudson, and still further developed for a period of ten years, until his death, since when it has been carried on under able management by his executors at 17, 59, 61, 63. The premises occupied are very extensive, and most methodically arranged to hold and display a vast, varied, and valuable stock of superior wares, of which a tolerably accurate notion may be gathered from the following list of leading lines which represent the different departments: screws, nails, castings, locks, latches, bolts, hinges of all kinds, roofing felt, glue, emery, emery cloth, glass paper, scales, weights, trucks, safes, wringing, mangling, and chaff-cutting machines, skates, buckets, coal-boxes, brass and iron bedsteads, spring mattresses, cutlery, electroplate, japanned goods, coal- vases, trays, baths, oil-stoves (cooking and heating), brushes of all descriptions, woodware, such as dolly-tubs, paste-pins, and chopping-boards, bassinettes, mailcarts, tricycles and bicycles. Tool department, comprising engineers’, millwrights’, electric and joiners’ tools, and warranted tools of every description for all trades. Brassfoundry of all descriptions, cabinet and builders’.

At No. 17, Shudehill there are kitchen ranges and cooking appliances of every description, marble, slate, and enamelled iron mantelpieces, register stoves, mantel shams, tiles of all kinds, chandeliers, lamps and brackets, baths, cylinders, cisterns, and all kinds of plumbers’ fittings, hot-water and rain-water pipes — in fact, every requisite for the building and furnishing ironmongery. This department is under the management of Mr. G. W. Henshall, who has been most successful in its development and extension. Altogether a staff of five travellers and about eighty hands is fully and regularly employed, and nothing could be more commendable than the order and the system which prevail in every part of the premises. Mr. J. W. Hall, the able manager and buyer at the 63 department, who has been with the firm for a period of twenty-five years, has contributed very considerably to the success of the business; his long experience and high abilities have gained the entire confidence of the proprietors, and have been productive of the best results.

FORSYTH BROTHERS, PIANOFORTE, ORGAN, AND MUSIC WAREHOUSE,
122 AND 124, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

FOR upwards of a quarter of a century the well-known house of Messrs. Forsyth Brothers has held a prominent and very creditable position in connection with the trade in music and musical instruments in Manchester. This notable firm occupy spacious and very commodious premises at the above address in Deansgate, where they have a fine four-storey warehouse, the front part of which forms a remarkably handsome pair of double-fronted shops, elegantly appointed, and having spacious and finely fitted show-rooms extending a long distance to the rear. There are additional show-rooms on the first and second floors, and these, altogether, afford the best accommodation for an exceptionally large and comprehensive stock of instruments. Messrs. Forsyth Brothers rarely hold less than four hundred instruments in stock, and their immense assortment includes pianofortes by all the leading makers, “Dominion” organs, harmoniums, and many other musical instruments in modern use, from the violin or the violoncello to the banjo, guitar, or concertina. This firm are the sole agents for the United Kingdom for the “Dominion” organs, and in Manchester for the Bechstein, Becker, and Squire’s pianofortes, all of which instruments have become very famous in the musical world. An enormous stock of sheet music is held, embracing all popular and classical compositions, both vocal and instrumental; and the latest issues are received daily from the London publishers. Messrs. Forsyth Brothers are the keepers of the box offices for the Palace of Varieties; and they contract largely for concerts during the season, including Sir Charles Halle’s concerts and Mr. Barrett’s concerts at the Free Trade Hall and St. James’s Hall, Manchester.

The business in its entirety is one of the best of its kind in Manchester, and the house has an important branch establishment in London (No. 267, Regent Street, W.), which plays a prominent part in the routine of the trade. A large “hire-purchase” business is done, and the most reliable and superior instruments are supplied on the lowest terms with easy and equitable arrangements for payment. All the affairs of this house are conducted with conspicuous ability and sound judgment by the principals, Mr. James Forsyth and his son, Mr. Algernon Forsyth, and his nephew, Mr. James A. Forsyth. These gentlemen retain the title of Forsyth Brothers, and the manner in which they conduct their business in all its departments proves their thoroughly practical experience, and secures the full confidence and continued support of an old, widespread, and most valuable connection.

RICHARD MEREDITH, CIGAR IMPORTER AND BONDER,
39, PICCADILLY, AND 5, LEVER STREET, MANCHESTER.

IT has hitherto been erroneously supposed that that favoured spot, the Vuelta Abajo, or Low Valley, in the neighbourhood of Havana, possessed the only soil on earth capable, in virtue of certain vegetable alkalies, of producing the fragrant weed to perfection. But of late years certain tracts of land in the Mexican States of Vera Cruz and Oaxaca, and on the peninsula of Zehuantepec, have been discovered to possess soil identical with that of the Vuelta Abajo, and a climate in all respects like that of Havana; and best of all, it has been found that the tobacco plant can there be cultivated to yield leaf equal if not superior to the famous Cuban produce, so much so, indeed, that a very large quantity of Mexican tobacco has found its way into the market and been sold as genuine Havana, without any possibility of detection, even at the hands of experts.

In proof of the fame of Mexican tobacco, one need not go any farther than Manchester, to the notable house of Mr. Richard Meredith, 39, Piccadilly, who in 1887 organised his business, with a view to supply the trade exclusively with all the finest brands, qualities, and sizes of both Mexican and Cuban cigars. His premises comprise the usual suites of offices, sample and packing rooms, in which one of the largest and most carefully selected stocks of cigars in the city will be found, comprising all the leading Havana and Mexican brands, to which new brands and sizes are constantly being added, and for which exceptionally favourable quotations, either in bond or duty paid may be obtained. It may be mentioned in this connection, that it was Mr. Meredith who made the “El Destino” cigar such a success, his imports of this cigar being enormous. His great speciality in Mexican cigars, however, is the “Don Ricardo,” which is gradually but surely making headway, and becoming very popular, seeing that the cigars, which smoke every whit as well as first grade Havanas, are available at astonishingly low figures.

Naturally Mr. Meredith’s trade connection is already a very large and rapidly-growing one; in fact, judging from the Manchester Bonding Co.’s monthly statement, he must be the largest direct importer out of London. Mr. Meredith, having had a long acquaintance with Cuba and Mexico, is in direct touch with all the leading manufacturers in these countries. The business in all its branches is conducted upon principles which have won for him the esteem and respect of all those who have come into commercial contact with him.

JAMES LAMB, CABINET AND UPHOLSTERY WAREHOUSE,
16, JOHN DALTON STREET, MANCHESTER.

ONE of the oldest and best-known furniture warehouses in Manchester is that of Mr. James Lamb, whose large and representative business has been in existence upwards of half a century. The premises occupied by this notable concern have a fine situation in John Dalton Street, and comprise a large five-storey block with a handsome frontage of fully one hundred and forty feet. In the centre of this frontage is the main entrance, on each side of which there are two immense plate-glass windows, affording exceptionally good facilities for the attractive display of goods. The ground floor forms one enormous saloon, lofty, well-lighted, and very conveniently-arranged to accommodate the carpet, general furniture, antique furniture, upholstery, wall-paper and decorative departments, each of which is replete with new and attractive goods of the most elegant design and workmanship. The large and well-appointed offices of the firm are at the back of the ground floor, which extends from front to rear, a distance of fully three hundred feet, and has another entrance in Mulberry Street.

We have never seen anything finer in the same line than the stocks of carpets, cabinet furniture, upholstered goods, antique oak furniture, furnishing drapery, and wall decorations exhibited by Mr. James Lamb in his ground-floor show rooms, and the many beauties and interesting features of these high-class goods are reproduced still further in those displayed in the galleries on the upper floors of the premises, reached from the ground floor by a fine staircase. On the first floor the visitor will be particularly impressed by the splendid stock of sideboards and cabinets of the choicest designs, besides suites and single pieces of furniture for drawing dining, and morning rooms, halls, libraries, &c., all characterized by the highest excellence of workmanship and finish. These superb goods are produced in a great variety of beautiful and costly woods, and the upholstered articles are in the richest of fabrics, Genoa silks, and stamped and embroidered velvets being frequently met with. A more magnificent display it would be difficult to imagine, and this first floor affords an illustration of the artistic and general resources of the cabinet makers’ and upholsterers’ trade which must be seen to be properly appreciated. The second floor is similar to the first in the variety of its contents, differing only in degree of quality and price; and the third floor contains a splendid stock of everything requisite for the complete equipment of a bed chamber or dressing room. Exquisite suites are here shown in many new and elegant designs, and there is an immense assortment of brass and iron bedsteads of every kind and size, all of which have been specially made for this firm. On the top floor upholstering is carried on under the most favourable conditions.

The cabinet-making works are located at Knott Mill, and are known as the Cattle Field Works. They are very extensive and splendidly equipped throughout, and possess every facility and convenience for the manufacture of the high-class goods for which this house is noted. Large stocks of the best timber and choicest fancy woods are held, and employment is given to a very numerous staff of workmen of the highest skill and experience. A special feature consists in supplying the celebrated “Angus Desk,” which is certainly the most convenient and useful piece of furniture for a business office that we have ever seen. No business man who appreciates order and comfort in his office should be without one of these splendid desks. The article is a veritable multum in parvo, saving a vast amount of space and trouble, and quickly paying for itself by greatly economising that most costly of all commodities - “worry.” Another speciality of this house is found in house painting and decorating, a very superior and artistic class of work being executed in this department, and Mr. Lamb also employs a number of talented draughtsmen, who produce beautiful designs for cabinet work and for the decoration of public buildings, churches, mansions, and private residences generally. Two medals have been gained by Mr. Lamb, “for excellence of design and workmanship.” - one at the London International Exhibition of 1862, the other at the Paris Exhibition of 1867, also gold medal, Paris, 1878.

The reputation of the house is admirably maintained in all respects by the founder and sole proprietor, Mr. James Lamb, who still takes a most active part in the administration of the business, assisted by several capable managers and a large number of clerks and warehousemen. Mr. Lamb, who is extensively known and greatly respected in Manchester and the North of England generally, started his business half a century ago on the opposite side of John Dalton Street, and the stately premises now occupied were subsequently erected in accordance with his own plans and specifications. They form one of the finest furniture warehouses in Lancashire, and of the concern in its entirety it may truly be said that all its characteristics — its immense trade, widespread connection, eminent reputation — entitle it to prominent mention in a - review of Manchester’s leading commercial and industrial houses.

G. THORNTON, PRACTICAL MANUFACTURER OF DRAWING AND SURVEYING INSTRUMENTS AND MATERIALS, PHOTOGRAPHIC MATERIALS, &C.,
109, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

A LEADING and eminently reputable house in its line in Manchester is that of Mr. A. G. Thornton, of 109, Deansgate, practical manufacturer of drawing and surveying instruments and materials, also photographic materials, &c. Mr. Thornton has been connected with the business for twenty-five years, and commenced operations on his own account in 1878. The founder was a thoroughly practical man, and brought such ability and energy to bear upon the new concern that a good beginning was soon made, and the foundation laid, broad and deep, of what has since become such a powerful factor in this branch of industrial activity. In addition to the home trade a very extensive export business is carried on with all parts of the world. The premises occupied are large and convenient, and consist of a handsome single fronted shop on the ground floor of an extensive block of attractive building, together with show-rooms, warehouses, and workshops at the rear, and additional workshops in the basement. The various departments have been capitally arranged, and are thoroughly equipped with every convenience and contrivance for the effective discharge of the business, the adequate accommodation of the stock, and the comfort of visitors.

The manufacturing premises proper are situate in John Dalton Street, and are ample in size and perfect in their equipment and convenience of arrangement. A large and high-class trade is controlled by the firm in their specialities and the general goods they handle, which include every description of drawing and surveying instruments and materials required by engineers, contractors, architects, shipbuilders, surveyors, corporations, railway companies, and schools. Everything emanating from this noted house is of superior and guaranteed excellence. All articles are of the best material, finish, and workmanship, and embody all the latest discoveries and improvements. Mr. Thornton’s wide and valuable experience in this business gives him great advantages in the selection of his stocks; and all the best productions of every kind will be found included in his comprehensive and splendid collections. As a practical manufacturer he takes a high and well-acknowledged position. The special facilities and advantages possessed by the house enable it to quote prices, in every department of its business, which cannot be surpassed by any other house, even if they can be equalled.

The proprietor’s specialities comprise valuable improvements in nearly every kind of goods handled. These include the following, of which he is the sole maker:— large pen and pencil compasses, superseding half sets; improved needle points to compasses, bows, &c.; twin-nib drawing pen, two pens in one handle; “Premier” surveyor’s level; patent mining dial; patent tension press for copying tracings by photography (no glass): this is a new and much improved apparatus for printing tracings by photography — it is more effective and not half so cumbersome or so costly as the old glazed frames; unique drawing boards for stretching paper on surface without glue or any other adhesive substance; improved levelling staves and poles, improved steel scale spring tape; pocket rules; and quite recently introduced pellucid (transparent) set squares, curves, and protractors. Waterproof liquid colours — black, red, and blue. Also the royal series of English drawing instruments for students in colleges, technical schools, &c., superseding in make, quality, arrangement and price, anything of the kind that has hitherto been sold.

Immense and varied stocks are held by the house, including, in addition to the articles previously mentioned, large and high-class supplies of water-colours and all artists’ materials from the best makers — Rowney, Winsor & Newton, Beeves, &c.; Whatman’s papers, tracing papers and cloths, mounted papers, sketch books, bows, brushes, drainage levels, field books, optical squares, pantographs, photographic colours and all material, planimeters, quantity papers, ship and railway curves, scales of every kind, set squares, sectors, sextants, wheel pens, theodolites, stylo pens, stencil plates, &c., &c. A large staff of skilled hands is kept employed, and repairs of every description are satisfactorily and economically executed.

Mr. Thornton has been appointed contractor to Her Majesty’s Government and to many principal engineering and shipbuilding establishments, corporations, science and art academies, schools, &c. The proprietor is a man of great practical and sterling ability in his liner and his inventions in various branches of his business entitle him to rank among the leading representatives of this department of scientific activity. His personal supervision is given to the business as a whole, and no effort is wanting on his part to maintain the high standard of excellence which has always characterised the productions of this famous house. All his commercial transactions are conducted with strict fairness and integrity, and in private life he is everywhere respected for his personal worth, his active and disinterested public services and his uprightness.
The registered telegraphic address of the house is “Drawing, Manchester.”

WILLIAM BIRCH, JUN., & CO., GENERAL SHIPPERS,
44, PRINCESS STREET, MANCHESTER.

A RECORD of the progress made in Lancashire would be incomplete without some reference to the old-established firm of William Birch, Jun., & Co., who can be placed in the front rank of Manchester shippers trading to the chief Eastern markets. Established early in the present century, they and their predecessors have carried on a large business in piece-goods, yarns, and the like to India, Zanzibar, China, Japan, Penang, and Singapore, and the minor miscellaneous outlets for Manchester productions. The late head of the concern, Mr. William Birch, was one of the best known figures on the Manchester Exchange, and who, whilst taking a keen interest in business, earned for himself considerable respect by his liberality and active work amongst the poor of his native town. The headquarters of the house — originally situate in St. Peter’s Square and Chepstow Street — were in 1889 transferred to its present more central position in Princess Street, where the arrangements for the conduct of the business is most complete. The present members of the firm have adapted themselves thoroughly to the altered conditions of trading, and, dispensing with a cumbrous palatial warehouse and its attendant expenses, have cut themselves out to reduce the laying-down cost of goods abroad to a minimum compatible with efficiency.

COOPER & WHITTAKER, GENERAL IRONFOUNDERS,
74 AND 76, CHAPEL STREET, ANCOATS, MANCHESTER.
Telegraphic address, “Cooper, Ancoats.”

ALTHOUGH established not more than six years, the enterprise and ability with which its affairs have been directed have already brought the above establishment into the forefront of houses engaged in this branch of industrial activity. Year by year the business has increased in volume and value, and repeated enlargements of the premises have been necessitated to keep pace with the continually-growing demands. Operations are conducted in premises covering an area of 105 feet by
120 feet, and commodious offices, storerooms, moulding shops, foundry, furnaces, &c. The various departments have been arranged in the most convenient manner for the expeditious and successful control of the business. They are thoroughly equipped with apparatus, plant and machinery of the latest and best type, and motive power is supplied by a steam engine. An extensive trade is controlled by the firm as general iron-founders, special attention being paid to engineers’ and machinists’ castings, whilst great care is used in the mixtures of metals suitable for turning and boring purposes. The work emanating from this house is well known and highly appreciated in the trade and among local consumers of all classes; only skilled workpeople are employed, and every process of manufacture is carefully supervised by competent and responsible managers. Every article turned out here is the best of its kind that skill and enterprise can produce, and consumers and buyers look upon them as standards of a thoroughly excellent character. A comparison will show that their prices will compare favourably with those asked by similar first-class houses, while the uniform excellence of the work is vouched for by the high reputation the firm have enjoyed during the whole of their career, and the constantly increasing nature of their business. The connection is large and valuable.

A force of about thirty skilled lands is constantly employed, and this is augmented considerably at busy seasons. The machinery and plant are kept in the most perfect state of efficiency, and a spirited and liberal policy is exercised in every department of the concern. Orders of any magnitude receive immediate attention, and estimates and sketches are promptly supplied, while all contracts placed in their hands are sure to be carried to completion in a perfectly satisfactory and honourable manner. Mr. F. S. Cooper, the senior partner, is a thorough master of every branch of the business, and his constant, personal attention is bestowed upon the concern. The house has achieved note for its manufacture of open and high-pressure kiers, tanks, steam-cased pans, steaming boxes, logwood stills, girders, and this class of work generally. These articles are second to none, and never fail to give satisfaction to buyers. By his straightforward methods he retains the esteem and confidence of all who come into business contact with him, and he is eminently deserving of the high measure of success which has attended his energetic and honourable efforts in this important branch of industry.

HENRY KIRBY, PRACTICAL SANITARY PLUMBER,
29, SLOANE STREET, BROOK’S BAR, MANCHESTER.

MR. KIRBY originally established himself in the year 1876, and having quickly raised himself to a position of consideration in the trade, he has since steadily and continuously developed the scope and extent of his operations, with the most highly satisfactory results. He occupies commanding corner premises, situated in an excellent business position opposite the Talbot Hotel, the shop being well fitted and excellently stocked with all kinds of gas and water fittings, and other materials, &c., required for the different branches of the work. Mr. Henry Kirby is a practical sanitary plumber, certified by the City and Guilds of London Institute, and he undertakes plumbing work of every description, testing drains by the smoke test, with patented appliances, and making sanitary inspections, with full descriptive written reports, on very moderate terms. In this seriously important department he has earned a very considerable reputation as a practical man of exceptional capacity and clearness of perception. Mr. Kirby is also an authorised gas and water fitter, and licentiate in sanitary practice to the Manchester Corporation and Moss Side Local authorities. He has a very large and influential connection, and bears an excellent reputation for the first-rate quality of materials and sound and efficient workmanship which distinguish the execution of all orders entrusted to him. Personally Mr. Henry Kirby is an active and energetic business man, who devotes constant and unremitting attention to the supervision of all the details of his business, and he is exceedingly popular and greatly esteemed and respected in the locality.

WATSON AND WOODHEAD, BREWERS,
BOLTON STREET AND IRWELL STREET, SALFORD.

ESTABLISHED nearly a century ago, the well-known house of Messrs. Watson & Woodhead ranks among the oldest and most notable concerns in the brewing trade in Manchester and Salford. It has always been known under the name either of Watson & Woodhead or Woodhead & Watson, and has borne its present title for the past ten years. The active management of the business is in the hands of Mr. Walter Woodhead, great-grandson of the founder of the house, whose sound practical experience in all departments of the industry enables him to maintain the high repute and prosperous condition this concern has so long enjoyed. The premises occupied by the firm are most extensive, and comprise two breweries, the older of which forms a handsome four-storey block of buildings in Bolton Street, its boundaries extending to three other streets in this neighbourhood. Here the firm have a splendid brewing plant in operation, and we were particularly impressed with the evident fact that the place has been kept “up to date” in all practical matters, the machinery and appliances in use being of the best and most improved modern type. The other brewery, situate in Irwell Street, has been in operation since 1878, and was one of the first breweries erected on the “tower system” in this district. The tower is about eighty or ninety feet high, and the whole block presents a handsome and imposing appearance. Internally it is arranged and equipped in the most effective manner, and at both breweries there exist the most complete facilities for the conduct of an exceptionally large trade.

Messrs. Watson & Woodhead brew all kinds of ales and porter, for which they enjoy a very high and well-merited reputation; and their trade is developed chiefly in the supplying of publicans and of their own numerous and valuable houses. The connection thus maintained is a widespread one, extending all over Manchester, Salford, and the smaller towns in this part of Lancashire, and no house stands higher in public confidence. It is one of the few old-established brewing concerns that remain still in the hands of the founder’s family, and its operations are conducted with a very careful regard for the maintenance of the creditable position it has so worthily gained and preserved. Everything about the two breweries of Messrs. Watson & Woodhead is a model of cleanliness, efficiency and good organisation; and the firm deservedly rank among the most respected concerns in the trade in Lancashire, their ales being widely and favourably known for their perfect purity, fine character, and the splendid condition in which they are sent out.

FRED. DUERR, HIGH-CLASS FRUIT PRESERVER,
GUIDE BRIDGE, NEAR MANCHESTER.

IN THE manufacture of preserves no house in Manchester or the vicinity bears a better reputation than that of Mr. Frederick Duerr, of Guide Bridge. After many years of varied and valuable experience in the business, Mr. Duerr erected the works he occupies in 1884. They are admirably situated in a fine open stretch of country, between Manchester and Ashton, and they rank among the most complete works of the kind in the country. The principal building is of ample size, and every part is filled up in a thorough style, with plant and apparatus of the latest and most improved description. A large number of hands are employed. The basement is used mainly as a store-room for prepared “stock,” which is made from fresh fruit when in season. In all, there are about thirty-five thousand capacious jars filled with various kinds of fruit essence, which are kept for consumption in the winter months. Mr. Duerr’s preserves are made by a new and scientific method of fruit preserving, perfected by Mr. Duerr himself, the result of several years of careful observation and experience. He claims by his method that the fruit is thoroughly preserved, and under ordinary conditions will keep good for a greater length of time than by the old method.

The boiling-house is on the first floor, and is a spacious and well-appointed department in which a number of copper preserve pans are in constant use. After each boiling the result is carefully tested, and then forwarded by a species of miniature tram service to the making-up and labelling rooms. Here a score or so of cleanly-dressed girls are busily employed in filling the jars with the required quantity and then labelling them and making them up into parcels. An extensive business is controlled by the firm in the manufacture of its various specialities, and its constantly increasing character is ample evidence that the articles are giving every satisfaction and admirably meeting the requirements and tastes of the people.

Mr. Duerr is well known for his superior skill in selecting fruit of the proper nature, and for sound judgment as to the precise time when the fruit is at its best for preserving. All the fruit is chosen by the proprietor — it is hand-picked and is of the most suitable quality only. Every process is carefully watched and is carried out by experienced persons with the best possible appliances. No jellies are made here, and the whole juice and essence of the fruits are retained in the jams. The manager of the works is a thoroughly capable man with a sound and large experience in every department of the business extending over sixteen years. Mr. Duerr himself is chiefly occupied with the commercial branch of the business and is a prominent member of the Corn Exchange, where his genial presence is well known. He is a thorough master of his craft, and the success of the concern may in no small degree be attributed to his all-round ability and his special knowledge of fruit selection. He is fair and honourable in all his dealings, and enjoys the respect and esteem of all who know him, whether in private life or as the representative of this important branch of industrial activity.
The telegraph address of the house is “Duerr, Droylsden.”

JOHN MCDONOUGH,
HANOVER WORKS, MANCHESTER.

IN the minds of all there is a never-ceasing desire to learn the histories of those who, by the fact of their own intrinsic abilities, have made themselves conspicuous in the branch of industry they have adopted as a career. The life histories of many of these show what can be won by self-reliance and perseverance and the exact management of business in its most insignificant details. John McDonough was born in Manchester in the year 1829. Like most successful men, he commenced life with few material advantages, but was endowed with the more valuable possessions of health, energy, fixity of purpose, and that shrewd acumen and native ability which has advanced him to his present position. From early boyhood he has been connected with the special branch of industry in which he now occupies such a distinguished place. He was only eight years of age when he went to learn the business with the firm of Messrs. Gill & Skevington, of Salford, and when, at Mr. Gill’s death, Mr. Skevington also retired, he determined to commence for himself. It was a brave step, for he was then only sixteen years of age, and it must have necessitated qualities of no mean order to have led him to embark on such an undertaking. He is the architect of his own fortune, the founder of a business, which, though not readily adapted to popular, description, is one of considerable magnitude, and the most representative of its class.

The manufacture of hair seating, otherwise hair cloth, also curled hair and the general preparation of this article for such various purposes as councillor’s wigs and toothbrushes, formed, in the first instance, the scope of Mr. McDonough’s efforts. It may be interesting to state that at present the hair used in the manufacture of hair seating is chiefly got from the tails and manes of horses, and is imported in large quantities from South Russia, America, and Australia. It arrives in a greasy, dirty, and entangled state, mixed frequently with the grossest impurities, and it has to be sorted, purified, and dyed before it can be utilized by the upholsterers. Heavy bales of the hair may be thus seen in Mr. McDonough’s warehouse, for he imports it direct, and has therefore to do so in large quantities.

The first treatment it receives, after being sorted, is in the washing-house, where it is immersed in vats constantly supplied with fresh water, in the centre of which mechanical appliances are arranged to keep the hair in the water continually moving. Other arrangements are provided for feeding the hair into the vats, and for taking it out again, thereby not only diminishing the amount of labour required, but doing away with the danger of accident to any operative engaged in such work. The water, which has its action stimulated by certain efficient additions, is wrung out of the hair as the latter leaves the vat. The dyeing process follows, the hair being spread upon a specially made floor, in order that the hot air may act with more effect upon the moisture. When thoroughly dry, if intended to be made into curled hair, it is again cleaned and teased, and spun into ropes much in the way that ordinary ropes are made. These ropes are then steamed, baked, and packed into bundles, a state in which they require to be kept several weeks, to give the hair that permanent curl and elasticity which is such a necessity for mattress or couch. In addition to these processes, if intended for manipulation into hair cloth, it is also necessary that the hair be dyed and very carefully teased and sorted into bundles.

The weaving department is certainly that which presents the most striking appearance. The looms, which are an American invention, are a marvel of ingenuity, and what is of more importance in the eye of the manufacturer, are as efficient as ingenious. Formerly the old hand-looms took two persons to work one of them, while now, one girl is sufficient to attend eight of these steam-looms, thus doing, thanks to our American cousins, the work of sixteen persons. The work, too, is of very superior quality, and certain looms are kept in constant employment to supply the demands of the Government, who put a high value on the cloth for its good colour and wearing capabilities. We were shown one specially fine piece of seating in process of manufacture, the ultimate destination of which is her Majesty’s yacht.

Another very large department of Mr. McDonough’s business is that connected with the purifying and cleansing processes which feathers and down have to undergo before they can safely be put into bedding or articles of clothing. Small particles of skin and other animal matter, germs, perhaps of disease, and certainly often of insects, such as moths, harbour in the feathers in a way that makes its thorough purification a sine qua non of its value. The use of feathers or down, unless well purified and treated by special apparatus to destroy all germs and to free it from all impurities, is both unpleasant and frequently dangerous, and it is very important where these goods are concerned, that intending purchasers should buy from a responsible house, well supplied with the best apparatus for purifying, and with a reputation of nearly half a century, for turning out reliable goods. As a matter of fact, we believe that Mr. McDonough is the only manufacturer in Lancashire, if not in the north of England, who has the machinery and facilities for thoroughly cleansing and purifying these goods.

Twenty-five years ago a further department was added to this business by the importation from South America of Piassava and Mexican fibre, which are now very largely used by brush makers in the manufacture of their goods; but the fibres have to be sorted, combed, and cut before they can be of any use for this purpose, and in connection with this Mr. McDonough has taken advantage of his evident mechanical genius to invent several special machines which economise labour and improve the quality of the work. This is also noticeable in the hair seating department, where there is a very ingenious labour-saving machine for polishing the cloth after it comes from the loom, and which tedious process had, formerly to Mr. McDonough’s invention, to be done by hand.

Manufacturing feather beds, hair mattresses, down quilts, and all kinds of bedding, it was only natural that the business should move with the popular taste and add still another branch by manufacturing wire and spiral spring mattresses. These goods now form a large and increasing department of this extensive business, and are well known, and in considerable favour with the medical faculty for the excellent construction and good workmanship which is their invariable characteristic. Mr. John McDonough is emphatically a self-made man, and perhaps the most cogent tribute to his business ability is to be found in the large commercial concern we have attempted to describe. Success has come, but not without intense work, steady perseverance, and a manly determination not to allow the little incidents of life to discourage or dishearten him.

WILLIAM BROWN, SOAP AND CHEMICAL MANUFACTURER AND WHOLESALE DRYSALTER,
47, OLDHAM ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS extensive business was founded in the year 1854 upon a comparatively small scale, but the business steadily increasing from year to year, necessitated several successive enlargements of the premises. The works in Oldham Road, as they now stand, are very compact and commodious, being laid out upon a plan which Mr. Brown’s experience has taught him is the best for the purposes of his trade; and the entire establishment is splendidly equipped, possessing a most complete plant of machinery and appliances for the manufacture of various kinds of soaps, chemicals, and drysalters’ specialities for industrial and commercial uses. Mr. William Brown is a large manufacturer of a great variety of chemicals and drysalteries, and his long list of supplies includes articles of as widely diverse natures as black varnish, asbestos packing, petroleum jelly, various kinds of grease, and the usual forms of zinc, these being only a few prominent items in a great array of products for many different purposes.

Mr. Brown is also the inventor and sole maker of a number of important specialities, which are clearly the result of diligent study and long-continued experiment. Among these we may single out for special commendation a carefully prepared paint washer, for improving the colours on old work, wood or iron; an oil and grease killer, for thoroughly cleaning all kinds of locomotive work, sponge cloths, etc.; Brown’s Paint Killer, for effectually removing old paint from wood or iron, no matter how many coats have been applied; white soft soap, free from smell, for cleaning floors, and made from refined oil only; an excellent water softener, for locomotive and stationary boilers and laundry-work; first-class glycerine, old brown Windsor, and marble soaps; silk soaps for silk throwsters, dyers, and silk spinners; soaps for fulling woollen cloths, and scouring roller cloths, printers’ and other blankets, worsted and other yarns; and a new ink-killer or type-cleaner which will prove a great boon to printers, saving time and money, and leaving the type as clean as new. This latter article will kill all colours of ink, and will clean type from hard ink, even if a month old.

Mr. Brown’s specialities enjoy a conspicuous degree of favour, having proved themselves to be thoroughly useful and economical articles, well suited to their several purposes. Consequently a large and important trade is carried on, and this business is in a highly prosperous condition, under the able personal management of the principal, whose practical knowledge of chemistry is very extensive. Besides developing a large and flourishing business, with ramifications extending to all parts of the world, Mr. Brown has devoted much valuable time to the public service, and his work as a Town Councillor and as an Alderman has been greatly and justly appreciated. At the present time Mr. Brown has two able coadjutors in his sons, who, in addition to their business qualifications, are well-known in the best athletic circles. Both are highly popular, and Mr. Harry Brown is quite a noted cricketer, while his brother, Mr. William Alfred Brown, is an expert in the ancient and historic game of bowls.

THE OPENSHAW BREWERY COMPANY, LIMITED,
BROOK STREET, WEST GORTON, MANCHESTER.

THIS extensive and widely known brewery, enjoying an eminent reputation for the excellent quality of its productions in mild and bitter ales and porters, was for many years in private hands. In 1890 it was taken over by the present limited liability company, and under this proprietary its operations have been considerably developed in scope and magnitude. The buildings are three stories in height, and occupy three sides of a large square, with a total frontage of about two hundred and fifty feet. They comprise malt and hop stores, mashing rooms, fermenting and cooling rooms, and all the usual departments of a first-class modern brewery. The plant in operation is a fifty-barrel one, and the appliances and machinery throughout are of the most improved and effective description. There are also large stables and a well-equipped cooperage to the right of the main entrance, while the commodious offices are situated on the left of this gateway. The Company employ an efficient staff, and produce all kinds of mild and bitter ales, as well as a splendid class of porter; and in each of these beers they continue to maintain a remarkably high standard of purity and fine quality. Their output is distributed throughout the Manchester district and over a wide area of the surrounding country, and no beers produced in this neighbourhood enjoy greater favour with the general public. Under the able and energetic management of Mr. James Pollitt (who is also proprietor of the Church Hotel, Ashton Old Road, Openshaw, since 1874) and Mr. George J. Robinson, secretary (who has been closely connected with the establishment since its formation), this Company has made very notable progress since its inauguration nine years ago, and all present indications point to the prospect of its continued success and advancement.

THE EAST LANCASHIRE CHEMICAL COMPANY (MR. B. C. SELLARS, MANAGING DIRECTOR),
FAIRFIELD, MANCHESTER.

IT IS a characteristic of the industrial aspect of Manchester that almost every great manufacturing trade that has been successfully developed by British enterprise finds exemplification here. Though the textile trades of the district still retain their place of pre-eminence, there are now many other local industries which claim special consideration — particularly those which bear some relationship to the textile trades aforesaid. One of these is the manufacture of chemicals of various kinds for the purposes of bleaching, sizing, dyeing, and finishing the many fabrics incidental to the Manchester trade, and in this important line a leading concern is the East Lancashire Chemical Company, whose extensive works are at Fairfield, and whose city offices are at 43, Market Street, which are connected with their works by private telephone wire. They are also in communication with the National Telephone Company’s Exchange, by which means they are enabled to speak with subscribers in most of the principal towns in Great Britain.

This large and representative business was founded about half a century ago, and has steadily developed from the first, until, at the present time, it stands among the principal exponents of its special branch of industry in Lancashire. Under the direction of Mr. Barratt C. Sellars, who personally administers the business in all its operations, the home and foreign connections of the house have been so greatly expanded during recent years, and the trade in general has increased to such an extent that an enlargement of the manufacturing departments became imperatively necessary. In meeting this requirement the Company have been very fortunate, inasmuch as they have secured a valuable plot of land upon the canal bank at Fairfield, and in close proximity to the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway line. Upon this conveniently situated property, containing no less than eleven thousand square yards, entirely new works have been erected upon a plan sanctioned by the long practical experience of the firm, and these works have now been brought into full operation, the enlarged plant and greatly improved facilities enabling the Company to execute all orders with a promptitude and despatch that indicate the complete and effective manner in which the new establishment has been organised.

We need hardly insist upon the fact that the works have been provided with the best modern machinery known in the trade. The heavy demands of the business make it indispensable that all the manufacturing resources should be of the most ample and efficient character, and each department now possesses an equipment which is in every respect adequate for the performance of its special part in the industry carried on. We had an opportunity of viewing these works some time ago, and were very pleased with our visit. In addition to the manufacture of chemicals, this firm has on the ground a large mechanics’ shop in which they make and repair a great portion of their own machinery. The cooperage also, in which they make the casks for packing their products, is a fine building fitted up with circular and band saws, in fact every convenience for the cheap production of casks. The smithy, too, was not forgotten, in which we saw some of the firm’s valuable horses being shod. Employment is given to a numerous staff of hands, who work under thoroughly satisfactory military and general conditions.

The company manufacture chemical reparations required by bleachers, sizers, finishers, and dyers under Her Majesty’s royal letters patent, as well as specialities for calico printers and cotton and woollen goods manufacturers. In all these productions a high standard of quality is carefully maintained, and the East Lancashire Chemical Company’s goods are widely and favourably known throughout the trade. They are guaranteed pure and free from injurious ingredients, and are especially esteemed for their uniformity of excellence. The registered trade mark is a compass, as shown. As may be readily understood, the large scale upon which this Company’s operations are conducted enables the various specialities to be produced at a minimum outlay, and the Company’s price list consequently offers special inducements to buyers of chemicals who appreciate a really first-class and reliable article at a moderate cost. Stocks are held to meet urgent orders, and under Mr. Sellars’ watchful supervision the routine work of the business is kept well “up to date,” leaving customers no ground for complaint on the score of delay or inattention.

A well-conducted business is always a subject for admiration, and we cannot refrain from complimenting Mr. Sellars upon the excellent results of his managing directorship in the case of the concern under notice. Personal attention to every detail of the business is undoubtedly the secret of success here as elsewhere, and Mr. Sellars’ active energy and enterprise seem to have awakened in all the members of the Company’s staff a spirit of careful industry that operates greatly to the advantage of the house and of its clientele. An immense and still increasing trade is controlled, and the Company's connections extend to almost every market in which there is a demand for the class of chemicals they produce.
Telegrams should be addressed “Chimiques, Manchester,” and the Company’s telephone is No. 554.

WILLIAM WHITTAM & CO., STEEL RULE MAKERS,
188, CHAPEL STREET, SALFORD, MANCHESTER.

MR. WILLIAM WHITTAM entered upon his distinguished career of industry in the year 1860 at 25, Islington Street, Salford, where so vigorously did he develop his business that he found it necessary ten years ago to remove to the present more convenient and commodious quarters. The premises occupied consist of a capitally-appointed shop and show-room on the ground floor, holding a very full stock of specimens of some of Mr. Whittam’s more minute work, such as sectors for the gauging and cutting of worms and teeth, slide gauges, and pitchometers for exportation. The commodious workrooms located on the first floor are replete with all the most modern and improved machinery for planing, cutting, and accurately marking steel; and here a full staff of skilled workmen is constantly engaged in producing the superior goods for which the firm has become so justly famous, and which include all kinds of steel rules, accurately marked and superbly finished in every detail; engineers’ mechanical and mathematical tools, centre T and L squares, compasses, callipers, and spring dividers; slide gauges with or without vernier, divided into any measurement that may be required; moulders’ tools of every description, spirit levels, letters, figures, and name stamps, brands and stencil plates, wood and ivory rules, and so forth. The firm, moreover, make a speciality of engraving names, inscriptions, monograms, crests, mottoes, &c., on gold and silver plate, jewellery and ivory. Door and window plates, &c., in brass, zinc, and copper; also coffin plates.

Every kind of steel and other metal scales for drawing, contraction, and standard measuring purposes; squares, indices, &c., are made and marked with English or any foreign measurements, or broken number, or to sketches supplied, worked out and corrected if desired, with a fidelity which cannot be surpassed. It may be mentioned in this connection that Messrs. Whittam’s steel rules and standards are in use at all the principal engineering and mechanical establishments and Government yards both at home and abroad, and they have received extensive English and foreign patronage for special measuring and gauging instruments. Personally, Mr. Whittam’s whole career has been one of unremitting activity; and by his constant energy, enterprise, and sound principles he has firmly established a business which extends its present operations over a universal field of action, and enjoys the full confidence of a world-wide connection.

A & J. MCKENNA, BREWERS,
HARPURHEY, MANCHESTER.

THE Harpurhey Brewery, as this fine establishment is called, was erected in the year 1868 at great expense, the object of the proprietors being to exemplify the various processes of the brewing industry upon the most improved and scientific principles. Under the direct control of its founders, Messrs. Bernard and John McKenna, the brewery has had a very prosperous career from the first, and though Mr. John McKenna died about twelve months ago, the business continues under the very able administration of Mr. Bernard McKenna, the surviving partner. This gentleman has had great experience in the trade, and his long-continued enterprise and capable management have very largely influenced the progress and development of the concern, and made it notable among its contemporaries in the Lancashire brewing trade.

At the present time the firm under notice owns a large number of valuable and important public-house properties in Manchester and elsewhere, and the success of these establishments amply attests the popularity of the beers produced. Besides the splendidly-equipped and admirably-organised brewery itself — which is of fine proportions and forms an architectural ornament to Harpurhey — there is a large wine and spirit department of two storeys with spacious cellars, and here the firm hold immense stocks of choice wines and spirits, the former imported direct from the growers, and the latter obtained from the best distilleries in England, Scotland and Ireland. With the obvious exception of sparkling wines, all liquors (including spirits) are bottled on the premises, and the blending of whiskies is also carried out hereunder the most careful supervision.

Messrs. McKenna’s ales and stouts have a great reputation throughout Lancashire and the northern counties generally, and are always in large demand. They are produced from the best malt and hops only, all the processes of brewing being conducted under the most favourable conditions, and, as a consequence, these ales and stouts are of the very finest possible quality. Altogether, a splendid business is done by this old-established and well-known firm, who have always kept perfect faith with the public, and who continue to retain the respect and confidence of a large and influential connection. Both departments of the business are conducted with conspicuous ability and judicious enterprise, and both are marked by substantial success and steady increase from year to year.

ABRAHAM ASHWORTH, FURNITURE MANUFACTURER,
95, BRIDGE STREET, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

THE proprietor of this enterprising business has had a long, valuable, and practical acquaintance with the trade, having been for twenty-two years in an important and responsible position with the late firm of Messrs. Henry Odgen & Son. On their retirement, in 1882, Mr. Ashworth commenced to trade on his own account, and by his matured experience, energy, and tact he managed to establish himself as one of the first furnishing houses in Manchester. Business is conducted in an attractive, substantial and commodious block of buildings, possessing every accommodation and convenience for an extensive and high-class trade of this description. The premises comprise a capacious and splendid show-room on the ground floor, with fine plate-glass windows, extending in length from floor to ceiling and in which at the present time is exhibited, as a specimen of the firm’s exquisite workmanship, a dainty suite of bed-room furniture in enamelled white wood, with artistic brass bedsteads having tapestry hangings.

A wide staircase leads into the basement, which is lofty and perfectly lighted; the front portion is occupied by the drapery cutter and for making curtains and hangings, and at the rear is a superb show-room of colossal proportions — thirty-seven feet by forty-five feet in extent — and supported on iron pillars (which have, recently been added). This is probably the largest apartment of the kind in the district, and it holds a number of bedroom, dining and drawing-room suites of furniture in complete array, and an almost innumerable quantity of single articles as well. Farther rearward are the store-rooms and goods receiving and dispatching rooms, and the upper floors of the building are utilised as workshops for the upholsterers, upholsteresses, polishers, cabinet fitters, carpet planners, and bedding department. The vast interior has been thoroughly well arranged and is perfectly fitted for convenience for facilitating the despatch of business. For amplitude of accommodation and absolute convenience of arrangement for display and sale, this establishment is pre-eminently noteworthy, and the judgment, taste, and organising ability of the proprietor cannot be too highly commended. An extensive and valuable business is here conducted in the manufacture of furniture of every description. As standards of excellence the firm’s productions are everywhere recognised by the best class of dealers and the more influential private buyers. In material, workmanship, elegance and novelty of design, and general finish he has few equals and no superiors; while in matters of price the proprietor is so situated, owing to his practical knowledge and premises at a moderate rent, as to be able to offer inducements which cannot fail to draw patrons.

Among the many notable articles manufactured by the firm special mention must be made of a novelty in the shape of a writing desk invented by Mr. Ashworth. It is no less handsome in appearance than ingenious in its usefulness. Its speciality is that, in locking the centre drawer all the other drawers become locked as well, also locking folding fall that encloses top part, and it is so contrived that it is impossible for any drawer to be left unintentionally open. There is also a patent fan-shaped ledge attached to each end of the desk, which revolves automatically, and serves very conveniently to rest books and letters on whilst in use. The desk is made in various woods and is an exceedingly useful article and highly serviceable for presentation. A large and influential business is done in Manchester and the suburbs among the principal families, hotels, and public institutions. Mr. Ashworth is thorough master of his business, and every effort is used by him to give entire satisfaction to his customers. His commercial transactions are all marked by strict fairness and honesty, and in private life he is much respected for his ability, public spirit, and many sterling qualities.

HODDER & BULLOCK, MACHINISTS AND ENGINEERS,
BROUGHTON BRIDGE IRON WORKS, 1, ST. SIMON’S STREET, SALFORD, MANCHESTER.

ALTHOUGH this firm was established so lately as 1888, it has at its head two gentlemen of wide experience and rare mechanical skill, whose research has given to the world an invention which is bound to make the names of Hodder and Bullock famous. This useful invention is Hodder and Swain’s Patent Coir Yarn Mat Loom, the first machine of its kind that has been made. The great advantage given by this machine is that it saves the labour of twenty hands. It has eighteen different motions, and works with marvellous perfection. Far-seeing and enterprising men from all parts have offered immense sums of money for the right of using the invention, but the owners are refusing every one, as they intend keeping the right exclusively to themselves. A very large sum is expected for the patent right on the Continent, also for America and other parts. J Messrs. Hodder & Bullock have spent a great deal of study and money in perfecting and making their patent, but their reward is sure, and the return is bound to be great. The business is at present chiefly confined to the home trade, but the spirited proprietors are expecting to open out a trade with the Continent and other parts of the world very shortly. They are also makers of wire machinery cables, twisting wire-for wire cloth, machines for wire netting, mat binding machines, &c., &c. The works are of two floors, and are fitted with steam power and an expensive plant of machinery. The whole place bears evidence of skilful management, everything moving like clockwork. Between twenty and thirty selected workmen are employed. The respected proprietors are on the high road to prosperity. They are bound to succeed, and richly do they deserve all the honour which will be bestowed on them.

RENSHAW & CARDWELL, BREWERS,
JUNCTION STREET, HULME, MANCHESTER.

IN point of antiquity the brewing of ale and beer ranks with the oldest and most important of our national industries; yet, nevertheless, the strides that have been made in modern times in the direction of perfected processes and mechanical aids to the swift production of superior liquors are simply marvellous. In illustration of this, no better example, perhaps, could be afforded than the one which furnishes the theme of the present review. It was about forty-two years ago that this house was founded by Messrs. Hargreaves Bros., and the business was carried on by them on a comparatively small scale until the year 1876, when Messrs. Renshaw & Cardwell, two gentlemen of recognised ability in the brewing world, acquired the concern, infused new life into it, rebuilt the premises, fitted them throughout with a magnificent modern plant, and gave the old business such a decided impetus that it soon took a leading place among the industrial hives of Hulme. On the death of Mr. Renshaw some ten years ago, Mr. Cardwell became the sole proprietor, but he still carries on the business under the old style of the firm.

The brewery as it now stands is fitted with a forty-quarter plant, and calls into active requisition the services of a staff of fifty well-trained hands. It is self-contained, and derives a supply of excellent water from a splendid well situated upon the premises. All kinds of ales, porters, and stouts are produced, and their distinctive characters are such as to have led to a very large and constantly increasing demand amongst the working public and private families of the district. The distribution of these wholesome and palatable liquors is, to a large extent, effected through the agency; of “tied” houses, of which the firm hold a goodly number, and a very large free trade has also resulted in virtue of the uniformly sound quality of the brews. Mr. Cardwell occupies a prominent and influential position in social and mercantile circles, and in this connection it may be mentioned that he is also a valued member of the Municipal Council of the city of Manchester, having been elected unopposed in the year 1890. The business tells its own story of honourable principles faithfully observed; and its history, under the present regime, is a record of success achieved that is creditable alike to the principal of the house and to the true dignity of national trade.

LEWIS S. KNIGHT, WHOLESALE JEWELLER, LONDON, BIRMINGHAM, AND SHEFFIELD WAREHOUSEMAN, IMPORTER OF GLASS, CHINA, TOYS, AND GENERAL FANCY GOODS,
38, OAK STREET, SHUDEHILL MARKET, MANCHESTER.

THE proprietor of this, the largest, most reliable, and eminently reputable house in its line in Manchester, was born at Halstead, in Essex, where he learned the business of watch-making. He removed to Lancashire soon after he had come out of his time, and almost immediately started in business for himself. In 1851 he was established at a small shop in Oldham Street, and his establishment was at the time reckoned the second house in the trade in the north of England. He removed afterwards to 98, Shudehill, and later on to much larger premises on the opposite side of the road. Subsequently he disposed of his business and retired into private life, but not finding private life altogether to his satisfaction, he soon began business again, this time in the Bull Ring at Birmingham; and finding that his principal trade was being done with Manchester, he decided to remove there, and so took a portion of the premises he now occupies. These have been from time to time altered and enlarged to meet the ever-increasing nature of the business, until, at the present time, they cover an area of about seven hundred square yards, and are bounded by Oak Street, Scholes Street, and Foundry Lane, with main entrance in Oak Street and goods entrance in Scholes Street.

The various departments have been admirably arranged, and the whole establishment is fitted up with every necessary convenience for the expeditious and successful control of a business of this diversity and magnitude. The basement is occupied, as a packing room, and the show and sale rooms are on the ground floor, with offices at the back; the principal, general, and private offices are on the first floor. There are in all some twelve separate departments, each containing goods enough to stock a first-class shop. The jewellery, watches, clocks, electro-plated goods, and cutlery are on the ground floor, and include gold, silver, aluminium, Swiss, and English watches in immense variety, every kind of costly and novel jewellery, tea services, liqueur frames, table and dessert knives, &c. The tobacconists’ sundries and leather goods are also on the ground floor. On the first floor is a magnificent collection of high-class Bohemian and flint-glass and china and-Parisian goods. The second floor is occupied with hardware of every description and papier-mache and japanned goods, and, on the other floor, which is known as the dolls’ room, is an immense collection of dolls and toys, such as can be hardly matched in any other establishment in the country.

Mr. Knight is thoroughly conversant with his business in all its numerous ramifications, and his selections have been made with a consummate knowledge of the buyers and the public generally. The house is an eminently representative one, and the proprietor is looked upon as the best buyer and salesman in Manchester in this department of industry. In his management he is ably seconded by Mr. A. Davies, the cashier, who has been in his employ for more than twenty-one years. Mr. Knight occupies a good commercial status, and commands the respect and esteem of all who come into business connection with him. He is a member of the Society of Friends, and is well known and highly respected for his public usefulness and benevolence.

FRANK PEARN & CO., PATENTEES AND ENGINEERS,
WEST GORTON, MANCHESTER.

NO city in the United Kingdom possesses such extensive and capable engineering establishments as Manchester, and foremost among these stands the house of Messrs. Frank Pearn & Co., of West Gorton, the eminent pumping machinery manufacturers. The house has taken the lead in this important branch of industry ever since its foundation in 1870, at which date operations on a large scale were commenced by Mr. Frank Pearn. Mr. Sinclair Pearn and Mr. Thomas Addyman subsequently joined the firm, and under their able and energetic control the establishment has enjoyed a career of notable prosperity and success. The works are ample in their spaciousness. The equipment is the outcome of the firm’s long experience and progressive policy, and embraces the best and most improved appliances, and machinery, drilling, slotting, planing, boring and turning, &c, &c. – in fact everything that a thorough knowledge of the trade could suggest or money supply.

An extensive and well-appointed suite of offices is on the ground floor, including private offices for each of the partners, drawing and engineering offices, and general offices with accommodation for a large staff of clerks. Every department is kept in a state of perfect efficiency, and an admirable system of discipline is maintained among the workmen, whose comfort and welfare are specially looked after by worthy proprietors. A large and high-class trade is here controlled in the manufacture of the firm’s specialities and patents. Their productions have obtained a world-wide reputation, and are unsurpassed in their efficiency, durability, and perfect finish. The high position these goods have held for so many years among the best judges is evidence of the intrinsic merits they possess, and the constantly increasing demands for them in every quarter show they still defy successful rivalry.

In the manufacture of hydraulic and pumping machinery the house has no equals. Among their great specialities, we can only find room to mention a few of the most important:— The “Manchester” air compressor or vacuum pump, which has many advantages over anything of the kind yet introduced, and is in extensive demand in chemical works, breweries, &c.; the Manchester donkey or wall pump, single and double acting; “patent” double acting pumps: these are made in over a hundred sizes, and in price and capability will compare favourably with pumps without flywheels. There are numerous others equally important and serviceable, to which we cannot refer, but special mention should be made of the “Manchester” pumping engine, which for its simplicity in construction and accessibility to all the working parts has gained a high reputation in the largest iron and steel works, collieries, chemical works, breweries, mills, and everywhere where machinery of this description is wanted. The firm are also manufacturers of Pearn’s vertical engine. Their celebrated compound and horizontal pumping engines have been supplied to many well-known firms, among which are the following: The Bridgewater Trustees, Worsley; the Dowlais Iron Co., Dowlais; the Dukinfield Colliery Co., Dukinfield; the Ebbw Yale Steel, Iron, and Coal Company, Limited; Messrs. A. Guinness, Son & Co., Dublin; Hitchin Local Board Waterworks, Hitchin; Messrs. Walkers, Parker, & Co., London; Messrs. Wilcock & Co., Burmantofts, Leeds.

From the superiority of its manufacture and honourable methods of doing business, the house has acquired a connection of great value in every part of the United Kingdom, and an extensive shipping trade is controlled with Russia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, South America, the Cape, India, and all the British Colonies. Prize medals have been obtained at Sydney, Adelaide, and Philadelphia Exhibitions. A force of two hundred skilled hands is kept constantly employed in meeting the demands, the whole of the business being carried on under the active supervision of all the partners, who are gentlemen of exceptional ability in their line, and occupy a high position in business and commercial circles. They are respected by all who come into contact with them, whether as the representatives of this important industry or as prominent citizens.
The telegraphic address of the firm is “Pumps,” Manchester. Telephone 1021.

S. S. STOTT & CO., ENGINEERS AND IRONFOUNDERS,
LANESIDE FOUNDRY, HASLINGDEN, MANCHESTER.

THIS eminent firm of engineers and ironfounders was founded in the year 1866 by Mr. S. S. Stott and Mr. Richard Birtwistle. The latter gentleman is now sole proprietor of the concern, Mr. Stott having died in the year 1889. The Laneside Works and foundry cover a large area, and are very substantially built and commodiously laid out. They comprise (1) the large iron foundry, with two cupolas and two powerful travelling cranes; also patent wheel-moulding machinery and other moulding appliances, and a brass foundry adjoining; (2) several spacious and convenient turning and fitting shops, equipped with very superior modern machinery; (3) two very large erecting shops, with travelling cranes for hand and power; (4) two large pattern-making shops, with the necessary drawing offices in close proximity; (5) a large joiners’ shop, provided with saws, planing machines, and much other woodworking machinery of a labour-saving type; (6) a large and well-designed smiths’ shop, with powerful steam hammer and other modern tools. The whole establishment, which employs a large number of hands, and is splendidly organised throughout, reflects the highest credit upon Mr. Birtwistle.

Messrs. S. S. Stott & Co. are very large manufacturers of all kinds of engineers’ iron and brass work, machinery castings, and millwrights’ work, and the following are some of their principal productions:— steam engines of all kinds, double-cylinder, horizontal, pumping, and winding engines, air compressors for collieries, metallic pistons and air pump buckets of an improved type, hydraulic presses and pumps, horizontal and vertical three-throw pumps, steam and water valves of various descriptions, waterwheels, turbines, centrifugal pumps, fulling-mill machinery, ore-crushing machines, cast and wrought iron roofs, cranes and hoists, gas apparatus of all kinds, every description of millwright work, machine-made wheels, machinery for boring cylinders and air pumps in their places, calenders, mangles, squeezers, drying cylinders, &c., &c. Among the firm’s specialities we note patent portable grain elevators, special elevators for unloading bulk grain from ships, steamers, barges, floats, &c., patent floating elevators, elevators of the most improved construction for corn mills, oil mills, granaries, gas works, sugar works, &c., &c.; patent seamless elevator buckets, constructed on scientific principles in a great variety of designs and sizes, and many other requisites of a kindred nature for the equipment of mills and works of various kinds. For all these productions Messrs. S. S. Stott & Co. have long been famous, and have gained a great reputation for valuable improvements. The business in its entirety is one of the largest of its kind in this district, and is administered with marked ability and enterprise by Mr. Birtwistle, who is a thorough master of the industry in all its details. A most extensive home and export trade is controlled, and the house stands high in the esteem and confidence of a connection which may justly be termed international.
The firm’s telegraphic address is “Elevator, Haslingden.”

J. H. HUTT, WHOLESALE AND EXPORT CLOTHIER (SHIPPERS SUPPLIED),
ASHTON NEW ROAD, BRADFORD, MANCHESTER.

THE reviewer of the trades and industries of Manchester is constantly being brought into contact with very remarkable instances of rapid business advancement, in connection with which the special abilities and energies of some member of this great city’s commercial fraternity are strikingly manifested. It would be difficult to name a business that has more fully exemplified this local peculiarity than that of Mr. John Hutt, the well-known manufacturing clothier, of Ashton New Road, Bradford, and Ashton-under-Lyne, Oldham, and Rochdale. One can hardly realise that this great concern, with its widespread ramifications, its many employes, and its large and busy factories and warehouses is all the result of fifteen years’ work on the part of its sole proprietor; yet such is the case.

It was in the year 1876 that Mr. John Hutt, the sole principal of this business, commenced his operations in the clothing trade; and as an encouragement to those whose chief capital is energy and a willingness to work, we may say that Mr. Hutt started with about £100 in cash, and had his first headquarters in a shop for which he paid 7s. 6d. per week in rent. The secret of all that he has accomplished since then may be summed up in the one word, Work. The spirit of industry and the ability to make good use of every offered opportunity have been his, and he has employed them to such purpose that he now controls one of the largest and most successful wholesale clothing trades in the Manchester district. His chief establishment in Ashton New Road stands upon a site about one hundred yards higher up, and comprises a fine three-storey brick building, the internal arrangement of which is as follows:- Ground floor, ready-made clothing, order department, general outfitting; first floor, juvenile department, ladies’ mantles and jackets, dresses, furs, ulsters, boots, hats; second floor and basement used as supplementary stock-rooms. Each, of the above-named departments contains a most complete and varied assortment of goods in its particular line, all being the produce of Mr. Hutt’s own admirably-equipped factories; and these productions are in every case characterised by a very high standard of quality in material, workmanship, and finish, as well as by conspicuous merit in design. The newest fashions are faithfully exemplified; and whether it be in gentlemen's, ladies’, or juvenile garments, Mr. Hutt is uniformly successful in meeting the requirements of the day.

About a year ago Mr. Hutt increased his resources of production by erecting a large new factory at the rear of his establishment in Ashton New Road. This factory, which has been planned and constructed upon the very best modern principles as regards sanitation and general convenience, affords very superior accommodation for the two hundred and fifty workpeople and one hundred and sixty-five sewing machines now kept busy by Mr. Hutt’s large and growing trade; and every process of clothing manufacture is here carried out under conditions ensuring the most satisfactory results. Dining-rooms, lavatories, and cloak-rooms are among the many conveniences of this fine factory, and Mr. Hutt’s employes are certainly to be congratulated upon being in the service of so considerate a master. The vast output of these works not only supplies the shop in Ashton New Road, but also replenishes Mr. Hutt’s very successful branches at The Avenue, Ashton-under- Lyne, 61, Manchester Street, Oldham, 5, Oldham Road, Rochdale, 46, Market Street, Hyde, and 79, Bridge Street, Warrington. Altogether a stock valued at upwards of £30,000 is now constantly on hand to meet the demands of a connection which extends all over the country for many miles round Manchester. Uniforms are a speciality, and Mr. Hutt contracts largely for the supplying of volunteer corps, institutions, &c. His goods enjoy a splendid reputation, and are held in high confidence by the general public.

Mr. Hutt is distinctly a self-made man, and has every reason to be proud of the success he has achieved by his own unaided and unremitting efforts. His capacity for work is immense, and he is always to be found at his post in the warehouse or the factory, except during such time as he snatches from business to devote to public affairs. Mr. Hutt looks after the interests of the people of Bradford, Beswick, and Clayton in a most assiduous manner, and he has represented the ward of Bradford in the Manchester City Council continuously since 1885. Few employers are more popular among their workpeople, and none set a better example of industry, punctuality, and straightforward principle to those around them. Mr. John Hutt is essentially a “man of the times,” and from what he has thus far accomplished it is safe to draw the conclusion that he has not yet by "any means reached the limit of his advancement either in commercial or in civic life. In addition to the immense home trade, shippers are supplied on the most reasonable terms.

WILLIAM MASON & CO., WHOLESALE UMBRELLA AND SUNSHADE MANUFACTURERS (FOR HOME AND EXPORT),
19, FRIDAY STREET, AND 69, NEWTON STREET, PICCADILLY, MANCHESTER.

HE is said to have been a brave man who first ate an oyster, and while we do not for a moment gainsay the assertion, we are inclined to claim an equal share of credit for the man who first carried an umbrella in public. It must have needed a stout heart and sturdy independence to withstand the gibes and jeers of the irrepressible street urchins, backed by the more serious hostility of the hackney coachmen and Sedan chairmen, who foresaw in this new method of defying the elements a large diminution in their trade. Men have faced death on the battlefield who would not dare to exploit a new fashion or lead the way with a new and extraordinary custom; and if worthy Jonas Hanway really did (as many believe) first carry an umbrella in the streets of London, he is assuredly entitled to all the renown that such a hazardous achievement can bestow upon his name. The “whirligig of Time” has wrought changes in this as in other matters, and nowadays he is the man of courage (and of foolhardiness forsooth) who dares to go far without an umbrella in the marvellous climatic conditions under which our land exists at the present day. To the man and the woman of the modern age, the umbrella (and with it its dainty offspring, the sunshade) is as indispensable as any established article of personal attire, and as umbrellas and sunshades have undoubtedly “come to stay,” it follows that those who engage extensively in their manufacture hold a very important place in the industrial community, and exercise no small influence in the social world besides. As an example in point we may mention the well-known Manchester house of Messrs. William Mason & Co.

No firm of umbrella and sunshade manufacturers is more widely or more favourably known, and none has gained more honourable renown by its efforts to make the umbrella of to-day a vast improvement upon its ungainly prototype of a hundred years ago. This house, although founded as recently as the year 1887 by its present esteemed principal, has made wonderful advance strides since then, and has established itself among the leaders of the trade in Manchester. Its progress was greatly aided at the very first by the prompt introduction of a genuine and interesting novelty — a waterproof or rain-repellent parapluie, which bears the appropriate name of the “Augur Rain-Repellent Umbrella.” This umbrella (which Messrs. Mason have protected by registration) is made in a variety of qualities, the coverings being in alpacas, dagmars, and glorias; and the material is rendered waterproof by a peculiar preparation and process by which the outward appearance of the fabric is unaltered. In this waterproofing lies the special feature of the new umbrella, and it certainly, meets a requirement that has long been urgent, for now we can be entirely freed from the inconvenience of having to enter trains or trams (or, to be more emphatic, of having other people enter such public conveyances), armed with a dripping umbrella that is a menace to everyone in its vicinity. On giving the “Augur” umbrella a slight shake the rain-drops fall off it immediately, like water off the proverbial duck’s back, and the result is satisfactory alike to the bearer of the umbrella and to those whose lot it is to sit or stand in close proximity to him.

Mr. Mason deserves the thanks of the public for this really excellent invention (which, by the way, has already been favoured with the sincere flattery of imitation), and we are not in- the least surprised that the introduction of the “Augur” umbrella should have greatly promoted the growth of this flourishing business. During the short period the new umbrella has been before the public a large and increasing demand for it has arisen, and we have no doubt whatever that this demand will be fully maintained, for the article only needs to become known to secure lasting popularity. Let it be distinctly understood that there is nothing at all in the appearance of the “Augur” umbrella to mark it as a new departure, so that no one need fear attracting undue attention by adopting it. The change is in the substance, not in the aspect, and the new umbrella is simply our old and well-tried friend, with all his merits enhanced by the evanishment of his defects.

Messrs. William Mason & Co. have now developed an immense business in every department of the umbrella and sunshade trade, and at the above address they occupy spacious and admirably appointed premises, where they employ upwards of one hundred hands in the various processes of a highly interesting industry. Here we find the best methods and materials in use, and goods of splendid value are turned out in all grades and at all prices. Wonderful indeed is the variety of “sticks” called into requisition, from the elegant cane of Malacca to the pimento-wood of the West Indies, while orange and olive sticks from Spain and Algiers, cherry-wood of delicious scent from the Danube, and bamboo from the Flowery Land apparently retain the favour they have so long enjoyed in the fashionable world. As to the handles and heads with which the sticks are ornamented, their variety is well-nigh infinite, and all the skill and ingenuity of French, German, and English designers and artizans seem to be concentrated in an especial degree upon the production of novelties in this line.

Messrs. Mason’s stock of umbrellas and sunshades is representative of every new idea and every standard type known in the trade, and one might fill a volume in describing the multitude of different styles and qualities displayed in their spacious show-rooms. One great point is ever prominent, and that is superiority of workmanship and finish. This we find in all the goods, not excepting the cheapest, and there can be no doubt that to this characteristic of their manufactures, the firm owe a very large measure of the success they have so rapidly achieved. There is always room for really good and reliable articles in every department of trade, and Messrs. Mason’s productions are finding a market in every quarter of the globe — a proof at once of the truth of this assertion and of the merit of these goods. Wholesale houses and shippers are supplied upon the most advantageous terms with every product of Messrs. Mason’s comprehensive industry, from the daintiest of fashionable sunshades or the costliest of ivory-handled and gold-mounted umbrellas down to the plainest and most utilitarian member of the multitudinous “Gamp” family; and the firm are displaying exemplary enterprise in the management of their steadily-increasing trade, the routine of which is facilitated by agencies in London, and also Ireland and Scotland. Every effort is made to give genuine satisfaction to the trade, both at home and abroad, and frequent and regular “repeat” orders from all parts show that patronage once bestowed upon this thoroughly reliable and well-conducted house has a tendency to be continuous. Mr. William Mason personally superintends the entire concern, and its conspicuous success stands as a high practical tribute to his ability, enterprise, and sound judgment.

BOOTHMANS, LIMITED, WHOLESALE BOOT, SHOE, AND SLIPPER AND UPPER MANUFACTURERS AND LEATHER FACTORS,
14 AND 16, MILLER STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS gigantic organisation, which dates back in its foundation to about a quarter of a century ago, is to-day managed by a syndicate of gentlemen trading under the above title. The premises occupied consist of a large five-storied block of buildings, admirably appointed as a warehouse, in Miller Street, Manchester, and of a mammoth five-storied factory at Heywood, known as the Hooley Bridge Factory, where a staff of from five hundred to six hundred hands is fully engaged in producing all kinds of boots, shoes, and slippers. The company have also upwards of one hundred retail shops in England and Ireland, where their own goods are extensively sold. Their principal retail branch in Manchester is at 16, Oldham Street, and is one of the largest and most superbly-fitted boot stores in the country. The company, moreover, do a very extensive business as leather merchants and importers, and are noted throughout the kingdom for the uniform excellence and reliability of all their goods, and the liberality of the terms upon which they trade.

An enormous business has been secured and is carried on in the most capable and energetic manner, upon a thoroughly sound basis of honourable mercantile principle, which reflects nothing but the highest credit upon all those who are in any way concerned with the administration of its affairs.

E. HATTON, LIGHTING, VENTILATING, HEATING AND ARCHITECTURAL METAL WORKS,
110, SACKVILLE STREET, PORTLAND STREET, MANCHESTER.

A THOROUGHLY efficient and reliable house in Manchester, in its special line of business, is that carried on as above. Operations were originally commenced at No. 2, Bedford Street, in 1871, by the present proprietor, who, being a man of wide experience and much practical skill, developed the connection with notable rapidity. The superior efficiency of all the work done by the firm was soon recognised, and the house obtained a widespread popularity and patronage. Every year since then has seen an increase in the extent of its operations and fresh improvements in its specialities, until at the present day the house occupies a position of conspicuous prominence among cognate establishments. Enlargements of the premises from time to time have been necessitated by the increased demands upon the business, and ultimately fresh quarters had to be acquired, and in 1889 a removal was made to the site now occupied. These premises consist of a spacious and substantial block of three-storey buildings with basement, with an extensive frontage of one hundred and sixty-five feet by thirty-nine feet, and having commodious entrances both in Mount Street and Sackville Street. The ground floor contains a suite of handsomely-appointed offices, showroom and workshops, and the remaining floors are occupied by other workshops and stock-rooms, the basement being utilised for storage purposes. The show-room is a fine capacious department, admirably lighted and fitted up, and in every way thoroughly adapted to properly display the many excellent goods on view, while the works, by their general convenience and perfect equipment, evince great judgment and knowledge on the part of the proprietor. A force of between thirty and forty skilled hands is kept employed, under the constant supervision of experienced managers.

With surroundings so conducive to good results, a large trade is carried on in the manufacture of superior and special appliances for the efficacious lighting, ventilating, and heating of private residences and public buildings of every description. Mr. Hatton is a recognised leader in this difficult and important department of industry. All his productions are of sound material, thoroughly good workmanship and eminently efficacious in accomplishing the objects for which they are intended. All his specialities are commanding a steadily-increasing sale, and testimonials are being received continually from the most important sources testifying to the entire and perfect satisfaction they are giving. In addition to the absolute reliability of everything manufactured by this responsible firm, prices will be found of the most favourable kind, and such as cannot be beaten by any first-class house in the trade.

A leading line with the house is Hatton’s patent self-sustaining and self-adjusting “Valve” ventilator, which possesses considerable advantages over anything of the kind hitherto introduced in the admission and diffusion of fresh air. They can be opened to any area, and will remain closed, open or part open, when fixed in any position, either vertical, horizontal, sideways or upside down. They are, moreover, noiseless in use and simple in construction, and are not liable to get out of order. In this invention the nearest approach yet obtained in perfection of ventilation is reached — namely, free circulation of air and no draughts. Thousands are in use throughout the country, and their efficacy has been thoroughly established by the severest tests. Other specialities of this enterprising house are Hatton’s patent draughtless hopper window ventilator, with automatic brush and gauze cover: this ventilator is absolutely weather-tight, and intercepts all smuts and dirt; the patent draughtless ventilator, which insures a much larger area of circulation at less cost than any other ventilator, and may be left open in almost all weathers, without inconvenience to persons sitting close to it; the “Shadowless” ventilating gas pendants, which combine perfect ventilation with the highest illuminating power; the “Kew” ventilator, the result of twenty years’ experience with every kind of roof ventilators; and the “Inducer” ventilator, a simple but perfect apparatus for securing powerful exhaust in ventilating shafts; also Hatton’s patent “ Soleil” light, suitable for any situation requiring a strong steady light free from shadows on wall or ceiling. They are self-cleaning and highly reflective, and are made in a great variety of forms, to suit any kind of room or building. By the use of Hatton’s patent “Soleil” ventilating light great economy of gas is secured, with a high illuminating power and a perfect ventilation. By the use of this light the products of combustion are entirely removed, and walls and ceilings are kept perfectly clean. The ventilating “Soleil” is made in a variety of highly ornamental styles and patterns, suitable for the drawing-room or for public buildings.

The firm also manufacture largely Hatton’s improved appliances for opening and regulating casements, frames, louvres, skylights, decklights, fanlights and all kinds of ventilators, &c. An inspection of the various admirable contrivances and apparatus made by the ingenious proprietor cannot fail to be highly interesting and instructive to every householder and property owner, and especially to builders, contractors, architects and ship-owners. An extensive trade is controlled, both home and export in its nature.

Mr. Hatton is a man of wide experience and of sound practical knowledge of his business, to which he devotes his constant and energetic attention. His dealings are always marked by a fair and liberal policy, and all contracts placed in his hands are sure to be carried to completion in a satisfactory and conscientious manner. He is well known in private life, and everywhere esteemed for his personal rectitude, ability, and the able and efficient manner in which ha discharges the duties devolving on him as a prominent citizen of Cottonopolis.

THE DEFLECTOR SAFETY LAMP AND MINERS’ APPLIANCE CO., LIMITED, SOLE PROPRIETORS AND MANUFACTURERS OF THE HOWAT PATENT DEFLECTOR SAFETY LAMP, &C.,
349, CHESTER ROAD, CORNBROOK, MANCHESTER.

THE above company has only recently been formed to work the patents and business formerly belonging to Mr. Andrew Howat. They comprise offices and store-rooms, together with various workshops equipped with plant and machinery of the most modern description, driven by a powerful gas-engine. From forty to fifty skilled hands are employed, and every department is kept in a high state of efficiency. A valuable business is controlled in the manufacture of Mr. Howat’s patents and specialities, the most important of which is the Patent Deflector Miner’s Safety Lamp. The lamp has been tested in a current of explosive gaseous mixture, travelling at a velocity of thirty-five feet per second, without being exploded. It will burn wherever a candle or Davy lamp will burn, and gives double the light of the ordinary Mueseler or Marsant lamp. The utmost care is exercised in making these lamps, and for workmanship and finish they will bear favourable comparison with those of any maker; while in point of efficiency they have no successful rivals. Upwards of fifty thousand patent deflector lamps are now in use among the largest and most important firms, and are giving every satisfaction, and the demand for them is not only continuous but largely increasing.

Another highly successful lamp manufactured by this company is Howat’s Patent “Petro-Glow” Lamp. This lamp is absolutely safe, being entirely free from danger of explosion, and is self-extinguishing if upset. By its use perfect combustion is secured, with a most pure and brilliant white light, resembling that given by an incandescent electric light. The light can be regulated to a nicety, and is entirely free from smoke or smell, and a low-class oil can be used with the best results. The lamp burns for seventy hours at a cost of one penny, with a light exceeding five standard candle power. It is thus the best lamp for household use, for hotels, for use in the workshop, &c. It is a splendid substitute for candles in the bedroom. Another leading line of the firm is Howat’s Patent “Pharaoh” Fare-Collecting Boxes, for use by tramcar and omnibus companies. It is strong and perfectly secure, and its merits are well attested by the favour with which it has been received. The firm are also largely occupied as brass founders and finishers, engineers, and machine-makers. A speciality is made of phosphor-bronze and gun-metal steps and castings of all kinds. Stocks are kept of the various articles manufactured by the firm, including deflector safety lamps, Marsant lamps, “Rub-a-dub” lamp cleaners, lamp fittings of every description, patent roadway lamps, the lamp trimmers’ friend, gauges, glasses, oils, and every colliery requisite, as well as patent fare-collecting boxes, taps, valves, unions, and other finished brasswork.

An extensive connection has been acquired among colliery proprietors and others throughout the entire kingdom. All orders receive prompt and careful attention, and the company have specially laid themselves out for repairing lamps of all kinds. Mr. Howat, who is managing director for the company, is a man of wide experience and conspicuous ability in his field of scientific industry. His able and constant personal attention is given to the affairs of the company, and under his control its permanent success is guaranteed. He is well known in business and social circles, and is everywhere respected for his well-merited success, his public usefulness and strict integrity.

WHITAKER & CO., OIL MERCHANTS AND REFINERS,
NIGHTINGALE STREET, STRANGEWAYS, MANCHESTER.

THIS fine undertaking totally eclipses any other in the district in point of magnitude, and is a monument to the energy and enterprise of the proprietor. Although operations were only commenced ten years ago, the house has a connection all over the British Isles, and is known for its superior products in numerous different trades. It was founded in 1881, at Cobden Street, by Messrs. Whitaker & Duggan. After continuing there for some time, the partnership was dissolved, and a removal made to the present premises, which are known as St. Mary’s Oil and Grease Works. They are of great extent, and occupy about five hundred yards of ground. In 1890, additional premises were taken in a street adjoining, of like size. The business is now carried on under the title of Messrs. Whitaker & Co., Mr. James Whitaker being the sole proprietor.

Grease is made in enormous quantities for cog wheels, colliery, and locomotive purposes, and is known throughout the trade for its purity and lubricating powers. Vaseline tallow is also largely made and is justly famous for its superior quality. As a dealer in petroleum Mr. Whitaker is without an equal in the district. He has large quantities stored on his works and employs his own boat in bringing it from Liverpool. Shellac and varnish is also heavily dealt in, and great attention is devoted to refining and blending oils. The premises recently acquired are used for storing purposes, and the fine stables are here. A large number of hands are employed, and several commercial travellers.

The head of this enterprise is a gentleman enjoying the universal respect of his fellow citizens, who are the first to recognise worth and ability. Mr. Whitaker is pardonably proud of the exalted position to which he has attained by his own industry. Utterly devoid of any ostentation, and considerate to those around him, Mr. Whitaker is the beau ideal of a British merchant. His works are well supplied with modern machinery and appliances, and the latest conveniences. Altogether the works rank worthily among the leading ones of the important Manchester centre.

HEYWOOD & SON, IMPORTERS, PRODUCE AND PROVISION MERCHANTS AND AGENTS,
6, FENNELL STREET, MANCHESTER, AND 29, HARRINGTON STREET, LIVERPOOL, AND BANK CHAMBERS, LONDON BRIDGE, LONDON, S.E.

THE produce and provision supply of a large city, or of a nation in general, is manifestly of the greatest importance, and many influential firms are engaged in this indispensable branch of commercial enterprise. In Manchester, a very prominent house in the line of trade referred to is that of Messrs. Heywood. & Son, who are favourably known in all parts of the United Kingdom as extensive produce and provision importers and merchants. Their business, indeed, is one of the oldest, and largest concerns of its kind in the north of England, and has a history dating back over a period of nearly a hundred years. It was founded by the late Mr. Heywood, than whom no man was better known in the chief markets of the provision trade, and by him and his capable successors it has been most energetically and prosperously developed.

Very early in the career of this firm a good name was acquired for the uniform excellence of all goods supplied; and as that reputation has never been allowed to lapse, the house has advanced continuously in popularity and patronage. Its prosperity has been maintained during the whole period of its existence, and at the present time it stands among the recognised leaders of the trade, second to no other Manchester house in the same line of operations. Few firms control a produce and provision business so extensive in its ramifications, and none can boast of a more honourable commercial reputation.

The present proprietors are grandsons of the founder, Mr. Frank Heywood and Mr. Alfred Heywood by name, and they trade under the old and well-known style of Heywood & Son. Manchester has the original headquarters of the firm; and the premises here occupied in Fennell Street are those in which the business was originated. They are extensive and commodious, and comprise sample rooms on the basement and ground floors, and offices on the first floor of a three-storied building, with spacious salerooms on the ground floor. The entire establishment has been admirably arranged to facilitate the routine of the business, and is fitted with every convenience for showing samples and attending to the requirements of visiting customers. A word of special praise is due to the management for the extreme neatness and cleanliness that prevail throughout the premises. Messrs. Heywood & Son, as we have already indicated, control a remarkably large and comprehensive trade, and one of the chief secrets of their success, in addition to the sustained excellence of quality for which they are noted, is that every article is exactly what it is represented to be, and all orders are executed precisely according to sample.

Messrs. Heywood’s long experience in the trade gives them many advantages, and they possess a thorough acquaintance with the best and most reliable sources of supply. Their specialities always command ready sales and good prices, and they are noted in all centres of the trade for their American bacon, hams, shoulders, &c., in specially selected qualities of the “Ohio,” “Royal,” “National,” and other famous brands. These goods form the chief feature of the firm’s trade at Liverpool, where they have large fire-proof warehouses for the receipt of American produce, to be subsequently distributed all over the British Isles. At London and Manchester Messrs. Heywood & Son devote a large amount of attention to Irish and Danish singed Wiltshire cut bacon (extra quality “J. H.” and “O.A.S.” brands), also to Irish butter, King’s and Queen’s brands being especially noticeable, and margarine of the finest quality. They are English agents for the original Aug. Pellerin, Fils & Co.’s margarine mixtures, which gained a gold medal in 1891. This margarine is said to be equal in make and flavour to the best Danish butter, and is warranted to contain 21.5 per cent, of pure butter, as certified by the analysis of the Royal Agricultural Academy in 1885. Danish butter is also largely imported by the firm under notice, and forms a speciality of their trade at Manchester.

Everything supplied by Messrs. Heywood & Son may be relied upon as being of the best quality obtainable, and fresh shipments are received daily and placed on the market at once. An enormous turnover is effected, and this fact is largely instrumental in enabling Messrs. Heywood & Son to offer their patrons and the trade generally a selection of choice goods, which cannot be surpassed for high quality and favourable prices. The business done is exclusively wholesale, and extends to all the principal towns of the United Kingdom, its operations being greatly assisted by the branches at Liverpool, London, Limerick, and Chicago, and by agencies at other convenient centres. Employment is given to a large staff of clerks and other assistants, and the whole concern is personally supervised by the principals, who are men of wide and practical experience in the trade and active and energetic in their methods. Both partners are well known in private and commercial life, and in all their trade dealings they pursue a straightforward policy, which has won the approval and confidence of a most extensive and valuable connection.
Telegraphic address: “Hyson,” Manchester; national telephone, No. 1,372; mutual telephone, No. 799.

J. & E. WHITTLE, ENGINEERS AND MACHINISTS,
MITCHEL STREET IRON WORKS, NEWTON HEATH, MANCHESTER.

IN every great centre of industry the modern engineer and machinist necessarily plays a most important part in the everyday economy of things, and in this connection it would be difficult to indicate a more noteworthy house than the one here indicated. Looking backwards, it appears that this rising institution was organised in the year 1882, by the association in business of the two brothers, Messrs. James and Edward Whittle — both of them gentlemen of recognised ability and vast practical experience in connection with the important branch of industry to which their attention is now so vigorously and successfully directed. The premises occupied are very compact, and in every way adapted to the requirements of the business. They consist of an elaborately equipped workshop, ninety feet by forty-five feet in area, fully provided with planing, drilling, boring, turning, and other machinery driven by steam-power, and calling into active requisition a staff of skilled and experienced mechanics, and others, in the production of steam-engines, wood-working machinery, and repairs of every kind. The trade controlled is already one of the soundest and best of its kind in the district, and is conducted in all its branches with sound judgment and marked ability upon a thoroughly firm basis of honourable mercantile principle; and it is manifestly the resolution of Messrs. Whittle that the high reputation they have won shall not only be well, sustained but steadily enhanced in time to come.

H. PEARSON & SON, COTTON SPINNERS,
16A, FAULKNER STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS splendid example of commercial enterprise has been in active operation for about half a century. It was founded at Park Mills, Stockport, by the late Mr. Henry Pearson, and in 1843 at Heaton Mersey, the warehouse being at 45, Brown Street, now the premises of the Liberal Club; and was located at Stockport again in 1864. Mr. Pearson senior died in 1877, and was succeeded by his son, the present owner. The works are of considerable extent, and are fitted throughout with everything which experience and ingenuity can suggest or capital procure, and are well qualified to turn out the most satisfactory results. There are between four and five hundred hands employed. The works are called the Square Mills, and are among the most conspicuous and familiar objects of the neighbourhood. The trade is manufacturing grey cloths, domestics, twills, sheetings, &c., for home and shipping houses for the various markets, and is purely a local one. The Manchester house, established to meet the convenience of
customers, was, after several changes of location, finally removed in 1890 to the present premises in Faulkner Street. These consist of offices on the basement floor, and there is a large warehouse and sample-room, where specimens may be seen, and orders left. Mr. Pearson personally takes an interest in the business, which throughout is splendidly conducted. Both in Manchester and Stockport he is a great favourite, and is in every way worthy of the estimation in which he is held.

FRANCIS SHAW, ENGINEER AND RUBBER MACHINIST,
CORBETT STREET, BRADFORD, MANCHESTER.

MR. SHAW commenced this important business about the year 1884, but he had previously had twelve years’ practical experience in very extensive rubber works, having been seven years with Messrs. Charles Macintosh & Co., and five years with Messrs. Broadhurst & Co. Consequently, in commencing the manufacture of rubber machinery generally, Mr. Shaw was possessed of a very large amount of sound practical knowledge, which he has utilised to such advantage that he now stands in the front rank among English rubber machinists and engineers. His works in Corbett Street cover an area of about two thousand square yards, and are at present being extended to meet the increased requirements of the large trade Mr. Shaw has developed. The entire establishment proclaims its proprietor’s skill and experience, the several departments of the works being all laid out in the most convenient manner and perfectly equipped for all the purposes of the industry engaged in. Every facility exists for the manufacture of special machinery upon a very large scale, and employment is given to upwards of seventy hands, all of whom are workmen of the highest practical, ability.

Mr. Shaw is prepared to produce in the most improved style any and every machine required in the manufacture of India rubber and dermatine, and he makes a special feature of supplying complete plant for rubber works, including all the latest and best appliances known in the trade for economising time and labour and improving production. In all machinery of this class he embodies the best workmanship and materials as well as the highest excellence of design and practical efficiency. Mr. Shaw has recently introduced, and is the sole maker of, Wood and Robinson’s patent spreader, a machine calculated to effect quite a revolution in the waterproofing trade. This valuable apparatus has been proved capable of turning out superior work in 25 per cent. less time than the ordinary machines in use. It can be stopped and started from either end, and the cloth is spread from both ends, the drying being effected by two steam cylinders placed between the spreading rollers. The distance from the spreading rollers to the steam cylinders is 4 ft. 3 in., so that all danger of fire is obviated. The machine being duplex, not only spreads considerably faster than ordinary machines, but produces another very notable effect, in that when the cloth has once passed through, and the proofing has been laid on one way, instead of having to remove the piece to the other end of the machine for the repetition of the process, the action of the machine is simply reversed, and the cloth goes back to the original roller with the proofing laid on another way. This ensures greater strength and durability in the proofing, and also imparts a decidedly superior finish. Although introduced only a few months ago, four of these machines have already been fitted up near Paris, besides one at Riga and one at Milan. Several others are now in course of construction to order, and doubtless every waterproofer who inspects this ingenious and highly-efficient machine, and acquaints himself with its notable improvements, will be irresistibly tempted to give it a trial.

In the manufacture of all his machinery Mr. Shaw gives his personal attention to the work, and this fact has largely promoted the success of his business, for it insures the sound workmanship and reliability of every machine turned out. An extensive and rapidly increasing home and export trade is controlled, and it is easy to foresee that this enterprising and well-managed firm will continue to exercise a growing influence upon the rubber and waterproofing industries both at home and abroad, since manufacturers cannot fail to recognise the merit of its specialities and the advantages accruing from their use and adoption.

J. & T. L. ORMEROD, MANUFACTURERS OF PRINTING CLOTHS, SHIRTINGS, &C., &C.,
CLOUGH END MILL, HASLINGDEN.

THIS old-established and widely-known firm, whose city offices are in Albert Chambers, Albert Square, Manchester, originated in the year 1858, the founders being the present proprietors, Messrs John and Thomas L. Ormerod. Operations were commenced at Snig Hole Mill, Helmshore, in the year above mentioned, and this mill was carried on for some time. It is now, however, dismantled, and Messrs. Ormerod have occupied the large and substantial stone Mill at Clough End since 1865. Here there are seven hundred and ten looms in operation, and the work done embraces the manufacture of shirtings, T-cloths, twills, printing-cloths, madapollams, jaconetts, and umbrella cloths, for all of which the house enjoys an eminent reputation of many years’ standing. Messrs. Ormerod also occupy the Albion Mill at Helmshore, where they manufacture the same class of goods, employing four hundred and twenty-four looms and a large number of hands. This latter mill was acquired in 1879. At the Laneside Sizing Works, Haslingden, is a third establishment of this busy firm, where, under the name of Ormerod Brothers, they do a large and important business as sizers. In its entirety the trade of this house is one of great magnitude and influence, and very few names are better known in the Manchester market than that of Ormerod — a name, moreover, which has always been identified with the soundest commercial principles. Mr. John Ormerod lives at Haslingden, and Mr. Thomas L. Ormerod at Bury, and both are well known and greatly respected in these localities. Mr. John Ormerod and his son, Mr. John Henry Ormerod, attend the Manchester Exchange in the interests of the house, and are familiar figures in that busy scene.

JOSEPH KING, QUEEN’S PARK BAKERY,
HARPURHEY, MANCHESTER.

THIS large and influential business was established in 1877, and recently taken over by the present proprietor, who was previously for sixteen years in business at Ash Street, Oldham Road. The establishment, which is so well and widely known as the “Queen’s Park Bakery,” occupies a commanding corner position. The spacious and handsome double shop is fitted up in a very superior style, admirably appointed and well arranged for the display and storage of the large and varied stock. The premises also contain extensive warehouse accommodation, a well equipped bakehouse, fitted with all modern machinery and appliances, and every convenience for the effective and economical working of a large and increasing business. Mr. King has always on hand a liberal supply of plain and fancy bread, biscuits, cakes, &c. He is keenly alive to the fact, that the best goods can only be made from the best materials, the greatest care therefore is exercised in the selection of ingredients only of the best quality. Mr. King also does a large trade in flour, holding large stocks of the best brands of English, American, and continental, notably the finest Austrian flour, as well as pure wheat meal, Haney’s Scotch oatmeal, best marrowfat peas, bird, fowl and pigeon food, hay, straw and fodder. Mr. King is enabled to give his customers exceptional advantages, both in quality and price. The trade, which is both wholesale and retail, is of a widespread, influential, and steadily growing character. The proprietor’s own vans deliver goods over an extended area, and no effort is spared to meet the convenience of customers. The business in every department receives the strict personal attention of the proprietor, who is well known and highly respected in the district.

SAMUEL HOWARD, MANUFACTURER, IMPORTER, AND PATENTEE OF PIANOFORTES, ORGANS, HARMONIUMS, AND ALL KINDS OF HIGH-CLASS MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS,
2 AND 4, SWAN STREET, NEW CROSS, MANCHESTER.

PERHAPS nothing could tend more effectually to refute the aspersion so frequently cast upon Englishmen of being unmusical than the fact that, in a thoroughly representative English city like Manchester, there exists and flourishes such a number of large and old-established emporiums of musical instruments. Were there not a demand, and a large demand at that, the existence of such establishments as this would be impossible; and we think it is very fair logic to add that were the people of this country devoid of musical taste and sensibility no such demand would be apparent. As a matter of fact England was, two or three hundred years ago, one of the pre-eminent nations in musical culture, and there is very little indeed to justify the belief that the art has been allowed to degenerate within her borders. In view of all these circumstances, it is very difficult for the honest and unbiassed mind to understand the nonsense, and worse than nonsense, that is nowadays spoken and written in some quarters concerning “unmusical England.”

Happily we have only to walk through the principal streets of our towns and cities, and note the activity prevailing in the music trade generally, to be reassured as to our very creditable condition in relation to the “divine art.” Nowhere, we venture to think, can a finer example of a successful, high-class, and capably conducted musical instrument warehouse be found than that which forms the subject of this brief sketch. “Howard’s” is a household word among musicians in Lancashire and many other parts of the kingdom, and the name is associated with a business which was founded as far back as the year 1869, in Rochdale Road. In 1883 the business was transferred to its present address at New Cross, a historic locality famous as a scene of many notable events in the history of old Manchester, and here, in one of the handsomest and most commodious blocks, of buildings in this district, “Howard’s” is provided with accommodation worthy of its great reputation, and suited to the requirements of its remarkably large and high-class trade.

The establishment is splendidly appointed throughout, and is arranged upon a most systematic and convenient plan. The ground floor is devoted to every description of musical accessories and small goods, such as fittings for all manner of instruments, and this department (which has a superb frontage of lofty plate glass windows, with a broad and handsome main entrance) forms quite a museum of goods of this important class. It differs from a museum proper in one respect, however, inasmuch as there are here no antiquarian relics or old-fashioned products. Everything is “up to date,” embodying the most notable improvements, and at the same time maintaining the best traditions of the art. On the first floor we find the pianoforte showrooms, with a magnificent display of these pre-eminently popular instruments, the “household orchestra,” as they have been not inaptly termed. The second floor forms the showroom for American organs and harmoniums, of which there is an unsurpassed assortment, by all the most noted makers on both sides of the Atlantic; and the top flat is arranged as workshops, with every appliance for the purposes of the trade. Here all manner of repairs to musical instruments, as well as actual manufacture, receive due attention.

At this remarkably comprehensive establishment the stock in hand is considered small if it falls below one hundred as the total number of pianofortes, organs, and harmoniums. Indeed, Mr. Howard makes it a point to keep as nearly as possible one hundred and fifty instruments in these three classes; while his stock of band and orchestral instruments is a vast one, embracing everything in this line from the arcadian oboe or the shrill piccolo to the sonorous trombone and the indispensable “tympani.” Of course the great family of stringed instruments receives due attention, and few houses can show a finer stock in the violin family, or a better assortment of guitars, mandolines, banjos, &c. That charming instrument the zither (the modern representative of the ancient psaltery) is prominent here in several varieties; and of course the popular and pleasing concertina has a place of honour.

Besides all this the firm hold a splendid stock of musical boxes and other musical automata, and time and space would fail us ere we had told of a hundredth part of the stock kept in fittings and accessories of every kind. Mr. Howard’s establishment contains a really remarkable array of musical instruments relating to every department of the art, and the very best makers, British and foreign, and admirably represented by their most satisfactory productions. The house has developed a system of “easy payments” which we candidly confess cannot be improved upon, and for all punctual payments in the Small Goods Department they allow a bonus of one shilling and sixpence in the pound to purchases under five pounds, and two shillings in the pound to purchases over five pounds. Goods under two pounds in value are, however, net.

A very large trade, both wholesale and retail, is controlled, and customers are always sure of being treated fairly and honestly at this reliable establishment, the motto of which, bluntly expressed in sturdy straightforward English, is “Good Value and no Humbug.” Telegrams should be addressed, “Howard’s, Swan Street, Manchester.”

In conclusion, we are glad to have the opportunity of paying a well-merited tribute to Mr. Samuel Howard for the able and enterprising manner in which he conducts this notable establishment, and for the consequent good service he is rendering to the cause of musical progress in England. It is also very gratifying to note that he treats his numerous assistants with every consideration, and, being a believer in the half-holiday for assistants, he has the courage of his convictions, and closes his establishment every Wednesday at one o’clock, a commendable course of action which, we are quite sure, will result advantageously to the business and to the public patronizing it, no less than to the employes in whose special interest it has been instituted.

H. A. HENDERSON & CO., ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS,
60, UPPER JACKSON STREET, MANCHESTER.

ORGANISED in the year 1886, this notable house has from the very first proved to be a pronounced success, so much so that the firm found it necessary eighteen months ago to remove from their original premises at York Chambers, and take up their quarters in the present more commodious premises, which comprise an excellently ordered office and well appointed showroom facing Upper Jackson Street, and large works to the rear at 3, Chapman Street, elaborately equipped with a gas engine, dynamos, and special appliances for the production of the goods for which the house has become so justly famous. A staff of skilled and experienced hands, varying in numbers from twelve to as many as thirty, is here busily engaged under the personal supervision of the talented principals, Messrs. H. A. Henderson & A. Brier; and the firm operate on a large scale as electrical and general engineers, making a speciality of the production of machine tools for electricians, and many electrical specialities, including self-contained bells, in which all the working parts are covered in such a way as to effectually exclude dust and dirt, and prevent their being tampered with, also telephones, dry cells and scientific instruments. The firm have gained an unsurpassed name for the excellence of all their productions, the entire business being conducted with marked ability and enterprise, upon a thoroughly sound basis of honourable mercantile principle.

T. & W. JONES, CABINET MAKERS, UPHOLSTERERS, &C.,
54, 56, AND 58, UPPER JACKSON STREET, HULME, MANCHESTER.

ALTHOUGH this business was only established in 1889, it has already taken a well-recognised position in the trade. The partners are both men of large experience in the higher plane of this industry, Mr. W. Jones having been for several years with the well-known firm of Messrs. Kendal, Milne & Co., of Manchester, while the other partner, Mr. T. Jones, was for a long period in the celebrated house of Messrs. Maple & Co., London, during which time he took the first prize for proficiency in high-class drapery cutting, at the Polytechnic. Operations are carried on in large and suitable premises with spacious shop, fine show-rooms, capacious ware-houses and ample store-rooms. The works are situate at the rear, and are well-arranged and thoroughly equipped with apparatus, plant and machinery of the most modern kinds.

A large and sound business is being controlled here by the firm as high-class cabinet makers, upholsterers, decorators, and general house, office, and steam-ship furnishers. In the latter capacity the firm, being in the heart of a manufacturing district, are in a position to offer special advantages in the matter of prices, &c., to ship-owners, and it may be added that they have satisfactorily completed many important contracts for the great steamship companies. The choicest kinds of mahogany, rosewood, maple, walnut, oak, and other woods only, are used, and every care is taken that they are perfectly matured and dried before they are employed in the manufacture. Skilled hands alone are engaged in the work, and these are under the constant superintendence of the principals and experienced foremen, and the articles they turn out are unsurpassed in soundness of material, durability and thoroughness of work, elegance, beauty and appropriateness of designs and perfection of finish. The house is noted for the variety and novelty of its designs, and for the rich, elaborate, and tasteful manner in which all its upholstery work is completed. In the matter of prices, the firm offers every inducement to customers, and relations with this firm are bound to be of a pleasant and satisfactory character.

Messrs. Jones are complete house furnishers, and they undertake to make all furniture necessary for a private residence, hotel or mansion, fit up its interior and fully decorate it, on a true conception of what is needed to secure perfect harmony in style, colour, and tone. For this class of work they have special facilities and resources, and already they have completely fitted up seven large hotels in the locality in a manner that has elicited the greatest satisfaction and commendation. Every kind of artistic decoration and art furnishing receive their best attention, and estimates and designs are willingly supplied, and terms are such as cannot be matched with due regard to the superior quality of the work. Dining and drawing-room suites, bedding, &c., are made to order or from sketches supplied, and suites are re-upholstered and re-polished, bedding re-made, and draperies cleaned, re-dyed and made up in French designs. Carpets, poles, cornices, blinds, and curtains are re-fitted and new supplied where required, and the house is well prepared to do everything in the best, the most expeditious, and the most economical manner to oblige its patrons.

Ample and well-selected stocks are kept of their splendid productions, including dining, drawing, and breakfast room suites, bed-room suites, magnificent sideboards, massive library, hall and office furniture, &c. A valuable connection has been formed among the leading families and firms, and the principal hotels and public institutions of Manchester, and the surrounding district, and a force of thirty skilled artisans is fully employed. All orders receive prompt and efficient attention, and all contracts intrusted to this firm are carried to completion in a conscientious and honourable manner, and in such a style of workmanship as cannot fail to give perfect and entire satisfaction. The proprietors are men of large and varied experience in the upper walks of high-class cabinet-making, and are pre-eminently practical, and they are much respected for their courtesy and ability, and the interest they take in every movement affecting the interest and welfare of the community at large.

THOMAS & CO., RUBBER WORKS,
CORNBROOK, MANCHESTER.
Telegrams, “Ivy, Manchester.”
Pay-day, last Friday in the month.

THE above works, not yet established ten years, have put many old firms completely in the shade by the superiority of the goods supplied, and by the business tact of the management. Goods from these works go out in quantities to the Continent, to the colonies, to America, and to all parts of the world. They have been found to be suited to all climates, and to be all that is claimed for them. There may be said to be two branches of the business, the one the rubber works, and the other the rubber substitutes works. The former was established in 1889, the latter in 1882. The premises consist of a large three-storey building, capitally fitted up with the very latest improvements in the way of machinery, &c. The first floor is devoted to the machinery, moulding and vulcanizing; the second to drilling and packing; also packing and storing occupies the third floor. Everything throughout the establishment is conducted with commendable order. There are day and night shifts employing about twenty-two hands. The principal branches of the business are making of cushion and solid tyres for cycles, bassinettes, and invalid carriages, buffers for railway and other waggons, gas-tubing, &c. Some of the best makers of cycles prefer the tyres manufactured by Messrs. Thomas to any other. The respected proprietors, Thomas & Co., are greatly to be commended for bringing their works to such perfection. By letters patent the firm have secured a method of covering wheels for cycles, bassinettes, mail-carts, cabs, carriages, and all other vehicles that it is impossible to get off or take off.

JAMES S. BLAIR, STAY AND CORSET MANUFACTURER,
NEWTON STREET MILL, NEWTON STREET, MANCHESTER.

OPERATIONS were commenced by the proprietor of the above firm in this direction in 1880, and were conducted with such ability and perseverance that the foundation of a good business was soon laid, until at the present time no house engaged in this line of business can boast of a larger or more important body of patrons. Premises are occupied in a portion of the well-known and advantageously situated Newton Street Mills, consisting of a basement and first and second floors, with an extensive frontage of one hundred and eleven feet by fifty-four feet. They comprise a suite of well-appointed offices and general warehouses, and numerous workshops and store rooms on the first and second floors. The interior has been eminently well arranged and shows in an unmistakable manner that the proprietor is thoroughly master of the minutiae of his business. The work-rooms are large and convenient in size, well-lighted and ventilated, and equipped with all appliances, plant and machinery, of the best and most modern description, the motive power being furnished by a powerful steam engine.

The superior character of all goods emanating from this noteworthy house has long been recognised among all better-class buyers, and the productions are universally regarded as the perfection of art in this line. The most skilled and experienced workpeople are employed, and everything turned out is guaranteed to be perfect in workmanship and unsurpassable in material. For shape, style and fit, the house remains unequalled, and at prices which cannot fail to induce custom. His wide knowledge of the trade, and the extent and value of his transactions, give him advantages in the selection of new materials and patterns possessed by few other manufacturers, and the perfect nature of his resources enables him to turn out the most superior and finished goods. Extensive stocks are held of all kinds, sizes, and styles of stays and corsets, and the great variety the proprietor shows, with their attractive and charming appearance, will be highly appreciated by all interested in the trade. A superior home and foreign trade is controlled, and its continuous increase speaks volumes for the value which is set upon these admirable goods by the best judges. A force of two hundred skilled hands is employed upon the premises, and all orders receive prompt and efficient attention. The proprietor is pre-eminently a practical man, and he has had long and sound experience in every department of his speciality. The business is personally conducted by him and it derives undoubted benefit from his ability, judgment and taste. All his transactions are characterised by equity and integrity and in private life he is respected and esteemed for his personal virtues and his high sense of public duties, and also as a representative manufacturer in this important branch of industry.

TRUSTEES OF THE LATE MR. TITUS SMALLEY,
CHORLTON ROAD BREWERY, HULME, MANCHESTER.

NO detailed account of the brewing industries of Manchester would be complete without Reference to the Chorlton Road Brewery, Hulme, which is now being carried on by the trustees of the late Mr. Titus Smalley, with Mr. William Dockray as manager. This is one of the oldest and most reputable establishments of the kind in Manchester, the date of its foundation being 1850. It soon acquired a name for the reliable excellence of its productions, and throughout its long career its reputation has kept on steadily increasing. The premises are extensive in size and ample in their convenience of arrangement. They comprise offices, laboratory, hop and malt rooms, mash-room, boiling and cooling rooms, large stores and cellarage, cooperage, stables, &c. The various departments are fully equipped, with the latest improved apparatus, machinery, and appliances known to the trade. The utmost efficiency is maintained, and the whole of the processes carried out in a scientific manner, and with scrupulous care and cleanliness. The plant is what is known as an eight quarter one, and ten skilled men and a number of horses and drays are kept constantly employed. A free and high-class trade is cultivated. The beer brewed here is of superior flavour and excellence, and is preferred in many cases to any beer brewed in Manchester. Only the most choice malt and hops are used, and these, combined with the perfection of their appliances, give the firm every advantage in producing superior and reliable ales — both mild and bitter — and first-class porter. The firm own the Chorlton Road Hotel which adjoins the brewery, and also several other full licensed houses. Everything sent out is of guaranteed excellence, and orders intrusted to the firm are attended to with care and dispatch.

J. BARROW HOPE & CO., IRON, TIN-PLATE, AND METAL MERCHANTS,
10, TARIFF STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE specialisation of functions in connection with the hardware industries of Great Britain is no-where perhaps more strikingly manifested than at our great distributing centres, and in Manchester, at the present day, manufacturers are admirably catered for by many old-established houses of high repute, prominent amongst which stands the prosperous firm whose rise and progress furnishes the theme of the present brief historical review. Upwards of forty years have elapsed since the foundation of this concern by Mr. John C. Barrow, who successfully developed its resources until five years ago, when it passed into the hands of its present proprietors, who have still further extended its proportions with marked success; and doubtless the most effectual way in which to indicate its character, scope, and aims would be to give a concise outline of the business as it at present obtains. The premises occupied are in every point of character and situation exactly adapted to the requirements of a very brisk business of the kind. They consist of the two vast floors of a large five-storeyed block of buildings replete with every modern contrivance for the handling of the heavy wares dealt in, the leading lines of which consist of tin plates, tinned sheets, galvanised iron, sheet iron, rod wire, cotton can sheets, cotton can rings, sheet brass, copper and zinc, and mild steel lead-coated sheets and terne sheets, hoop-iron, and the like. Messrs. Barrow Hope & Co. have a first-class business connection amongst manufacturers of hardware goods, not only in Manchester, but throughout the United Kingdom, and their extensive trade relations are well founded upon the eminent reputation so long enjoyed, the high commercial standing of the house, and the well-known high quality of all the goods they supply.

J. ANDERSON, MANUFACTURER OF SAWS, FILES, TOOLS, &C.,
134, CHAPEL STREET, SALFORD.

FOUNDED in 1869 by the present proprietor originally in Sydney Street, the business was removed about ten years ago to the more commodious premises now occupied at No. 164, Chapel Street. These comprise a spacious and well-appointed shop, together with extensive storage accommodation and well-equipped workshops. Mr. Anderson is a thoroughly practical man and employs a staff of experienced hands in the manufacture of saws, files, guillotine, perforating, chaff and chipped potato knives, &c.; he also does a large business as a dealer in coachmakers’, joiners’, and mechanics’ tools and cutlery. A large and thoroughly representative stock of these goods is held ready for immediate delivery, and by economical manufacture and prudent buying Mr. Anderson is enabled to give his customers exceptional advantages in quality and price. A special department is set apart for repairing, &c.; large circular saws are gulleted and hammered, band saws brazed, files are re-cut, and guillotine knives ground; all the work is carried out in the very best style, and at prices that will compare favourably with any other establishment. The business in every department receives the direct personal attention of the proprietor, and is conducted throughout with marked ability. Mr. J. Anderson is well known; his well-known practical skill and courteous attention to all the requirements of his customers has secured him the confidence and respect of a very extensive and well-established connection.

ISHERWOOD BROTHERS, STONE AND FLAG MERCHANTS, MANUFACTURERS OF GLAZED STONEWARE, DRAIN PIPES, &C.,
OLDFIELD ROAD WHARF, HULME STREET AND GAYTHORN STREET, SALFORD.

THIS well-known firm of stone and flag merchants and manufacturers of all kinds of sanitary ware commenced operations in Hope Street in 1878, and removed three years later to their present headquarters, the Oldfield Road Wharf. Here they occupy very extensive premises, comprising an immense yard, heavily stocked with the various specialities of the trade, and those who are familiar with this neighbourhood will understand how extensive the establishment is when we say that it is bounded by Hulme Street, Gaythorn Street, and Upper Wharf Street. Messrs. Isherwood Brothers conduct a trade of great magnitude in stones and flags of all dimensions and descriptions, glazed stoneware, drain pipes, architectural terra cotta, chimney tops, trusses, blue Staffordshire goods, sanitary ware of all kinds, cement, and fireclay goods in the greatest variety. These commodities they send out to all parts of the kingdom, having an exceptionally widespread connection; and they are sole agents for two firms of national renown in their several lines, viz., Messrs. J. & M. Craig, Kilmarnock, manufacturers of white and coloured enamelled bricks; Skelsey’s Adamant Cement Company, Limited, of Hull, whose “Adamant Cement” has gained great favour among builders and contractors.

The business done by this house in Staffordshire blue and other bricks is very large, and Messrs. Isherwood have also another very important speciality in their stone flags and sawn stone. They have supplied the Manchester Ship Canal with cement to a very large extent, probably up to between 20,000 and 30,000 tons. In sanitary pipes another very notable branch of the business has been developed, and for some years past the firm have supplied numerous corporations with large quantities of goods of this class. In addition to the contracts already referred to, they have supplied glazed bricks for the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway extension, and for the London and North-Western Railway extension; as well as for a great many large buildings in Manchester, the Gartside Buildings in Fountain Street and Bindloss Buildings in Chapel Walks. They are also noted for their Blue Lias Lime, from the Rugby district, a substance famous for its valuable hydraulic propensities; the cement for the fine mosaic paving and steps at the New Palace of Varieties, Manchester, was supplied by Messrs. Isherwood. These facts show how large and important a business the firm have succeeded in building up, and the far-reaching and influential character of the connection established in various parts of the kingdom.

ARMITAGE & CO., BREWERS,
ADELPHI STREET, SALFORD.

THIS brewery has no desire to lay claim to larger dimensions, but is thoroughly justified in claiming to turn out ales, bitters and stout, second to none in the district. The quality is admitted on all sides, by those competent to judge, to be of the first order, pure, wholesome, and of particularly agreeable flavour, and in particular their bitter ale, which is undoubtedly of a very superior quality for brilliancy and delicacy of flavour, we have rarely seen or tasted its equal. Much time and attention is evidently bestowed on this product, and we are pleased to learn that their efforts have been rewarded by a widespread reputation. The departments of the brewery are under experienced management, and appliances and ingredients are the best. Cleanliness is an important feature here, and it is no wonder that this enterprising firm are so rapidly making headway in Salford. The brewery, which is known as the Adelphi brewery, was established in 1879 by the present proprietors, Messrs. Armitage & Co. Although of somewhat limited extent, the place exceedingly compact and well planned out. The arrangements are of the most complete kind for securing satisfactory results, and may be described as “multum in parvo.” The plant, which is an excellent one, is ten quarter brew. It contains all the latest improvements, and is by a noted maker. There is the brewhouse, malthouse, and tonhouse, &c. The water on the premises is very pure, and it would appear that nothing has been left undone to ensure real quality. There are handsome offices, storerooms, &c. The brewery stands on a large area of land, leaving ample room for contemplated enlargement, which, judging by the popularity of the firm, must be made at an early date. At the present time they have a very efficient staff of competent workmen employed, and their horses, drays, floats, &c. are in every respect fully equipped for their rapidly increasing business. The proprietors have made themselves much respected in the district, not only by their courtesy, but also by the honourable way in which they conduct their business. Managed as it is at present, there is nothing to prevent it assuming very large proportions.

ISIDOR FRANKENBURG, GREENGATE RUBBER AND LEATHER WORKS,
SALFORD.

THE extensive and important rubber and leather industry with which the name of Mr. Isidor Frankenburg is so creditably associated was founded by that gentleman in the year 1867, and furnishes a very notable example of steady and continuous progress. Operations were commenced on the second floor of a building in Hanging Ditch, and when the start was made Mr. Frankenburg had no more than a dozen hands in his service. Three years later the business had increased to such an extent that he was obliged to take larger premises in Dantzic Street, where a further impetus was given to the trade by the receipt of an order from the French Government (during the progress of the Franco-Prussian war) for a large quantity of waterproof army knapsacks. Mr. Frankenburg had manufactured his goods from material which he purchased ready waterproofed, but his operations increased to such an extent that the proofing of the cloth for his own use became alone a large business, and he therefore undertook this himself. This necessitated much greater space, and in due course he removed to his present site into premises which were formerly in the occupation of Messrs. Eveleigh & Sons, hat manufacturers. Mr. Frankenburg’s establishment, situated in Greengate, in the most historical part of old Salford, is now very extensive, and under his able and enterprising administration it has become one of the busiest and most perfectly equipped rubber and waterproofing works in Lancashire.

Of course great changes and improvements have been made here by the present proprietor (Mr. Frankenburg having purchased the place and added very considerably to the buildings), and these improvements are noticeable in everything associated with the property. Since Mr. Frankenburg became owner he has done away with two of the lowest public-houses or drinking-shops in Salford, and allowed their licences to drop entirely, preferring to sweep them away altogether. Much of the adjoining property also came into his ownership, and this he converted into a commodious warehouse in connection with his works. Pursuing this energetic policy throughout, Mr. Frankenburg purchased nearly the whole site of Birtle Square, which was once known to be the haunt of many of the most daring and incorrigible members of the light-fingered fraternity that have ever troubled the local police; and upon the ground, thus reclaimed from a purpose that was worse than useless, he has erected large chemical works for the purification of the materials and liquids used in the waterproofing of cloth. This purification, we may add, has the very laudable object of doing away entirely with the disagreeable odour that has long characterised waterproof garments, and Mr. Frankenburg is be commended for striking at the root of this difficulty. He does not, some other manufacturers seem to do, merely “kill the smell,” but destroys the cause of the smell, and thus prevents it coming into existence at all. Perfectly odourless waterproof garments are an inestimable boon to all dwellers in this singularly moist climate of ours, and the long-looked-for desideratum will now be found in the manufactures of the house under notice.

Mr. Isidor Frankenburg’s works are now in a state of very advanced organisation, and are capable of dealing with every process of the rubber and waterproof industry. They are splendidly equipped and carefully supervised by the experienced and energetic head of the house, and are turning out great quantities of goods which are produced under the most favourable conditions that skill, capital, and plenty of progressive enterprise cam create. These goods have already won a most creditable reputation at home and abroad, and an increased recognition of their genuine merit, which is the strongest characteristic, will bring them before long into universal demand, for the truism that really good articles will always find their market is not, and cannot be, affected by any amount of competition.

The specialities, of this house comprise all kinds of waterproof cloths, ladies’ and gentlemen’s waterproof garments, imperial mantles, tennis shoes, leggings, and ladies’ and. gentlemen’s gaiters. No house in the trade is in position to offer better value in these lines than Mr. Frankenburg, who, be it noted, confines himself entirely to wholesale and export operations, and regards the whole world as his market. Indeed, his goods are quite as well and favourably known abroad as in this country, and are exported in ever-increasing quantity. The trade mark of the firm is “THE DISTINGUE,” with which all their goods are stamped.

Mr. Frankenburg has now in his employ at the Greengate Works upwards of eight hundred hands, and all the operations of the industry are carried out in a capable and systematic manner which excited the highest admiration on the occasion of our visit to this very interesting establishment. The Irwell Rubber Works, situate in Ordsall Lane, on the opposite side of the town, are also the property of Mr. Frankenburg, and are almost entirely devoted to the production of rubber for mechanical and other purposes, garden hose, rubber tubing, rubber balls, &c., &c. These works, which possess a very complete equipment of all plant and machinery essential to their purpose, are nearly as large as the Greengate Works, but the nature of the industry does not call for so much manual labour, and, consequently, the staff is not so numerous as at Greengate, though it is none the less a large one in itself, and fully adequate for the performance of the immense amount of work done. Altogether, this is one of the most notable businesses of Manchester, conducted with all the spirited enterprise that seems inseparable from the undertakings of this great city, and standing well to the front as a thoroughly representative, influential, and prosperous concern in its particular line. The house stands deservedly high in the esteem and confidence of its connections, and owes all its success to the industry and application of its sole proprietor.

Mr. Frankenburg is a distinctly popular and much respected gentleman, and has for some time been a prominent and useful member of the Council of the busy borough in which he has for nearly a quarter of a century conducted his constantly growing industry. That Mr. Frankenburg has been successful in business is probably quite true, but he has never allowed himself to find in that circumstance a reason for sitting down quietly and letting his less prosperous fellow-citizens “shift for themselves.” His careful and disinterested attention to public affairs has not been without beneficial] effect to the community, and his example, both as a business man and as a citizen, we should like to see universally imitated. Mr. Frankenburg has, as we have already shown, swept away a good many haunts of iniquity and mischief, and reared in their place establishments which provide employment and a means of livelihood for scores of industrious and needy workpeople. These, and other good works to which he has lent the aid and encouragement of practical support and personal influence, will assuredly not be forgotten or overlooked by the community when it comes to reckon up the individual instances of beneficence that have contributed to the common weal. Mr. Frankenburg is an active and thoughtful member of several local committees in connection with the municipality of Salford, and both in public and private life and in the affairs of business he enjoys the respect and esteem that are due to the honourable and straightforward principles he has always upheld. Citizens of this type cannot well be spared, and we trust Mr. Frankenburg will long continue to occupy his present prominent and well-earned position as an industrial leader and an energetic public man in the borough of Salford.

PICKUP & KNOWLES, ENGINEERS, MILLWRIGHTS, AND MACHINISTS,
PENDLETON, MANCHESTER.

PROMINENT amongst the notable houses engaged in the engineering trade stands the well-known though comparatively newly organised firm here named. It was in the year 1889 that Messrs. William Pickup and William Knowles associated themselves by building the present well-ordered works in Orchard Street, which they have had elaborately equipped with every modern contrivance for the execution of all kinds of superior work incidental to the industry. The firm operate on a large scale as makers and repairers of all kinds of machinery for calico-printers, bleachers, dyers, finishers, paper-stainers, and others, and are, moreover, prepared to execute any kind or class of mechanical work to order, or to project and carry out designs for the same. Their premises consist of a splendidly fitted pattern-shop in a gallery surrounding the turning and fitting department, and are on the eve of being added to by a complete foundry, so that all the work produced may be completed from the initial stage to the finish under the personal direction of the proprietors, both of whom are gentlemen of recognised ability and extended experience in connection with the important industry to which their attention is now so vigorously and successfully directed.

H. J. GIAISTER & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF WHITE, DYED AND PRINTED, PLAIN AND FANCY COTTON GOODS
Flannelettes a specialite, 33, FAULKNER STREET, MANCHESTER, with branches in London and Glasgow, where their productions are extensively known, both in the home trade and shipping. This is a young but rising firm, and they have already succeeded in securing a large and increasing business, which is the best test of the value of their productions.

J. H. GREENHOW & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF COTTON GOODS,
45A, PORTLAND STREET, MANCHESTER.

IT was the good fortune of Mr. J. H. Greenhow, the head of the above firm, to succeed to an old-established concern, which for a number of years had held a prominent position in Manchester. On assuming possession in 1884 Mr. J. H. Greenhow brought his well-known energy and enterprise to bear on the already valuable connection, with the result that the business has steadily in- creased. The founder, Mr. James Pidduck, now deceased, was noted for his business ability, and his mantle has fallen on worthy shoulders. The firm are manufacturers of Grey Cloths, suitable for printing and dyeing, such as fine twills, sateens, serges, brocades, fancies and printers, and also of goods for selling grey, such as wigans, domestics, and T-cloths. The premises at the above address are in every way suited to the requirements of the trade, being in the main street of the city, and in the midst of the principal shipping and home trade firms. Mr. Greenhow is a well-known member of the Manchester Royal Exchange, and represents the Oxford Ward, in which his business is situated, on the City Council.

GEO. EVANS & SONS, TIMBER MERCHANTS, JOINERY AND MOULDING MANUFACTURERS, &C.,
NEWTON HEATH, MANCHESTER.

THIS important business has been in existence for upwards of half a century, and was founded originally under the title of Dixon, Son, & Co., afterwards being changed to Dixon & Nightingale, and later to Dixon, Son, & Evans. From the first the firm have been very extensively engaged as timber merchants, steam saw-millers and joiners, and in addition to this, they were the pioneers of the match-making industry in Lancashire. In 1880, however, the match business was disposed of to the Bell & Black Company, Limited, and was finally absorbed by Bryant & May, Limited, in 1885. The timber trade was continued as a separate concern, and is still carried on with conspicuous success under the title of Geo. Evans & Sons. The works at Newton Heath cover about five acres of land, including the yards, and are most completely organised and equipped for all the purposes of the trade engaged in. Here an immense stock is held in every description of Baltic and American timber, besides a great variety of hard woods. The sawn timber is kept in extensive steers for seasoning, and as one steer becomes depleted, it is at once replenished with freshly-cut wood.

In manufactured timber of all kinds, Messrs. Geo. Evans & Sons do a great business with builders and contractors in town and country, and their large two-storey works are replete with the best modern sawing, planing, moulding, mortising, and tenoning machinery. Vast quantities of perfectly made and finely-finished doors, sashes, window frames, mouldings, spoutings, &c., are turned out and distributed among users of these goods in all parts of the country. Lapping boards, rolling pegs, calender boxes, and many other articles of woodwork are also included in the output of these busy works, and the firm maintain a splendid reputation for the solidity and fine quality of all their productions.

Owing to the great advances recently made in the application of electricity, and particularly in installations for illuminating purposes, Messrs. Geo. Evans & Sons have devoted a considerable amount of attention to the production of mouldings for electrical wire casings, and have placed in the market a large number of beautiful and artistic patterns, designed to suit every style of architecture. In this department they are well supported by the principal electrical engineers throughout the kingdom. Although the stock of timber held at the firm’s yard is necessarily a very large one, it does not represent their entire resources in this respect, for there are always large quantities of different qualities held to the account of this house at the various railway and canal depots.

The present principals of the firm are the four sons of the late Mr. George Evans, who founded the timber business in connection with the before-mentioned firms, viz., Messrs. William Thomas, George, James, and Excelsior Evans, who trade in co-partnership, and conduct this immense business with marked ability and judgment. Mr. W. T. Evans is a member of the Prestwich Board of Guardians, in whose district Newton Heath is included, and he is well known and respected, for his constant interest in local affairs. Mr. George Evans is also a prominent local man, and was elected to a councillorship in connection with the new ward of Newton Heath, on its amalgamation with the city of Manchester in 1890. He was soon afterwards chosen first alderman of the same ward, and continues to hold that position with great credit. Mr. George Evans is also a very useful member of the City Corporation, and serves diligently on several committees, including those associated with improvements, paving and highway, finance, and technical instruction, as well as on the parliamentary sub-committee. Mr. James Evans and Mr. E. Evans, the remaining partners, are both young gentlemen who have hitherto devoted themselves entirely to business, and in this field they have found ample and congenial scope for the exercise of their energies.

Messrs. Geo. Evans & Sons, are also proprietors of the large and flourishing wood, tin, and zinc packing Case works at Victoria Saw Mills, Granby Row, Manchester, which concern has been known for over twenty-two years under the name of Thos. Roebuck & Co., and is still carried on under that title by Messrs. Evans. This extensive and important branch of the firm’s undertakings receives the personal attention and management of Mr. W. T. Evans, who possesses a thorough practical knowledge of all its details. Messrs. Geo. Evans & Sons’ telegraphic address is “Sawmills, Newton Heath,” and their telephone is No. 1080; and Thos. Roebuck & Co., telephone No. 134.

W. H. WAGSTAFF & CO., DYERS, PRINTERS, KAISERS, AND FINISHERS OF OXFORDS, HARVARDS, GINGHAMS, ZEPHYRS, LUSTRES, &C.,
WEST GORTON MILLS, GORTON BROOK, MANCHESTER: TOWN OFFICE, 12, LEVER STREET, PICCADILLY.

THE principals of the above firm are gentlemen of recognised ability and extended experience in connection with the important industrial branch to which their attention is now so vigorously and successfully directed; and they have been especially fortunate in the choice of their premises. These consist of a large and commodious building, which was formerly used as a weaving shed, and covers an area of over 3,000 square feet, forming a one-storied structure, which is loftier than the ordinary run of weaving sheds, and is divided appropriately into a series of special departments, where each section of the work is carried out in its integrity by skilled specialists. All the departments are elaborately equipped with the best and latest machinery and appliances, calling into requisition the services of a powerful steam engine and two large boilers, and a numerous staff of picked and experienced hands under the practical personal supervision of the principals. The goods mostly consist of Oxfords, Harvards, ginghams, zephyrs, lustres and shirtings, dyed and printed flannelettes (this is a speciality); but Messrs. Wagstaff are prepared to dye and finish any other class of fabrics in any desired style, so perfect are the means at their command, and so varied has their experience been. The whole business is conducted with conspicuous ability and sound judgment by the principals, and no firm could have won by more honourable and legitimate means the eminent reputation and widespread business connections which this notable house already enjoys.

BAKER & CO., CYCLE CEMENT MANUFACTURERS,
BELLE VUE STREET, WEST GORTON, MANCHESTER; WORKS, BRADFORD, MANCHESTER.

THIS most useful and largely-patronised establishment was founded in 1884, by Mr. Henry Baker, for the sole manufacture of his two celebrated specialities. These are Baker & Co.’s Excelsior Solution for Splicing Cycle Tyres, and Baker & Co.’s Special Quality Tyre Cement. The perfecting of these splendid productions cost the inventor much valuable time and money. The solution for splicing tyres is now in great request. In these days of cycle-riding it is simply invaluable, as it is easily carried and simply administered. No heat whatever is required in applying it, and it is thoroughly effectual. It is equally successful for repairing cut lawn-tennis shoes, or any kind of india-rubber goods. The tyre cement is for fixing tyres to all kinds of cycles, bicycles, bassinettes, &c., and is just as simple in its application. Both have largely been taken up by the leading cyclists, and are doing much to reduce to a minimum the discomforts and inconveniences hitherto existing on the road. The premises consist of a large two-storied building, with a fine frontage of twenty feet. A large stock is on hand, and orders can be met without delay, although the demand is constantly increasing. The worthy proprietors are very attentive to all orders, conduct their transactions in an honourable and straightforward manner, and by their pleasant bearing have won the friendship and esteem of hosts around them.

GEORGE BENTLEY, VIADUCT BREWERY,
ARDWICK, MANCHESTER.

THE Ardwick Ales have, ever since their introduction twenty years ago by Mr. George Bentley, been noted for their purity, wholesomeness, and excellent flavour. Mr. Bentley still carries on his business with vigour in Viaduct Street, where his commanding premises form quite a landmark, They comprise a modern brewery of the most approved type, replete with all the best machinery and appliances, and supplemented by a fine cooperage, hop-house, and ample stable accommodation. In addition to this Mr. Bentley operates on a very large scale as a bottler of his own ales, stout, and porter; maturing the liquors thoroughly in an admirably-appointed store previous to distribution. His ales and beers have gained for him an enormous circle of good customers amongst large consumers, as well as private families, who knowhow to judge of and thoroughly appreciate well-brewed, unsophisticated liquors, and it is manifestly his resolution that the high reputation he has won shall not merely be consistently maintained, but steadily developed in days to come.

S. SAUNDERS, ST. MARY’S HEATING APPARATUS WORKS,
93 AND 95, UPPER MOSS LANE, HULME, MANCHESTER.

THIS important business, founded in 1879 by Messrs. J. McIntyre & Co., has for some time past been continued with great success by its present proprietor, Mr. S. Saunders, whose name has become very creditably identified with improved and highly effective methods of warming by means of hot-water apparatus. Mr. Saunders has directed his attention in this matter to the requirements of mansions and residences (large and small), and also of churches, chapels, schools, shops, offices, warehouses, and public buildings. He is prepared to undertake contracts for heating, in a thoroughly efficient and sanitary manner, any description of building in which a uniformly warm temperature is desirable under any conditions; and as the result of his long-continued and exhaustive experiments, he has perfected and patented improvements in his “small-bore” system of heating. This unique apparatus possesses a host of material advantages, which do away entirely with all the objections that have hitherto been advanced against heating by hot water, and it is undoubtedly one of the very best and most thoroughly, scientific ideas of the kind. We strongly commend to our readers’ attention and consideration the neat little illustrated pamphlet, in which Mr. Saunders sets forth the characteristics and the merits of his valuable invention. Mr. Saunders’ new system has already gained a great deal of public favour, and a large number of letters from persons who have adopted it testify to the complete satisfaction it has given.

Mr. Saunders has compact and well-appointed premises at the above address, with every facility for carrying on his rapidly-growing business, and he enjoys the support and confidence of a large and widespread town and county connection. It should be noted that he has been particularly successful in the matter of steam heating for mills, while a great reputation attaches to his patent sectional and tubular boilers, also the wrought-iron hot water boilers, for conservatories, greenhouses, churches, residences, public buildings, shown in his catalogue, &c. His hot water or steam radiators are both cleanly and ornamental in appearance. They dispense with the old arrangement of coils and coil cases, and afford a large amount of heating surface in a very small space. Mr. Saunders is a heating and ventilating engineer of large practical and scientific experience, and his success in this trade has been worthily achieved by the real merit of his productions.

JOHANN THIEL, ENGLISH AND FOREIGN LETTERPRESS PRINTER,
43, LOWER MOSLEY STREET, MANCHESTER.

A VERY useful and convenient institution is placed at the disposal of Manchester engineering and shipping firms having business relations abroad by Mr. Johana Thiel, a clever and enterprising foreign printer, whose speciality lies in the execution of commercial work in foreign languages from original copy in English, the translation of which is undertaken by the printer. The principal work done in Mr. Thiel’s establishment consists of German, French, Italian and Spanish, and most of these languages are spoken in his office. It is equally facilitating to commercial gentlemen of foreign nationality, who may not know English very well. Mr. Thiel, who only established himself last year in Manchester, is already becoming well known in the city, and is fast consolidating an influential connection, by whom the facilities he offers, and the accuracy, neatness, and despatch with which the work entrusted to him is executed, are warmly recognised and appreciated. Mr. Johann Thiel is not only an experienced and practical craftsman, having been for some years a reader or corrector of the press in one of the large printing offices in Manchester, and a linguist of unusual attainments, but he is also a pushing and energetic man of considerable business capacity, who is much liked and esteemed by all with whom his business brings him in contact.

MATTHEW NAYLOR & CO., CONTRACTORS AND DEALERS IN SEWERING PIPES, GRAVEL, FLAGS, SETS, &CE.,
54 AND 56, MYTTON STREET, RADNOR STREET, HULME, MANCHESTER.

FOR thirty years the above-named business has been carried on, increasing in the extent and importance of its transactions year by year, until at the present time the establishment occupies an assured position among kindred houses. Operations are conducted on large and commodious premises, comprising general and private offices, together with extensive yards containing work-sheds, smithy, stabling accommodation for several horses, and cart sheds. A glance round is sufficient to show that the business conducted here is one of no common kind, and that Messrs. Naylor are fully prepared at the shortest notice to undertake contracts of magnitude. There is also a mortar mill for supplying the trade generally. The firm have gained an honourable name for the successful manner in which many important contracts for corporation work, sewering, road-making, pond-making, and similar jobs have been executed. The resources of the house are equal to all demands, and as a force of men and horses is constantly employed, prompt execution of all commands and entire satisfaction can be guaranteed. The proprietors are gentlemen of wide and valuable experience in every department of their business. They devote their personal attention to the concern in its entirety, and every contract entrusted to them is sure to be carried to completion in a thoroughly satisfactory and conscientious manner. By their honourable methods they have gained the confidence of a large circle of patrons, and the continued increase in the business shows how well their efforts are appreciated. In commercial and social circles they are well known and respected for their personal worth and ability.

WILLIAM CROSLAND, ENGINEER AND PATENTEE,
NEW STREET, MILES PLATTING, MANCHESTER.

FEW names are better known among the machinists and patentees of Manchester than that of Mr. William Crosland, of New Street, Miles Platting, the inventor of the “Advance” self-clamp silent guillotine, and numerous other notable and useful machines. This gentleman commenced business as far back as 1854 in a very small way. Employment is now found for more than thirty skilled hands, and special works have been erected, consisting of an extensive three-storey building, one hundred feet by sixty feet, and equipped with plant and machinery of the most modern and improved kind. The works embody the proprietor’s long experience in this department of industry, and they are kept in an admirable state of efficiency. A large and valuable business is done in the manufacture of the patent guillotine. This machine now occupies an unrivalled position in the trade. The “Advance” possesses many special advantages, and the continually increasing demand for it shows unmistakably how it is growing in popularity and appreciation with users. It is noiseless in its action, cuts perfectly true top and bottom alike, and is so simple in construction that the knife, or the cutting stick, can be changed in one minute. It causes no vibration, and can be stopped in any part of the cut.

Mr. Crosland, who is assisted in his business by his four sons, makes a large number of superior machines for different purposes, especially those used for making paper boxes, all of which are well known and largely in demand. Among these are hand guillotine paper-cutting machines, rotary scoring machines, punching machines for cutting oval, round, or other fancy shapes, lever screw presses, lithographic stone grinding and polishing machines, and last, but by no means least, Crosland’s new patent automatic pressing machine. This machine is intended to take the place of hydraulic or screw presses. The machine is started with an ordinary strap-fork, and brings down the platen until sufficient pressure is obtained. A number of strong springs are then brought into action. When these springs have stretched a certain amount, they liberate a weight which at once moves the strap on to the loose pulley, and brings into operation a break which holds the machine in its position. The pressure can be left on as long as required, when, by lifting a lever, the platen rises to its original position. Its advantages are — the machine is automatic: when the strap is put on, it can be left to put the required pressure without further attention, and will stop without fear of any breakage. By the use of springs each lot will get a uniform amount of pressure, yet this pressure can be varied for different classes of work. No water, no valves or packing-leathers to get out of order. Any amount of pressure can be obtained.

A connection has been developed in every part of the United Kingdom, and an extensive trade is being carried on with the Colonies. The leading machines are kept in stock in various sizes, and orders receive careful and prompt attention. Mr. Crosland is everywhere esteemed for his ability, energy and upright methods, both as a business man and an active participant in public affairs. He has for a long time sat as a guardian of the poor for Newton Heath in the Prestwick Union, and he is prominently identified with every movement for the good of his fellow-citizens.

W. H. TAYLOR, HAT MANUFACTURER,
FAILSWORTH, MANCHESTER.

THIS business is one of the most important concerns of its kind in the neighbourhood, of Manchester, and was founded as far back as the year 1835, by Mr. James Taylor, father of Mr. W. H. Taylor, the present principal. This latter gentleman succeeded to the control of the business in 1875, and since then he has considerably extended it by his energetic and enterprising management. The works at Failsworth are of large extent and suitable appointment for an industry of this kind, possessing all the requisite appliances and machinery of the best modern type, and here Mr. Taylor employs a very numerous staff of hands in the manufacture of felt hats in fine fur and wool, “pullovers,” shells, &c., &c. The principal output of Ike establishment, however, is in silk hats, for which this house has long enjoyed a high-merited reputation. Several of Mr. Taylor’s specialities have met with great favour and have become popular in the best circles at home and abroad. Among these may be mentioned the “Improved Zephyr silk hat,” which, as its name implies, is one of the lightest hats in the market, and is at the same time remarkable for its strength and good wearing qualities. Recently introduced, and protected by two patents, is Mr. Taylor’s “Conformo” silk hat, which instantly conforms to the shape of the wearer’s head, fitting as accurately and easily as a glove, and causing no pressure on the forehead. The most practical experts in the trade have all agreed in pronouncing this hat perfection, and the highest medical testimony favours its principles and special hygienic qualities. This really excellent invention is a distinct boon to the public. The “Conformo” silk hat can be had of all first-class hatters and gentlemen’s outfitters. Such an invention as this is not an occurrence of every day, and Mr. Taylor is fully entitled to congratulation and reward for his- happy discovery. The general trade of this old-established house is wide and influential in both the home and export markets, and the volume of business done increases continuously. Several travellers are kept “on the road” in the United Kingdom, and Mr. Taylor’s wholesale and shipping agents in London and the south are Messrs. Hope, Townend & Co., 26, Milton Street, London, E.C.
Telegrams — “Taylor, Hatter, Failsworth.”

JOHN HARROP, GENERAL MERCHANT AND MANUFACTURER,
CHIEF OFFICES AND WAREHOUSE, 55, TIB STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE immense business owned by Mr. Harrop was established by him in 1876. The head offices and warehouse are at 55, Tib Street; the splendidly constructed and complete works at Bury Street Mills, Stockport, near Manchester, and the several important branches are at 89, 91 and 93, Piccadilly, Manchester; 109, Broad Street, Pendleton; 5, High Street, Oldham; 13, Drake Street, Rochdale; Market Place, Hyde; and 32, Lower Hillgate, Stockport. The business carried on is that of a manufacturer of bassinettes, mail carts, perambulators, bath chairs, &c. An immense stock of picture frames and mouldings is imported from Germany and America. The depots and warehouses are packed with all kinds of articles of foreign manufacture, as clocks, bronzes, watches, organs, pianos, musical and floral albums, &c., and form at once a valuable and useful collection.

The great speciality, however, is the manufacture of bassinettes, mail carts, &c. For the purpose of making them the most perfect in the market, the spirited proprietor has laid down at his works a large plant for making his own wheels and rubbers, to save another manufacturer’s profit, and to enable him to possess wheels worthy of the other high-class parts of his mail carts, &c. There is also an extensive plant for the special purpose of building landau and barouche carriages, and bath chairs. This plant enables Mr. Harrop to come to the front as a manufacturer in design, workmanship, and finish. He has no fewer than sixty original and elegant designs in bath chairs, mail carts, and perambulators. Each is entirely distinct, and for real worth and solidity of construction they can challenge the whole country to produce better. These are for the wholesale and retail trade, and also for the hire-purchase system. In the latter the number of transactions is enormous. Competent managers preside over each branch establishment, but the whole come under the personal control of the indefatigable proprietor. Considerably over two hundred hands are employed, at the works, and in the various depots. Mounting and publishing pictures is a further feature of this gigantic undertaking. All is managed with the strictest order, and every customer has full attention paid them. Mr. Harrop is a Manchester man, and is proud of the fact. Manchester, in return, is proud to own one who, by his industry, enterprise, and ability has formed a business of such magnitude and usefulness.

JOSEPH HILL, AUCTIONEER AND VALUER,
3, CLARENCE STREET, ALBERT SQUARE, MANCHESTER.

ONE of the most popular factors in mercantile life is, without doubt, the auctioneer and valuer. A leading house in this line is that of Mr. Joseph Hill, which deservedly controls a large amount of the better class of custom. The premises occupied consist of a spacious suite of handsomely appointed offices at the above address, in which an efficient staff of clerks and correspondents is constantly engaged. Mr. Hill evinces admirable energy and activity in his profession. All kinds of auctions are conducted by him in Manchester and the surrounding country districts. Properties, household furniture, live stock, crops, stocks in trade, plant, &c., hotels, spirit shops, licensed groceries, and businesses of every description are sold as going concerns by private treaty or public auction. He is agent for the Queen Insurance Company, and also agent for the Ocean Accident and Guarantee Corporation, Limited. He is a fellow of the Auctioneer’s Institute of the United Kingdom and also a member of its council. The business was established a quarter of a century ago, and ever since has been rapidly increasing both in extent and importance. The proprietor is also a valuer for all kinds of probate duty, transfers, and similar purposes. All transactions are carried out in a thoroughly business-like manner, and commendable promptitude and despatch are shown in everything undertaken. Mr. Hill also holds the very important position of sheriff’s officer for the city of Manchester. The business is very ably conducted and ranks among the foremost in the profession.

JOHN SUTTON, MILL FURNISHER,
BOSTON WORKS, BRISTOL STREET, HULME, MANCHESTER.

DATING back in its foundation to the year 1851, the business was established by the father of the present proprietor, the latter succeeding in 1868. The works are laid out on an extensive scale, and are replete in the various departments with machinery and appliances of the most improved description, with every facility for the effective and economical working of the business. Mr. Sutton gives regular employment to upwards of twenty skilled and experienced workmen in the manufacture of patent suction and sight feed lubricators, improved valve oil cans, tin bobbins for woollen, cotton, flax, and silk, improved steel, tin, wire, eyelet, and curled wire cotton guides, special guides for ring throstles, &c.; also Sutton’s Patent Suction Lubricator and Sutton’s Patent Elevator Bucket, for corn mills. These goods are well and favourably known in the trade, and exhibit in every detail of their construction that marvellous excellence of material and workmanship which has made the productions of these works famous through-out the district. Mr. Sutton has an excellent connection amongst mill owners and manufacturers throughout Lancashire and adjoining counties, which is well founded upon the eminent reputation so long enjoyed, and the well-known quality, character, and utility of all the articles manufactured. Mr. John Sutton, who is the sole proprietor, is a thoroughly practical man, with an experience extending over many years. He has most successfully introduced several valuable and useful patents, which have a large and increasing sale, and is widely recognised as a courteous, and enterprising business man.

H. L. MCINNES, DUCIE ENGRAVING WORKS,
MARY STREET, STRANGEWAYS, MANCHESTER.

SINCE their establishment in 1873, these works have gradually extended until they have become a very great power in the calico printing trade. They were originally in Carnarvon Street, where they were founded by the present proprietor, and removed to the well-known Ducie Engraving Works in 1887. These works are specially adapted for carrying on the extensive operations in connection1 with the trade, and are well and liberally fitted with machinery throughout. On the first floor are superior engraving machines, &c.; on the second are a number of etching, pentagraph, and other machines. Hand engraving is carried on on the third floor, and on the fourth are the rooms for the sketch-makers, die-sinkers, plate-cutters, &c. In the various departments upwards of fifty superior hands are constantly employed. The whole attention is given to cotton-printers, paper stainers. &c., who supply the rolls to be engraved. Mr. McInnes employs artists and designers of great skill, and turns out many striking and original specimens of art engraving. The thorough manner in which every detail is worked out reflects the highest credit upon the organising powers of the highly-respected proprietor. The works are kept fully employed, and are in a most flourishing condition. Apart from the unmistakable superiority of his workmanship, Mr. McInnes is esteemed for his genial manner, and for the very straightforward nature of his commercial dealings.

EDWARD ISSOTT, PALE ALE AND PORTER BREWER,
ARDWICK PLACE BREWERY, STOCKPORT ROAD, MANCHESTER.

FOR many year» previous to 1882 Mr. Edward Issott occupied an old-established brewery in Heaton Chapel, and in consequence of the rapid development of his business, and the necessity for increased accommodation, he built the large and handsome premises now so well and widely known as the Ardwick Place Brewery. Situated in the Stockport Road, the brewery, which is well recognised as one of the most complete of its kind in the district, with the stables, sheds, outbuildings, cooperage, &c., covers upwards of an acre of ground. The plant is equal to fifty-five barrels per brew, and can easily be adapted to produce double that quantity, and is equipped with all the most improved machinery and appliances. Mr. Issott brews both mild and bitter ale, stout and porter, which enjoy an unsurpassed reputation for purity, strength, and fine flavour. The greatest care is exercised in the selection of the ingredients, and the various operations are conducted on the most approved principles, with the additional advantage of long practical experience. A large staff of skilled and experienced men are employed under the immediate supervision of the proprietor, and the trade is of a widespread and steadily-growing character. Mr. Issott has a first-class connection throughout Lancashire, Cheshire, and adjoining counties, and is well known and highly respected in the district as a courteous and enterprising business man

WILLIAM BROOKES, BREWER,
MOSS SIDE, MANCHESTER.

THIS old-established and reputable business was initiated in 1860, and the foundation of a good business was soon laid and a substantial connection acquired. The founder afterwards identified his son, Mr. George Ashton Brookes, with the concern, and under their joint control the success of their establishment has left nothing to be desired. The premises are of ample size and are provided with every modern appliance and improvement for the successful carrying on of the business. They comprise a large suite of well-appointed offices — including general offices, counting-house, and manager’s and private offices — spacious granaries, and brew-houses equipped with the latest apparatus and machinery to form what is known as a twenty-quarter plant. Here is controlled a large trade in mild and bitter ales and stout. These beverages are of the best quality and such as cannot fail to recommend themselves to judges. They are brewed from pure malt and hops according to the best system, and every process is carefully watched to insure the best possible results. The water at the brewery is of exceptionally good quality, containing all the necessary elements for producing the finest ales, which, cannot be surpassed in the district for their brightness, purity, and flavour.

A wholesale and retail wine and spirit trade is done by the firm, and the stocks they hold are very choice and well selected. The firm hold a number of full-licensed houses and beerhouses, and a large trade is also done with free houses and some of the best local families. About twenty skilled hands are employed in the brewing, and eight horses and lurries are continually occupied in delivering orders. Mr. Brookes is a thoroughly practical man, and his experience has been of the soundest character. His able and energetic personal supervision is bestowed upon the business, and to this circumstance as much as to any other, is to be attributed its marked success. He is respected and esteemed by the many that know him. for his personal worth and strict business principles.

TYRER & CO., PUBLIC DECORATORS, SILK AND BUNTING BANNER MANUFACTURERS, TENT MAKERS, &C., &C.,
63, BRIDGE STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS firm occupies very commodious premises at the above address, where they possess every facility for the proper conduct of the trade engaged in, and their show-rooms and stock-rooms display an immense variety of goods suitable for all the purposes of such a business. The works of the firm are in Hulme, and they have ample resources of production, being in a position to execute the largest orders without delay. Messrs. Tyrer & Co.’s specialities consist in the furnishing of balls, bazaars, and banquetting halls, and the suitable decoration of the same for any special occasion; also the supplying of supper tables, forms, and dancing hollands, flags, banners, all kinds of stage prosceniums and scenery for dramatic performances, tents and marquees of various sizes for garden parties, &c., &c., and every requisite for flower shows, bazaars, agricultural shows, and other occasions calling for tents or decorative materials of any kind. Their new type of pavilion, with parquet flooring, is an admirable arrangement for ball-room purposes, and makes a most convenient adjunct to a gentleman’s residence, being capable of speedy erection, and affording splendid accommodation when fitted up and decorated by Messrs. Tyrer & Co. This pavilion has been utilised on four occasions for the accommodation of royalty, on the occasion of royal visits to the Isle of Man, Swansea, Liverpool, and Burnley.

The firm are especially famous as street decorators, in which connection they provide and erect Venetian masts, triumphal arches, gas and variegated lamp illuminations and many other symbols of public rejoicing, in the preparation of which they are singularly expert. Banner painting is an art in which the firm distinctly excel, and for this they gained the only gold medal in 1877. As public decorators they are contractors to the Stanley Hospital Gala Committee, and they have carried out and gained high testimonials for street decorations on the occasions of royal visits in London, Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Preston, Swansea, Newcastle, and other towns. Organisers of bazaars for any purpose cannot do better than communicate with this eminent firm, who can not only supply all manner of fittings and decorations, but can also provide any number of entërtainments suitable for bazaars, including excellent marionettes, our old friends “Punch and Judy,” and many other attractive and moneymaking features.

For many years Messrs. Tyrer & Co. have supplied the tents for the encampment of the Manchester Volunteers, and they evidently make a speciality of this sort of thing, judging from the enormous stock of tents for officers’ mess, &c., they keep always in readiness. In all their operations they adhere closely to the sound policy of doing really first-class work and supplying or letting out really superior articles at very moderate and reasonable charges. The present head of the house, Mr. Lee Southern, is a gentleman who enters actively and energetically into all the details of the trade, and his extensive experience enables him to conduct the business with excellent effect.

T. R. WARDLEWORTH, BOOKSELLER,
18 AND 18A, BROWN STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE modern bookseller who makes it a sine qua non of his business to keep well in advance of the times, by providing the public with standard works and all the latest and best productions of the press, assuredly plays a most important part in the everyday economy of things; and in this connection, in Manchester of to-day, the trade is in no instance better or more typically exemplified than by Mr. T. R. Wardleworth, the popular bookseller of 18 and 18A, Brown Street, who opened his attractive emporium in the year 1882, opposite to the new General Post Office. The premises occupied consist of two large and spacious adjoining shops, admirably appointed throughout, and very fully stocked with a thoroughly exhaustive series of books in both plain and recherché bindings, of all the standard authors. Mr. Wardleworth moreover prides himself, with justice, in keeping himself au courant with all the events of the literary world, and by securing the co-operation of all the leading London and Provincial publishers, is always in readiness to supply the public with the latest books on the days of their publication. His trade is exclusively in new books, and he has the valuable commercial knack of discerning what book is likely to “take” with the public and what not. He is also energetic and ingenious in his modes of pushing books, and is one of the few booksellers who make use of reviews for this purpose. In his well arranged windows there are usually several cuttings from critical papers setting forth the merits of portions of his wares, and this plan he finds wonderfully efficacious.

WM. H. BRAMALL, PRESSURE AND VACUUM GAUGE MAKER,
HAWKENS STREET, CORNBROOK, MANCHESTER.

THE above forms one of the most rapidly developed businesses in Manchester, and from the most humble commencement has sprung one of the largest concerns of its kind in England. The surprising fact is that all this has been accomplished in about eleven years. When Mr. Bramall commenced business it was in a small room at Pomona, his entire staff consisting of himself and a boy. Nine months afterwards he took a larger room, and in another twelve months was compelled to remove into his present premises. At that time they were only one-third their present size. So fast did the business increase that very important additions had from time to time to be made, until they have reached the great proportions of to-day. The specialities are the manufacture of pressure, vacuum and hydraulic gauges on the Bourdon principle. The fame of these gauges is universal, and immense numbers are shipped all over the world, a large quantity going to Canada, South America, Australia, Japan, &c. The yearly output is over fifteen thousand, and the trade continues rapidly to increase. About fifty hands are employed.

The works are now very large, and are on two floors. On the ground floor is the office, and entrance to the works; also the dial-painting room, packing- room, engine-room, and work-room, fitted up with every description of machinery for cutting and turning the small parts of the gauges, viz., pinions, quadrants, racks, &c. One important part is that the gauges contain no iron or steel, all the pivots being made of an alloy that will not corrode, which is a very important point, as the gauges are generally much exposed to damp. At the right of the office is the large warehouse and packing-room. Adjoining this is another work-room, with machinery and power. At the rear is the foundry. There are five furnaces. The moulding and casting rooms are very complete, and all castings are made on the premises. The second floor is also used as work-rooms, with power and the various kinds of machinery necessary to the business. The entire works are of the most complete nature possible. The respected proprietor, in looking round his large and busy place, must feel recompensed for his untiring and well-directed efforts.

JAMES FORD & CO., FELT HAT AND CAP MANUFACTURERS,
30, FOUNTAIN STREET, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the notable houses whose names have become closely and creditably identified with the hat and cap manufacturing industry of Manchester of to-day, there are perhaps few that are better known or more thoroughly representative of the business than the one here noticed. Upwards of half a century has now elapsed since the formation of this house in Print Street, afterwards removed to Watling Street, and an inquiry into the annals of the city shows that its commercial development has been both rapid and continuous from the very commencement. In 1866 the present commodious premises were acquired and entered upon. No. 30, Fountain Street, is appropriately divided into offices, showrooms, warehouses, and general stock rooms, altogether holding one of the largest, best assorted, and most comprehensive series of felt hats and caps by all the leading makers of the day. All the newest patterns are kept well en evidence, from time, to time, as they come out; and the firm are prepared at all times to execute large and special orders to suit the requirements of any climate. A large and manifestly efficient staff of assistants is employed, and the trade controlled amongst merchants and shippers is certainly second to none of its kind in the city.

THE INTERNATIONAL DRUG CO., LTD.,
159, STRETFORD ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable company was incorporated in the year 1887, under the able auspices of its managing director, Mr. L. D. Prince, for the purpose of supplying retail and wholesale, at the lowest possible prices consistent with equity, all kinds of drugs, chemicals, medicines, herbs, roots, barks, gums, glues, oils, and kindred commodities of the highest quality, in addition to all the collateral articles incidental to the modern chemist’s business. The premises occupied consist of a large and substantial three-storied building, with a capitally-ordered double-fronted shop on the ground floor, augmented by great store-rooms, and well-equipped laboratories and workshops at the rear, the second and third stories being fully utilised for the storage of stock. The company operate extensively as importers, exporters and retail dealers in all the commodities mentioned, and at the same time run a medical dispensary department under the charge of duly qualified chemists, where physicians’ prescriptions and family recipes are dispensed with care and accuracy; every prescription being checked before seeding it out.

In the laboratory department, the company manufacture, on a large scale, two very important and much appreciated articles. These are “Nutritas” — a superior palatable compound, prepared chiefly from the purest cod liver oil, malt extract, and hypophosphites, blended to yield a preparation containing in the highest degree of perfection all the blood, flesh, and nerve enriching properties of the ingredients named, readily assimilable, and acting as a powerful nutritious tonic for the invalid; and “Health Tea,” of which the following is a description:— This Medicinal Tea, mixed in accordance with the medico-botanic discoveries of Dr. Calvel, is an aperient and blood purifier of greatest importance, made up exclusively of hygienic plants of the utmost physiological value. It is recognised as the most natural, agreeable, efficacious, and beneficial of all aperients and blood purifers. This tea presents, under the form of an agreeable and hygienic beverage, all the qualities necessary for a perfect purgative, removing from the alimentary canal and circulatory system those poisonous ferments and impurities which vitiate the blood and endanger life. The tea, whilst purging agreeably, gives vitality to all parts of the digestive organs. Besides the unequalled laxative and purifying properties of this health tea, it is highly recommended for following reasons:—(1st). It is the best tonic, stimulant, and anti-spasmodic, increasing the vitality of all intestinal parts. (2nd). As authenticated by numerous testimonials, it is the best preparation, giving the most satisfactory results in all cases of liver complaints, indigestion, skin diseases, constipation, impurities of the blood, rheumatism, flatulency, head-ache, dropsy, &c. (3rd). It acts uniformly upon all parts of the alimentary canal (a result unattained by any other aperient). (4th). It purges without producing in its reaction either diarrhoea or constipation. (5th). Being taken in a liquid form, it does not tend to cause ulcerations as concentrated and hard pills do. (6th). It can be taken without risk by persons of either sex and of any age. No one need any longer defer taking cooling and purifying medicine, now that it is presented in such a pleasant and beneficial form, and by taking this tea early the regular action of the various organs will be restored, and at the same time, the formation of an injurious pabulum, upon which fasten so readily the germs of fevers and diseases, will be avoided.

In addition to this they have instituted a wine and spirit department, which is fast finding favour among the residents in the district, because of the guaranteed genuineness of all the wines, British and foreign, sold. The trade controlled by the company is one of considerable volume, and the entire business is conducted, under the personal supervision of Mr. Prince, with marked ability and spirited enterprise, and reflects nothing but the highest credit upon all those who are in any way concerned with the administration of its affairs.

HENRY MARSH, SADDLER AND HARNESS MAKER,
17, ST. ANNE STREET, MANCHESTER.
BRANCH ESTABLISHMENTS: 10, BRIDGE STREET, AND ALDERLEY, CHESHIRE; 87, GEORGE STREET, ALTRINCHAM.

IN historically reviewing the trades and industries of the century gone by, it is particularly interesting to meet with a firm of such old standing and extensive business connections as the, one now under notice. Upwards of one hundred and thirty years have elapsed since this representative concern was organised on a sound basis by a Mr. Long in Newmarket Lane, now known as Market Street. He was succeeded by his nephew, Mr. B. Long, who removed to St. Ann’s Street, St. Ann’s Square, and an inquiry into its annals shows that its commercial development has been one steady onward progression from the very date of its inception. Mr. Long was succeeded by Messrs. Josh. Lockwood and Marsh, who in their turn were followed in 1876 by the present proprietor, Mr. Henry Marsh, a gentleman of recognised ability and extended experience in connection with the important industry to which his attention is now so vigorously and successfully directed.

Municipal improvements, and the pressing need for larger premises, owing to the requirements of a rapidly increasing trade, have rendered removals imperatively necessary from time to time. However, the premises now occupied are in every point of character and situation exactly adapted to the wants of a brisk high class business of the kind. They are centrally located, and consist of an exceedingly well-appointed, spacious shop, fully fitted with show cases for holding and displaying a choice series of saddles, harness, bridles, collars, whips, and stable and equestrian accessories of every description. To the rear of the shop are the well-ordered workrooms for the execution of new goods and all kinds of alterations and repairs, and seeing that none but the very best materials are used, and only expert workmen engaged, it follows as a matter of course that Mr. Marsh has made his mark in the saddlers’ world, and now enjoys the fruits of his skilful and sagaciously conducted enterprise in the form of a large, influential, and rapidly growing patronage. In addition to the business transacted at headquarters, Mr. Marsh has three flourishing branches, as above alluded to, where the same business principles are in vogue, with like satisfactory results.

WILLIAM SCOTT WILSON, IRON, TIN, ZINC, AND GENERAL SHEET METAL WORKER,
VICTORIA TIN AND COPPER WORKS, 2, BROOK STREET, LONDON ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS thriving and successful undertaking was originally founded by Mr. Thomas Wright, at premises in Sackville Street, in the year 1853, and that gentleman was succeeded in 1875 by Mr. Wilson, who soon afterwards transferred the concern to the present address, where it has since been increased and developed in scope and extent with very satisfactory results. The premises, which are very extensive and in every way exceedingly well adapted for the requirements of a considerable and growing trade, have a frontage of one hundred feet, and extend to some depth at the rear. The ground floor is occupied by conveniently arranged offices and store rooms, and the two upper storeys are utilised for extensive workshops, fitted throughout with the latest and most improved machinery necessary for the varied work executed for both the home and the export trades. The various departments are constantly and busily engaged in all kinds of iron, tin, zinc, and general sheet metal working, braziers’ and coppersmiths’ work, &c. A speciality is made of the manufacture of tin and copper drying cylinders for calico printers, bleachers, dyers, and finishers, as well as of rollers for mules, throstles, doubler reel centres, and winding frames. Another flourishing department is occupied in every description of tin, zinc, and lead packing-case making, and plain and ornamental lamps of all kinds are also manufactured on a large scale. Mr. Wilson is also an authorised gas-fitter.

Telephonic communication with this important establishment may be effected under the number 283, and there is also a thriving branch business at 20, Beswick Street, Bradford Road, Manchester. A large and efficient staff is employed in the various departments, and the firm is well represented outside by a competent traveller. Mr. William Scott Wilson enjoys the favour and substantial support of an excellent and influential connection of old standing, and he bears a very favourable reputation for the thoroughly reliable character of the work executed in his factory. He is well known in commercial circles, and is personally much esteemed and respected by all with whom he comes in contact.

H. G. COX, PRACTICAL CARRIAGE BUILDER, INVENTOR, AND DESIGNER.
SHOW ROOMS, OXFORD STREET; WORKS, MARLBOROUGH PLACE, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was established in 1872, and it soon gave obvious indications that the founder was a man of considerable energy and great original ability in his speciality. The products of his establishment became quickly recognised in the trade and by private buyers, and each succeeding year has added to their merit and reputation. The premises in Oxford Street consist of a handsome and substantial block of building, comprising a magnificent show-room, with a fine frontage extending some fifty feet to the rear; and several show-rooms on the first floor, together, with store-rooms and other accommodation at the rear. The works in Marlborough Place are of ample proportions, and the various departments have been admirably arranged for the effective control of the business. They comprise a number of workshops of different sizes, smiths’ shops, and numerous sheds. There is also an extensive yard for convenient storage of materials and vehicles waiting to be repaired, Mr. Cox making repairs a marked feature of his business. The works are thoroughly equipped with the most modern and improved machinery used in the trade, and every appliance and expedient have been provided that would improve the character of the work done or cheapen the cost of production. A force of thirty coach-builders, body-makers, smiths, painters, joiners, and upholsterers are kept in constant employ by the demands made upon the firm.

Mr. Cox here controls a high-class and thoroughly representative business in the manufacture of carriages and vehicles of all descriptions. The products of this noted establishment have obtained an invaluable reputation, and have achieved signal distinction at important exhibitions. A large and comprehensive stock is held, embracing every class of vehicles for business or pleasure, and including splendid specimens of broughams, landaus, closed carriages, waggonettes, stanhopes, chaises, dog, business, spring, and rustic carts, sociables, gigs, drags, and phaetons. All these vehicles are highly appreciated in the trade, and are acknowledged to be unsurpassed in perfection of workmanship, lightness, elegance of design, style, and durability; they are faultless in their appointments, and are fitted with all the latest improvements. The above illustration gives the outline of Mr. Cox’s improved hansom. It is the only hansom that can be opened or closed whilst in motion and in the same space of time, and having no loose or portable parts cannot rattle or get out of order. The construction of this hansom enables the inventor to use a long wing, which effectually protects the clothes when getting in or out, an advantage that cannot be attained by any other kind of hansom.

A large trade is done throughout Lancashire and the northern counties generally, chiefly among high-class buyers and exporters and the principal private families. For his valuable inventions and improvements in the construction of vehicles Mr. Cox has been awarded the gold medal and diploma of the highest class in four separate instances, and in 1890 the special distinction was conferred upon him of being appointed Honourable Member of the Brussels Universal Academy of Industrial Arts and Sciences. He has an invaluable record of triumphs which his high- class work has achieved at various exhibitions, among which are:— Middleton, 1889; Worsley, 1889; Altrincham, 1890; and Middleton, 1890. Mr. Cox is pre-eminently a practical man, and thoroughly proficient in every department of his special calling. His energetic and able supervision is bestowed upon the business in its entirety, and to his conspicuous ability and high standard of commercial probity the great success of this noteworthy house is to be mainly attributed. He is highly respected by a large circle of friends and acquaintances, and he is an active and important participator in every movement that concerns the welfare of his fellow-citizens.

BOYDELL BROTHERS, HIGH-CLASS TAILORS, UNIFORM, LIVERY, HABIT, AND BREECHES MAKERS,
83, MARKET STREET, MANCHESTER.

FOR several years past a prominent place among the tailoring firms of Manchester has been occupied by Messrs. Boydell Brothers, high-class tailors, livery, habit, and breeches makers, who have been established since the early part of 1883 in their present premises, 83, Market Street. The co-partners in this rapidly advancing firm are two brothers, Mr. Jesse and Mr. Joshua Haworth Boydell, and undoubtedly the secret of the remarkable success which has hitherto attended every undertaking with which Messrs. Boydell Brothers have been identified is to be found in the fact that both these gentlemen are ideal men of business, and at the same time are endowed with that perfect courtesy and patience which in their particular businesses perhaps more necessary than in any other. Their chief aim in business is to give perfect satisfaction to every customer with whom they have to deal, and certainly no pains are stinted to attain this end. The production of high-class tailoring at moderate prices would be difficult and perhaps impossible to a firm with less resource at its command than the one of which we are speaking. Messrs. Boydell are well-known as extensive buyers in Scotland and the south-west of England, the two principal seats of the woollen industry, and their patrons have a most extensive and varied stock from which to make their selections. Every class of material will be found fully represented, from the exquisite superfine of the west of England to the rough Harris homespun made by the cottagers of the western islands of Scotland. It need hardly be added that the whole of the duty of buying for their several establishments is undertaken personally and exclusively by the principals.

Turning from the buying of the cloth to the next stage in the production of garments, the cutters are gentlemen of first-class practical experience; and of the highest reputation for ability in their special department, and under their direction are employed a large staff of skilled English workmen. In this connection it may be said that attached to each of their establishments Messrs. Boydell Brothers have large and convenient workshops, where every regard is paid to the health and comfort of their numerous employes.

We mentioned above that the firm commenced business in Manchester in the spring of 1883, but it was actually founded many years before by Mr. Jesse Boydell in the town of St. Helen’s. The fine shop, 12, Church Street, in that town, was opened in the summer of 1870, and ten years later, on the opening of second St. Helen’s establishment, 89, Church Street, Mr. Joshua Boydell became a partner in the business. With regard to these two branches we need only say that the principles which have all through guided the firm have secured for them almost a monopoly of the high-class tailoring of St. Helen’s. Encouraged by their success here, it was only in the natural order of things for men of the push and energy of Messrs. Boydell to seek a wider field for the exercise of their energies. Accordingly, the Manchester, Liverpool, and Warrington branches were opened in succession. In Manchester an old standing trade was taken over and continued with splendid success. That in Liverpool is situated at 37 and 39, Ranelagh Street, and consists of one of the finest shops in that city. The Warrington house was only established in June of 1890, but it is rapidly becoming the leading order trade of the town. The shop is situated at 37, Bridge Street, the principal thoroughfare of the town.

The latest extension is one which has only just been made and can hardly at present be judged as to its success or failure, though the experience of the past does not allow us to entertain much fear of the latter. We have before referred to the success of the Manchester house and we may now add that though the additions to the accommodation of the Market Street premises have been very large, Messrs. Boydell have for some time felt themselves unable to deal satisfactorily with the increasing weight of trade which every year brings to them. A second Manchester branch has, therefore, been opened at 16, Cross Street, within a few yards of the Manchester Royal Exchange. Here special attention is devoted to the highest class of tailoring. Everything is of the best. The highest quality and the choicest designs of materials are used, the most skilled and highly paid English workmen are employed, and the perfect fit and style of every garment is ensured by the care and attention of a cutter of the highest ability and reputation. Messrs. Boydell will here extend a branch of trade, the making of uniforms, liveries, breeches, and riding habits, which they have felt themselves at a disadvantage in dealing with in their Market Street shop.

In order to keep themselves in touch with their customers a number of travellers are employed, who cover the whole of Lancashire, and Cheshire, and parts of Staffordshire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire. The connection of the firm is very extensive, and their reputation as high- class tailors is by no means a local one, but is known throughout the north of England.

It only remains to be said that in the general management of the business, Mr. Jesse Boydell gives his personal supervision to the Liverpool and St. Helen’s houses, while Mr. Joshua H. Boydell devotes his time and energy to the Manchester and Warrington branches. Both of these gentlemen are thoroughly practical, and bring a life’s experience to bear on their business, with every detail of which they have a minute acquaintance. In private life they possess a very large circle of friends, and those who know them best associate with the name of Boydell Brothers all that is genuine, honest and straightforward.

B. J. DUGGAN & CO., ATLANTIC OIL WORKS,
NEW WAKEFIELD STREET, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.
LIVERPOOL BRANCH: 9, NEW QUAY;
SOLE AGENT, CAPTAIN COCHRANE.

THIS most useful business was established in 1880, by Messrs. Whittaker & Duggan, and after being conducted under the above title up to the year 1884, was purchased by Mr. B. J. Duggan, trading as Messrs. B. J. Duggan. & Co. This business is chiefly known in connection with the manufacture of the celebrated vaseline tallow and engine oil; also special gas engine oil, suitable for all engines. The vaseline tallow has proved to be the cleanest and best lubricant for cylinders of steam engines, and is recommended by the best engineers, on account of its purity and lubricating qualities. Among its many valuable properties it is claimed that it contains no acid, it does not gum or clog, it cannot stain or corrode bright metals, nor does it injure india-rubber, as animal and vegetable oils do, by eating into and honeycombing it. Another very effective commodity is the white crank grease, for coating hot bearings, and also gas engine oil, stainless oil for sewing machines, cycles, &c. The following are a few of the oils for which the firm are well known: marine engine, shafting engine, ruby engine, loom spindle, neatsfoot, lard, olive, Gallipoli, sperm, mineral, &c. The following greases are made, viz.:— tallow, brown cog wheel, green cog wheel, water wheel grease, white crank grease, loco, and bearing grease, also boiler composition, and transparent varnish.

There is a very valuable home and export trade, the bulk of which is with St. Vincent, Bombay, East Indies, and a large connection exists on the continent. All the goods are manufactured on the premises by a large and thoroughly skilled staff of workmen, under practical management. The premises are of considerable extent, and are contained on two spacious floors, every appliance requisite to the business being provided. There is a first-class boiler, and there are thin jacket pans, fire pans, &c. Mr. Duggan was for several years in connection with one of the largest firms in the oil trade in the United States, and gained a valuable and wide experience in all the different branches of the trade. Mr. Duggan is a well known and highly respected gentleman. His enterprise has placed him in a prominent and favourable position, and whether in business or in social life, he commands the esteem of all who come in contact with him.
The telegraphic address is “Frisco, Manchester.”

J. HUNTER & CO., WHOLESALE AND RETAIL CABINET MAKERS AND UPHOLSTERERS,
13,14,16, 19, 20, 21, ST. MARY’S PARSONAGE, MANCHESTER.

THIS immense business has been in successful operation here for over forty years. The premises occupied comprise three large three-story buildings, each containing a number of spacious and handsomely appointed show-rooms. The entire establishment covers a great area of ground, having, a main frontage of fully 122 feet, and the numerous show-rooms accommodate one of the largest and most complete stocks of furniture to be found in the city and district. Every branch of the furnishing trade is adequately represented, and the visitor meets with all the newest designs and most artistic patterns in complete suites for drawing and dining rooms, all kinds of office and library furniture, novelties in high-class desks for the office and the study, rich and costly pier glasses, magnificent sideboards, overmantels in infinite variety of material and design, carpets and al - in fact, everything essential for the complete and proper equipment of house, mansion, office, or any other building in which articles of furniture are acquired.

A really magnificent display is made in the fine carpet show-room, where all varieties of floor coverings are exhibited, and we were also much interested in the stock of American and Austrian bent wood furniture, a very elegant, serviceable, and fashionable: class of goods, of which this firm are large importers. Another notable speciality consists in bagatelle tables and furnishings, of which a fine stock is kept; and in antique carved oak furniture, Messrs. Hunter’s show-rooms are replete with interesting specimens, which are in great demand. Kitchen furniture, white wood furniture for enamelling, &c., all find their allotted places in these great warehouses, and we must draw special attention to the firm’s speciality in American bed-room goods in walnut and ash combined, these being very neat and attractive articles, of sound structure and beautiful finish. Some very elegant novelties in bamboo tea tables, music stands, and cabinets are deserving of mention, and Messrs. Hunter have a high reputation for their Austrian hotel and restaurant chairs, their Chippendale furniture (an excellent reproduction) and their walnut-wood chairs and couches, upholstered in imitation lizard skin, these latter having a novel and pleasing effect. In high-class American imported furniture Messrs. Hunter show all the latest transatlantic novelties as well as standard articles, and in every respect they exemplify the furnishing trade as completely as any firm whose operations have come under our notice.

The business in its entirety is an enormous one, and the firm have premises for manufacturing purposes in various parts of the city. They employ a very large staff of bands in all departments, and maintain a connection which extends throughout the entire United Kingdom, and to all parts of the Continent. Through the medium of Manchester shippers, this firm’s goods are exported to almost every quarter of the globe. The business is under the sole proprietorship of Mr. Joseph Hunter, and is personally supervised by that experienced and thoroughly practical gentleman, who is widely and favourably known in the trade with which he has been so long associated. It is interesting to note that a portion of Messrs. Hunter’s premises in St. Mary’s Parsonage were once occupied for fifteen years by the father of the eminent author and dramatist, Mr. George R. Sims, and we believe they have always been connected with the furnishing trade. At the present time they certainly form one of the most complete and interesting emporiums in that trade to be met with in the kingdom, and they will repay a visit from anyone who desires to acquaint himself with the perfection that has been reached in the art of the cabinet maker and upholsterer in modern times.

THOMAS CARTER, BOOKBINDER, PAPER RULER, ACCOUNT BOOK MANUFACTURER TO THE TRADE,
7, BRIDGEWATER PLACE, MANCHESTER.

WHEN Mr. Carter commenced his operations in the line of industry indicated above, he occupied one small room in Spring Gardens, and had only a boy as his assistant. That was in 1867, but Mr. Carter dates the real establishment of his business from 1870, when he had half a dozen hands in his employ, and carried on a progressive business. Eight years later he found it necessary to obtain larger premises, and he accordingly came to No. 7, Bridgewater Place, taking the top floor. Every year since then has witnessed an extension of his trade and a consequent addition to the accommodation needed, and at the present time Mr. Carter occupies all the rooms from one end of the building to the other, the floor space being about three hundred feet in length by sixty feet wide. Here he now employs no less than one hundred and forty hands constantly, including a large number of girls, and he is now adding to his large and valuable plant in order to keep pace with the increasing influx of orders received.

All the machinery in use here is of the very best modern type (including no less than nine of Crossland’s self-clamp guillotine machines) and forms an outfit such as one would expect to find in an establishment ruled by a man of such broad practical experience as Mr. Carter. In bookbinding, in all its branches, numbering and perforating, paper ruling, the manufacture of account books of every kind and size, Mr. Carter has won support and confidence by his very superior work at moderate prices, and many orders of exceptional magnitude and importance are regularly entrusted to him. Among these we note one for memorandum books for a leading Manchester firm, Mr. Carter doing the ruling and binding of these books at the regular rate of sixty thousand copies per week. One double ruling machine is kept constantly in operation on this order alone. Four of Cundall’s folding machines are constantly running, folding new work for publishers, the whole of the machinery being driven by one of Crossley’s eight-horse engines.

Mr. Carter has lately executed an order from the largest publisher in the north of England for the binding of ten thousand volumes of one work. He is in a position to execute every description of work in the trades to which he devotes attention, from the cheapest and most ordinary to the most artistic and elaborate, and the large number of machines constantly at work in all parts of his commodious establishment testify to the vast amount of work here accomplished from day to day. The works are maintained in a splendid condition of order and cleanliness, and are managed by Mr. Hull, whose practical skill and experience are fully demonstrated in the satisfactory state of each department. The proprietor himself, and also his son and brothers, take an active part in the general administration of the business, and ensure its continued success by their ability and sound principles. Mr. Thomas Carter, who is a member of the Master Binders’ Association, is well known and much respected in Manchester. He has always adhered to the policy of buying his materials in large quantities and direct from the manufacturers wherever possible, and to this he attributes a large measure of the success that has attended his operations during the last twenty years.

SHORE BROTHERS, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANTS,
109, STOCKPORT ROAD, MANCHESTER.

IT appears from the mercantile annals of this city that a wine and spirit business had been carried on in the same quarters since the year 1860, but the concern had a very chequered career, until, after many mutations, it passed, some seven years since, into the hands of the present able proprietors, Messrs. Charles Willie Shore and Albert Shore, trading under the style and title above designated. The premises occupied are in every way well adapted to the requirements of a first-class business of the kind, comprising, as they do, a large and substantial three-storied building, having a fine frontage of thirty feet, and extensive, cool, and splendidly regulated cellarage, and ample accommodation for storage and the bottling of ales and stouts on a large scale. Messrs. Shore Brothers operate principally as importers and wholesale merchants, but also do a very valuable and select family business. Their stock of choice wines, spirits, liqueurs, cordials, ales, and liquors generally is a most carefully selected and thoroughly exhaustive one. Messrs. Shore are also the sole agents for Manchester for William Evans & Co.’s celebrated Hereford cider, which obtained prizes from the Royal Agricultural Society of England at Plymouth, 1890; Windsor, 1889; Hereford, 1889 j beating all Devon, Gloucester, Somerset, Cornwall, and Norfolk exhibits. The whole business is conducted with conspicuous ability and sound judgment, upon lines which have won for them the high esteem and respect of all those who have come into commercial contact with them.

JAMES TEAGUE, MANUFACTURER,
12, MILLER STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE extensive business now so successfully carried on by Mr. James Teague was established in 1883 by Mr. Charles Rousenberg, and subsequently passed into the hands of the present proprietor. The premises occupy an excellent position in Miller Street (No. 12), six doors from Shudehill. They comprise a spacious and well-appointed shop, together with the basement and three floors above, used for storage purposes. Mr. Teague occupies the whole of the building, which is
eminently suited to the business, having been fitted up in the most careful and complete manner to ensure the effective and economical working of the various departments. To meet the extensive requirements of the trade, Mr. Teague holds a very large and comprehensive stock of china and fancy articles, figures, fruit, flowers, lustres, vases, and ornaments of all kinds in glass shades. GLASS SHADES of all shapes and sizes are a leading speciality. The stock is admirably arranged for ready reference and easy inspection. The goods are selected from the best sources with great care and sound judgment, and buying in such large lines direct from the producers, and manufacturing extensively himself, Mr. Teague is enabled to compete on favourable terms with any firm in the trade. A very brisk business is done in every department, a large staff of salesmen, warehousemen, and assistants are busily employed, and no effort is spared to meet the convenience of customers in the punctual execution of orders. Mr. James Teague, who is the sole proprietor, is a gentleman well known and highly respected in the trade, and widely recognised as a courteous and enterprising man with whom it is pleasant and profitable to have business transactions.

J. ALBERTI, SCULPTOR, MODELLER, AND PLASTER OF PARIS
STATUARY MANUFACTURER,
1, OXFORD STREET, CHORLTON-ON-MEDLOCK, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was originally established, in 1870, at Nos. 169 and 171, Princess Street, where, under the skilled guidance of the founder, it rapidly grew in extent and importance. Eventually, the business out-grew its original location, and more commodious premises were taken at No. 1, Oxford Street. Here operations are conducted in an extensive and attractive block of buildings, comprising a handsome well-appointed shop, with commanding frontage and extending a considerable distance in depth. The studio is situated at the rear of the shop, and is a fine, spacious, and well-lighted apartment. An important and high-class business is here conducted in sculpture, modelling, the manufacture of plaster of Paris statuary and decorative work for chapels, halls, and public buildings.

For thoroughly good artistic work in their special line, the productions of Signor Alberti are unrivalled in Manchester, and they have deservedly obtained high recognition from different parts of the world, high encomiums being received from the following, amongst many others: The Holy Name, Manchester; Hampton Lodge, Broughton; Mount St. Mary’s College, Chesterfield, and Montreal, Canada. Signor Alberti has also executed some fine work in marble statuary, and in fibrous plaster for the ceiling at the Manchester Palace of Varieties. For the past twenty-five years he has supplied the county asylums with plaster casts for the decoration of the wards and corridors. Schools of art are also supplied with casts from nature, as copies for drawing or modelling; and a large business is transacted in casting modellers’ models from the clay. Signor Alberti was also entrusted by the Rev. Canon Hotter, St. Joseph’s, Bradford, with a commission to execute some sacred statuary in marble, with the most gratifying results.

The leading line of business is the execution of high-class sculpture in Carrara marble for monumental work or decorative purposes, either as original productions or taken from photographic designs or models, and in this most important branch the house is widely and favourably known for the beauty and artistic finish of its achievements. A large business is done in supplying the trade with blocks of statuary or Sicilian marble of any dimensions, which are obtained from the proprietor's branch studio at Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Carrara. These blocks are chosen from the finest veins, and are always of the best possible quality, while the facilities the firm possess enable them to compete very successfully with others in the matter of price. The firm also undertake to repair, clean, and pack marble for safe transmission; a branch of the business in which they have had large experience, and in which they are able to offer every advantage to their clients.

Signor Alberti is widely known for the great ability he displays in reproducing copies from the antique and from modern sculpture in marble, plaster, cement, or terra-cotta. These productions are much sought after for designs, decorations, or art ornaments in gardens. A special feature is made of superior work in painting, bronzing and gilding altars, reredos, dados, church niches, &c., and in taking casts from the human body for sculptural purposes, before or after death, or from surgical operations. Plaster of Paris, of the best and most suitable kind, is supplied for dental purposes, and prepared modelling clay, for the wholesale and retail trade. The shop and studio are replete with splendid specimens of the Signor’s artistic and sculptural skill, in marble, terra-cotta or other material. An important connection belongs to this reputable house, and it is steadily increasing as the proprietor’s artistic accomplishments become better and more widely known. Designs and estimates are promptly furnished on application, and all work is executed in the highest style of art, at the lowest consistent prices, and all orders receive immediate attention. Signor Alberti is well known among a large circle of friends and acquaintances, and is much respected for his courtesy, talent, and many sterling good qualities.

GEO. MACBETH & SON, TAILORS AND OUTFITTERS, &C.,
19 AND 21, KING STREET, MANCHESTER, 90, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL, AND REGENT STREET, LONDON.

THIS business was founded over fifty years ago by Mr. George Macbeth, who was subsequently joined by his son, Mr. Harold Macbeth, the latter gentleman being now the sole proprietor. This well-known and popular establishment occupies an excellent position in King Street. The two spacious and handsome shops have a very imposing plate-glass frontage of fully forty feet. The massive and lofty windows are well and tastefully dressed, and display to great advantage a choice and fashionable selection of suits and costumes, hats, hosiery, &c., forming one of the most interesting and attractive features of this busy thoroughfare. The fixtures and appointments of the interior are of a very superior character, and with the large and well-equipped workrooms, and extensive warehouse accommodation, the establishment forms one of the most perfect and complete of its kind in the city.

The stock, as becomes a business of this magnitude, is very large and comprehensive. No. 19 contains the departments for boys’ and girls’ suits, overcoats', and costumes, hosiery, hats, &c., and No. 21 the departments for clerical clothing, hats, hoods, stoles, surplices, and gentlemen’s clothing. By inspection only can an adequate idea be formed of the style, quality, and variety of these goods; indeed, the firm have invariably aimed at a high standard of excellence as a characteristic of all their work, and this aim has undoubtedly been most successfully accomplished. In the bespoke department special regard is paid to accuracy of measurement and reliable workmanship, whereby a perfect and elegant fit is ensured, and with the same attention to economy as if selected from stock. Some idea of the magnitude of the business may be gathered from the fact that over a hundred hands are busily employed in the various departments. Courtesy and prompt attention to customers’ requirements are unbroken rules in this establishment, and with the superior facilities at command the firm are enabled to treat their patrons liberally, and to execute all orders with the utmost dispatch. The business in every department is under direct and careful supervision, and is conducted throughout with marked ability, energy, and enterprise.

Mr. Harold Macbeth is a gentleman well known and highly esteemed in business and social circles, not only as the head of one of the oldest and most popular establishments of the kind in Manchester, but also for his ready enterprise and active exertions in promoting the best interests of the commerce and industries of the city and district. The firm have also branch houses at 90, Bold Street, Liverpool, and Regent Street, London.

SLACK BROTHERS, CARRIAGE BUILDERS;
SHOWROOMS, STOCK-PORT ROAD; WORKS, DUCIE STREET, LONGSIGHT, MANCHESTER.

THIS well-known house was founded in the year 1860 by Mr. Thomas Slack, father of the present proprietors, who commenced in a very small way, but his productions soon acquired a reputation for excellent workmanship, design, and material, and by degrees the premises were enlarged to meet the requirements of a steadily increasing trade. Mr. Thomas Slack died in 1877 and has been succeeded by his two able and experienced sons, Messrs. Thomas and John Slack, trading as Slack Brothers, and these gentlemen have further extended the business and improved its resources, erecting in 1889 the fine new showrooms in Stockport Road. This handsome, spacious, and admirably lighted three-storey building adjoins the works, and affords splendid facilities for the display of the firm’s high-class productions in modern carriages of every description. Here there are always from eighty to one hundred completed vehicles on view. Highly finished workmanship and graceful model are the chief characteristics of all Messrs. Slack’s carriages, and they embody many constructive improvements that speak well for the firm’s inventive skill and practical study of the trade. All the processes of carriage building “from start to finish” are conducted on the premises by Messrs. Slack’s own skilful and experienced staff, which numbers about one hundred hands, and every department in the works is personally supervised by the principals. The house holds a large number of prize medals, worthily gained by the genuine merit of its productions, and enjoys the support and confidence of a large and constantly increasing town and country connection, besides doing an export trade which shows signs of steady and substantial development.
The firm’s telegraphic address is “Slacks, Longsight, Manchester.”

FREDERICK BAGSHAW, WHEELWRIGHT, COACHBUILDER AND GENERAL SMITH,
UNION STREET, ARDWICK GREEN, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the principal wheelwrights and coachbuilders in Manchester, a prominent and noteworthy position is occupied by the subject of this notice, Mr. Frederick Bagshaw, of Union Street, Ardwick Green. The business was established by his father in 1861, under whom Mr. F. Bagshaw served his apprenticeship, and in 1871 became sole proprietor. Since then he has, with unflagging perseverance, ability, and foresight, so admirably conducted it that it has grown, both in extent and importance, so as to take rank at this time as one of the most prominent and successful businesses of the kind in Manchester or the vicinity. Operations are successfully carried on in five large railway arches, measuring each about 200 feet by 150 feet. Two of these spaces constitute the store-room for timber and materials generally; one is occupied by the smiths’ shops, and the other by the coachbuilders and other operatives. The shops are thoroughly equipped with every requisite in the way of plant, for the control of a large and flourishing business of this nature. The internal arrangement of the departments and the orderly system maintained among the workpeople are everything desirable for the production of the best results.

Here the proprietor conducts a large and important business as a wheelwright, coachbuilder and general smith. These works are well known in Manchester and in most, if not in every part of the country, and the work turned out takes rank as second to none in the trade. Great care and judgment are exercised in the selection of the materials. Only the best and most suitable woods are used, and not these even until they have been perfectly dried and seasoned, and tested in every possible way. Skilled and experienced workmen are employed, and every stage of construction is well and systematically superintended, so that the completed vehicle is always a first-class article and complete in all its details. Mr. Frederick Bagshaw has a good reputation for the soundness of his materials, the durability and beauty of workmanship, the excellent finish of his productions and the efficient manner in which all new and worthy improvements are adopted.

Every class of vehicle is made at the establishment, whether for business or pleasure; but in building vans, traps, floats, lorries, drays, carts, and this particular description and class of vehicles, he has an enviable and long-standing reputation. As a wheelwright he is deservedly recognised for the excellence and durability of his work, and the demands made upon him often tax all his productive resources. In the matter of price he is able to compare favourably with all competitors, as the extent of operations give undoubted advantages. A numerous staff of skilled workmen is employed, including coach-builders and smiths, trimmers, painters, and wheelwrights, and all orders receive the best attention. Estimates and designs supplied, and special attention is given to repairs.

Mr. Bagshaw has a highly creditable list of awards received at two exhibitions for the excellence of his manufacture, among which is one for the best milk-cart at the Royal Manchester, Liverpool and North Lancashire Agricultural Society’s Show, held at Manchester in 1887 (Jubilee year), and the silver medal awarded to him by the same society at Manchester in 1879, for the furniture van he exhibited. These medals were single awards in competition against all comers. Mr. Bagshaw is pre-eminently a practical man, and his experience has been of a thoroughly sound character. His able and undivided supervision is given to the whole of the business, thus insuring excellence in every detail and perfect satisfaction in the execution of all orders. All his transactions are characterized by fairness and homely manner.

WALTER CRADDOCK, PLAIN AND ORNAMENTAL JAPANNER, ENAMELLER, &C.,
17 & 19, BROOK STREET, LONDON ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE many useful details in connection with the important business of japanning are fully carried out at this old-established place. Mr. Walter Craddock, the proprietor, himself thoroughly practical, personally superintends all operations, and employs a number of skilful hands. The business was founded in Manchester in 1864, as Messrs. E. & W. Craddock, and carried on as such until the year 1879, when it came into the sole possession of the present owner. The rapid strides made since its formation nearly thirty years ago, in Richmond Street, testifies to the sterling quality of the workmanship and finish of the goods. The business was removed to more spacious premises at the present address some years ago, and quite recently they were very much enlarged to meet the increasing trade. They are now of very considerable extent, occupying the ground floor, back yard, and basement, and have a total frontage of seventy-five feet by one hundred and twenty feet. There are capable offices, warehouse, and large workshops.

A most extensive business is done, both for the wholesale and retail trades, in plain and ornamental japanning and enamelling of all kinds of iron and tin goods, cycles, &c., and Mr. Craddock has earned a reputation second to none. This firm was the first to introduce enamelling to cycles, upwards of twenty-four years ago, at which date this trade was probably unknown, even in Coventry. They at that time did many of the now ancient “boneshakers.” With keen business foresight, he was not slow to recognize the development and probable ultimate magnitude of this branch of industry, and progressed with the times by laying himself out specially for this business, and the trade has increased with him by leaps and bounds, until at the present time he enjoys, not only local, but world-wide reputation for excellence. The cycles are now all done by a secret preparation of enamel, equalled by none for durability and brilliance of finish, and although tempting offers have been made by large houses to secure the secret, Mr. Craddock prefers not to divulge it, and thus maintain the supremacy he has for many years enjoyed.

A new feature has also been introduced by his firm — sandstone enamelling. This was thought by our forefathers impossible, but owing to Mr. Craddock’s untiring perseverance and zeal the difficulties have been surmounted, and now the rough-hewn sandstone is turned out perfectly smooth, with a polished surface like ebony. A large trade is also done in grave wreath stands, &c. Sewing machines, too, is an important item in this concern, having been an extensive branch for upwards of a quarter of a century, and “Craddock’s” ornamental japanning is universally known in the trade; indeed it is now no uncommon occurrence to see consignments of thirty or forty cases of these goods turned out at a time. The finish is superb, and the ornamenting unsurpassed. The sundry other articles sent out from this establishment are too numerous to detail, but attention is drawn to the following:— Railway and road carriage lamps, ventilators, tea urns, baths, ornamental scales, mantels, &c., and the last, though not least, are the various enamelled appliances connected with electricity, such as switch boards, &c., for which trade Mr. Craddock is specially adapted, and large orders are being daily received for these goods. It will thus be seen that this firm does not lack enterprise, even in branches which would to an outsider appear foreign to that particular business; and he is even now preparing to do a much larger trade in these goods.

Mr. Craddock, the principal, is a particularly unassuming man, and attributes his enormous progress to practical personal supervision and care in the selection of none but the best workmen; and in consequence is kept well supplied with orders by old customers, who continue their patronage from year to year, and also by new ones being constantly added to the roll. The courteous and obliging disposition of this gentleman causes him to be respected by all who know him, and the business founded by the present able proprietor is bound to make more rapid strides in the future than ever it has done in the past.

PEACE & NORQUOY, JOINERS AND BUILDERS, WAREHOUSE, OFFICE, AND SHOP-FITTERS,
STEAM JOINERY WORKS, 70, PORT STREET, PICCADILLY, MANCHESTER.

IN every large and rapidly-growing commercial and industrial centre, the modern joiner and builder who devotes special attention to the careful fitting-up of offices, shops, and warehouses necessarily plays an important and responsible part in the every-day economy of things; and in this connection, in Manchester of to-day, the trade is nowhere, perhaps, better exemplified than by the notable house which now calls for favourable consideration in these pages, devoted to the promotion of the arts, crafts, and commerce of Great Britain. This firm was established twenty-one years ago, and is still carried on by its founders. The premises include a commodious suite of offices for clerks and draughtsmen, stores, ironmongery-rooms, and timber-drying stoves. The ground floor of the works is fitted with modern woodcutting machinery, including sawing, planing, grooving and morticing machine», &c. The workshops are situated on the first and second floors, the foreman’s office being on the first floor. The permanent staff of men numbers from seventy to eighty, but is sometimes doubled, according to the contracts that may be running.

In addition to the ordinary work of general builders and contractors, Messrs. Peace & Norquoy occupy a rather unique position, from the variety of work they undertake and carry on. Amongst others may be mentioned their large trade in the erection of hoardings for right of light and bill-posting purposes, they having erected almost all the posting stations for the three large advertising firms in the city. This class of work, though rough, requires considerable skill and experience in the construction of the framework, so as to withstand the pressure of the wind. In contrast to the above class of work the firm carry on an extensive business in the altering and fitting-up of warehouses, banks, shops, and offices in the city and surrounding towns. They have made this branch of work a special feature in this business, and have earned considerable reputation for turning out really first-class work, and as they give the closest personal supervision, are enabled to offer special advantages to customers. That their fame as shop-fitters extends beyond the. city of Manchester may be gathered from the fact that under the superintendence of Robert Willey, Esq., F.R.I.B.A., architect, London, they have fitted up shops for the Home and Colonial Stores, Limited, of London, in the following towns:— Rochdale, Bury, Bolton, Warrington, and Macclesfield. These shops are all fitted up in the best possible style, the whole of the joiner work being polished walnut with marble countertops, coloured tile floors and dados, and, as a new departure in architectural effect, each shop is set back four feet from the street line, and ornamented by two Aberdeen granite pillars twelve inches in diameter, moulded bases, with Corinthian carved stone caps.

The firm has a considerable advantage over other large contractors by having their works situated almost in the centre of the city; and in close proximity to their works they have stables and timber stores in Ancoats Street, and masons’ sheds and timber yard in Warwick Street. By employing men in all branches of the building trade, including masons, bricksetters, plumbers, plasterers, painters, &c., they have an extensive connection in general jobbing, alterations, and repairs, and, in addition to the various works enumerated above, the firm hold a high position as house builders, and are often employed in the erection of villa residences in the suburbs. The two partners, Mr. Peace and Mr. Norquoy, are each fully experienced builders and highly respected in the trade, and are active supporters of every movement having for its object the welfare of Manchester.

WILSON, STANLEY, AND JONES, TAILORS AND LIVERY MAKERS,
56, CROSS STREET, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the notable houses whose names have become closely and creditably identified with the growth and development of the modern tailors’ craft and calling in its highest phases in Manchester of to-day, there are perhaps few that are better known or more widely patronised than the firm whose rise and progress as here recorded. It appears from the commercial annals of the city that the firm was founded by the association of its present proprietors in the year 1879, and that its subsequent doings have been marked by a continuous series of successes. The premises occupied are in every particular exactly adapted to the requirements of a first-class business of the kind. They consist of a large and substantial four-storied corner building of imposing appearance, in the windows of which, as well as in the handsomely appointed shop, a very attractive show is always made of superior fashionable fabrics; the specialities of the house being in Scotch tweeds and Harris homespuns of the finest varieties. Above their own and the adjoining shop are the perfectly equipped workrooms, where a staff of from forty to fifty skilled and experienced cutters and tailors are employed under the personal superintendence of the principals, who, by dint of perseverance and well directed enterprise, enjoy a trade as makers of business, shooting, and fishing suits, liveries, and ladies’ riding habits, which is particularly well-established among the aristocracy and county and city families of Manchester and its surroundings.

FRANZ BAUM, PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTIST,
22, ST. ANN'S SQUARE, MANCHESTER.

IT will be readily conceded that among the many and ever- multiplying wonders of industrial science, there are few, if any, that exceed in interest the triumphs that have been achieved by modern photography. The art and practice of photography is well represented in this city at the well known and popular studio of Mr. Franz Baum, No. 22, St. Ann’s Square. Mr. Baum opened his establishment in 1871, and encouraged by his success in Manchester he established a studio in London, at No. 12, Old Bond Street, in 1884; he has also recently purchased the old established business of Chevalier Lafosse, of “Knolls House,” Higher Broughton, who has retired after a successful career of over thirty years. Mr. Baum retains all the negatives that have been taken in this establishment during the past twenty years. The studio at No. 22, St. Ann’s Square, is located on the third floor of a large block of buildings. The reception rooms are fitted up in a very superior style. The appointments and decorations are in good taste and in excellent keeping with the artistic surroundings. Admirably arranged round the rooms are many splendid specimens of photography, which well display in every detail of execution the superior skill and talent employed in this establishment.

Amongst the numerous specialities may be mentioned the permanent engraving photographs, which are taken cabinet size on ten by eight plate sunk mount, ready for framing or binding, also the drawing room portrait, twelve by ten, sunk mount twenty by fifteen. The prices for the former being — 12 cabinet portraits, one position, £1 5s.; 12 cabinet portraits, two or more positions, £1 10s.; 24 copies, £2 10s.; 50 copies, £4. For the drawing room portraits the prices are — for one copy, £1 11s. 6d.; for 3 copies, £3 3s.; for 6 copies, £4 10s.; and for 12 copies, £7 7s. The great feature of Mr. Baum’s method is that the portraits are more like a real steel engraving of the highest class than a photograph. Mr. Baum has also been exceptionally successful with his photographs on porcelain (opal), the colourings being done by experienced artists in water and oils. All other branches of photography, as cartes de visite, panel portraits, miniatures, enlargements, &c., are carried out in the very highest style of the art. The prices in every instance will bear favourable comparison with those of any first-class establishment. Mr. Franz Baum is a gentleman of recognised ability and high position in his profession. He is well known both in Manchester and London, and enjoys the confidence and support of a very extensive and no less distinguished patronage.

JOHN & ALEXANDER LAWSON, VETERINARY SURGEONS,
VETERINARY ESTABLISHMENT, GREAT BRIDGEWATER STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE history of this noted house commences in 1847, when operations were begun by Mr. John Lawson, the father of the present proprietors in Mount Street. Repeated enlargements of the premises were rendered necessary by the constant increase in the business, and subsequently new premises were taken at Windmill Street, and these also becoming insufficient in accommodation, the premises now occupied were specially erected. The veterinary establishment is well located in close proximity to the central station, and it is spacious in extent and imposing in appearance. The main entrance is surmounted by a large horse’s head, and the premises consist of a suite of general offices on one side [of] the gateway and waiting rooms and pharmacy on the other. An extensive yard runs rearward for more than one hundred feet, and is fitted with loose boxes and stables, bait stables, and smith’s shoeing forge on the ground floor. There are sixteen stalls in the basement which are approached by sloping gangways from the ground floor, and twelve stalls on the first floor which are built in the form of a gallery, and extend on all the four sides of the hollow square; here, too, is situated the special stall where the surgical operations are performed. For disabled or sick horses a hoist is provided by which they can be lifted into the gallery.

The establishment possesses ample accommodation for forty horses, and we may state at once that the stables are built upon the latest sanitary principles, are models of cleanliness and order, and are replete with every comfort and convenience. The extensive hay and straw stores are on the second floor. A prominent feature of this establishment is the shoeing department, in which six skilled blacksmiths are kept constantly occupied under the personal superintendence of the principals. Some idea of the patronage the firm receive in this respect may be gathered from the pile of old shoes which had been collected within three months. This pile must have weighed from eight to nine tons. A notable object, too, in the smithy is the stocks — a contrivance whereby a restive horse can be shod with perfect safety both to the horse and to the shoer.

The reputation which the house has gained in its veterinary practice is not surpassed by that of any house in the north of England. The greatest attention is bestowed upon all animals intrusted to their care, and patrons may rest assured that whatever science, skill, comfort and patience can do to effect a cure of their animals, will be done by the worthy proprietors of this responsible house. Some of the largest horse owners in the district are among their clients, notably the Manchester General Carriage Company, Thompson, McKay and Co., the well known carriers, most of the railway companies, the masters of both North and South Cheshire hounds, and the principal horse-keepers throughout Lancashire and Cheshire, and various parts of England. A large staff of stablemen is employed, also two qualified assistants and two articled apprentices, and competent and experienced persons are sent to any distance to attend to veterinary cases.

The proprietors are men of extensive and varied experience, and are recognised representatives of their profession. They both hold diplomas from the Highland Agricultural Society of Scotland, Mr. John Lawson’s having been granted in 1862 and Mr. Alexander's in 1872. They are also holders of diplomas from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in London of the same date as the preceding ones, and Mr. John Lawson has also obtained a certificate of merit from the Ecole Imperiale at D’Alfort in France. This last-named gentleman had conferred on him the distinguished honour of being appointed by the Government as inspector of horses for the Royal Commission on horse breeding in 1890, and he was, likewise, one of the judges in the competition for prizes held on that occasion. Every transaction is carried out in a skilful, conscientious, and thoroughly satisfactory manner, and no effort is spared to uphold the splendid reputation the house enjoys. In private and professional circles the Messrs. Lawson are well known and highly esteemed for their personal worth and their ability and uprightness.
The establishment is in connection with two telephonic systems, the National Telephone Company where its number is 90, and the Mutual with the number 502.

CHARLES JAMES NOYES, NURSERYMAN,
PENDLETON NURSERIES, ECCLES OLD ROAD, MANCHESTER, AND AT PATRICROFT AND BARTON MOSS.

MR. CHARLES NOYES, the founder of the business and the father of the present proprietor, obtained his extensive and valuable knowledge of his calling at Kew Gardens, where he rose by his ability to the position of foreman. Leaving this post, he accepted a head, gardener's place at Bedford, and subsequently came into Lancashire and officiated as head gardener for Mr. R. Gardner, of Chaseley House, Eccles Old Road, until 1833, at which date he commenced business on his own account at Hope Nurseries, in the same road. He removed in 1838 to the Pendleton Nurseries, which at that time presented a very different appearance from what they do now. The proprietor lived in a house on the ground, on which were six small greenhouses, the greater part of the present nursery being utilised as orchards and strawberry gardens, and at that time he owned only twelve cows; but he gradually enlarged the sphere of his operations and established himself in a good position. He died in 1871, and was succeeded by his son, Mr. Charles James Noyes, under whose able and pushing administration the concern has developed with great rapidity, and the establishment now occupies a position of prominence and importance second scarcely to no similar house in the district.

The premises occupied are extensive and admirably adapted to the purposes for which they are employed. The nursery at Pendleton covers an area of five acres and is occupied mainly by shrubs; there are forty greenhouses in operation, thirty to forty milch cows are kept, and occupation is found for eight horses and about forty hands. Here is situated also the proprietor’s private residence, a very handsome and commodious building, which he erected a few years ago. At Patricroft Mr. Noyes possesses a sh[r]ubbery of about an acre in extent, but he contemplates closing this, as building operations in connection with the Ship Canal are encroaching too closely upon him. The nurseries at Barton Moss, which are situated five minutes walk from Barton Moss Station, are some of the finest in the country, they comprise more than forty acres of cultivated land. Twelve years ago he took possession of one acre of land, and the following year he added four more acres. Finding his requirements continually on the increase, six years ago he took a further twenty acres, and last year he completed the total up to date by annexing an additional fifteen acres.

At these famous nurseries there are two noteworthy greenhouses, each measuring one hundred and five feet by sixteen feet, replete with all the latest and best apparatus and appliances, and filled in every part with magnificent tomato plants. The worthy proprietor is of opinion that no kind of stone fruit can be successfully grown within a distance of eight or ten miles west of Manchester, and that very few other fruit trees pay. An extensive and high-class business is done in finely-grown ornamental foliaged and flowering greenhouse and stove plants, palms, ferns, lycopods, &c., also in hardy ornamental trees, evergreens, coniferae, &c.

At the Barton Moss Nurseries there are seven acres of rhododendrons, comprising about 100,000 plants of all sizes, up to three feet each way. They are splendid plants, finely grown, perfect round bushes, with balls of roots almost as large as the tops, and every plant is guaranteed, under ordinarily fair conditions, to make fine growth the season after being planted. There is a large proportion of hardy hybrids, Cunningham’s white, Caucasicum pictum, varium, nivaticum, and other best hardy sorts, fine-named hybrids, scarlet, crimson, white, &c., numbering five hundred and fifty sorts, adapted for the climate of Manchester and other smoky towns. The nurseries contain an acre of oval-leaved privet, two to three feet bushes which the proprietor offers at an exceptionally low figure; also thousands of fine specimens of ornamental trees, six to twelve feet, Ontario and Lombardy poplar, London plane, lime, elm, aria, willow, laburnum, scarlet thorn, weeping trees, &c. There are, too, exceedingly fine specimens of green and fancy holly, aucuba japonica, 3,000 azalea pontica, ghent and mollis; lilac, golden, scarlet, and other elder, weigela, ribes and other flowering shrubs, together with standard and dwarf roses in immense quantities and the choicest varieties.

The glass belonging to the Pendleton nurseries covers an acre of ground, and the «whole of the houses are filled to repletion with fine healthy, well-grown flowering and ornamental store, greenhouse and bedding plants, palms, ferns &e., camellias, azalea indica, Little Pet and other roses in pots, Bourbon, Gloire de Dijon, Marechal Niel and other best teas; 5,000 pelargoniums, 10,000 geraniums, 20,000 palms; choice exotic and hardy ferns and lycopods, &c., &c.; there are, also, vast quantities of strong climbers for store, greenhouse, and open garden, and herbaceous and rock plants in immense profusion, choice selections of flowering plants, coniferae, cut flowers, &c., are furnished for decorating public rooms, churches, ballrooms, &c., and in this department of his business the proprietor has achieved a high reputation throughout the district.

All kinds of pots, peat, sand, loam and bog, and every requisite for the garden and greenhouse are supplied, each the very best of its kind, and at prices which cannot be beaten anywhere. For range of selection and amplitude of variety in the splendid collections of plants and trees he shows, Mr. Noyes cannot be approached in this locality. The seeds are chosen from the best sources of supply and from special growths, and the peculiar character of the nurseries, their situation and soil, together with the special knowledge and appliances brought to bear in growing and hardening the plants, combine to make them of a superior kind, both in growth, flower and vigour. Every attention is paid to purchasers by the worthy proprietor and his courteous assistants, and all plants are delivered free to any reasonable distance round Manchester.

The cream supplied from the fine herd of specially selected cows is much appreciated among the best class of buyers.

A widespread and valuable connection has been developed, the patrons being found in almost every parish of England. Immense quantities of the firm’s splendid produce are disposed of in the various northern markets, and the proprietor himself occupies a stall in Shudehill market. Mr. Noyes is a man of large and sound experience in every branch of his profession. He makes periodical visits to the most celebrated nurseries and growing grounds in Belgium, Holland, Germany and France, and every new strain and novelty can be seen among his extensive collections. In private life he is much respected by all who come into contact with him for his ability, well-deserved success» and strict commercial integrity.

GEORGE PILKINGTON, F.I.C., ANALYTICAL AND CONSULTING CHEMIST; LABORATORY AND ASSAY OFFICE, 28, PALL MALL, MANCHESTER.
(No details accompany this heading.)

WILLIAM MASON, BOOT AND SHOE MANUFACTURER,
251, BROAD STREET, PENDLETON, MANCHESTER.

THIS successful business was first established half a century ago at the above address by the late Mr. James Clay, in 1841, the present proprietor succeeding him in 1875. Its progress and development since that date have been rapid and uninterrupted, under the influence of Mr. Mason’s thorough practical knowledge and a sound and judicious policy of administration. The premises occupied are spacious, commodious, and exceedingly well adapted to the requirements of the business. They comprise a large, particularly handsome shop, with a splendid plate-glass window, in which is displayed a most tasteful and attractive selection of high-class boots and shoes. It is beautifully fitted and decorated and extends a considerable distance to the rear. The front, or shop proper, is set apart and utilised as the gentlemen’s room, and is well furnished with a select stock of boots, shoes, slippers, &c., from which the most fastidious tastes can be fully suited. The back portion of the shop is elegantly appointed and fitted up as a ladies’ show and fitting rooms, where the fair customers are always welcomed and waited upon by a thoroughly efficient and obliging staff of assistants. Mr. Mason has lately had the patent Wenham lights fitted up throughout his establishment and showrooms. It is a clear, beautiful light, and does not injure or deteriorate the stock, which is a great consideration to purchasers.

The extensive, well-lighted and thoroughly ventilated workrooms are at the rear of the premises, and a large number of the most skilled and experienced workmen are constantly and busily engaged therein. Dr. Macall, in a lecture that he gave to the Sanitary Association of Manchester, said:- “In the matter of boots and shoes, we deform the work of nature. Shoes are made too narrow, crushing the bones of the foot, the front still narrower, causing the toes to lie in a useless bunch; the great toe, being driven towards the others, is often deformed by a bunion. Then the high heel is added, and this heel being near the middle of the foot, throws the body into a false position, causing undue strain upon the muscles.” Mr. Mason’s boots and shoes, being made to the foot model, give full play to the foot when walking, and so enables the wearer to enjoy natural exercise without that uncomfortable pressure on the joints which is so productive of corns and painful bunions. The boot or shoe, ought to protect the foot, but ought not to distort its shape. Mr. Mason is continually having orders from all parts from his many customers, who have found so much ease and comfort from his superior fit.

A very important feature of the business is the manufacture of ladies’ and gentlemen’s hand-sewn boots. They are all made on the premises under Mr. Mason’s personal supervision, and are executed with neatness, promptitude, and despatch, which does great credit to the establishment. Mr. Mason’s connection is both a popular and family one, he caters for all classes of the community, and though his premises are handsome and attractive, his goods are not only as good, but as cheap, as any other house in the trade. Mr. Mason, who is the sole proprietor, possesses the advantage of long and thorough practical experience, and by his commendable energy and business enterprise has placed, his house in the pre-eminent position it now occupies amongst the industrial establishments of this district.

JOSEPH WOOD, SADDLER AND HARNESS MAKER,
87 & 89, OLDHAM ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE above is a thoroughly reliable and representative establishment in Manchester in its special line. Business operations were commenced by the present proprietor in this direction more than thirty years ago, and by his superior goods, joined with his creditable policy, he soon laid the foundation of an extensive and valuable business. Its progress since its initiation has been steadily and uninterruptedly forward, and at the present time it occupies a prominence unequalled, perhaps, by that of any other house, out of London, engaged in this department of industrial activity. In 1874, additional premises were taken at 20 & 22, St. Ann’s Street, St. Ann’s Square, but after carrying them on successfully for a number of years, the proprietor was compelled to relinquish them, as he found the business at Oldham Road extending to such proportions as to require the whole of his attention.

Extensive and convenient premises are occupied, admirably situated, and having a frontage of some sixty feet. They comprise spacious showrooms fronting the street, with workshops and store-rooms at the rear, and further workshops on the first floor. The premises have been admirably arranged in every respect for the control of the business in hand. The workrooms are thoroughly fitted up with apparatus, appliances, and plant of the latest and best description. The show-rooms are models of excellence in their line, spacious in size, lofty, well lighted, and equipped with every requisite for the accommodation and display of their choice contents. The whole of the establishment is characterized by neatness, and everything is transacted in a systematic and orderly manner.

Under circumstances so favourable to the production of the best results, a large and high-class business is controlled in the manufacture of saddlery and harness of every description. The goods turned out by this notable house are immense favourites with all classes of users, and are everywhere looked upon as standards of excellence in their respective lines. In general superiority, they are unequalled by any kindred house. Special care is taken with the material, the best and most suitable alone being used, and the work is all done by skilled workmen, under the superintendence of the proprietor himself. Perfect workmanship is a leading feature in all Mr. Wood’s productions, and his patrons can confidently rely upon them in this particular. Saddles and harness of superior character, and of all descriptions, are made here in large abundance. The proprietor is thoroughly enterprising, he is constantly introducing fresh designs, which are entirely of his own production, which has been the means of largely extending his trade in all parts of the United Kingdom. Notwithstanding the superior nature of all goods manufactured by this house, prices will be found to be of the most satisfactory character, and such as will favourably compare with establishments where vastly inferior goods are offered. This the proprietor is enabled to do owing to the extent of his transactions and the completeness of his productive resources.

Sets of harness are manufactured largely, both for home and abroad, and extensive orders are received from the continent and America for buggy harness, the firm’s high-class work finding great favour with our transatlantic cousins. This representative house possesses a splendid record of important contracts, which it has successfully filled, notably with railway and other public companies, for heavy harness, and also Government contracts for military saddles and harness. The patrons of this establishment are found among the best judges and most influential users in the country. As a typical exponent of this branch of industry, Mr. Wood’s stocks are ample in size, and comprehensive in variety. They have been selected with considerable judgment and wide knowledge of the trade, and they comprise many splendid specimens of the saddler’s art. A word of praise, too, is due to the proprietor for the admirably effective manner in which they have been arranged, and for the regard that has been paid to the comfort and convenience of visitors. There are fine selections of saddles of every kind and size, for ladies and gentlemen, attractive in shape and perfect in workmanship. Harness generally, in the best possible style of work, waterproof sheets, whips, brushes, combs, clips, and stable and carriage requisites of every description. A widespread and exceedingly influential connection has been developed. The house is largely patronized by the gentry and public generally. Thirty skilled workpeople are employed, and orders of whatever magnitude are promptly and efficiently attended to.

Mr. Wood is a thorough business man, sound in judgment, and of large experience in his speciality. He is enlightened and able in his administration, and his constant personal supervision is bestowed upon his business. He is fully alive to the importance of maintaining the high standard of excellence which has all along characterized the productions of his house, and to retain the perfect confidence of his high-class connection. All his transactions are marked by methods of fairness and strict integrity, and business relations once entered into with this house invariably become permanent, many of the customers of to-day having been on the books since the business first started.^In private life, the proprietor is well known and highly esteemed for his personal rectitude, his many unobtrusive charities, and for the active and prominent part he takes in all matters of local interest.

GEORGE REDFERN & SON, DECORATORS, &C.,
29, BROWN STREET, CITY; WORKS, GREENHEYS LANE, GREENHEYS.

THE high name borne by this firm certainly entitles its members to rank among the leading decorators of the city, but besides its good reputation it has other forcible claims to its position. Their very artistic handicraft in Manchester speaks eloquently for itself. This business was established in 1851, and until the year 1890 the whole of the operations were conducted from Greenheys Lane, and in the latter year the firm were forced, owing to the exigencies of an increasing business, and for the facilitating of the same, to make an extension by taking more central premises, and they therefore opened showrooms at 29, Brown Street, City, near General Post Office. The showrooms contain a large assortment of high class wall papers made up from the stocks of about eighty manufacturers, also Lincrusta Walton, Japanese leathers, Cordslova, Muraline, Tynecastle tapestry, Anaglypta, and other artistic decorations. The firm undertakes contracts for the decoration of all kinds of domestic and public buildings, and personal care and supervision is always exercised. Estimates of cost and small scale drawings of proposed decoration will be gladly given free of charge. The firm were awarded a first prize and first-class certificate at the Royal Jubilee Exhibition, Manchester, 1887.

DODD BROTHERS, BUTTER AND PROVISION MERCHANTS
80, CORPORATION STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS extensive business was established in Tood Street in 1876, but to meet the requirements of a rapidly increasing business they removed to the present more commodious premises about ten years ago. The premises consist of a well-fitted office and large and commodious warehouses on the ground floor and in the basement. The stock held consists of all kinds of provisions, the chief items being a large stock of cheese of prime quality, including the best descriptions of Cheshire and American; also bacon and hams, Wiltshire, Belfast, and Limerick, mild cured and smoked, Cumberland, American flitches, Irish rolls, shoulders, &c., &c.; Butters, Irish firkins and butts, Kiel, Danish, and American; also margarine, in which they do a very large trade. The firm have also a branch establishment in Limerick, equally well arranged and supplied as their English house. A very large wholesale trade is controlled all over the district from the Manchester house. An efficient staff of hands is constantly employed. Messrs. Dodd Brothers are well known on the best provision markets in the country, and most highly esteemed by their colleagues and patrons for their intimate business knowledge and strict commercial integrity.
Their telegraphic address is “Onward” Manchester.

GEORGE JACKSON, MEDICAL AND DISPENSING CHEMIST,
870, ROCHDALE ROAD, MANCHESTER.

AN upright, clever, enterprising gentleman, Mr. Jackson has succeeded in winning a good name possessed by very few business men. His goodness and skill are universally praised, and to his learning and research numbers candidly state that they owe the preservation of their lives. Mr. Jackson is not an ordinary chemist. He is not one content with having a finely displayed shop, and selling patent medicines. He goes much deeper into things than that. He has read deeply and experimented largely for a quarter of a century or more, and by his study and observation has given to the world some discoveries which will always make his name famous, long after he is dead and gone. His more wonderful discovery is the “Febrifuge,” and who has not heard of it? It is as the worthy inventor styles it — a physician in itself. The unsolicited testimonials which pour in from all sorts and conditions of men prove its worth. A slight instance of the popularity of Jackson’s Febrifuge may be given. During the recent influenza epidemic the weekly sale was over two thousand bottles. The clergy, the press, and the public all speak in equal tones of high praise on its merits. The “Christian Union” devoted considerable space to an article on the discovery, containing many edifying comments too long to be reproduced here. Its great mission is of course to prevent fever, but it is equally valuable for a great number of human ailments, and, to sum up, heads of families have used it for a number of years, and declare they would never be without it. It would take a very long chapter indeed to say all that might be truthfully stated with regard to Mr. Jackson’s discoveries. Happily they are too well known to need going into long details.

For many years, and up till quite recently, Mr. Jackson devoted much time and attention to prescribing, being as much sought after as a doctor. Thousands of grateful patients have testified to his skill and cleverness. Accumulating business and a desire for more relaxation has however induced him to relinquish this department entirely, and he now devotes all his energies to his wonderful specialities and the general druggist trade. His learning and skill is so well known that great reliance is placed in him. On more than one occasion he has successfully treated cases of embryo cancer. His premises consist of a large shop with handsome double windows. At the rear is the laboratory and warehouse, for preparing and storing the specialities. Cleverness clearly runs in the family, for Mr. Jackson’s son, who carries on business at the rear of his father’s premises, is the inventor of a specially superior writing ink, called by him the “Acme.” For this ink remarkable properties are claimed. It is clean, always flows well, does not corrode steel pens, retains its colour - jet black — and is sold as cheap as the most inferior makes. It is difficult to speak in too high terms of these respected gentlemen. Their merits have abundant reward. They are prosperous, they are respected. Who could wish to be more happily placed?

JOHN WHYTE, PATTERN CARD AND BOOK MAKER,
9, ST. MARY’S STREET, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

ESTABLISHED so recently as 1885, this house has taken a very high position amongst the industrial establishments of the city, and one not usually attained in so short a period. The premises consist of a spacious and well-appointed office and extensive workrooms on the second and third floors of the above address, the latter being admirably equipped with all the most modern and approved machinery and appliances for the rapid production of pattern cards, books, &c., for cloth and calico dealers, tailors and clothiers, &c. The trade, in which several skilled and experienced hands are employed, extends all over Great Britain, being particularly well established among the wholesale houses, merchants, and shippers of the city, both for the home trade and for export. His manufactures are of a very superior kind, and many of his productions are of exquisite design and beautiful workmanship. In the matter of price, too, he cannot be excelled. His stocks are large, varied, and valuable, and command ready sales. Mr. John Whyte is the sole proprietor, and personally superintends the business, nothing being allowed to leave the establishment until it has undergone his strict and keen supervision. He conducts his business in a most able and honourable manner, and to the judicious enterprise and sound mercantile capacity displayed in the management is largely due the especially gratifying success that has attended the house from the date of its inception.

JOSEPH HARDY, INDIA SAUCE MANUFACTURER,
108, RADNOR STREET, MANCHESTER.

ESTABLISHED upwards of a quarter of a century ago, this business has continued to grow in extent and importance with every year of its existence. The founder brought to bear an intimate knowledge of the business and considerable practical skill, and by his vigorous and able efforts he soon raised the house into a position of prominence. Operations are carried on in a large and convenient block of two-story building, with bottle-washing and boiling departments on the ground floor, and offices and bottling, labelling, packing, and storing rooms on the first floor. The proprietor’s long experience and liberal policy are clearly shown in the admirably complete style in which the whole of the premises have been fitted up. From fifteen to twenty hands, chiefly females, are kept constantly employed, and a very large trade is done under the most favourable conditions. The productions of this house are well known and everywhere appreciated. The ingredients used are perfectly pure and wholesome, being fruits, spices, &c., free from any deleterious mixture, while every stage of the manufacture is carefully watched by competent persons so as to maintain the high excellence for which they are noted. Whenever they have been exhibited prizes have been awarded to the specialities of this house, notably at the Leeds Exhibition, 1868, and the London International Exhibition, 1873. The leading line of the firm is Hardy’s prize medal India sauce. This is a relish of the first quality, and is having extensive sales. Large stocks are kept of the various kinds made, including the speciality just mentioned, Hardy’s Worcester Sauce, Hardy’s Everyone’s Relish, Relish for the Million, Lincolnshire Ketchup, &c. The amount of business done places the proprietor in a position to quote favourable prices, and special terms are offered to customers ordering large quantities. The connection is extensive and substantial, lying among the principal hotels, restaurants, wholesale and retail grocers, and Italian warehousemen. Mr. Hardy is a representative man in his field of industry, and occupies a good position in business circles. He is respected for his many good qualities and inflexible probity.

JOHN EDWARDS & CO., TIN BOUND PAINT, VARNISH, AND ENAMEL BRUSH MANUFACTURERS,
89, BOSTON STREET, HULME.

THE firm commenced business about five years ago as Edwards & Goodier, patentees of a brush for gumming purposes with roller attached. Mr. Goodier having retired, Mr. Edwards developed the business into one of a practical character, so far as paint, varnish, and enamel brushes were concerned. His practical knowledge as a brushmaker led him to see that machinery may be employed in the manufacture of the brushes, and for the first time probably in the history of this class of work in England, machinery was employed. The firm is now known as Edwards & Co., and they are making these goods with original machines; and they are probably the only firm in England that has proved — and will ultimately still further prove — successful competitors with the German manufacturers of the enamel and paint brushes. A steady demand has been experienced, and this will no doubt continue to be made, for the brushes made by the firm. Messrs. Edwards & Co. do not push their trade, at present preferring to perfect everything in detail before attempting great things. A well-adapted premises and works, and an efficient staff of workers are, however, doing that which has not hitherto been accomplished, and the trade begun so quietly a short time ago will in the future prove one that may be rightly classed amongst the progressives of the city of Manchester.

EDWIN RATCLIFFE, JOINER AND BUILDER, TRUNK AND PACKING CASE MAKER,
VICTORIA PLACE, PRINCESS STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable institution took origin under the auspices of Mr. Edwin Ratcliffe, in the year 1856, and was by him carried on with marked success until quite recently, when the concern was taken over by Messrs. Bottomley and Bowker, who, however, still trade under the original style and title as above noted. The works consist of a large and substantial two-storied building, with a frontage of two hundred and ten feet, and an extension of one hundred and fifty feet to the rear. The ground floor of this great building is divided into three parts, a splendidly equipped saw mills covering an area of eighty feet by fifty feet, the machinery of which is worked by two steam engines of twelve and eight horse-power respectively, a spacious store room eighty feet by fifty feet, and drying sheds for the timber used in making packing cases, and for joinery and building purposes. On the first floor there is a large room, ninety-nine feet by twenty-four feet, used as a joiner’s workshop, and another apartment, eighty feet by twenty-eight feet, fully fitted with all the latest and most improved machinery for the making of packing cases. The trade controlled entails the regular and full employment of a staff of forty hands, and under the careful and vigorous control of the proprietors, who are both practical men of the highest standing in the trade, bids fair ere long to become one of the largest and most important, as it is one of the best regulated in its line in the city.

FREDERICK SLATER, WHOLESALE FLOOR CLOTH, LINOLEUM, BAIZE, AND CARPET WAREHOUSEMAN,
274 & 276, OLDHAM ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE widespread distribution of floor cloths, linoleums, baizes, carpets, rugs, mats, and kindred commodities, as a special line of business, finds admirable illustration at the hands of Mr. Frederick Slater, who in 1878 formed the nucleus of his now thriving concern in the populous district of the Oldham Road. Mr. Slater, although still a young man, entered upon his career of commercial activity backed by an intimate acquaintance with all the details of his difficult undertaking. His premises are in every point of character and situation well adapted to the requirements of a very brisk thriving trade. They consist of two very large and spacious shops, admirably appointed throughout, and augmented at the rear with capitally ordered warerooms. A splendid display is always en evidence in the shops, while the stock held is admittedly one of the largest and best selected in the city, comprising the goods of all the best makers of the day, of all grades, to suit the needs of all classes of the community. Mr. Slater operates not only as a retail salesman, but also does a very substantial wholesale trade throughout the country, travelling personally at intervals to customers, and no firm could have won by more honourable and legitimate means the eminent reputation, which by dint of perseverance and the observance of thoroughly sound commercial principles, Mr. Slater now so deservedly enjoys.

WALMSLEY & SON, UMBRELLA MAKERS,
VICTORIA BUILDINGS, VICTORIA STREET AND 78, MARKET STREET, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the principal houses in Manchester engaged in its special line of business, conspicuous position is occupied by the old-established firm of Messrs. Walmsley & Son, of Victoria Buildings, Victoria Street, and 78, Market Street, the well-known umbrella makers. The inception of the business dates back to 1846, when Mr. Gaius James Walmsley came from London to Manchester, and commenced operations in this direction. He brought to bear a sound and practical knowledge of the trade, together with notable energy and perseverance, and he soon built up a permanent patronage, which has gone on steadily increasing during the whole time, until it is now one of the largest and most influential in this part of the country. The first premise's occupied were those at Market Street, but as the increase in the business necessitated further accommodation, the premises in Victoria Buildings were taken and made the headquarters of the house. Both establishments are ample in size and convenience, and comprise double-fronted shops, with capacious windows fully stocked with a well-selected variety of first-class umbrellas and walking sticks. The interior is fitted up in a complete and handsome style with every requisite for the display of the goods and the comfort of patrons.

The manufacturing department is situated away from the shops, and is fully equipped with the latest improved machinery and appliances necessary for the systematic and successful conduct of this important branch of industry. A large number of skilled operatives is employed, and the umbrellas turned out by this firm are acknowledged to have very few equals in the trade. They combine the essential features of strength and lightness with elegance of appearance. The materials used are waterproof and warranted fast colours, and the frames and sticks are of the best materials and embody the latest improvements and styles. As exponents of this class of business, the firm hold large and varied stocks, which intended purchasers should not fail to inspect. They have been chosen with an intimate acquaintance with the requirements of the public. They embrace some thousands of umbrellas of every style, shape and price, ranging from the cheapest article in ginghams to the most costly production in twilled silk, with patent frames and carved ivory or silver handles. An extensive choice is offered, and prices will be found of the most satisfactory nature.

The house also shows a fine assortment of gentlemen’s walking sticks and canes of every kind, including the latest and most approved styles in all the fancy woods, malaccas, ebony and bamboo, with horn, ivory or metal handles. The better class of these goods are admirably finished and are eminently adapted for presentation. A large and valuable trade is controlled with the principal inhabitants of Manchester and the suburbs and with the leading buyers throughout the north, and its continual increase speaks volumes for the quality of the goods offered. Mr. Gaius Mines Walmsley is ably assisted in the management by his son, Mr. Francis Walmsley, a gentleman who has spent the whole of his life in this particular business. Their close personal attention is given to the business, and all their transactions are conducted on the sound principles of equity and just dealing.

JOHN ROBERTS, COACH BUILDER,
STRETFORD NEW ROAD, MANCHESTER.

ESTABLISHED nearly half a century ago, this business rapidly grew in public favour and gathered round it an influential circle of patrons, and its career up to the present day has been an unbroken record of well-deserved prosperity and success. Substantial and capacious premises are occupied, consisting of a commodious block of building, comprising extensive show-rooms on the ground and first floors, with workshops at the rear and ample yard accommodation. The show-rooms are roomy, lofty, and well lighted, and are in every respect admirably adapted to display their splendid exhibits, while the workshops are well arranged and thoroughly equipped with plant and machinery of the best and most modern kind. A large business in the manufacture of superior carriages is conducted here, and the vehicles for which Mr. Roberts stands sponsor are such as would do infinite credit to any similar establishment in the kingdom. They represent the perfection of carriage building, in its most modern and improved aspect and are the outcome of complete resources and fifty years’ experience and study. The timber used is of the best kind and is thoroughly shrunk and tested before being employed. None but skilled workmen are engaged, and every process of manufacture is sedulously watched, with the result that the carriages turned out here are absolutely faultless in every detail. In short, for excellence of material, durability, reliable workmanship, elegance, lightness and general superiority of finish, few vehicles can surpass these.

Large stocks are kept, including almost every kind of vehicle that can be required for business or pleasure. They comprise light traps, pony-carriages, gigs, tandem carts, Whitechapels, rustic carts, phaetons, waggonettes, victorias, sociables, family omnibuses, chars-a-banc, barouches, landaus and broughams. A large number of coach-smiths, body-makers, trimmers, and painters, is employed; and every attention is given to repairs, estimates for which are freely furnished in town or country. The business extends throughout Manchester and the county, and to many of the principal centres in the United Kingdom, and the house numbers among its patrons many influential and aristocratic families. No less than seventy-three first-class gold and silver medals have been awarded to Mr. Roberts in open competition, for the superior workmanship and finish of his productions. Wherever he has exhibited he has been successful in carrying off prizes. Mr. Roberts was awarded a gold medal at the London International Exhibition, 1873, for a canoe landau with patent head, &c.; and in 1886 he was awarded the silver medal at the International Exhibition, Liverpool. At the World’s Exhibition at Paris, 1878, he was distinguished by honourable mention.

Mr. Roberts is a pre-eminently practical man and thoroughly conversent with every department of his industry; his business receives his energetic and able supervision. He is noted for his honourable methods of business and for the care he takes to uphold the enviable reputation he has so long enjoyed. Mr. Roberts is a Justice of the Peace for the city of Manchester, and has been a guardian of the Chorlton Union for more than fourteen years, and a member of the City Council for upwards of ten years.

ROBERT BLAIR, WHOLESALE MANUFACTURER OF IRON AND TINNED IRON TRUNKS, &C.,
1, BENNETT STREET, LEVER STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS large and influential business was established in the year 1864 by the present proprietor, who has been most intimately associated with the progress and development of the industry and all the improvements that have been introduced into the various branches of the manufacture from that period up to the present time. The “Medlock Works,” situated at Ardwick, are laid out on a very extensive scale, and are replete with all the most improved machinery and appliances that have been devised to effect economy in working and to secure perfect and uniform manufacture. Mr. Blair gives regular employment to-upwards of forty hands, in the manufacture of iron and tinned iron trunks, travellers’ cases, sample cases, baths, tea urns, coal vases, ash pans, and all kinds of iron, tin, and japanned goods. The premises at No. 1, Bennett Street, Lever Street, comprise a large warehouse of five storeys, containing packing and dispatch departments, stock rooms, office, and all the accessories of a thoroughly organised establishment. To meet the extensive requirements of the trade, Mr. Blair holds a very large and thoroughly representative stock ready for immediate delivery.

The trade, which is entirely wholesale, is of a widespread and steadily growing character, and in addition to the extensive home connection, which reaches to all parts of the United Kingdom, a very large and continually increasing export business is done through the leading shipping houses of Manchester, Liverpool, and London. The business in every department receives the direct personal attention of the proprietor, and is conducted throughout with marked ability, energy, and enterprise. These extensive business relations are well founded upon the eminent reputation, while the superior quality of the goods well uphold the honourable position, which this firm has achieved when brought into competition with the manufacturers of the world.

BLAND & MESSENGER, PATTERN CARD AND BOOK MAKERS,
1, COOPER STREET, AND 32, BOOTH STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable house was organised as long ago as the year 1842 under the able auspices of Mr. Bland, in Market Street, when, having outgrown the premises, it was found expedient for them to remove to more convenient and commodious quarters at 77, Princess Street. Here business was carried on until December, 1887, when in consequence of a disastrous fire at Princess Street, a removal was necessitated to the present premises in Cooper Street and Booth Street. The entire business, since the death of Mr. Bland, in 1864, has been carried on under the sole proprietary control of Mr. Messenger, who was apprenticed to Mr. Bland, subsequently becoming a partner. Although the business has for a long period been under Mr. Messenger’s sole control, he still retains the old firm title, Bland & Messenger. The premises, as they are at present constituted, occupy the whole of the third and fourth floors of the prominent building located at the corner of Cooper Street and Booth Street, and are appropriately divided into well-appointed offices, warehouses, and perfectly-equipped workshops, where a staff of from thirty to forty workmen is actively engaged, under the personal superintendence of Mr. Messenger, in producing a vast variety of pattern cards and books to meet the requirements of spinners, velveteen merchants, and fabric and cloth merchants generally, specialities being made of pocket books, sample and travelling cases, silver and gold blocking, and the careful mounting of maps, colliery and survey plans on linen and other materials, for which estimates are furnished, and orders executed with high efficiency, economy, and despatch. The entire business is conducted with marked energy, ability, and enterprise, upon a thoroughly sound basis of honourable mercantile principles, and it is manifestly Mr. Messenger’s resolution that the high reputation gained by his house in the past shall not merely be consistently sustained, but steadily enhanced in days to come.

JOHN MARSDEN, FLOOR CLOTH MANUFACTURER, MAKER
OF IMPROVED BRATTICE CLOTH, ENGINE PACKING, AND COLLIERY FURNISHINGS,
VARLEY STREET, OLDHAM ROAD, MANCHESTER.

MR. MARSDEN founded this notable business in the year 1846, and at his large works at the above address, and also in additional premises in Vickers Street, close by, he has developed a most extensive industry in the production of superior hand-printed floorcloths, which are equally remarkable for their sound quality, artistic design, and beautiful colouring. Every process of this industry is conducted upon the best practical principles, and the whole of the work is carried on in these spacious and perfectly-equipped premises under conditions favourable to the attainment of the highest results in the goods produced. In the various industrial departments alone something like one hundred and twenty hands are regularly engaged, besides numerous warehousemen, clerks, &c.; and the floorcloth designs are prepared by talented artists, who certainly must be congratulated upon the production of a remarkable variety of novel and beautiful patterns. Mr. Marsden holds a large and complete stock of his attractive manufactures in this very useful and indispensable class of floor covering, and he is thus enabled to execute the largest orders with promptitude and despatch.

An immense wholesale and export trade is controlled, not only in floorcloths, but also in brattice cloth of an improved quality, which is largely in demand among colliery proprietors all over the world, and of which great quantities are kept in stock to meet all urgent requirements. In cases of accident any desired quantity of cloth can be at once despatched to the mine on receipt of an order by telegram; and we may mention that Mr. Marsden’s telegraphic address is “Nedsram, Manchester.”

As a further safeguard for the collieries this enterprising house has established in the centre of the Staffordshire coalfields a vast emporium which is always kept fully stocked with brattice cloths, engine packing and all such colliery requisites. This depot is situate in Moorland Road, Burslem. Mr. Marsden personally superintends all the operations of his large and deservedly prosperous business, and is ably assisted therein by his son, who is a worthy lieutenant to his energetic parent. Although he has never sought to make himself specially prominent in social or public life, Mr. John Marsden has always been a liberal supporter of local charities and other good works, and he is much esteemed in this vicinity, both for his generous personal qualities and for his commercial integrity and enterprise.

H. DOBSON, MANUFACTURER OF CHILDREN’S DRESSES, FROCKS, CLOAKS, PELISSES, &C.,
15, RUSSELL STREET, DOWNING STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable house, organised in the year 1871, is to-day being sustained and developed under the vigorous control of its founder with a success which leaves nothing to be desired. Prior to Mr. Dobson’s advent the business had existed on a smaller scale, its present operations being exclusively wholesale, and taking widespread effect, not merely in Manchester, but throughout the United Kingdom and the colonies, calling into active requisition the services of a staff of no less than two hundred skilled cutters, embroiderers, and women workers, whose labours are supplemented by a large number of the most improved and modern machines in each department. Mr. Dobson was the pioneer in his especial line in supplying the London wholesale houses direct from the Manchester warehouses. The premises occupied are very extensive and consist of a large and substantial block of three-storied buildings having a frontage of forty feet facing Russell Street, and extending back to Clare Street, provided with two entrances, one for the workpeople and the other leading to the handsomely appointed clerks’ and private offices and store rooms on the ground floor, the remainder of the accommodation being fully utilised as workrooms. The specialities consist of all manner of children’s dresses, frocks, cloaks, pelisses, and kindred commodities. Mr. Dobson is a past master in every branch of his business, and by his well-known integrity, spirited enterprise, and genial courtesy, has deservedly succeeded in securing the confidence and support of a most extensive and valuable connection.

WM. HOLLAND & SONS, COTTON SPINNERS AND DOUBLERS, SEWING COTTON MANUFACTURERS,
VICTORIA MILLS, MILES PLATTING, MANCHESTER.

THIS distinguished firm dates its history from the year 1854 when the business was started by Sir. William Holland in a fairly large mill situated in the Adelphi, Salford. The damage caused from time to time by floods of the river Irwell, at this spot, so interfered with the progress of the trade that Mr. Holland determined to secure a more favourable site, and in 1867 he acquired property at Miles Platting, upon which was erected the first portion of the magnificent block known as Victoria Mills. This structure was seven stories high, 150 feet long, and 135 feet broad, and from the date of its completion it has formed (together with subsequent additions) a very conspicuous feature in the landscape hereabouts. Before long, however, the business of the firm outgrew this increased accommodation, and a second mill, similar in all respects to the first, was built upon ground immediately adjoining. This was in 1873, and up to that time the operations of the firm had been chiefly in the spinning and doubling of cotton yarns of all counts, from 20’s to 200’s, in super combed qualities for manufacturing purposes. T

This line of industry is still pursued as the principal feature of the firm’s undertakings, though other departments have since been very successfully developed. Messrs. William Holland & Sons were among the first (if they were not actually the first) to employ self-acting mules upon a large scale for very fine counts of yarn — in fact, throughout the entire career of this great house we note that it has always been in the van of progress in everything appertaining to the advancement of the industry in which it is so extensively engaged. To Messrs. Holland belongs the honour of having introduced into this country the spinning of what are known as “French cashmere yarns,” a branch which they commenced in 1877, and another new mill was then erected for this department, adjoining the existing premises. Even this structure had to be considerably enlarged in 1885 and 1889, so pronounced is the tendency towards continuous development in all Messrs. Holland’s industrial enterprises.

Regarding the business as a whole, we find no fewer than 180,000 spindles of various kinds in operation, the worsted department alone containing between 20,000 and 30,000 spindles, so that this firm may be justly considered one of the largest private spinning firms in Great Britain, while it is no exaggeration to describe Victoria Mills as the finest and most extensive establishment of its kind in the district, the buildings being all fire-proof, and containing about ten acres of floorage.

In 1872 Mr. William Holland, the founder of the house, admitted his two sons, Messrs. Samuel and William Henry Holland, into partnership, and these three gentlemen still constitute the personnel of the firm. Each of the principals has attained local distinction, and all are most liberal and unostentatious supporters of deserving charities. The senior partner, a gentleman widely known and greatly respected in the city and county, is a justice of the peace and a member of the Lancashire County Council. Mr. Samuel Holland is in the commission of the peace for Manchester, and Mr. William Henry Holland (who is also a magistrate) is a director of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce. Until the amalgamation of Newton Heath with the City of Manchester, Mr. William H. Holland was Chairman of the Local Board of that district. He took a very prominent part in advocating amalgamation, and his services were duly acknowledged by the ratepayers of the locality, who elected him first alderman of the new ward of Miles Platting. Both as benevolent and public-spirited citizens and as manufacturers of a most progressive and enterprising character the Messrs. Holland (father and sons) have made a distinguished mark in the history of modern Manchester, and have amply earned the gratitude and goodwill of those who, in all stations of life, can claim to be their fellow-workers in the cause of social, municipal, and commercial progress in this great community.

R. O. COOPER & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF GREY AND BLEACHED GOODS,
6, CHARLOTTE STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE operations of the firm consist in the manufacture at their four mills of white bleached shirtings and sheetings, greys for bleaching and dyeing, domestics, twills, jeanettes, &c., &c. The premises where the mercantile department is conducted comprise a suite of offices on the ground floor, and commodious warehouse at the rear, together with a spacious and well-fitted sample-room. The business is exclusively wholesale and export, the firm having a first-class connection in the United Kingdom, and a valuable export trade with firms dealing with India, China, Central and South America, the Cape, Australia, New Zealand, and other foreign markets. The firm have agents in London, Glasgow, and Belfast, and have a representative on the Exchange. The popularity which this firm has obtained in all these markets is conclusive proof of the quality of the different goods which they supply. At the present time the great tendency is to run down the quality in all classes of manufactures, but this firm adheres to the principle of sending out a high-class quality. The business is conducted by the enterprising partner, Mr. R. O. Cooper, who is well known in the trade. Great energy is being displayed in the management.

J. & T. THORP, TOY MANUFACTURERS,
GERMAN STREET MILLS, MANCHESTER.

THE large business carried on at German Street Mills, Manchester, under the title of J. & T. Thorp, was founded in the year 1865, and has had a highly successful career from the first. Mr. Thomas Thorp is now the sole proprietor of the concern, and his able and energetic management fully sustains the prestige and renown of the house in its special line of trade. Immense additions have been made to the original premises, and the works now comprise two large and lofty mills, which are subdivided into saw-mills and timber-preparing works, stores, turning shops, smithy, six toymakers’ rooms, three rooms for imported toys, painting and finishing, and packing and despatching rooms. The whole place is admirably arranged and equipped to meet the requirements of the interesting industry engaged in, and nearly a hundred hands are regularly employed in the different departments.

A glance at Messrs. Thorp’ s illustrated sheets of novelties and a tour through their busy factories and well-filled show-rooms would convince anyone that the firm stand in the van of progress, and are in a position to meet all reasonable demands. The toys of one nation or one period would, perhaps, hardly be tolerated elsewhere or at another time. Some, nevertheless, seem to enjoy perennial popularity, and of these our old friend the wooden horse, on wheels and on rockers, is facile princeps. The toy horse is turned out by Messrs. Thorp in many forms, and he is found in this firm’s show-rooms assuming the guise of a velocipede, or associated with both a velocipede and a chair, or perhaps attached to an ingenious “tip cart,” or embidied in a cleverly contrived apparatus, which enables the infantile rider to combine the delights of equestrian exercise with those of the ever-popular swing. Then there is the perambulator horse, the perambulator chair horse, the stool horse, the stepping horse, and the horse whose mission it is to provide motive power for a wonderfully pretty mail cart.

After the horse in all these varied forms comes a great diversity of “mail carts” in such models as the “County,” the “Oxford,” the “Lancashire,” the “Palatine,” the “Safety,” and the “Champion” — this last being Messrs. Thorp’s latest and most perfect achievement in the “mail-cart” line. Then we have a multitude of wheelbarrows, perambulators, and basinettes for dolls, engines and waggons, doll’s cradles, rocking chairs, children’s swings, trucks, and a host of other toys, the great feature of all of them being that they involve a goodly amount of physical exercise of a nature not in the least harmful. Of course, boys’ and girls’ tricycles are not omitted from the long array, and in every instance the workmanship and finish of Messrs. Thorp’s productions are particularly good. Dealers in such goods should not fail to send for this firm’s lists and illustrations; they will find a wide range of eminently popular articles to choose from, and Messrs. Thorp’s prices are well-known to be as low as the lowest for really sound and saleable goods. The firm control a very large and widespread trade, and have always enjoyed the support of a valuable and steadily increasing: connection.

Mr. Thomas Thorp, the head of the house, is well known in Manchester, and much esteemed as a liberal and constant supporter of local charities. He personally supervises the entire business, and his sons, Mr. T. Thorp, junr., and Mr. John C. Thorp, represent the house as travellers throughout the North of England, a London agent performing a similar duty in connection with the southern Counties and the metropolis.

ALEX. GRIMSHAW,
ALBERT MILL, MILES PLATTING, MANCHESTER.

THIS establishment holds a foremost rank among the industries of the district, and has long been well and favourably known, for the extent of its operations. The nature of its operations renders it necessary that the greatest nicety should be observed; accordingly the most expert hands are engaged, specially constructed machinery has been fitted throughout, and the utmost experience is brought to bear on each department. This splendid undertaking was founded by a relation of Mr. Alexander Grimshaw’s upwards of half a century ago, during which period it has steadily maintained its position at the head of all competitors. The fine mill at Miles Platting is of three-storey elevation, fitted up with specially devised machinery for drawing gold and silver wire, for the manufacture of gold and silver thread, plate, and gold and silver skein thread. The firm are also extensive dyers of fast bleaching heading yarns and fancy colours of all descriptions, and there is a very considerable output of Turkey red, and every description of heading yarns, worsted and cotton heald yarns, &c. The warehouse is at Hodson’s Square, Corporation Street, and is most convenient for carrying out the large transactions between shippers, merchants, &c., as well as generally helping on the business. There is a first-rate connection with manufacturers of all kinds of textiles and expensive fabrics, also with India, China, and other eastern countries, in gold and silver threads and plate, Turkey red and other fancy yarns for native use.

There are over two hundred experienced hands on the premises. The commercial standing of the firm is of the highest order, and the deepest reliance is placed upon all dealings connected with it. The active management of the concern devolves upon Mr. A. Mort, whose connection with the house commenced some thirty years ago. From a very humble position he, by industry, perseverance and business ability, worked himself to the responsible office of manager, and at the present time is an energetic member of the firm. He is a gentleman well known on change and highly respected in commercial and social circles. Mr. Grimshaw also commands universal respect. He is esteemed in his business and private capacity alike. Until he was incapacitated by delicate health, he was a useful and prominent member of the Newton Heath Local Board, his retirement being productive of much genuine regret.

CROSSLEY AND WILCOCK, LIMITED,
DOB LANE END MILL, FAILSWORTH, NEAR MANCHESTER.

DATING back in its foundation to the year 1850, the business was then established as Messrs. Crossley Bros. Subsequently the firm became Crossley and Wilcock, and in consequence of the increasing magnitude of the business the concern was turned into a limited company in 1883. The works are laid out on a very extensive scale, and are replete with machinery, tools, and appliances embodying all the latest improvements. The firm are the original inventors and patentees of the Double-Lift Jacquard Machine, for which they were awarded a prize medal in the first class, Paris, 1855. The company give employment to a large staff of skilled and experienced hands in the manufacture of all kinds of Jacquard machines with from 100 to 2,400 hooks, single-lift, double-lift, double-cylinder, and compound machines.

The company are also makers of card cutting and repeating, and piano card cutting machines, Jacquard harness builders of every description, comberboards, slips, mails, thread, lingoes, all kinds of wire work, and every requisite for fancy weaving. Thousands of the company’s machines are now at work in England and on the Continent, giving every satisfaction. A notable feature in these machines is the turning back motion. They have also an improved card protecting motion, so protecting the cards that the machine can be worked at any speed the looms can be run, which causes a saving of fully twenty-five per cent, on the cards, with a far greater production. Another very important feature of the company’s operations is the manufacture of fancy brocades and grey cottons; this is conducted in weaving sheds attached to the works, in which upwards of four hundred Jacquard machines of their own construction are at work.

This extensive business in every department is under direct and careful supervision, and is conducted with ability, energy, and enterprise. The trade is widespread and steadily growing, and in addition to the extensive home connection, the company’s productions are well known in every market of the world. The managing director, Mr. Thomas Wilcock, M.D., and Mr. Joseph Booth, inside manager, are gentlemen occupying prominent and influential positions in social and business circles. They are well known and highly esteemed in Failsworth, not only as old established and successful manufacturers, but also for their active exertions in promoting^ the best interests of the commerce and industries of the town and district.

W. H. KNIBBS, COACHBUILDER,
TIPPING STREET, ARDWICK, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable concern was founded as far back as the year 1851, on a very small scale, by a relative of the present proprietor, and continued under the original management until 1875, when Mr. Knibbs took the management, and in 1885 became sole proprietor. Of course the business had developed very considerably during the first thirty years or so of its career, and had, in fact, achieved a position of much prominence in the trade; but it is not too much to say that its greatest distinction and success has been won under Mr. Knibbs’ able and energetic management, which has placed the house unquestionably among the leading concerns of its kind in the city. The premises now occupied comprise three spacious blocks of three-storey buildings, forming a large triangle, with an open space in the centre, to which access is gained through an archway in the Tipping Street frontage. The whole of the ground floor is devoted to industrial purposes, with the exception of the space set apart for stabling, timber stores, and stores for other materials. On the first and second floors are situated the coachbuilders’, upholsterers’, trimmers’, and painter’s shops, which are always full of carriages, hearses, and light vehicles of every description in various stages of completion. Hearse building is a speciality, and is conducted upon a very extensive scale, Mr. Knibbs having devoted many years of study to this important branch of the trade.

All productions of this house are marked by elegance of design and beauty of finish in a very notable degree. Mr. Knibbs works entirely to order, and the high reputation he has gained for all his manufactures in the coach-building line ensures a constant influx of important orders, and precludes the necessity of depending upon casual custom to any large extent. Designs and estimates will be promptly forwarded on application. Upwards of forty highly skilled workmen are kept busily employed at these well-equipped works, and the fact that all their operations come under the personal supervision of the able and experienced principal of the house completely ensures the satisfaction of customers who appreciate really first-class work at reasonable prices.

ARMSTRONG & SON, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANTS;
30, ST. ANN STREET, MANCHESTER.

IN illustration of the wine and spirit distributing interest, as developed in Manchester of to-day, a fairly typical example may be found in the above old-established house. An enquiry into the history of the house shows that it dates back in its foundation to the year 1745, when it was projected in Princess Street, by the great-grandfather of the present senior member of the firm, Mr. Joseph Armstrong. The personnel of the firm are Messrs. Henry Armstrong, senior, and Henry Armstrong, junior. The premises now occupied in St. Ann Street are in every point of character and situation exactly adapted to the wants of a very brisk business of the kind. They consist of handsomely-appointed offices on the ground floor, and capacious well-ordered cellars below, where a very large and choice selection of wines and spirits, suitable for a trade amongst connoisseurs, and other consumers of high-class liquors is held. The trade controlled is a very old- established one amongst the best families of the city and surrounding country, and other large consumers throughout the north of England.

JOSEPH GLEAVE & SON, PLANE AND TOOL MAKERS, AND CUTLERS,
8, OLDHAM STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable business was founded in the year 1833, in a very humble way, in the neighbouring town of Bolton, and an enquiry into the commercial annals of the city shows that it has always maintained its high reputation for the excellence of its productions. The premises occupied present an exceedingly fine window display of articles incidental to the business and the premises are well stocked with all kinds of saws, planes, and all kinds of cutlery, as well as every description of small machines of the nature of lathes, circular saw benches, fretwork machines, and the like, plane-making being the speciality for which the firm have become particularly noted. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume, the entire business being conducted under the personal supervision of the principals, upon lines which reflect nothing but the highest credit upon the administrative abilities and commercial capabilities of its worthy proprietors. There are still a few living who dealt with the founder over fifty years ago. Mr. Gleave, senr., who is hale and hearty, is in his eighty-fifth year.

SEDDON & BUTTERWORTH, MERCHANTS,
15, GREENWOOD STREET, MANCHESTER.

A THOROUGHLY reliable house extensively occupied as shippers of Manchester goods is that of Messrs. Seddon & Butterworth, which was established at the above address in 1883 by the present proprietors, Mr. William Seddon and Mr. Thomas Butterworth. Both these gentlemen were men of large commercial experience, and under their energetic and enterprising control the concern was developed with notable success and rapidity. Every year its transactions have increased in extent and importance, and the house is now fully recognised as a leading one in the trade. Ample and commodious premises are occupied on the second floor at the above address, including handsomely fitted offices and large and convenient warehouse accommodation. An extensive and valuable trade is done in Manchester and other goods with all the great centres of commerce on the Continent, in most of which the firm keep resident agents. They are thoroughly conversant with all the best sources of supply, and they possess unsurpassed facilities for disposing of their commodities in the most suitable markets. For variety of selection and novelty of patterns the house has few equals, while the extent of their business gives them many advantages. The proprietors are well known and highly respected in commercial circles for their strictly fair and honourable methods of transacting business. In private life they enjoy the esteem of all who come into contact with them for their personal worth, their disinterested and active public, services and uprightness.

J. A. TURNER & CO., PATENTEES AND MANUFACTURERS OF IMPROVED PATENT PACKING, TARPAULINS, HESSIANS, &C.,
NUTFORD VALE WORKS, WEST GORTON, NEAR MANCHESTER.

THIS well-known and influential concern was founded as far back as the year 1860, and maintains a very prominent position in connection with the industry with which its name, is associated. Mr. James Alfred Turner, the founder and principal of the house, has devoted many years of careful attention to the manufacture of various kinds of packing material, in which he has introduced and patented some very valuable improvements, and the genuine merit of his productions has enabled him to maintain a leading position in the trade and to secure a prominent place for his goods in all the principal markets, at home and abroad.

JOHN G. JONES, ROPE AND TWINE MANUFACTURER,
RABY STREET, ALEXANDRA ROAD, MOSS SIDE, MANCHESTER.

THERE is always a special interest attaching to old institutions, whether they be of a national, municipal, or industrial character, and prominent among the latter class in this district of the city is the old-established business of Mr. John G. Jones, rope, twine, and cotton banding manufacturer, dating back in its foundation to the year 1840. The business was established by the father of the present proprietor, originally in Embden Street, and about fifteen years ago was removed to the more extensive and commodious premises now occupied. These are located in Raby Street, Alexandra Road, Moss Side. The works are laid out on an extensive scale, the rope walk being fully one hundred and twenty yards long. The various departments are replete with machinery and appliances of the most improved construction, and the premises throughout have been specially fitted up in the most careful and complete manner, to ensure the effective and economical working of a large and increasing business. The motive power is communicated from a twelve horse-power gas engine. Mr. Jones gives constant employment to upwards of thirty experienced hands in the manufacture of ropes of all kinds. Twine and cotton banding, oil cloth, tarpauling, canvas, paper, &c., are also largely dealt in. A large and comprehensive stock is always on hand, ready for immediate delivery. These goods are well and favourably known in the trade.

They have now been over fifty years in the market, and it is interesting to note that, in spite of the keen competition of the times, they not only maintain their high reputation for excellence of material, manufacture, and finish, but are making greater headway than ever, both at home and abroad. In addition to the extensive home connection, Mr. Jones does a very large business with the leading shipping houses for export, chiefly to Australia, South America, and India. Mr. John G. Jones is a thoroughly practical man, with an experience extending over many years, and this advantage, combined with the possession of one of the largest and most complete works in the district, enables him to compete on favourable terms with any firm in the trade.

TAYLOR & CO., STEAM, GAS AND HYDRAULIC ENGINEERS, MACHINISTS, &C.,
48 AND 50, CANAL STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE above flourishingg establishment dates back in its history no further than 1883, at which time business was commenced under the title of Taylor & Holt. In 1886 the firm was changed into Taylor & Co., under which designation it is still conducted. Operations are carried on in a substantial and commodious block of buildings, three stories high, and having a frontage of eighty-one feet and a depth of forty-eight feet. The premises comprise a well-appointed suite of offices and large workshop on the ground floor, a number of fitting shops on the second floor, and warehouses and storerooms on the third floor. The internal arrangement of the premises has been carried out with great experience and a thorough knowledge of the requirements of the trade, and all the workshops are efficiently equipped with the most modern plant and machinery. The convenience and resources of the establishment are of a liberal and effective kind, but the rapidly increasing trade which the firm is doing has rendered further accommodation necessary, and numerous extensions are in contemplation.

A large and flourishing business is controlled as steam, gas, and hydraulic engineers, and smiths’ and general warehouse machinists. Considering the short time the house has been established its work has obtained an exceptionally noteworthy position in the markets, and among large consumers. Great attention is bestowed upon the material, and the workmanship is invariably such as can be implicitly relied upon. Thoroughness of work and moderateness of prices are the two leading features of the firm. All orders receive prompt attention, and patrons can be sure that by placing themselves in this firm’s hands they will avoid the many vexatious delays so specially incidental to this branch of business.

The firm’s ingenuity and skill have been exercised in the invention of many useful novelties, some of which have attained a widespread recognition. Their new cavity wall clamps are good and cheap, and act as a perfect wall tie and damp preventer; they are much in demand among builders, and are everywhere recommended by architects. Another invention patented by the house is the universal hat vellureing machine. These machines are fitted up with Taylor’s hat blocks. They are simple in construction and very strongly made, and they are supplied with vellure heater and brim plate, thus making them complete hat-finishing machines. By their use a hat can be vellured equal to new in a few seconds. The firm are also makers of strong portable, wrought-iron wine bins, which can be packed in a very small compass. This house has the agency for the inside electric telephone, and skilled workmen are sent to any part to fit up any work in connection with this system.

The connection of the house is widespread and influential, and a valuable home and export trade is controlled. There are twenty skilled engineers, fitters, turners, &c., kept in constant employment, under the able and experienced superintendence of the principal’s son. Mr. Joshua Taylor is in every sense of the term a thoroughly practical man, and his experience has been of the soundest and most diversified character. His constant attention is given to the business, and he is anxious that in all things his house shall maintain to the full the reputation it has acquired. In his commercial transactions he is strictly fair and upright, and he retains the confidence and esteem of his numerous patrons.

JAMES MOSTON & SONS, MANUFACTURERS OF PICKING STRAPS AND LACES, &C.,
MILES PLATTING, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the specialised industries that have received remarkable development in Manchester of to-day, the manufacture of green and oak-bark tanned picking, straps and strap laces, and kindred commodities, as exemplified by the firm of Messrs. James Moston & Sons, is certainly deserving of notice. This notable house was organised upwards of forty years ago by the late Mr. James Moston, who was succeeded by the present proprietors, whose long training and thorough practical knowledge of the business in all its details, has enabled them to pursue their onerous duties with a maximum of good results. The premises occupied consist of a large and commodious factory and tannery combined, elaborately equipped with all the most modern appliances for the production of the goods for which the firm has become so justly famous. These comprise green and oak-bark tanned picking straps and laces, buffalo hide skips, white horny and yellow laces, pickers, and the like, vast quantities of which are produced, and distributed through the agency of merchants and shippers to all the leading home and export markets. The business in all its branches is-most capably carried on under the personal superintendence of the proprietors, who give full employment to a large and manifestly efficient staff of hands, and no circumstance could more strongly accentuate the merits of this firm’s productions than the international reputation they have acquired; for there is hardly a quarter of the globe to which their manufactures have not found their way.

THE UNION CARRIAGE WORKS, LIMITED, CARRIAGE MANUFACTURERS,
33 & 35, KING STREET WEST, MANCHESTER.

THIS very important concern, having establishments at both Manchester and Sheffield, was founded in the year 1887, under its present title and constitution, and has advanced into the front rank of carriage builders under the able and enterprising management of Mr. Palmer. The company’s show-rooms in Manchester have an excellent situation at the above address in King Street West, and their works at Ardwick form a most extensive factory, which is equipped throughout with the best modern appliances, including certain machinery of a special character for some of the unique work done here. Challiner’s new patent shielded rubber tyre, of which the Shrewsbury and Talbot Cab and Noiseless Tyre Co., of London and Manchester, are the sole makers, is a leading speciality of the house, and is a most valuable improvement, comprising all the advantages of a rubber tyre with full protection against wear and tear, and without the drawback of heavy draught. These tyres can be fitted to wheels already existing, and can be used with equal satisfaction on any kind of roads. A serviceable steel tyre shields the rubber cushion, but does not destroy its elasticity, and while this steel tyre can be easily renewed when necessary, the rubber cushion remains unimpaired in usefulness for years, greatly lessening vibration in the carriage, and reducing the noise of the wheels on rough pavements to a minimum. The manner in which the steel tyre is attached (without rivets) conduces to its durability and to its remaining in position. Many testimonials have been received, affirming the great satisfaction these new tyres have given, and the majority of these letters speak of the many merits of the invention in terms of the very highest praise. The company under notice also specialise Challiner’s patent adjustable noiseless rubber tyre truck wheels (also made solely by the Shrewsbury and Talbot Cab and Noiseless Tyre Co.), a novel production of a most useful kind, eminently adapted for use in warehouses, and on railway platforms and other places where trucks are much employed.

As actual designers and builders of carriages of all descriptions this company have, of course, many specialities of their own. Without exception these are to be highly commended, and special praise is due to the new square-fronted brougham, a splendid family carriage, remarkably roomy without being any larger than usual in external appearance; and the latest thing in rustic four-wheel dog carts, which is about as stylish and as handsome a vehicle as we have ever seen, to say nothing of its lightness, strength, and convenience. The company are noted for their dress carriages, sheriff’s carriages, four-in-hand drags (club pattern), landaus, broughams, victorias, stanhopes, T-carts, gigs, in fact, every style of modern two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles. A splendid display is made in the show-rooms, both at Manchester and at Sheffield, and the carriages on view indicate the very perfection of workmanship, design, and finish as being the chief characteristic of this firm’s manufactures. Both new work and repairs are executed at moderate prices, old carriages are taken in exchange, carriages are let out on hire with or without option of purchase, and all the usual departments of the trade receive full attention. The company have just carried off the Gold Medal at Sheffield for the best display of carriages, and their many improvements have been greatly praised by press and public everywhere.

The trade controlled extends all over the kingdom, with export to India and elsewhere, and Mr. Palmer is just the man to continue the development of the business by his practical skill and untiring energy. We may add that the company’s Sheffield address is 264, 266, and 268, Glossop Road, and it is in contemplation to open another branch in London, to further promote the growth of the business in the south of England.

JOHN AND WILLIAM BELLHOUSE, TIMBER MERCHANTS, SAW
MILLERS, MANUFACTURERS OF WOOD MOULDINGS, DOORS, SASHES, &C.,
EAGLE QUAY, WHITWORTH STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS firm have developed an immense system of operations at Eagle Quay and also at Liverpool and Stockport. It has been in existence nearly a century, having been founded originally by Mr. David Bellhouse, and it has always remained under the control of the same family. Each succeeding generation has. contributed to the expansion of the concern, and at the present day the business certainly ranks as one of the largest in the kingdom. The premises occupied are in the heart of the city, and cover an area of about four acres, with entrance from Whitworth Street, late Hunt Street. There are two principal sections in the establishment (one 120 feet by 282 feet; the other 400 feet by 150 feet), and these contain nearly twenty spacious workshops and sheds, fitted throughout with the latest modern machinery suited to every operation in the usual routine of a comprehensive wood-working trade. For the convenience of the trade they hold an exceedingly large stock of prepared floorboards of various qualities, widths and thicknesses; mouldings of every description, and sashes and doors, and the yards and timber sheds always contain full supplies of such standard wood goods as pitch pine, red and yellow pine, Dantzic oak, bay wood, birch, &c., besides plasterers’ laths, hair, &c. Other specialities of note include packing cases, lapping boards, baling boards, calender boxes, bleachers’ rollers, &c., in all of which the output is very large and of excellent quality.

Messrs. Bellhouse have an extensive yard and saw mill in Wellington Road North, Stockport, where their experience enables them to command most of the work of the town and district (manager, Mr. J. Clarkson), besides a branch at Liverpool, and they control an immense trade with builders and other users of prepared woods and timber. The firm have also, within the last few months, completed the purchase of a large plot of land at Albion Street, Miles Platting, with wharfage on the Rochdale Canal and in direct communication with the Manchester Ship Canal Docks. On this site they have erected a large saw mill, 100 feet by 50 feet, with a steam joinery works attached, numerous sheds for drying timber, and a speciality is the stove in connection with these works, in order that no timber be used in the manufacture of moulds, doors, &c., that is not thoroughly seasoned. All machinery is of the latest type, &c. The present partners are Robert Bellhouse, Ernest Bellhouse, and Kenneth Cecil Bellhouse. Messrs. Bellhouse are well represented by about eight commercial travellers, who regularly wait upon their very numerous customers in all parts of the country.

J. BLEACKLEY & SONS, MAKERS-UP, &C.,
105, PORT STREET, PICCADILLY, MANCHESTER.

ALTHOUGH it is only four years since the proprietors of this concern commenced operations, yet such has been the ability and energy displayed, that already there is a large and very valuable connection. Thoroughly practical, conscientious, and painstaking, Messrs. Bleackley and Sons have in four years established a reputation which many a firm, ten times older, might envy. The premises occupied are on the first floor of the above address, an extensive building having a frontage of eighty-four feet by thirty-nine feet. There is a capital office, general workroom, &c. The workroom is used for making-up all kinds of Manchester and other goods, received from the merchants, shippers, mill-owners, and others, and making ready for dispatch to all parts of the world. All kinds of home trade, Italian, dress goods, and all styles in white, dyed, or printed goods, are most carefully handled, and there are powerful steam presses for compression, &c. This is a branch of industry with which the proprietors have been conversant all their lives, and in which they especially excel. The specialities are bookfolds, rolls, &c., cut and re-made up to any style. There are thirty hands employed on the premises, and these, under the able direction of the principals, perform their duties quickly and well. Messrs. Bleackley have availed themselves of the facilities afforded by the Manchester Telephone Exchange, with which they are connected. Respected on all sides for their frankness and ability, Messrs. Bleackley and Sons fill an honoured place among the worthy citizens of Cottonopolis.

J. S. MOSS & SONS, HIGH-CLASS TAILORS AND GENERAL OUTFITTERS,
23, MARKET STREET, AND 2 & 4, CORPORATION STREET, MANCHESTER.

MESSRS. J. S. Moss & Sons conduct a business, the history of which dates back for about a hundred years, their house having been founded about the end of last century; and at an early period of its career Mr. Joseph S. Moss was the principal. That gentleman died about twenty years ago, and was succeeded by his eldest son, who subsequently retired from business and went to live in London. The house then came into the hands of its present able and experienced proprietor, Mr. Isaac Slazenger Moss, who retains the old name of the firm. Remarkable success has attended the career of this house, and at the present day Messrs. Moss & Sons’ trade is not only exceptionally large, but is of a substantial and high-class character, which speaks volumes for the excellent lines upon which it has always been conducted. The firm devote their attention to every branch of gentlemen’s, boys’, and ladies’ tailoring, executing work of very superior style, quality, and finish, and making a speciality of the best classes of garments at strictly moderate prices. They are well known for the merit of their productions in gentlemen’s dress for all occasions, and also for ladies’ riding habits and servants’ liveries; and an important department has been developed in the making of young gentlemen’s clothing, as supplied to scholars at Eton, Harrow, Rugby, Winchester, and most of the well-known public schools.

Messrs. Moss & Sons occupy very fine premises, in a most advantageous corner position and nothing could exceed the attractiveness of their varied and tasteful window display, or the general interest attaching to the entire establishment as an emporium of fashion. The stocks held in piece goods for all branches of tailoring are among the largest and most carefully-selected we have seen, and embrace all the newest and most fashionable patterns, shades, and textures of cloth, from the best manufactories in the country. Messrs. J. S. Moss & Sons employ a very numerous staff, including cutters of very high repute, and workmen of proved ability and experience; and all orders are executed on their own premises, in commodious and well-ventilated work-rooms, and under general conditions which ensure the most satisfactory results. The “cash system” is adhered to in preference to the “credit system,” and it certainly operates very largely to the advantage of the customers. Profits are arranged on the lowest possible scale, and it is evidently the desire of Messrs. Moss to maintain the steady and substantial increase that has so long marked their business, without incurring the risk of bad debts, inseparable from a “credit” trade. This firm would seem to be the pioneers of the cash payment system in the tailoring trade, having worked upon that method for over a hundred years with excellent effect; and their prices will always stand comparison with those of any other house, while their goods are unsurpassed in value and reliability.

Messrs. J. S. Moss & Sons have made the corner of Market Street and Corporation Street (where their establishment stands) one of the most notable spots in Manchester; and we trust this eligible site will long continue in the occupation of a firm whose record has been so honourable, and whose reputation stands so high with the public in Manchester and elsewhere. Telegrams to this house should be addressed “Moss, Manchester.” We have alluded to the fact that this firm engage in army contracting and military tailoring; but we must not omit to add that they excel in sporting clothing, hunting outfits, &c., and that they gained a Prize Medal for this special class of work at the Paris Exhibition of 1878.

J. ROBERTSHAW, MANUFACTURER OF HIGH-CLASS WIRE MATTRESSES,
IMPERIAL WORKS, CORNBROOK PARK ROAD, MANCHESTER.

MR. J. Robertshaw projected his notable undertaking in the year 1872, for the purpose of placing upon the market a series of soundly-constructed high-class wire mattresses, which have already won for him an unsurpassed reputation in the trade. The Imperial Mattress Works consist of a large and substantial two-storied building, the ground floor of which is admirably appointed as an engine-room, varnishing and fitting department, while the upper storey is elaborately equipped with new and improved machinery for saving labour and facilitating the production of the mattresses in a highly-finished and superior series of forms, at a considerable reduction in prices. Skilled hands are actively engaged upon the work under the personal supervision of Mr. Robertshaw, and all the mattresses turned out are essentially easy and comfortable, elegant and durable, perfectly noiseless and readily adaptable to the form of the body, remarkably elastic, portable, and above all, so cheap as to come within the pockets of persons of moderate means.

Among the specialities introduced by Mr. Robertshaw, “The British” treble and double-woven wire spring mattress is particularly worthy of mention in this place; being without doubt the best and strongest wire mattress yet introduced to the trade. The materials used in its construction are chosen with the utmost care and the improved method of winding up, and extra strong wire-work combined, render it impossible for it to sink in the centre. The “Imperial” Diamond Spring Mattress of registered design, moreover, is worthy of the attention of hotel-keepers, schoolmasters, and furnishers of public institutions, hospitals, &c., in virtue of its great durability; while the “Victor” chain spring mattress, possesses all the salient features of the “Imperial” and the “Woven Wire,” with the addition of being raised higher at the head and foot ends.

Mr. Robertshaw also operates on a large scale as a maker of superior bedsteads of every kind, supplied with his famous mattresses, back and leg rests for invalids, folding camp bedsteads, and kindred commodities. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume amongst bedstead makers and house furnishers in all parts of the kingdom, and a sound and rapidly growing export connection, principally for the Australian markets, has been established, which, under the able and energetic direction of the spirited principal, promises to be well-sustained and steadily developed. Mr. Robertshaw will be pleased to furnish illustrated price lists on application.
Telegraphic address, “Robertshaw, Cornbrook, Manchester.”

J. MARTIN & SONS, ALBERT ENGRAVING WORKS,
BEDFORD STREET, BURY NEW ROAD, STRANGEWAYS, MANCHESTER.

THIS firm now holds a most important place among the leading industries of the district, and continues rapidly to extend in value and usefulness. The proprietors from the commencement of their operations have left no stone unturned to deserve the success which has so richly crowned their efforts. In the first glace their ample works are built on the latest and most improved principle, and plentifully supplied with the best machinery and appliances. They were specially constructed for the purposes of the trade followed, and for solidity and completeness cannot be excelled in the district. The buildings cover a considerable extent of ground, are of two-storey elevation, with a flat, and are exceedingly well planned by Mr. Martin, senior, who, having had a life-long practical experience, knew full well the requirements for the trade he and his sons were following. They were erected six years ago, when the firm commenced operations.

There are between sixty and seventy skilled hands employed on the premises, which are known as the Albert Engraving Works. Principal attention is devoted to the engraving for calico printers, the firm turning out copper rollers on which are the designs for the calico printing. The greatest skill is required in the process of preparing the rollers, and it is in connection with the completeness of detail that Messrs. Martin & Sons have earned such a high and far-reaching reputation. They also do large quantities of work for embossers. They have a very large connection among the calico printers and embossers of the district, and they have important transactions with Spain, Portugal, Sweden, and other parts of the Continent, also with South America. The works are carried on under the direction of Mr. Martin, junior, a gentleman of great practical experience as an engraver, and thoroughly well versed in all the numerous details of the trade. Under his able management the firm gains in popularity and support. Speaking in both a commercial and social sense, both father and son are held in the highest respect. They are widely known for their strict integrity, and clients have entire confidence in placing themselves in their hands.

B. HUCKBODY, DEALER IN LONDON, BIRMINGHAM, AND SHEFFIELD GOODS, WATCHES, JEWELLERY, CUTLERY, AND LEATHER GOODS,
4 AND 12 STRETFORD ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS rapidly growing business was established in 1867. The premises consist of two substantial buildings, each, comprising a handsome single-fronted shop, elegantly appointed in the interior with extensive store-rooms, and well-fitted workshops at the rear. The stock in both shops is large and comprehensive, and embraces a large and varied selection of what are known as London, Birmingham, and Sheffield goods, consisting of all kinds of fancy jewellery, the best of Sheffield cutlery and electro-plated articles, also leather bags, writing cases, needle books and cases, purses in all varieties, albums, satchels, travelling bags, &c., &c. There is also a large and splendid selection of English lever gold and silver watches for ladies and gentlemen, clocks of all kinds, and a very choice assortment of timepieces for drawing-rooms and dining-rooms, &c., together with a recherche selection of plain gold and gem jewellery, electro-plate, &c. A speciality is made in repairs of watches and jewellery, clocks, fans, &c., a number of skilful and experienced hands being employed. The workshops at the rear are fitted with a battery for electro-plating all articles done on the premises. Mr. Huckbody is a practical watch and clock maker, and personally superintends the business in every detail. A very large and rapidly increasing business is done among a highly influential connection which extends throughout Manchester and its environs. Mr. Huckbody is warmly appreciated in business circles generally, and has a very genial acceptance amongst his contemporaries in trade.

WILLIAM THORP, WHOLESALE GLASS BOTTLE WAREHOUSE,
26, SHUDEHILL, MANCHESTER.

THIS most useful business was established more than one hundred years ago by Mr. Joshua Bower, and was succeeded to by Mr. John Bocock in 1861. This gentleman took into partnership his brother and Mr. William Thorp in 1872. The first house was in Dale Street, and a removal was made to Shudehill about 1875. In that year Mr. John Bocock retired from the firm, which was then composed of Mr. W. W. Bocock and Mr. William Thorp. In 1882 Mr. Bocock retired, the partnership coming to an end by effluxion of time, and the concern came into possession of the now sole proprietor, Mr. Thorp. The premises in Shudehill consist of a building of four storey elevation, having a measurement of thirty feet by eighty-four feet. The articles are all of an eminently useful nature, and for which this house is so well and widely known, not only in the United Kingdom, but also in various parts of the world. The comprehensive nature of the business can best be learned from a perusal of the following list of valuable goods included:— Ornamental and photographic glass, French shades and stands, high-pressure steam gauge tubes, gas globes, fern shades, propagating glasses, &c., &c. Mr. Thorp is an extensive dealer in crown, sheet, and plate glass, white-stoppered phials, box-capped pomades, oil sample bottles, &c. As a white, green and black glass bottle merchant he has immense transactions. These are adapted for all manner of purposes, and are quoted at wonderfully low rates. To more quickly facilitate delivery and save carriage, the proprietor has perfected arrangements for storing vast quantities with the different carriers. This also applies to the greater part of the stock. There is a very valuable trade connected round this grand old house, which has a splendid reputation in the commercial world. The enterprising proprietor has considerably advanced its importance since assuming entire command, and conducts his transactions with singular enterprise and ability. Among those with whom he mingles he is a great favourite, and his strict integrity makes him trusted and much respected by his large connection.
The telegraph address is “Willthrop,” Manchester.

JAMES HAMMOND & SON, MODELLERS, MANUFACTURERS OF SCAGLIOLA, CARTON-PIERRE, FIBROUS PLASTER, &C.,
12, QUAY STREET, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

LOOKING backwards, it appears that this well-known and noteworthy house was established in 1840 and re-organised by its present senior partner in the year 1870, and that its commercial development has been both rapid and continuous. The premises occupied consist of a shop and showrooms, with spacious workshops to the rear, in which a very large and select assortment of sunlight pendants, centre flowers, ventilators, cornice enrichments, trusses, corbels, gas and electric light fittings, and every description of architectural ornaments for the interior and exterior decoration of buildings, in the most effective style, and at the lowest cash prices, are available for choice. The firm operate in every branch of the modern modellers’ craft, and are manufacturers on a large scale of Scagliola, Carton-Pierre, fibrous plaster, &c. They are the only firm of Scagliola manufacturers in Manchester. This popular mode of decoration, derived from the “Sunny South,” consists of the imitation of antique marbles for the decoration of churches, theatres, public buildings, for covering ironwork, for mantelpieces, statuary pedestals, &c., &c. Both Mr. Hammond and his son are practical modellers of considerable artistic ability; they employ none but skilled craftsmen, and by diligence and well-directed enterprise have succeeded in building up a business which may with every justice be stated to be second to none of its kind in the north of England.

J. K. REVELL & SON, GENERAL PRINTERS,
112, GROSVENOR STREET, OXFORD ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was founded in the year 1872 by the present senior partner, who subsequently took his son into partnership when the firm assumed the present title. At the above address Messrs. Revell & Son occupy commodious-premises, located on the third floor of a large block of buildings, containing all the accessories of a thoroughly organised establishment. The various departments are replete with all the best and most improved machinery and appliances. Messrs. Revell & Son undertake all kinds of general and commercial printing, as catalogues, pamphlets, placards, hand bills, &c.; artistic and colour printing is also executed; show cards, business and invitation cards, programmes, menus, &c., &c. All the work is produced in the very highest style of the art, and they display many splendid specimens, which show in beauty of design and elegance and accuracy in every detail of execution, the superior skill and talent employed in this establishment. Messrs. Revell & Son have a very extensive and old- established connection, and the proprietors stand in a position to execute all orders on the shortest notice, and with despatch and economy. Both Mr. J. H. Revell and his son take an active part in the management. They are well known and highly esteemed in commercial circles and are widely recognised as courteous and enterprising men of business.

W. & I. DANZIGER, IMPORTERS AND WHOLESALE MERCHANTS IN FANCY LEATHER GOODS, &C.,
CITY BUILDINGS, 71, CORPORATION STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS representative firm is now under the able and vigorous proprietary control of Messrs. Isidor and Amelia Danziger, widow of the late W. Danziger, who was the founder of the firm in Manchester as long ago as the year 1850. It was found expedient twenty-five years since to transfer the business to its present more convenient and commodious quarters in Corporation Street. The premises occupied are well adapted to the requirements of a brisk business of the kind, and consist of a spacious warehouse, a large and lofty showroom above, in which the goods, said to be the largest and most varied stock in its line in the provinces, are most methodically arranged. The departments, each of which is fairly exhaustive, comprise ladies’ and gent’s travelling and fitted bags, brief, square, and Gladstone bags, &c; fancy handkerchief bags, in newest styles in morocco, Russian lizard crocodile, calf, and other leathers; fur, seal-skin, musquash muff bags; Saratogas, dress baskets, portmanteaus, rug straps, waist belts, garters, &c.; purses in band, lock, and portemonnaies; cigar and cigarette cases, plain and embroidered inside; ladies’ and gent’s card cases, pocket books, wallets; ladies’ and gents’ dressing cases, etuis, student cases, companions; albums, an enormous variety; photo frames in wood, plush, metal, glass, &c. A speciality is an adjustable standard for Gladstone bags, with all fittings complete, ingenious invention of this firm. Cabinet goods, desks, work boxes, ink-stands, liqueur frames, scent stands, jewel boxes, in leather and wood, tea caddies, papier-mache goods; glove and handkerchief sets, fancy work baskets, scent satchets, hair brushes, vulcanite and horn combs, wood and bone dominoes, and numerous Paris, Vienna, and Berlin novelties, bracket ornaments, &c. A very substantial trade is done with shippers, and the firm is represented by a full staff of first-class travellers, controlling a connection which has placed their house in the very foremost rank of the great mercantile institutions of Manchester.

WM. FLANAGAN, WADDING MANUFACTURER,
19, FOUNTAIN STREET, MANCHESTER.

MR. Wm. Flanagan commenced business in 1885, originally at No. 14, Union Street, Church Street, and in consequence of its rapid development and the necessity for increased accommodation, the more extensive and commodious premises now occupied were acquired in 1889. These comprise a large and well-constructed building of three stories. On the ground floor is the spacious and well-arranged warehouse and offices, the floors above are devoted to storage purposes. The manufacturing operations are conducted at the West-End Mill, Mottram, where Mr. Flanagan gives employment to a number of experienced hands in the manufacture of wadding of various qualities, suitable both for the home and colonial markets. The mill is replete with all the best and most improved machinery and appliances. Mr. Flanagan has always a large and thoroughly representative stock on hand ready for immediate delivery. This article has a standard reputation in the trade, and by economical manufacture Mr Flanagan is enabled to offer his customers exceptional advantages both in quality and price; and with his superior facilities he can execute all orders with the utmost despatch. The trade is of a widespread, influential, and steadily growing character, and in addition to the extensive home connection Mr. Flanagan does a large and ever-increasing export business, especially with the Colonies. The business in every department receives the strict personal attention of the proprietor who is well known and highly respected in commercial circles as a courteous and enterprising man of business.

KAY & LEE, WHOLESALE CLOTHIERS,
17, HIGH STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS important concern was founded in 1873 under its present title, at 17, Watling Street, those premises consisting of four rooms. Some idea may, therefore, be gained of the rapid, rise of the concern, and, owing to the enterprising and progressive policy pursued by its proprietors, from the first it has had a most successful career, developing continuously, and eventually gaining a position in the front ranks of the trade. In 1878 Mr. Kay, one of the founders, died, and the surviving partner, Mr. Lee, was then joined by Mr. G. T. Bowes, an experienced business man, with an excellent knowledge of commercial routine, who had been for twenty-one years with Messrs. S. & J. Watts & Co. Mr. Lee and Mr. Bowes constitute the present firm, but the original title is retained. The premises now occupied in High Street were specially erected for this business in 1890, the interior being constructed according to Mr. Lee’s own designs. It forms a large-and handsome brick structure, with stone facings, presenting a fine appearance, and reflecting much credit upon the architect, Mr. Andrews, of Cross Street. Five lofty flats and a spacious basement are comprised in this immense warehouse, and the whole place is provided with the best modern improvements of every kind, including an installation of the electric light. It may be said that these premises in their entirety constitute an establishment which is equal in resource, convenience, and general accommodation to any other in the trade.

Messrs. Kay & Lee hold large stocks, not only in made-up clothing of every description, but also in all manner of woollens and piece-goods generally; and the extraordinary variety of the stock meeting the eye of the visitor to this warehouse gives a striking proof of the comprehensive nature of the trade engaged in. The firm cater for all the requirements of the home and export markets, producing goods calculated to meet the demands of every class of customer, and the organisation of the warehouse and workrooms is practically perfect, nothing being neglected that could tend to more fully ensure the smooth and satisfactory working of the routine of this vast industry. Altogether, they give employment to about six hundred hands. All the conditions under which the industry is carried on are favourable to the attainment of the best results in each department, and every labour-saving device is in operation. The ventilating, lighting, and warming arrangements are all that can be desired, these important matters having evidently received the most careful attention throughout the premises. Lavatories on each floor, large kitchen and basement, with cooking accommodation for five hundred people, &c., have their place in the establishment, and it is quite evident that, although space is of great value in large works of this kind, the firm have most carefully considered the needs of their employes, and have adopted every means of promoting their health and comfort.

Messrs. Kay & Lee seem to be constantly adding to their productive resources, extra machines and appliances of the most improved type being frequently introduced into the factory departments. The trade controlled extends all over the kingdom, as well as among the shippers to the different markets abroad, and the house maintains a connection of the most valuable character, and enjoys a degree of favour and confidence in the trade which could have been gained only by close adherence to the most honourable commercial methods and a well-sustained resolution to produce goods of a high order of merit and reliability.

FINDLATER & MACKIE, WINE MERCHANTS, &C.,
ROYAL EXCHANGE, BANK STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS old-established firm of wine and spirit merchants originated as far back as the year 1840, and is one of the best known and most esteemed houses in the trade. The name of Messrs. Findlater & Mackie is known in all parts of the United Kingdom in connection with the supply of high-class wines, spirits, and liqueurs, and the firm are represented in London, Brighton, Liverpool, Birmingham, Dublin, Birkenhead, Bristol, Cardiff, and Swansea, besides the Manchester house and two branches at Rochdale and Dewsbury. All these depots are engaged in very extensive trading operations, and are supported by large and valuable connections in their several localities. The Manchester establishment is as important as any in the city, and is located in very commodious and handsomely-appointed premises on the ground floor of the Royal Exchange Building. Besides the fine sample rooms and offices here occupied there are immense stores in the basement and sub-basement, covering a floorage area of about three-quarters of an acre. The firm have also large bonded stores at all the principal railway stations, and at the Excise Stores in Salford, where they have their own vaults.

Immense stocks are held in all departments, and Messrs. Findlater & Mackie have a splendid reputation for choice qualities of wines, spirits, and liqueurs, selected with the utmost care at all the. great sources of production at home and abroad. Their list is a most comprehensive one, embracing every well known brand and favourite vintage, and the specialities of this house in old bottled Port, Port from the wood, Sherry, Madeira, Marsala, Champagne, Claret, Hock (still and sparkling), Moselle (still and sparkling), Burgundy, red and white Hungarian wines, Australian and Californian wines, fine old brandies, whiskies, rums, gins, and all the leading liqueurs, afford the very best possible value to connoisseurs and to all who appreciate a really first-class article.

Messrs. Findlater & Mackie’s knowledge of the trade is of that sound practical character which comes of years of experience and intimate acquaintance with every market, and few firms are so well prepared to give their customers complete satisfaction in every matter of price, quality, and prompt delivery. This house holds a number of very valuable agencies, notably those for Bass’s, Allsopp’s, and Worthington’s ales, Guinness’s Dublin stout, Schweppe’s aerated waters, and the celebrated aerated waters of Messrs. Cantrell, Cochrane & Co., of Dublin and Belfast. Numerous large vans are specially kept for deliveries (free of charge) in all parts of Manchester and district, and the firm enjoy the patronage and confidence of an exceedingly large and influential local connection among private families and large consumers of wines, spirits, and liqueurs. We may add that Messrs. Findlater & Mackie are also importers of Havana cigars, and supply the leading brands of these at lowest market quotations.

Telegrams for the firm should be addressed “Vintage, Manchester.” The telephone (National) is No. 922. Mr. James Watt is the resident partner of the Manchester business, which he personally conducts under the style of Findlater & Mackie.

MANCHESTER SPRING MATTRESS CO.,
CROWN STREET WORKS, CHESTER ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE Crown Street Works were organised in the year 1885 by Messrs. A. Haworth and. H. Stothard, trading under the style and title above designated. The works consist of a large and substantial four-storied building, elaborately equipped with, all the latest and best cutting, turning, planing, and other machinery and appliances, calling into active requisition the services of a staff of from thirty- five to forty hands, in the production of all kinds of double and treble woven wire mattresses, chain mattresses, hospital bedsteads, folding cots, bed rests, ships’ berths, woven wire fabrics, and the like, for all of which they have gained an unsurpassed reputation, and do an enormous home and export trade, the latter being especially large with India. A considerable trade, moreover, is done with the colonies and South America, and it may be mentioned in this place that the firm are on the eve of very considerably extending the scope and aims of their business, by the wholesale manufacture of general house furniture. Both partners take an active share in the control of the concern, which is managed in all its branches with energy, tact, and judgment, upon a thoroughly sound basis of honourable mercantile principle.
Telegraphic address, “Spring Mattress.”

HADFIELD & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF MILK SUBSTITUTE FOR CALF REARING, &C.,
BOWER MILL, CARNARVON STREET, MANCHESTER, N.

THE profitable rearing and successful feeding of live-stock is oftentimes beset with difficulties that have baffled even expert breeders and agriculturists, and it is therefore reassuring to learn that the means for combating and successfully overcoming the vexed questions that will arise in spite of every care, as to how to secure the best possible results under even the most perplexing contingencies, have at length been discovered and made generally available by the above notable house. Every well-regulated farmer, breeder or keeper of live-stock would find it to his advantage to learn of, and “when found, make a note of,” Messrs. Hadfield & Co.’s valuable productions, all of which need no further recommendation than that which one trial will serve to elicit. These comprise a Milk Substitute for calf rearing, which combines very many advantages which may be summarised as follows:- The preparation is cheaper than milk, keeps the calves healthier, prevents scour from supervening, makes better and stronger calves, and is essentially easy to use. It has been fully demonstrated to be the best and most reliable article of its kind extant, and the only real substitute for milk. The next preparation is the firm’s celebrated Milk Producer for dairy cows, which acts powerfully, by giving tone and appetite and improving the digestion of the animals, and at the same time strengthens the lacteal glands specifically, causing them to secrete a larger quantity and richer quality of milk, while the value of the cows is enhanced by their decidedly improved general condition. Lastly, Messrs. Hadfield & Co. have placed an unrivalled Horse and Cattle Food on the market, which is reckoned to be invaluable for hard-worked horses, enabling them to do their work with less fatigue by vastly improving their condition. The firm’s premises consist of a large four-storied warehouse and factory, replete with every facility for the production and prompt distribution of their commodities. The entire business is pursued by a capable and energetic proprietary upon principles which have won for them a high reputation which it is manifestly their resolution shall not only be well-sustained, but steadily enhanced in days to come.

S. RUSSELL, SILK MERCER AND FAMILY DRAPER, &C.
17 & 19, DOWNING STREET, MANCHESTER.

A SUCCESSFUL and popular establishment among the many in Manchester engaged in the silk mercery business is that of Mr. S. Russell, of 17 & 19, Downing Street, silk mercer and family draper, milliner, &c. Operations were commenced in this line as far back as 1874, and by his enterprise, assiduity and ability, the founder soon obtained for his new venture a recognised position in the trade. The courteous and honourable treatment all comers received and the reliable nature of the commodities supplied were highly appreciated, and the house grew rapidly in favour and patronage, increasing in importance year by year, until it assumed proportions which justly entitled it to be classed among the leading establishments of this kind in the vicinity. The original premises becoming insufficient in accommodation, a removal was made to the present site in 1888, where operations are conducted in a substantial block of three-storey buildings, having a commanding frontage of sixty or seventy feet, and possessing an extensive double-fronted shop, with windows admirably adapted to display their well-selected contents, and handsome show-rooms at the rear, together with show-rooms and warehouses on the first floor. The show-rooms are of ample size and thoroughly fitted up with all appliances and means for the effective exhibition of a large selection of splendid goods; and the workshops, which are at the rear of the premises are specially noteworthy for their roominess, light, and general comfort and convenience.

A very important business is here controlled in silk mercery and drapery of every description, and all goods supplied are such as can be freely warranted to be of the best quality and of the latest style and material. The proprietor is intimately acquainted with all the most eligible sources of supply, and has had many years’ practical experience in every department of this business; he is an expert judge and is perfectly familiar with all the requirements of the public. Under these circumstances, it is no matter of surprise that the choice of goods offered at this noted house should be unsurpassed and that it should embrace all the best and most fashionable materials, shapes and designs, and the latest London, Paris and Berlin styles. Mr. Russell is, moreover, a keen buyer, and the extent of his transactions give him considerable weight in the market, consequently, he is always able to offer his customers every conceivable advantage in the way of prices.

The stocks held are heavy and comprehensive, and include splendid exhibits of satins, silks, velvets, velveteens, plushes, serges, cords, lustres, tweeds, cashmeres, beiges, and every description of materials for dresses; as well as ample stores of well-chosen linens, laces, flowers, feathers, trimmings, frillings, muslins, shirtings, calicoes, woollens, cloths, curtains, gloves, umbrellas, socks, pants, vests, ladies’ and gentlemen’s underclothing, ties, scarfs, &c. This establishment has obtained considerable reputation for the superior manner in which it turns out ladies’ jackets, mantles, capes, robes, costumes and dresses. A large staff of skilled workpeople is engaged in this department, under the constant superintendence of experienced cutters and forewomen, and the articles produced are everywhere known for their excellence in material, soundness and beauty of workmanship, elegance and style in cut, and perfect fit. A special feature, too, is made of mourning, and prompt and efficient attention is given to all orders of this description, the house possessing facilities which enable it to compete advantageously with rival establishments, either in the abundance or choiceness of the materials, despatch in execution, or moderateness of prices.

The connection of this establishment is large and valuable. The trade done is both wholesale and retail and lies among the smaller drapery establishments in Manchester and the district and the leading families and gentry. A number of assistants are employed under the immediate supervision of the proprietor, whose constant and indefatigable attention is given to the business in its entirety. He is straightforward and honourable in all his transactions and universally known and respected in social and business circles.

HENRY EVERTON, MANUFACTURER OF HAT AND BONNET SHAPES, &C.,
59, SPEAR STREET, MANCHESTER.

MR. Everton commenced business in 1861, originally at No. 29, Lever Street, and transferred to the more extensive and commodious newly-built premises in 1889. On the first floor are the cutting room, office, and warehouse; the workrooms are on the second floor, and extensive storage accommodation in the basement. These premises are eminently suited to the business, having been specially fitted up and arranged in the most careful and complete manner. Mr. Everton gives constant employment to over one hundred hands in the manufacture of every description of hat and bonnet shapes in accordance with the latest styles and the most approved fashions. Bonnet stands are also made of every size. Mr. Everton likewise does an extensive business in buckram and Paris nets, of which a large stock is always on hand. The trade is of a widespread, influential, and steadily growing character. Mr. Henry Everton is a thoroughly practical man, with an experience extending over many years, and by economical manufacture and prudent buying he is in a position to compete on favourable terms with any firm in the trade. As one of the oldest members of the trade, Mr. Everton naturally occupies a very prominent and influential position. He is also well known and highly respected, not only as an old established and successful manufacturer, but also for his active exertions in promoting the best interests of the trade and industries of the city and district.

HABISREUTER’S FUR MANUFACTORY,
182, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was established by the present proprietor in 1883, but prior to this time Mr. Habisreuter had been, for a number of years, in the employ of Mr. A. Hauck, Cross Street, King Street, where his experience had been of such a nature as to fully qualify him for the management of a business on his own account. Premises are occupied in m commodious three-storey block of buildings, comprising a large single-fronted shop on the ground floor, admirably fitted up and provided with every convenience for the adequate display of the valuable stock. The workshops are on the first floor, and are compact and well lighted, and suitable in every respect to the occupation carried on. A large business is controlled here in the manufacture of fur garments of every description. The productions of this house have achieved a reputation in the trade, and are unrivalled for their general excellence and uniform superiority. Mr. Habisreuter is intimately acquainted with the best sources of supply for his special commodities, getting them always direct from the foreign merchants. He buys only the very finest skins, and these are made up by skilled workpeople under his own immediate supervision, every care being taken that patrons shall be thoroughly satisfied.

Nothing, then, but the very best material is used at this responsible house, and the workmanship is of the soundest and most complete character, while the cut and fit are everything the most fastidious could desire, and as prices compare favourably with other houses, a steady and increasing business has resulted. To enable him to readily meet the wants of his customers the proprietor keeps very a large and varied stock of valuable goods on hand, and among these supplies will be found some of the choicest specimens of the furriers’ art. For variety, richness of material, and style, the stocks at this noted house are deservedly famed, and a visit of inspection to them cannot fail to be otherwise than exceedingly gratifying and profitable to intending purchasers. A number of experienced workpeople and competent cutters are kept in constant employment, and special attention is given to every department of the business, orders for goods not in stock being quickly filled in the most satisfactory manner.

Furs of every description are cleaned, altered, or repaired on the most reasonable terms, and seal-skin jackets are cleaned, re-dyed, re-lined, lengthened, and altered to the present fashion with promptness and efficiency. A large and important connection is enjoyed among the leading families in Manchester and the district. Mr. Habisreuter is an energetic, reliable, and thorough business man, and perfectly familiar with every detail of his speciality. He is courteous and honourable in all his transactions, and is much respected in social and commercial1 circles.

JAMES HOY, SKIRT MANUFACTURER,
18, GRANBY ROW, MANCHESTER.

AN inquiry into the commercial annals of Manchester shows that this representative concern was organised in 1862, and vigorously carried on by Mr. James Hoy at the Station Works, in Back Pump Street, until the year 1887, when, owing to its phenomenal growth, the business was transferred to its present extensive premises. These consist of a large and substantial four-storied building, having a frontage of over one hundred feet, facing Granby Row, and comprising within its limits a handsome suite of offices and stock-rooms on the ground floor; the remainder of the building being fully equipped with steam-driven machines of the most perfect description, and calling into active requisition the services of a staff of upwards of one hundred and fifty hands, who operate in the manufacture of ladies’ skirts of every description, these being distributed wholesale to all parts of the kingdom. The entire business is splendidly organised, and personally conducted by Mr. Hoy with tact, push, and energy, and it is no exaggeration to say that there are few men better known or more highly esteemed in business circles than the spirited proprietor of this valuable concern.

KIRBY & NICHOLSON, COSTUME AND MANTLE MANUFACTURERS, FURRIERS, &C.,
6, ST. ANN’S SQUARE, MANCHESTER.

ONE of the largest and most select businesses of its kind in Manchester is that of Messrs. Kirby & Nicholson, whose well-known mantle and costume warehouse occupies such a prominent position in St. Ann’s Square. This old-established and eminent house originated upwards of half a century ago, its founder being a Mr. Ford, who was succeeded by a Mr. Coaker. The latter remained proprietor for about sixteen years, and gave place in 1889 to the present firm, consisting of Messrs. Kirby, Nicholson, Wordsworth, and Rigg, trading as Kirby & Nicholson. These gentlemen possess the most complete practical knowledge of the trade in all its details, having for twenty years conducted a similar concern at York, where they still have a fine establishment at Victoria House. They have employed their knowledge and experience to great advantage in connection with the Manchester business, and have more than maintained its position in the front rank of the trade. The premises here occupied are in the very heart of the city, and have an almost unrivalled situation in the centre of St, Ann’s Square. They comprise a very large and handsome five-storey building, with fine frontage and superb internal appointments, all the spacious show-rooms being fitted in very superior style.

In its entirety the establishment is one of the finest in the city, its general arrangement and organisation being practically perfect, and in addition to this it contains a stock which it would indeed be difficult to surpass. Messrs. Kirby & Nicholson exemplify the fashion trade most completely, and their show-rooms always display the newest designs and most recherche productions in costumes for walking and all other purposes, dinner gowns, tea gowns, ball and evening dresses, mantles, cloth jackets, opera mantles, children’s jackets, and mantles, evening cloaks, &c., &c. In these departments the firm under notice unquestionably excel, and not in London itself can one meet with a more interesting array of fashionable novelties than those displayed at this noted establishment. Every recent modification of style is promptly and accurately reproduced, showing how completely Messrs. Kirby & Nicholson are in touch with the great centres of fashion; and in workmanship and finish, as well as in material, their productions fall nothing short of perfection.

The fur department is another interesting feature of this favourite emporium, and the display of sealskin jackets and fur-lined cloaks is one of special richness and beauty. In rich brocades, plain silks, velvets, gauzes, nets, Bengaline in every shade and plain and printed pongees, Messrs. Kirby & Nicholson’s warehouse is quite a treasury of attractions; and the various departments for robes, tweeds, delaines, gloves, hosiery, ribbons, embroideries, laces, fans, umbrellas, and ladies’ and children’s outfitting of every description are each of sufficient importance and interest to constitute a very respectable business apart from the others.

The establishment in its entirety is as complete an emporium of high-class draperies and fashions as we have ever had the pleasure of visiting, and under Messrs. Kirby & Nicholson’s able and enterprising administration the business has become, unquestionably, one of the leading concerns of its kind in the city and district. The firm enjoy the support and confidence of a wide and constantly increasing clientele, and are patronised by the first families of Manchester and neighbourhood. No house is better known, and among the many merchants of this busy city, Messrs. Kirby & Nicholson have speedily come to the front in public esteem, as the result of their well-directed energy, personal courtesy, and honourable commercial principles.

V. J. MOLLER, WINE AND CIGAR MERCHANT, AND IMPORTER OF LAGER BEER,
85A, MOSLEY STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS business, which may fairly claim to be the largest and most important of its kind in Manchester, was established in 1884, on the present premises. These consist of very extensive cellarage and basement in 85A, Mosley Street. The stocks in all departments touched are of a vast nature, and for quality unsurpassed. The enterprising proprietor, Mr. Moller, has made a name for the excellence of his wines and cigars, which are far-reaching, and which command the increasing attention of bona-fide connoisseurs in all parts of the country. The wines, which are a most superior lot, are in the finest condition, and include ports, sherries, clarets, Madeiras, hocks, champagnes, and other sparkling wines, including his own special brand, “Jules Victor” Cabinet, which has made a name for itself, and though much cheaper in price, will bear comparison with most of the fashionable high-priced wines. An enormous trade is done in the celebrated Pilsener, Bavarian, and Vienna lager beers, which Mr. Möller imports direct. This is supplied extensively to hotels, restaurants, clubs, &c., in cask or bottle, and in the wood to bottlers in all towns in; the kingdom. A splendid stock of cigars is held. All the best brands are imported, and are from selected crops, and include a fine stock of Havanahs, and other well-known foreign cigars.

This is undoubtedly one of the largest concerns of its kind in the city, and the proprietor is to be complimented upon the superior manner in which his establishment is in every way conducted. There is a very valuable connection with shippers, who are supplied with English and foreign beers, wines, &c., for exportation, prices quoted f.o.b. [free on board]. There is a large branch establishment in Liverpool which is exceedingly useful for supplying shippers, this being the chief duty of the branch. It is in no way a matter of surprise to learn that each year’s receipts of this fine business show a wonderful increase, for the energy, enterprise, and ability of the proprietor, together with his courtesy and attention, could not fail to win the hearty support and confidence of customers.

THE GLOBE CARPET BEATING AND DYEING CO., LIMITED,
GLOBE WORKS, PENDLETON, MANCHESTER.
Telegraphic address “Beating, Manchester,”

THE above works were organised in the year 1879, by Messrs. Peters and Turpin. Upon a dissolution of partnership in 1884, the business was continued By Mr. Thomas P. Turpin, until the incorporation of the present company in 1890, under the style and title above designated, with Mr. H. A. Ralph as the able manager. The premises occupied are very extensive, covering a very large area of ground bounded by Harding Street, Wood Street, Brindle Heath Road, and Brierley Street, forming the four parieties of a great square enclosure. Upon this space are erected offices, engine and boiler rooms, a great carpet beating department, fitted throughout with special machinery, ample stabling accommodation, and a thoroughly well-regulated series of cleaning and dyeing machinery and appliances. The company operate not only as carpet-beaters and cleaners, but as renovators of all kinds of furniture fabrics and linings; cretonne, chintz, dimity and linings, cretonne and chintz covers, brackets, curtain holders, &c., blinds, blankets, counterpanes, and quilts, bed ticks, carpets and carriage covers and horse clothing, table covers, lace and muslin curtains, and gentlemen’s clothing, ladies’ garments and fabrics, such as velvets and velveteens, silks, and satins, and the like, and all kinds of sundries in the way of kid gloves, ribbons, antimacassars, fichus, sun shades, and so on and so forth.

The machinery and apparatus employed by the company in cleaning, dyeing, starching, and glazing, and the French process of cleaning by the dry system (Nettoyage a sec), are without question the best and most modern of their kind extant, with the result that the company have gained an unsurpassed reputation for the excellence of their work in each and every department represented. Altogether a staff of about sixty hands, men, women, and girls are employed in the business, and during the busy seasons night and day changes are customary. A service of about ten carts and lurries is perpetually on the move collecting and delivering over a radius of fully ten miles, from the Royal Exchange, Manchester, taken as a centre. The entire business is conducted with marked ability and energy, and reflects the highest credit upon its management, and upon all those who are in any way concerned with the administration of its affairs.

BARDSLEY & CO., WHOLESALE DRUGGISTS, SPICE, HERB, AND COLOUR MERCHANTS, &C., &C.,
115, LIVERPOOL ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS noted house was founded as far back as 1853, and its career from its inception has been one of uninterrupted prosperity and success. Operations are conducted under the able management of Mr. T. Bardsley. in extensive and commodious premises, in the Liverpool Road, generally known as the Pork Butchers’ and Confectioners’ Supply Stores. They consist of a substantial and spacious block of three-storey buildings, comprising large single-fronted shop, numerous warehouses and store-rooms, and a range of stores at the rear. The shop is thoroughly and handsomely fitted up with every contrivance and requirement for the expeditious discharge of the business. The warehouses are lofty and well lighted, and eminently well furnished for the safe and proper storage of the large and varied assortment of commodities they contain. The works are situate at Collyhurst, and are ample in size and convenience, having been specially erected for the purposes to which they are applied. They are efficiently equipped with plant and machinery of the most modern and improved description.

An extensive and valuable business is here controlled in drugs, drysaltery goods, chemicals, essential oils for mineral water manufacturers and confectioners, all kinds of colours, gelatines, dye- woods, &c. None but fresh and genuine drugs are kept at this responsible house, and patrons can rely upon obtaining the best of everything at prices which cannot be surpassed by any establishment in the trade. The house has obtained a reputation, almost universal, for the unique and superior character of its specialities. In their preparation the greatest care and attention are employed to maintain their uniform excellent and special virtues. These leading lines refer chiefly to the business of the pork butcher and confectioner, and the ever-increasing demands from all parts of the globe testify unmistakably to their intrinsic worth and popularity. To specify one or two. The Icehone Meat Preservative is one of the best known. It has been before the public for many years, and the increase in the sale has been phenomenal. It is the most efficacious article yet made for keeping animal and vegetable substances sweet, sound, and in good condition for any reasonable extent of time. It is a powerful antiseptic and a certain meat and milk preservative. It can only be obtained direct from the firm, and the public should be wary of the many worthless imitations which are in the market.

Another special favourite is the firm’s celebrated Smokeline, by the use of which a fine smoky flavour is imparted in a few minutes to hams, bacon, tongues, saveloys, German and Spanish sausages, &c, The Smokeline is thoroughly established in public use, and in efficiency, cleanliness, and economy it surpasses everything of the kind in the market. Several years ago the firm turned their attention to the manufacture of a lard-refiner that would remove the rancid and rank flavour from lard, and at the same time make it snow-white. After many trials and great expense they were eminently successful, and their production leaped into immense demand and general adoption.

A line in which an extensive business is done, and for which the house is particularly noted, is that of herbs, English and foreign. The herbs are carefully selected from the best growths, and are so dried as to preserve their good qualities and flavour, and special plant for grinding has been laid down. Among their other principal specialities are the East India Theodine, a pure vegetable and harmless colouring for sausage, pie, and other meats; Camwood Extract, highly recognised and extensively used for colouring polony, chicken, and ham and tongue skins; the antiseptic liquor meat wash, which is indispensable to butchers, poulterers, tripe dressers, &c., as fresh meat painted over with this liquor will keep fresh for weeks; the Bury pudding seasoning; ham dressing husk; lacque for colouring black puddings; polony and sausage seasonings, which are in great demand all over the United Kingdom, and which for flavour and delicacy will satisfy the taste of the most fastidious; biscuit powder; best fresh-ground spices; gravy and jelly powder, &c. The stocks held of these specialities, as well as of drugs and chemicals of every description, is very large.

An immense trade is controlled, which is exclusively wholesale, and extends throughout the United Kingdom, and to the United States, Canada, and the Colonies generally. Mr. T. Bardsley is the honoured head of the firm, and is looked upon as a thoroughly representative man in his line of business. His experience has been of the most valuable character, and he is eminently skilled in every department of his speciality. He is well known in commercial circles for the equity and integrity of his methods of business, and in private life he is much esteemed for his personal worth, courtesy, ability, and active public usefulness.

GEO. REECE & CO., CARVERS AND GILDERS,
28, SHUDEHILL,. MANCHESTER.

THE position of this firm may be almost termed an enviable one. The worthy proprietor may be said to have brought about this satisfactory state of affairs by his own untiring industry and his undoubted ability. He is known throughout the trade as one who gives the best possible value for money, and as one who thoroughly understands the details of his calling. His stock is of the most comprehensive nature, and for abundance of choice it is not to be surpassed in the district. There have been several changes since it was originally founded in 1870. In that year Mr. George Reece commenced operations at 49, Dantzic Street, and, in 1886, the firm became Reece, Hobson & Co. In 1889 Mr. Reece again became sole proprietor, and remains so up to date, trading as Reece & Co.

In 1886 the present house was taken at 28, Shudehill. This consists of building of three floors and basement, with frontage of about thirty-six feet by thirty-three feet. The basement is the store-room for glass, backboards, and mouldings. The ground floor is the sale-room, stock-room, and office. A quantity of mouldings, frames, &c., are also stocked here. The first floor is part work-room and part stock-room, the second has work-rooms and store-rooms for cardboards. There is also a large store-room in Thornley Brow. So extensive has the concern become that premises three times the size of the present would not be too large for the requirements. The business is principally with the picture frame dealers all over the midland and northern counties. Mr. Reece employs a considerable staff on the premises in putting together frames, cutting mounts, &c. His stock of framing is made up of all kinds of mouldings in American and German, black, gold, oak, mahogany, rosewood, and in fact every variety. All kinds of mounts are in stock, or cut to order. There is also a fine selection of room mouldings, mounting boards, glass, backboards, &c. Mr. Reece is a popular favourite with his many customers, who hold him in great respect.

THE WATERLOO HOTEL,
MR. G. BATTAGLIA, MANAGER (WELL KNOWN AS “CHARLES, FROM THE ALBION HOTEL”),
PICCADILLY, MANCHESTER.

THIS fine hotel, one of the most conveniently situated and most comfortable of Manchester's first-class hostelries, is an old-established and widely known house, and occupies a large and handsome four-story building at the corner of Piccadilly and Chatham Street, with entrances in both thoroughfares. The whole establishment is admirably arranged for the purposes of a first-class modern hotel, and combines comfort, elegance of appointment, and convenience in a very notable degree. A principal feature on the ground floor is the spacious, well- lighted, and finely furnished coffee room, which contains a number of excellent and valuable pictures, and is (among other advantages) provided with both gas and electric light. Three large smoking rooms, very comfortably furnished, extend a constant welcome to lovers of “the weed,” and guests who are fond of a game of billiards, will not be disappointed of their enjoyment in the spacious billiard room, with its one full-sized Orme & Son’s table. Adjoining the billiard room there is a perfectly appointed lavatory.

A broad and handsome staircase leads up to the first floor, where we find a large reading room and several beautifully furnished suites of private apartments. A charmingly decorated corridor, adorned with plants, flowers, mirrors, and fine paintings, is a very attractive feature on this floor, and here will be found three excellent pianofortes to contribute to the enjoyment of family gatherings and social parties. Many daintily furnished bedrooms take up the space on the upper floors, and each of those flats has its bath rooms. There are also large and well-lighted stock rooms for the use of commercial men, whose requirements are very carefully considered at this house.

The Waterloo Hotel has always been noted for its excellent cuisine, and special attention may be invited to the table d’hote dinner from 1 to 2.30 P.M. daily. In the coffee room dinners, luncheons, &c., are served in the best style at separate tables at any hour of the day. The wines, spirits, &c., are all of the best quality, and the attendance in all parts of the house is excellent. All the waiters, as well as the manager, are thorough linguists, and French, German, Spanish, Italian, Swedish, and Danish are spoken, so that the visitors from the Continent have a special reason for patronizing this house. Altogether the Waterloo Hotel is not to be readily surpassed in any detail that contributes to the comfort and satisfaction of the travelling public, and the fact that its hospitality is sought by a very large and regular clientèle from all parts of the world is a standing recommendation. Visitors will find the establishment replete with every modern convenience at reasonable charges, and all who patronize this hotel carry away with them pleasant recollections of its many comforts, and of the courtesy of Mr. G. Battaglia, its genial, experienced, and deservedly popular manager.

S. MEGARITY & CO., CONTRACTORS, JOINERS, BUILDERS AND GENERAL SHOP FITTERS,
HARRIS STREET, STRANGEWAYS, MANCHESTER.

MR. Samuel Megarity entered upon his career of business activity in the year 1873, bringing an ample capital and extended experience to bear upon the development of the undertaking to which he has so vigorously and successfully directed his best energies. The premises occupied are in every point of character and situation exactly adapted to the requirements of a brisk business of the kind. They consist of large and substantial two-storied buildings, comprising a handsomely appointed suite of offices, a capitally ordered mill, elaborately equipped with all the best and most modern sawing, planing, and moulding machinery, driven by steam power, and a large yard and drying sheds, stocked to repletion with a vast quantity of well-seasoned timber and building materials of every description. In addition to this the firm hold depots at the various local railway stations for the storage of timber, and are thus prepared to undertake contracts of any magnitude.

Messrs. Megarity & Co. operate on a very extensive scale as contractors and builders of dwelling houses and public institutions. They have long held contracts in connection with the corporation, and make a great speciality of the office and shop fitting section of their business, with particular reference to the fitting up of public bars, and the production of air-tight cases for home and exportation. Mr. Megarity personally superintends the working of the entire business, finding full and regular employment for a large staff, and nothing could be more commendable than the order and system which prevail in every part of the premises, and in the execution of the contracts which have made the house one of the most famous of its kind in the country.

R. S. FOSTER, THE GENTLEMEN’S OUTFITTING ESTABLISHMENT,
71, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

AFTER many years practical experience with one of the largest firms in the hosiery and outfitting trade, Mr. R. S. Foster commenced business recently on his own account at the above address. Mr. Foster has been fortunate in securing these large and commodious premises, which comprise a spacious and handsome double shop, with a very imposing plate-glass frontage of fully thirty feet. The windows display to great advantage a choice selection of high-class hosiery, shirts, collars, scarfs, ties, &c., forming a prominent and attractive feature of this busy thoroughfare. The interior is fitted up in a very superior style, with elegant, yet substantial, counters, stands, show-cases, and other appropriate appointments. The premises also contain extensive warehouse accommodation, well-equipped workrooms and all the accessories of a large and thoroughly organised establishment.

The various departments are well and completely stocked with goods of a quality and character admirably suited to the trade, including a most extensive assortment of general hosiery and outfitting goods, white, and coloured shirts, wool and union shirts, ladies’ and gentlemen’s gloves, ties and scarfs in all the newest shapes and in endless variety, collars, cuffs, linen fronts, braces, Cardigan jackets, &c. Indeed, one of the features upon which Mr. Foster very justly prides himself, apart from the quality of the goods, is the large and varied stock always on hand, the whole of which is selected from the best sources, with great care and sound judgment, and buying in such large lines direct from the manufacturers, Mr. Foster is enabled to give his customers exceptional advantages, both in quality and price. Shirts, collars, cuffs, and fronts are made to measure on the premises, and with the same attention to economy as if selected from stock. A very brisk business is done in every department, which receives the strict personal attention of the proprietor, and is conducted throughout with marked ability, energy, and enterprise.

There is in connection with this establishment a luxurious toilet club, with well-appointed hair-dressing rooms and private dressing room for use of gentlemen, free to members of the club. The subscription to the toilet club for one year is 21s.; half year, 12s. 6d.; quarter, 6s. 6d. This establishment from the outset rapidly assumed a leading position, and it is gratifying to note that the public have now firmly impressed upon it the mint-mark of their appreciation. Mr. Foster’s principal establishment is at 234, High Holborn, London. He has recently opened a branch establishment at No. 9, Market Street, Leicester, which is conducted on the same lines as the Manchester house.

JOHN ALLEN & CO., HIGH-CLASS PROVISION MERCHANTS,
26, VICTORIA STREET, AND 72, MARKET STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS business deserves special mention from its long continuance, operations having been commenced thirty-five years ago. The Manchester houses belonging to the firm are large in their extent, commodious in their arrangement, and attractive in their appearance. They each consist of a double-fronted shop, handsomely and thoroughly fitted up, together with extensive and capacious store-rooms, well supplied with every appliance and requisite for the storage of the goods and the accommodation of visitors. The stores and smoking houses are at Ordsall Lane, Salford, and are among the largest of the kind in Manchester. Everything emanating from this establishment is the best of its kind, and can be guaranteed to be of thoroughly reliable and superior quality.

Only the best class of provisions is held by the firm, and of these an extensive range of choice is offered to customers. The bacon and hams are of prime sorts, including finest mild cured, home and farm fed, dried and smoked bacon, and Cumberland, Wiltshire, and American hams. In butter the house shows the richest productions of the most celebrated English dairies, and large and choice assortments from Ireland and Denmark; while the lard has been procured from the best known and most reliable English refiners. The proprietors have made a special feature of cheese, in which commodity their taste and judgment are alike irreproachable. The supplies include splendid examples of Cheshire, Cheddar, Stilton, Wiltshire, American, Gorgonzola, Roquefort, Gruyère, Parmesan, and all the choicest kinds are well and amply represented.

The house imports direct from the foreign producers, and customers will always find prices of the most satisfactory kind at this old- established house. The trade done is both wholesale and retail, and includes a first-class connection throughout the country and an important family trade. A large and efficient staff of assistants and others is employed, and patrons can rely upon civil and prompt attention. A branch house has been established at 116, Wilinslow Road, Withington, at which place a similar class of goods is kept as at the establishments in the city.

JOHN SMITH & SONS, ARTISTIC AND GENERAL IRON FOUNDERS,
OPENSHAW BRIDGE, NEAR MANCHESTER.

THIS well-known and thoroughly representative house was established in the year 1850 by the late Mr. John Smith, an extremely popular local man, who was for many years an active and prominent member of the Openshaw Local Board. Mr. Smith proved himself a thorough master of every detail of the ironfounding industry, in which he had had many years’ experience. The business he founded at Openshaw developed very successfully, and in 1888 he disposed of the business to his two sons, Messrs. Frederick and Samuel Henry Smith, who trade under the style and title of John Smith and Sons. Immense alterations and improvements have recently been made in the premises at Openshaw, and the establishment is now one of great magnitude and splendid arrangement throughout, and the fine, spacious show-rooms (of which there are no less than five), are filled with interesting and attractive specimens of the firm’s productions, notably in marble and enamelled slate mantelpieces of great artistic merit. There are also iron mantelpieces, painted and enamelled, splendid kitchen ranges, in which there are all sorts of improvements and economical contrivances.

The firm also show a magnificent assortment of tile registers, small ranges, and iron gates and railings of every description, in all of which the resources of the house are most creditably exemplified. The foundry and the various workshops of the firm (including enamelling works) are all perfectly equipped, possessing every facility for the proper conduct of an immense industry; and, in addition to the productions named above, Messrs. John Smith & Sons are prepared to undertake and execute in the best modern style any conceivable kind of artistic and general iron founding. The firm’s catalogue will be forwarded gratis on application, and estimates will be given for any class of goods or work required. Messrs. John Smith & Sons employ about two hundred hands, and control a very large and widespread trade, all the operations of which are ably supervised by the present energetic and experienced principals, who have shown a determination to fully maintain against all competition the high repute and prestige their house has enjoyed from the first.

JOHN WILLIAMS & CO., BUILDERS AND GENERAL CONTRACTORS,
SUSSEX STREET, REGENT ROAD, SALFORD, MANCHESTER.

THIS well-known firm was organised in the year 1869, and is still under the able and vigorous control of its founder, Mr. John Williams. During the first ten years the firm was engaged as “bricklayer and contractor,” but since that time general contracting and all branches of the building trade have been undertaken. The premises occupied are very extensive, and in every way well adapted to the requirements of a brisk, first-class undertaking of this kind. They consist of a very large, capitally ordered yard, in which a good stock of all kinds of builders’ materials is always held. There are well-appointed offices, a perfectly equipped series of sheds with circular saws, planing and moulding machinery, a powerful mortar mill, and every appliance necessary to the pursual of the business in all its branches. A regular staff of from twenty to thirty hands finds full employment all the year round, but is often very considerably augmented. Mr. Williams operates on a large scale as a contractor for the erection of public buildings, churches, schools, and works of all descriptions, and has erected a large number of dwelling houses and cottages in Salford and its vicinity of the very best workmanship. Alterations, additions, and repairs are undertaken. Special attention is given to practical sanitation, drainage, and ventilation. Valuations are undertaken, and buildings are inspected and reported upon at a reasonable charge. Mr. Williams is a tradesman possessing the advantage of a long and thoroughly practical training; he has a perfect knowledge of his business, and exercises that sound judgment and well-directed enterprise which have won for him the respect, esteem, and confidence of all those who have had the privilege of his acquaintance. He is also the inventor of the special ashpit and receptacle door-latch, now coming into use.

JOSEPH. B. TROUSDALE, IRONMONGER, MILL AND COLLIERY FURNISHER, &C.,
217, CHAPEL STREET, SALFORD, MANCHESTER.

THIS thriving and flourishing concern was originally established in the year 1866, and had been for many years conducted, with very satisfactory results, by Mr. Henry Dawes, when the present proprietor succeeded to the business in the year 1889, he having been manager for Mr. Dawes for several years. The firm is located advantageously in a central position in the busiest part of Salford, and the commanding double-fronted shop is excellently fitted and appointed for the convenient arrangement of a large and comprehensive stock of all the various articles required in a general ironmonger’s and mill and colliery furnisher’s business. The connection, which is of a quarter of a century’s standing, is very valuable and influential, and a very extensive trade is done, especially in the mill furnishing department. The fitting of electric bells and speaking-tubes is a speciality, and in this department skilled and experienced workmen are employed. Mr. Joseph B. Trousdale is himself a clever practical man of considerable energy, shrewdness, and business capacity, and he devotes close and active supervision to every detail of the work. Valuations are undertaken in the ironmongery and metal trades, for probate, transfer of business, partnerships, or bankruptcy proceedings, and the sale of businesses negotiated.

JOHN TOWNSEND, AERATED WATER MANUFACTURER AND COMPOUNDER OF BRITISH CORDIALS,
PARADISE ROW, SALFORD, MANCHESTER.

THIS thriving institution was organised in the year 1837 by the late Mr. John Townsend, whose name is known far and wide as one of the pioneers of the modern mineral water industry; and is now being carried on upon the same sound lines by his widow, who retains the services of an eminent chemist to personally supervise the production of the beverages, and to analyse all the ingredients used, so as to be able to guarantee absolute purity and wholesomeness and perfect uniformity in everything emanating from the establishment. The premises occupied are in every respect exactly adapted to the requirements of a very brisk business of the kind, and are provided with carefully ordered offices and a plant of modern machinery embodying all the characteristic features of every worthy improvement and advancement that has marked the progress of the industry during the past half century. The firm operate on a very extensive scale as makers of all the popular varieties of aerated beverages, such as soda water, potash water, crystal lemonade, aromatic ginger ale, horehound beer, lithia water, seltzer water, quinine tonic water, champagne cider, stone bottle ginger beer, fermented hop bitters, and the like; and of a very varied selection of choice British cordials, including raspberry brandy, gingerette, peppermint, orange bitters, wormwood bitters, brandy bitters, cloves, aniseed, pine apple, capilaire, noyeau, rum shrub, concentrated lemonade, etc., entailing in their production and distribution the regular services of a staff of from eighty to one hundred hands, some ten or twelve lurries and other vehicles and upwards of twenty horses. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume, extending to all parts of the country, but is particularly well-established locally amongst private families, and wholesale amongst hotel-keepers, licensed victuallers, beer retailers, and others. This firm has also had the honour of the patronage of Her Majesty the Queen. The entire business is conducted with rare ability and enterprise in all its branches, and reflects the highest credit upon all those who are in any way concerned with the administration of its affairs.

E. G. ARCHER, CALENDERER AND FINISHER, AND TARPAULIN MANUFACTURER,
BLOSSOM STREET WORKS, ANCOATS, MANCHESTER.
Telephone No. 107, National Telephone Co.

DATING back in its foundation to the year 1860, this large and influential business was established by the father of the present proprietor, the latter gentleman succeeding in 1884. Since then the trade has been greatly developed, and new works have been erected in Sebastopol Street, Ancoats, devoted solely to the manufacture of tarpaulin and oil cloth. At the Blossom Street works, cotton oil cloth, patent packing, wagon and cart-sheet making is extensively carried on. They are also fitted with improved machinery for finishing and calendering the various goods produced. The firm have always a large and thoroughly representative stock on hand ready for immediate delivery. The reputation of these goods is so well and firmly established that it is scarcely necessary to emphasize the fact. It is interesting, however, to note that, in spite of the keen competition of the times, they not only maintain their high reputation for excellence of material, manufacture, and finish, but are making greater headway than ever in the market.

The trade is of a widespread, influential and steadily growing character, and in addition to the extensive home connection, these goods are well represented in the Continental and Colonial markets. The business in every department receives the strict personal attention of the proprietor, and is conducted throughout with marked ability, energy, and enterprise. Mr. E. G. Archer, who is the sole proprietor, is a gentleman well known and highly esteemed in business circles, not only as an old-established and successful manufacturer but also for his active exertions in promoting the best interests of the trade and industries of the city and district. There is a branch establishment at 171, Aldersgate Street, London, where a small staff is employed. The manager is Mr. A. L. Burrows. A well-assorted stock is always maintained, and a nice business is done among shippers and case makers. The agencies of the firm are as follows:— Glasgow, Messrs. Johnston & Co., 29, Waterloo Street, where a stock is kept; Paris, Mr. E. Aufholz, 20, Rue Meslay.

LOCKETT, GENERAL HOUSE PAINTER AND DECORATOR,
DAVENPORT BUILDINGS, WITHINGTON.

THIS firm, which was formerly carried on under the trading style of Lockett & Son, was originally established in 1877, and the premises, which are centrally situated in a good business position, comprise an excellent roomy shop and ample storeroom accommodation. The stock embraces a large and varied assortment of the newest patterns and designs in wall papers, Lincrusta, Walton, &c., as well as an ample supply of materials and tools requisite for all kinds of decorative painting, sign writing, &c., and for the general repairing of house property. Mr. Lockett has an excellent reputation in the district for sound and reliable workmanship, and possesses the confidence and valuable support of a large and influential connection among the principal landlords, property owners, and private householders, with whom he arranges large and important contracts. A numerous and well selected staff of competent workmen are employed under the direct supervision and active control of the principal, who is himself an experienced and clever practical man in every branch of the business, as well as an energetic and capable organiser.

A. TIMPE & CO., TRAVELLING BAG MANUFACTURERS, &C.,
10, PHOENIX STREET, FOUNTAIN STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS eminent business was established in. 1880 in Greenwood Street, Corporation Street, by Mr. A. Timpe. In 1890 it was changed to A. Timpe & Co., Mr. Timpe having taken in a partner. The business having so wonderfully increased, a removal was made to the present much more commodious premises at 10, Phoenix Street. These contain spacious offices, sale, sample, and storerooms, warehouse, and well-arranged workrooms, the latter employing between thirty and forty superior and skilled hands. The great feature of the house is the manufacturing of travelling bags, for which a reputation second to none has been obtained. “Timpes’ bags” are household words to the trade throughout the kingdom. The bags are made of the best possible material and in the most superior manner. Perfect confidence can be placed in the goods, a fact well known to and appreciated by the trade. Messrs. Timpe & Co. do not do a cutting trade, but turn out goods of sterling merit at the most reasonable prices.

In the sewing of the bags nothing is used but best waxed thread, and when bags are described as cowhide, or basil and cowhide, they may be relied upon as being such. Mr. Timpe has produced an ingenious and useful invention in the form of a patent automatic slide, which can be attached to any bag. It will be found to be the most unique and durable slide ever invented; it never gets stiff or clogs, even if exposed to rain for days together. In the handsome showrooms there is a fine range of Gladstone bags of all sizes and in great variety, stitched hand bags, all kinds, including brief bags, &c., school satchels, hold alls, leggings — every description in leather and tweed—riveted travelling bags, Ettrick bag or half Gladstone’s, dress baskets, hunting kit bags, &c., &c. The trade is chiefly a home one, and the house has selected for its motto — which it strictly clings to — “Quality and good workmanship.” Messrs. A. Timpe & Co., by strict attention to orders and their business, have gained the confidence of their customers, and always do their best to merit that confidence.

W. R. C. GOULDEN & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF BOOKBINDERS’ CLOTH, &C.,
PENDLETON MILLS, PENDLETON, MANCHESTER.

OPERATIONS were commenced by Mr. Goulden four years ago. He having an intimate knowledge of bleaching, dying and calico printing, was soon able to produce satisfactory goods. Under his vigorous and able administration the concern has made rapid progress. The business premises consist of an extensive block of three-storey building, comprising well-appointed offices, large warehouses, ample store-rooms and numerous workshops, thoroughly equipped with plant and machinery of the most improved type. The premises have been constructively altered for the requirements of the business, and the different departments have been arranged in the best possible way to facilitate the process of manufacture and to improve the quality of the output. A word of praise is due to the proprietor for the orderly and systematic manner in which the whole business is conducted.

An extensive business is done in the manufacture of bookbinders’ cloth. The firm’s production is of a thoroughly reliable nature, and is generally regarded as a standard of what this class of goods should be. It is of guaranteed uniform quality, free from faults or defects and particularly well finished. All the current patterns and colours are made, and some new designs and novel and attractive colours have been introduced, which are having a good run. In the matter of prices the firm are able to offer many inducements, owing to the favourable circumstances under which the manufacture is carried on. The firm are also makers of photographic media — ruby, orange, yellow, and canary, which are largely used for dark-rooms, lamps, &c. These goods are of very superior quality. The firm are well-known finishers to the trade.

A leading feature is made of dyeing, and in this branch the firm have every reason to be satisfied by the position they have obtained. They are surpassed by few houses in the thoroughness of their work and the permanency and brilliancy of their colours. A large trade is being done in this department, and its continually increasing character is evidence that both in work and price the firm1 are giving satisfaction. The connection established is of considerable extent and importance, and lies mainly among publishers, bookbinders, and pattern-card makers, and a numerous force of workpeople is employed under the direction of competent foremen. Mr. Goulden, having a practical and chemical knowledge of this industry, gives his constant supervision to the business. By his equitable and honourable policy he has acquired the esteem and confidence of all his patrons.

C. WALLWORTH, BUILDER, CONTRACTOR, AND TIMBER MERCHANT,
GORTON SAW MILLS, HYDE ROAD, GORTON, MANCHESTER.

GORTON, a township of Lancashire, about three miles from Manchester, now partly incorporated with Manchester, is one of the many flourishing townships on the outskirts of that city. The population has increased the last thirty years from four thousand to forty thousand in 1890, and several large and important engineering works and cotton mills have been, erected during that time, also many large and public buildings. The pioneer of steam saw mills and wood moulding machinery in this district is Mr. Clement Wallworth, of the Gorton Saw Mills, Hyde Road, Gorton, who fills the office of overseer for the township of Gorton, and organised his now thriving business in the year 1873. The premises occupied are very extensive, covering in all an area of about two acres of land, and comprise an elaborately equipped sawmill driven by steam power, planing and moulding sheds, joiner’s shops, &c., and a very large and capitally ordered yard, where an enormous stock of well-seasoned English and foreign timber is safely kept, in addition to a complete supply of all kinds of building materials in the way of sanitary tubes and pipes, firebricks, chimney tops, slate, stone, and lime and the like.

Mr. Wallworth operates on a very large scale as a manufacturer of doors, windows, skirtings, mouldings, and kindred commodities for the trade. As a builder and contractor he has won enviable reputation for the excellence of everything he undertakes to do, among his more important works being the magnificent public baths of Gorton, which were opened in 1890, and consist of an exceedingly handsome stone and brick structure of imposing architectural design. He has also had entrusted to his care the erection of no less than five police stations for the county magistrates of Lancashire, costing from £1,500 to £2,500 each; also one for the city magistrates of Manchester, at a cost of over £2,500, and for which he holds a splendid testimonial from the city surveyor for excellence of work. The fine collection of detached houses at Fairfield, near Manchester, erected by Mr. Wallworth, also speak volumes for his good workmanship. His trade connection is one of considerable volume, extending for a distance of twenty miles round Gorton, and entailing the employment of a very large staff of skilled and experienced hands. Mr. Wallworth is a gentleman who is not merely an energetic and clever man of business, but he possesses personal qualities which render him eminently popular with all who are brought into commercial contact with him.

ANNE COWBURN, COACH. BUILDER,
PARK PLACE, CHEETHAM HILL ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE above house was founded as far back as 1779, and having survived all the vicissitudes of time, of commercial crises, death and change, is to-day, when one hundred and twelve years old, more vigorous, more powerful and progressive than ever, and a concern that renders its influence felt throughout the length and breadth of the trade. The business, still retaining its old title, is carried on by members of the same family. Operations are conducted in an extensive block of substantial three-storey buildings, occupying a commanding position facing Park Place, and comprising office and show-room on the ground floor, and also show-rooms on, the first floor; the works are situate at the rear, and consist of a separate building of large extent, and having special entrances for workpeople in Cowburn Street. The show-room on the ground floor possesses a frontage of one hundred feet, and is a thoroughly suitable department for the purpose, being lofty, spacious and eminently well lighted; it is fitted up with every convenience and requirement for the effective display of the magnificent collection of vehicles it holds. The works are fully equipped with all the best and most approved apparatus, plant and machinery that have been introduced into this branch of industry. The equipment, indeed, is as near perfection as possible, and is the outcome of the firm’s exceptionally long experience and liberal and progressive policy. A highly creditable system of organization and control is maintained among the workpeople, and on every hand there are indications of the care and forethought the firm have exercised for the comfort and welfare of their employes.

An extensive and high-class trade is here conducted in the manufacture of carriages and vehicles of a superior description. The vehicles turned out by this noted house have few, if any, equals in the kingdom. They are well known in all the principal emporiums throughout the country, and they meet with enormous appreciation among better class buyers. They are the recognised standards of excellence in all points which go to make up the perfect vehicle. The utmost care is taken in the selection of the material. The timber is chosen from the best and most suitable kinds and is thoroughly seasoned and shrunk and severely tested before being used, and the same vigilance is exercised in selecting every part employed, so that nothing but the most finished and perfect material finds acceptance for the building of these famous vehicles. Only skilled workmen are engaged, and the appliances and resources are of the most advanced type.

For style, elegance, lightness, and strength combined, the vehicles emanating from this ancient house are unsurpassed. The best class vehicles manufactured here are perfect in their kind, fitted with all the newest improvements, faultless in their appointments, and altogether splendid specimens of the most finished productions of the carriage builder’s art. The house is an exponent of its particular line of business, and the stocks it holds are extensive in quantity and admirable in their selection. They include every vehicle, from the respectable gig to the luxurious brougham, and exceed a hundred in number, comprising among others, landaus from 8-and-a-half cwt., broughams from 7 cwt., Victorias, Stanhope waggonettes, Manchester mail panel rustic, and other descriptions of two-wheeled drags, &c. From the superior and reliable excellence of all its productions, the house has acquired an exceedingly large and influential connection among high-class buyers and the principal families throughout the United Kingdom, and a large and valuable export trade is controlled to most of the great centres of commerce abroad. A numerous staff of skilled workpeople is employed, including body makers, carriage makers, wheelers, coach smiths, painters, trimmers, finishers, &c.; and the most prompt attention is given to all orders.

The firm, with their ample resources, perfect organization and wide experience take the lead in their important and high-class industry. They have achieved a distinguished reputation for their liberal and honourable dealing, they are entirely reliable and responsible, and all their transactions are marked with a careful regard for the interests of patrons and the maintenance of their high and enviable position.

SMITH, HILL & CO., HOUSEHOLD AND FAMILY LINEN MERCHANTS,
14, OLD MILL GATE, MANCHESTER.

THIS is probably the oldest establishment of the kind in Manchester or the surrounding districts, having been founded more than one hundred and fifty years ago. The name of the originator of this business is lost in obscurity, but the house has continued prospering during its whole career. The premises now occupied are ample in size and adequate in convenience of arrangement. They consist of the ground floor of an extensive three-storey building, and comprise a large double-fronted shop, admirably appointed, and stretching some one hundred feet to the rear, together with numerous spacious warehouses at the back. The warehouses are equipped with every requisite and contrivance that experience could suggest for the proper and effective accommodation of the vast stocks held. The trade controlled by the firm in linen, curtains, calicoes, and other kindred goods is the most valuable in the district. Every article emanating from this time-honoured establishment is of superior quality, and is guaranteed to be the best of its kind procurable.

The leading speciality of the house is linen, and in this department it shows goods which cannot be surpassed in material, beauty of workmanship, or general finish, while the range of choice it offers, and the reasonable prices prevailing, cannot fail to induce business. Every kind of linen goods is fully represented, and purchasers cannot do better than inspect these supplies when in search of linen sheets, tablecloths, and table linen of every description, pillow-cases, huckabacks, diapers, bed-ticks, tea and glass cloths, sponge-cloths, dusters, bath towels, &c. The house, too, makes a leading feature of curtains, and its stocks are among the most copious and comprehensive to be found in the city. Prices are here, too, most favourable, their large transactions in curtains giving them every advantage in this respect. Their choice selections comprise curtains of Nottingham lace, Swiss lace, and frilled lace, as well as in Madras, canvas, and art muslin. The house, also, holds ample and well-selected supplies of sheetings, counterpanes, quilts, cretonnes, hosiery, &c.

During its protracted and flourishing career the house has acquired an extensive and valuable connection among the leading families in Manchester and the district, and an important wholesale business is also carried on. A large staff of efficient assistants is kept, and patrons receive prompt and courteous attention. Mr. George Augustus Hill is the sole proprietor of this representative house. The entire business is conducted under the constant and indefatigable supervision of Mr. William Benson, the manager, and under his administration the ancient prestige of the house is fully maintained. All transactions are marked by methods of fairness and honesty, and by the creditable policy of the management they retain the confidence of their numerous connection.

H. INGLIS, CHEMIST AND DRYSALTER,
211 AND 213, EVERY STREET, MANCHESTER.

MR. Inglis, who established his business in 1865, has earned the good will of all around him. He has got together a good connection, and he has the satisfaction of knowing that he has been of service, as a chemist, to a number of people in the humbler walk of life. Mr. Inglis has two large and handsome shops, both distinct in their character. No. 211 is devoted to the drysaltery stores, for oils, paints, colours, French polish, varnishes, &c. In all the above a large wholesale business is done. The stock is of a most useful and comprehensive nature, and the various articles give entire satisfaction. No. 213 is the family chemist’s stores. Here a very full stock of everything applying to the business is to be found, such as patent medicines, proprietary articles, perfumes, toilet requisites, sponges, fancy goods, &c. Mr. Inglis is the proprietor of a very superior sewing machine oil. It is very much in request, and for cleaning and oiling sewing machines is admirable. Mr. Inglis is also maker of rheumatic paint, a speciality for inflammatory rheumatics. He is celebrated for cough pills and mixture. His obliging, and cheerful manner has won him hosts of friends, and the advice he gives very often to poor people who cannot afford a doctor makes him very popular among that class who hold him in universal respect. The business is a good and prospering one.

THOMAS OWLES, CONSULTING CHEMIST,
36, UPPER JACKSON STREET, HULME, MANCHESTER.

THIS is one of the most genuine businesses of its class in the district of Manchester generally, and is a well-conducted establishment. Its origin dates back to. 1851, when it was established by a Mr. Swindells, who was succeeded by a Mr. Wheeldon, who carried it on successfully for many years, and was followed by his brother, the present proprietor acquiring it by purchase in 1885. The premises consist of a very commodious shop, occupying a good position at the corner of Ward Street and Upper Jackson Street; it is well fitted, having upright and counter show cases, the whole presenting a very good appearance. The stock held is comprehensive, and embraces all the drugs and chemicals incidental to this description of business, and warranted pure and genuine. The special branch to which Mr. Owles has devoted his attention is the dispensing department, the most judicious care being exercised in the preparation of medical prescriptions. Business is done in all kinds of proprietary and patent medicines, embracing everything that has become celebrated upon the basis of genuine worth, of which Mr. Owles keeps a well-assorted stock. Perfumery and toilet requisites of every description are also sold. Trusses, enemas, syringes, bandages, flesh gloves, elastic stockings, clinical thermometers, and surgical appliances generally — in fact, everything supplied through, pharmaceutical establishments — can be obtained at moderate prices.

THOMAS RENSHAW, MASTER OF GYMNASTICS, &C., AND MANUFACTURER OF GYMNASTIC APPARATUS,
BOSTON STREET, HULME, MANCHESTER.

IN connection with physical training and the special trade that has arisen therefrom by the supply of carefully constructed apparatus, there are perhaps few firms that are better known or more highly appreciated and widely patronised than the notable house which has for the past six years or so been identified with the name of Mr. Thomas Renshaw, the accomplished teacher of gymnastics, calisthenics, and Swedish drilling, at Hulme. Over and above his high qualifications as a teacher for the past twenty-five years in Manchester, Mr. Renshaw operates on a very large scale as a manufacturer of the soundest and best apparatus of all kinds, holding on hand a very heavy stock of superior goods in the way of horizontal and parallel bars, vaulting horses, Indian clubs, and the like, and contracting for the complete outfitting of private and club gymnasiums. Mr. Renshaw’s goods are all of unexceptionable make and material, and have drawn forth the praises of all those who have used them in every part of the kingdom. He is, moreover, well known as the valued professor of gymnastics to the Y.M.C.A. gymnasium at Peter Street, in connection with which he periodically gives exhibitions with his pupils, which have become justly popular in every part of the country. Personally Mr. Renshaw is a gentleman in every way qualified to train boys, youths, and men, with the most satisfactory results, and has deservedly won the esteem and patronage of a large and rapidly growing connection of the very best class.

CHARLES HENRY, THE CIVET CAT BAZAAR,
22, KING STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS popular establishment was founded upwards of fifty years ago by the late Mr. Charles Henry, and is still very successfully carried on under the old title by the founder’s widow (Mrs. E. Henry) and his son (Mr. J. V. Henry). The premises occupied are very extensive and commodious, and are the firm’s own property. They have been equipped in an elaborate manner to suit the purposes of the business, and the long, lofty, and admirably lighted show-room on the ground floor extends all the way through to South King Street. Here the visitor will find a bewildering variety of goods, ornamental, artistic, and useful, embracing everything in fancy articles, from the simplest sixpenny toy to the most life-like and “accomplished” ten guinea doll. Assuredly every mechanical toy that was ever produced is here obtainable.

Toys and fancy novelties from all parts of the world come to the “Civet Cat Bazaar,” to delight the eyes of thousands, and to create ardent desires in juvenile breasts that nothing short of possession can satisfy. Anyone who walks from one end to the other of the “Civet Cat Bazaar,” will see a thousand reasons for calling the emporium unique and unsurpassed in its particular line, and will speedily understand how it is that “Young Manchester” knows hardly any greater delight than to be the possessor of a couple of half-crowns with leisure and liberty to invest the same in some small portion of the almost infinite contents of this treasury of youthful happiness. The place is a permanent international exhibition of everything in its special line, and its supplies are replenished from everywhere.

It should be noted that the proprietors recognise the fact that the world is not entirely composed of juvenility, as witness a wonderful array of articles suitable for wedding and birthday presents. Among these there are charming specialities in fans from Paris and Vienna, together with dressing cases, writing desks, jewel cases, &c., of the handsomest character and best workmanship. Lawn tennis, archery, and all other sports are looked after equally well, and the bazaar has long been a noted source of supply for all requisites of these and other popular pastimes. Altogether, the “Civet Cat Bazaar” is a truly wonderful place, and its ever-increasing popularity will be readily understood by anyone who knows how closely its proprietors adhere to their old and sound policy of selling a good article at a reasonable price, and of always having the very latest novelties ready to lay before their customers. The firm have customers all over the kingdom, and receive orders from every quarter of the globe; and there can be no exaggeration in saying that Mrs. Henry and her energetic and esteemed son, Mr. J. V. Henry, preside over one of the very largest and most interesting establishments of its kind in the British Isles.

THOMAS EGGINGTON, CONSULTING ORTHOPAEDIC MECHANICIAN, AND SURGICAL INSTRUMENT MAKER,
7 & 9, GROSVENOR STREET, LONDON ROAD, MANCHESTER.

MR. Eggington commenced business in the above line as far back as the year 1870, and has been highly successful therein, his superior skill and extensive experience having enabled him to win the approval and patronage of a very large and valuable connection in all parts of the kingdom. The premises occupied in Grosvenor Street, London Road, are commodious and admirably adapted to the requirements of this business. They contain consulting-rooms, where Mr. Eggington may be seen and consulted on Tuesdays and Thursdays from ten till four, and on Saturdays from ten till one o’clock, a special attendant being retained to wait upon ladies. In the spacious and perfectly-equipped work-rooms on these premises, an efficient staff of highly-skilled mechanicians is employed, chiefly in the manufacture of orthopaedic surgical instruments and appliances; optical and dental and veterinary instruments of a high class are also produced, together with electrical apparatus of various kinds for medical and surgical use. As a wholesale firm, the proprietor is now in a position to offer to the medical profession the very best surgical instruments in all the latest improvements and inventions; also an extensive variety of medical batteries on the most scientific principle, a speciality being an instrument comprising both the intermittent current and the continuous or constant current battery, providing at once a means of applying electricity in either the intermittent or the continuous form as most applicable to the particular disease under treatment.

The modelling and entire manufacture of artificial limbs, including feet, is carried out by specially skilled workmen on the premises, and the results obtained in particular in this important department are in the highest degree satisfactory. Mr. Eggington’s special line of operations maybe defined as the replacing, by an artificial substitute, of any bone, sinew, or cartilage which, through hereditary disease, accident, or other cause may have become wasted, injured, or destroyed; and so great is the professional and mechanical skill displayed in this connection that the appliances supplied actually render the patient permanently independent of the lost or injured member, and make him literally “a new man.” Mr. Eggington’s successes in this line have been particularly marked in the case of spinal ailments, and he has gained great and deserved celebrity for his specially-designed supports for weak spines, which are made imperceptible, and can be worn, by persons at any occupation. Other notable specialities of this thoroughly representative house include trusses of every description (the improved one for the cure of ruptures being particularly effectual), chest expanders, leg instruments of all kinds, belts for ladies and children, belts for gentlemen, elastic stockings, and specially designed inventions of the most beneficial character for paralysis, hip-joint disease, weak knees and ankles, turned feet, and deformed and diseased spines.

All Mr. Eggington’s invalid and surgical appliances are the outcome of many years of careful study and exhaustive experiment, and are constructed on the most scientific principles. The success they have achieved is the strongest evidence in their favour, and great numbers of persons have been benefited and cured by the timely use of these really superior manufactures. Mr. Thomas Eggington has rendered a splendid service to sufferings humanity during the last twenty years, and any commercial prosperity that may have accrued to him as the reward of his labours is thoroughly well merited, as it has been honestly won.

W. H. ROWLAND & CO., DEALER IN PHOTOGRAPHIC, ELECTRICAL, AND SCIENTIFIC APPARATUS,
308, STRETFORD ROAD, HULME, MANCHESTER.

THE premises occupied by the above notable house are well situated in Stretford Road, Hulme, and comprise a fine three-storey block of buildings, with an elegantly-appointed double-fronted shop on the ground floor, and extensive work-rooms at the rear. The stock held is very attractively displayed and conveniently arranged, and it is certainly one of the most complete of its kind in Manchester. All branches of photographic and electrical mechanism are well represented, and the establishment has become a recognised depot for the supply of cameras, lenses, stands, plates, photographic chemicals, electric bells and fittings, batteries, dynamos, motors, incandescent and arc lamps, switches electrical, medical, and scientific instruments, &c., of the best quality and manufacture. By selling a thoroughly superior class of goods the house has gained the favour and confidence of a large and valuable connection. This firm’s catalogues contain a large amount of information concerning the numerous specialities with which Messrs. Rowland are associating their name, and photographers will find the firm’s list particularly noteworthy and exhaustive.

A very large amount of capital has been invested in stocking this important establishment, and great credit is due to the firm for the enterprise they display in keeping every department of their business perfectly up to date. The attention of the principal is now being given to gold, silver and nickel-plating, for which a valuable plant has been laid down on the premises; and all work in these lines can now be executed promptly, in the best style and on the lowest terms. Contracts are also undertaken for telephone erections and electric light installations, special facilities being possessed for carrying out work of this class. Mr. W. H. Rowland is a comparatively young man, but his experience is ample and his practical skill unquestionable, and he has determined to make a bold bid for extensive support. A valuable and influential connection is being steadily built up, and Mr. Rowland is untiring in his efforts to make his establishment in every respect, worthy of the favour that has already been liberally bestowed upon it.

PALESTINE CAFÉ,
5, CHAPEL WALKS, OFF CROSS STREET, MANCHESTER.

ON the 28th July, 1891, a bold bid for popularity was made in Manchester by the inauguration of the luxurious Oriental refectory which has already become familiar to city men as the Palestine Café, by the energetically and well directed institution known as the Genuine Rahat Loukoum and Mocha Coffee Company, who were exceedingly fortunate in securing a splendid site of forty-five feet by seventy-five feet, in the very centre of the city. The peculiarity of the coffee is that it is made in a very simple way, viz., café a l’arabe. A local publication, “The Spy,” thus refers to the general arrangements of the café:— Those Who have had the pleasure of visiting the Continent will have been surprised, no doubt, that the plan of the Continental café has not been introduced in its entirety in a busy city like Manchester; yet up to a few weeks ago this was the case. At last it has dawned upon some master mind to introduce the plan into this city, and the Palestine Café in Chapel Walks is the result. At this recherche establishment one has all the conveniences of a café proper, while the very style of serving is the same as that practised abroad. The young lady waitresses carry a satchel at their sides, suspended from the shoulder by a strap in the orthodox fashion, and the liveried waiters attend to any requirements in a most prompt and courteous manner. The café itself is artistically arranged on the most approved principles, small marble tables in a sort of mosaic design, and chairs upholstered in oriental style, being the prevailing idea. The mural decorations are very tasty, being a sort of stucco in white on a terra-cotta ground, forming bas-reliefs of the figures of heathen mythology, giving a very pleasant effect. The groupings of the tables have been very carefully arranged, one portion of the café being devoted to the usual requirements of a reading-room (and here the local and district papers most do congregate). Another portion is devoted to the lovers of chess and draughts and so forth, nothing apparently being omitted. The whole building is exceptionally cool and pleasant, and to add to the general comfort and effect, an artistically arranged fountain plays in the centre of the room, and plants are arranged around it to form a sort of fernery. The café bar is opposite this fountain, and coffee is served hot in small pans to each customer, and in truly Oriental style, the fine aroma and flavour of the genuine Mocha being something to remember, and causes one to wonder how he could have possibly enjoyed the customary domestic decoction which passes muster for the name of coffee. Another speciality of this establishment is an exquisite sweetmeat known as Rahat Loukoum, or Turkish Delight, being far in advance of me commercial commodity of that name retailed in the confectionery establishments of the city. For the convenience of commercial men this café has no superior in the city, and would form a capital rendezvous for the transaction of business. There is a connection with both the Mutual and National telephones, and the reports of the Manchester Stock Exchange and Liverpool Cotton Exchange are posted as issued — a rare boon to men on ’Change, who are thus enabled to see the state of affairs at headquarters while transacting a little private business at the café. The entire concern is under the most efficient management, and with a perfect cuisine and unexceptionable attendance, combined with strictly moderate charges, has evidently, as our American cousins would say, “come to stay.”

To make Coffee fit to drink, use the Arabian Coffee Pans, as per illustrations. Sold at the Café; also our real Mocha Coffee by the pound.

A. W. PRIDHAM (LATE BRUCE), DIAMOND, PEARL, AND GEM MERCHANT, JEWELLER AND WATCH MANUFACTURER,
8, ST. ANN’S SQUARE, MANCHESTER.

THIS well-known and eminently reputable house was founded about fifty years ago by Mr. Alexander Bruce, who commenced operations in St. Ann’s Street. Thoroughly conversant with every department of his business, and possessing great energy and enterprise, the founder soon succeeded in establishing his undertaking on a sure and firm basis. After a successful and honourable career, he retired in 1885, and was succeeded by the present proprietor, a gentleman who has fully maintained the high standard of excellence for which the establishment has long been noted, and at the same time has augmented its resources and added to its connection. The premises in St. Ann’s Square, which have been occupied about ten years, consist of a large single-fronted shop, having plate windows, in which are tastefully displayed a costly and well-selected assortment of jewellery of every description. The interior of the shop and the show-room are elaborately fitted up with long rows of show-cases, fitted to repletion with the large stocks the house holds. The work-rooms are in the basement. They are lofty and well-lighted, and furnished with every appliance and requisite for successfully discharging the business «carried on.

Every article emanating from this responsible house is of superior excellence, and is guaranteed to be exactly as represented. In variety of selection, beauty of workmanship and style and fashion, the stocks held by, Mr. Pridham cannot be surpassed in Manchester, and manufacturers’ prices are quoted. A special feature is made of watches, of which the firm turn out large quantities. Their gold and silver keyless watches are splendid value for money. They are strong, handsome, and perfect in mechanism, and every one is warranted to be in good going order. Mr. Pridham is making a very superior kind of watch, which is guaranteed to vary not more than twenty seconds in a month. It is made in solid eighteen-carat gold case, and although offered at less than half the price, is equal to those usually sold at one hundred guineas each.

Mr. Pridham has recently gained fresh laurels, a watch of his having been awarded 91.6 marks at the Kew Observatory. This is the highest percentage on record, and at once stamps the watch in question as the finest pocket timekeeper in existence. This high standard was not, of course, reached without some amount of care and pains, for it took over three years of close application and observation to adjust and bring this watch to such a pitch of perfection. The house shows magnificent selections of diamond and gem engagement rings, ranging in value from thirty shillings to one hundred and fifty pounds each, gold and gem bracelets, gem fichu and lace brooches, solid gold brooches, watch chains of every pattern and style, electro-plated and silver goods of the most costly and recherché character, &c. A special feature is made of the wholesale trade with shippers. A large staff of skilled workmen is kept constantly employed, and all orders and repairs receive prompt attention. The proprietor devotes his able and energetic personal supervision to the business as a whole. All his transactions are marked by fair and honourable methods, and he retains the respect of all who come into business contact with him.

WILLIAM E. CARY, SPRING AND AXLE MANUFACTURER, IRON AND STEEL MERCHANT,
RED BANK WORKS, MANCHESTER.

THIS is a respectable and well-known house in its own special line of business as a spring and axle manufactory, also iron and steel merchant, &c. Operations were originally commenced in 1848, by the father of the present proprietor, in the same premises as now. The proprietor having a thorough practical knowledge of the business, and possessing great energy and perseverance, the business has become very extensive, necessitating repeated enlargements and extension of premises occupying a position of prominence second to no other house in this line of business in the kingdom. It has a three-storey frontage to Red Bank of over one hundred feet, with well-appointed offices and workshops covering about two acres of ground, with entrances also in Park Street, Leather Street, and Mount Street. The goods manufactured are well known for their superior quality and finish, not only in this country but in the Colonies. The equipment of the works leaves nothing to be desired, containing as it does all the best and most improved apparatus, plant, and machinery invented, and which is the outcome of many years’ experience.

A very large trade is done by the firm in the manufacture of springs, axles, and ironwork for every description of carriages, carts, vans, lurries, and other vehicles, both light and heavy, which productions are well known in the trade, and are generally regarded as standards of excellence in their respective lines. The materials used are the very best procurable, and none but skilled workmen are employed, who conduct their operations under the superintendence of experienced foremen. Every spring before leaving the works is proved and tested by steam-power, and no trouble or expense is spared in the endeavour to turn out a perfect article, nothing of a faulty or defective nature being allowed to leave the works which care and foresight can prevent. The strength, finish, and reliability of the springs, axles, and ironwork manufactured here cannot be surpassed, if equalled, by any other manufacturer in the kingdom; whilst prices are strictly moderate, compatible with good quality and workmanship.

The firm is also well known for its transactions in iron and steel of every description; the brands it supplies are the best and most reliable in the market. In this department extensive and well-selected stocks are kept of bar iron and steel, &c., including also various descriptions of smiths’, wheelwrights’, and coachbuilders’ tools, cart, van, and lurry hoops in various sections and sizes. During its career the house has acquired a large and valued connection, not only in Manchester and district, but throughout the country, also having in addition to its home trade a large export business, the whole being under the immediate supervision of the principal himself.
Telegrams:— “Cary, Red Bank, Manchester.”

H. STATHAM & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF INDIA-RUBBER AND WATERPROOF GOODS,
9-11, CORPORATION STREET, MANCHESTER.

AN active trade in india-rubber goods was carried on by H. Statham & Co. as long ago as the year 1838, although it was not until nine years later that gutta-percha (then newly introduced) was added. Nos. 9 to 11, Corporation Street consist of a capitally appointed shop and show-rooms of spacious proportions, in which a very large and thoroughly exhaustive stock of goods is held and displayed, including waterproof coats, caps, and leggings; suits for hunting, driving, and boating; fishing boots and garments, waterproof sheets and invalid beds; portable baths, and, in short, all kinds of garments and household requisites capable of being fashioned out of india-rubber and gutta-percha. The firm, moreover, do a very large business in india-rubber and gutta-percha sheets for engineering, mining, and mechanical purposes generally. Also rubber belting, it being claimed for these that they are superior to leather belting, being impervious to damp and changes in the weather. Among brewers, gardeners, chemical manufacturers, and others, they also do a substantial trade in tubing of all kinds. One speciality of the firm, however, which is especially worthy of mention in this place, is their patent porous elastic bandages, which have been universally admitted by medical men to be invaluable for the treatment of ulcers, varicose affections, and other diseases of the leg. These excellent bandages are specially prepared from the best and purest rubber, and are strong, perfectly elastic, practically indestructible, and provided with fine pores, thereby attaining all the advantages of porosity without detracting from the quality of the bandage as such. The business is of a very widespread and influential character, and these extensive connections are doubtless founded upon the altogether admirable manner in which its business affairs have always been conducted.

ALBERT BENNETT, DESIGNER AND ART DECORATOR TO THE TRADE,
81, BRIDGE STREET, MANCHESTER.

COLOURED designs for interiors of churches, residences, and public buildings.
Every class of decoration undertaken by contract or day work. Entire satisfaction guaranteed.
First-class decorators sent to all parts of the country.
Stencil patterns designed to order.
Special coloured drawings, showing proposed decoration, with estimate of cost, &c., prepared for master painters when competing for decorative work.
Applications by post promptly attended to.
First-class, references from the trade.

THOMAS THURMAN, BENT TIMBER MANUFACTURER,
HULME STREET, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE extensive business was established many years ago by the late Mr. Thomas Thurman, the father of the present proprietor, the latter gentleman succeeding about eighteen months ago. The premises situated in Hulme Street, Oxford Road, comprise a spacious yard, well stocked with all kinds of wood, also large and well equipped workshops, together with extensive storage accommodation, office and every convenience for the effective and economical working of a large and increasing business. Mr. Thurman keeps upwards of twenty skilled and experienced hands busily employed in the manufacture of all kinds of bent timber used in the construction of coaches and carriages, wheelwrights, washing machine makers, railway coach and tramway car builders, &c., &c.

Mr. Thurman has an excellent connection, supplying such firms as Messrs. Bradford, washing machine makers, Salford, Messrs. Ashbury’s railway carriage works, tramway company, &c. Mr. Thurman is a thoroughly practical man, with an experience extending over many years, and this advantage, combined with the possession of one of the largest and most complete establishments in the district, enables him to compete on favourable terms with any firm in the trade. A large business is also done in cutting up timber for the trade. An extensive stock is likewise kept on hand, such as mahogany, oak, walnut, &c., &c. The business in every department receives the personal attention of the proprietor. This industry is capable of enormous development, and Mr. Thurman constantly devotes his attention in that direction.

HARRISON SC CO., CONFECTIONERS,
60, KING STREET, AND 47, SOUTH KING STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE above large and superior business dates back in its history as far as the year 1770. It was founded originally in Deansgate, and has always traded under the name of Harrison. About twelve years ago it was transferred to its present premises in King Street, which are very commodious and elegantly appointed, and which possess every requisite for the proper conduct of an exceptionally large and high-class confectionery trade. The block extends through from King Street to South King Street, and is certainly one of the best equipped establishments of its kind. The appearance of the place bespeaks the select character of the business to which it is devoted, and would do credit to any house in the West End of London. Messrs. Harrison & Co.’s leading speciality for many years has consisted in wedding cakes, and in the making of these they stand unsurpassed — a fact which is supported by the circumstance that they send wedding cakes to customers in all parts of the world.

As far back as January 22nd, 1814, the following paragraph appeared in the “British Volunteer and Manchester Weekly Express”:— “On the 5th inst. a cake of excellent richness, and beautifully ornamented, was forwarded to Warwick House, London, by Miss Harrison, confectioner, of our town, as a Birthday Present to Her Royal Highness the Princess Charlotte of Wales. The receipt of it has been, most graciously acknowledged, and as a return of Miss Harrison’s respect and loyalty, it was accompanied by a warrant for Her Royal Highness’s Arms.” The warrant above referred to is still held by Messrs. Harrison & Co., and they have been honoured by royal patronage in modern times also. They made a superb wedding cake for the Princess Royal (Empress Frederick of Germany), and this was the only cake accepted. They also make for great numbers of the nobility and aristocracy at home and abroad, and maintain a remarkably distinguished connection in all parts of the country.

The general trade, apart from the speciality of wedding cakes, is a most extensive one, and embraces all the usual departments of a high-class confectionery business, including the supplying of light refreshments on the premises. Altogether, the house is one which is well known and highly esteemed in Manchester, and year by year it becomes increasingly interesting as a link binding the Manchester of to-day with the quaint, old-fashioned, and almost forgotten town which bore that name when George III. was king. The business has to a large extent been conducted by ladies, though several well-known Manchester men have been connected with it, and at all times the administration has been marked by the ability and sound judgment that command success.

THE LANCASHIRE SAND BLAST GLASS DECORATING WORKS, &C.,
SOLE PROPRIETOR, MR. E. HOLE,
CHARLES STREET, PRINCESS STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE immense development which has taken place in this branch of decorative industry is admirably illustrated by the work produced at the Lancashire sand blast, glass decorating, brilliant-cutting and crystalline works of which Mr. E. Hole is the sole proprietor. This busy and enterprising firm, which was established in 1887, is located in four extensive workshops on the ground floor, two used for grinding purposes, &c., measuring forty-five feet by thirty feet, and two utilised for the processes of bevelling, &c., being of the dimensions of sixty by forty-five feet, and there are also excellent offices and roomy show-rooms. The complicated machinery of the latest construction is driven by a powerful steam-engine, and a large number of hands are employed in producing over thirty varieties of articles, which embrace every description of engraving and ornamental work, from the naming of a soda water bottle to the most artistic and complicated designs in coloured decorative glass; also from the lettering of a tumbler to the lettering and ornamenting a granite tombstone.

Mr. E. Hole’s special achievement in this domain of art consists of the development of the process of sand blast, by the Tilghman Company’s patent sand blast machines, as applied to artistic decoration in glass, marble, granite, &c. The machinery in operation the public are courteously permitted to inspect at any hour on presentation of card. The Lancashire sand blast works have a very wide connection, and their services are particularly in demand for the production of lettered windows and door panels, advertising tablets and similar work, a department which is developing and increasing with extraordinary rapidity in response to the energetic enterprise and technical ability of Mr. E. Hole, the proprietor, who is, however, not only an enterprising and capable business man, but also a gentleman of estimable personal qualifications.

CROOKES & GRIME, BILL POSTERS,
81, LEVER STREET, PICCADILLY, MANCHESTER.

STRANGERS visiting this city, if they are observers at all, cannot fail to be impressed with the sight of the numerous mammoth posting stations in the various thoroughfares. If they care to look more closely they will perceive that all the more important ones are the property of Messrs. Crookes and Grime. Nor is this all. On all the stations owned by this spirited firm they will notice the careful and artistic manner in which the hoardings are decorated and the judicious manner in which the posters are displayed. It is too often to be lamented that hoardings which are allowed to be placed in good thoroughfares, disfigure all the surroundings by their untidy and neglected appearance, and in many instances they are a real eyesore. This fault can never be laid to the charge of Messrs. Crookes and Grime, who invariably seek to make their stations as attractive and artistic as possible. They employ twenty smart men, they keep five horses, with a good supply of carts and trucks always engaged, and Mr. Grime personally superintends their work. They have over five hundred fine stations in the very best positions. This fact, and the reliance which can be implicitly placed upon them, makes them the most popular bill posters in the district. A good show will always be made, and all posters will be placed to the very best advantage.

The firm is an old one, having been established in 1838. The premises occupied consist of a three-storied building, with basement. The frontage is sixty-six feet by twenty-one feet. One portion is used as the dwelling-house. The ground floor contains the general offices and stores. The second floor has the private offices, counting house, and waiting-room. The firm issue a full list of their stations, and they are constantly adding to the number, always being on the look out for sites, as they offer themselves. The entire bill posting business known as the “Manchester Examiner” was recently purchased by Messrs. Crookes and Grime, and since December 25th, 1891, this has been carried on in conjunction with their already extensive business, the combined businesses constituting one of the largest bill posting concerns in Great Britain. Throughout the district they are well and universally known and respected, and the highest reliance is reposed on their strict integrity.

T. H. FLORENCE, PLAIN, FANCY, AND VELVET BOX AND PATTERN CARD MANUFACTURER, &C.,
137, PRINCESS STREET, MANCHESTER.

FOUNDED in 1870, by the late Mr. W. R. G. Florence, the brother of the present able proprietor, under whose vigorous control the business came in 1875, this firm can claim to be one of the oldest and best-known institutions of its kind in the city. The premises consist of a very large and substantial five-storied building, with ample office accommodation in front, and room for considerable extension if requisite. Each floor is elaborately equipped with all the necessary machinery and appliances for the production of all kinds of plain, fancy, and velvet boxes, pattern cards, and travellers’ sample cases, and kindred commodities, and calls into active requisition the services of a staff of about a hundred well- trained hands, the number being augmented during the spring and autumn seasons, when the trade is at its best. The whole business is under the strict personal supervision of the principal, to whose judicious policy of administration much of the stability and marked success of the concern is distinctly traceable, its trade connections being very extensive amongst Manchester fancy warehouses, merchants and shippers, and also manufacturers in the other great Lancashire centres of industry. In order to facilitate business telephonic communication is arranged by which the firm is constantly in touch with their customers from all parts. The stables afford accommodation for six horses and the vans, &c., and being all on the premises enable all orders to be forwarded with the utmost despatch. In order to still further improve and hasten the delivery of goods, Mr. Florence is putting down a sawmill in the basement of the above premises, where a good stock of dry timber will always be on hand.
National telephone, No. 1107. Mutual telephone, No. 406.

C. SCHAUB, HAIRDRESSER, PERFUMER, VENTILATED AND THEATRICAL WIG MAKER, ORNAMENTAL HAIR MANUFACTURER,
1, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS business has enjoyed a highly prosperous career for almost twenty years, having been established in 1872 by the present proprietor. The premises consist of a large, handsomely fitted double-fronted shop at the corner of Oxford Street and opposite to the Prince’s Theatre and St. Peter’s Church. Behind the front shop are the elegant hair-dressing saloons for ladies and gentlemen, fitted up with every regard for comfort, and are separate and apart from each other. The stock in the shop is a large and carefully-selected one, and comprises a great variety of toilet requisites, sponges, perfumery, hair washes, hair dyes, renovators, brushes, combs, and toilet requisites generally. Here is also a large and varied stock of theatrical wigs, court wigs, &c., for fancy dress balls and amateur performances, Mr. Schaub sending experienced artists for hairdressing and making up with theatrical requisites and “make-ups.” He also employs several experienced artists in hair, for the making up of ladies’ hair and ornamental hair-working generally. Families and schools are also attended by skilled hair-dressers.

Mr. Schaub is proprietor of the following special preparations, either of which can be forwarded to any part of the kingdom:— Schaub’s Eau Valeria, which contains in itself a wash, brilliantine, pomade, and perfume. It also produces a natural moisture on the skin, so desirable in all cases of weakness and decay, nourishing the hair without stimulating. Its properties are so softening to the hair that it requires no other oil or pomade. Schaub’s Sanitary Shaving Powder. This elegant preparation is not only clean and portable, but its use renders the shaving easier and pleasanter than any other shaving soap introduced, also prevents eruptions, which so frequently happen after shaving. Schaub’s Universal Hair Restorer, which will restore grey or faded hair to its natural colour within a few weeks, and also promotes the growth of the hair. It is to be had of hairdressers, perfumers, and medicine vendors, price 1s. large bottles, or 1s. 3d. post free. Also a Brilliantine Tonique for the hair and whiskers. Mr. Christian Schaub has conducted the business of hair-dressing, &c., in both Paris and Baden-Baden, and speaks French and German fluently.

A. HODKINSON, SADDLER, HARNESS, & COLLAR MAKER,
14, MOSS LANE WEST, MOSS SIDE, NEAR BROOK’S BAR, MANCHESTER.

MR. Hodkinson first commenced business in the year 1871, and he has since developed and increased the scope and extent of his operations with extremely gratifying and satisfactory results. The premises are excellently fitted and arranged for the purposes of a very considerable business, and there is a large and comprehensive stock of saddles, harness and collars of every description, and a variety of similar goods as well as an extensive assortment of leather trunks and portmanteaus. Mr. A. Hodkinson has long enjoyed a very high reputation in the district for the excellent quality and neat and sound workmanship which at all times distinguish the goods sent out from his establishment, and he enjoys the confidence and substantial support of a very large and influential connection among the gentry of the neighbourhood, and the principal livery stable-keepers, cab proprietors, and other owners of horses with whom he does a very excellent trade. He has long and valuable experience and a thorough knowledge of every branch of the trade, and is a capable and active man of business who is greatly esteemed and respected by all with whom he comes in contact.

WILLIAM TAYLOR, PACKING CASE MAKER,
109, GRANBY ROW, MANCHESTER.

IN a large commercial centre like Manchester, a most important function is performed by the packing case maker, and in this connection a prominent position is occupied by Mr. William Taylor, who organised his now flourishing concern thirty-two years ago in Granby Row, and developed his trade with such surprising vigour that fourteen years had scarcely passed away before he found it necessary to very considerably extend his operations by acquiring and adding the premises at No. 109 to his former factory. These consist of a large and substantial two-storied building, having a frontage of from sixty to seventy feet, augmented by machinery sheds to the rear. The works are most elaborately equipped with all the most modern machinery and appliances, and call into active requisition a force of twenty-five skilled hands all the year round. Mr. Taylor operates on a very extensive scale as a maker of wood boxes and frames for fancy box makers, confectioners, drysalters, chemists, toy makers, merchants, and others, and justly prides himself upon the durability and superiority of finish, characteristic of all the goods emanating from his establishment. He has a first-class and old-established connection in Manchester and the country at large, and it is manifestly his intention that the high reputation he has so long enjoyed shall not merely be sustained but steadily enhanced.

MUTTEEN’S GENERAL DRAPERY ESTABLISHMENT,
RUSHOLME ROAD, MANCHESTER.

IT appears from the commercial annals of the city that Mr. Mutteen commenced his active career of usefulness in the year 1887. His premises are located in the best and busiest part of Rusholme Road, and consist of a large and substantial three-storied building, having a bold frontage of some ninety feet or so. The ample accommodation afforded is elegantly appointed and most methodically arranged throughout to hold and display a stock of goods which, for volume, variety, and value alike, is practically unique of its kind, and certainly unsurpassed in the city. Among the specialities for which Mr. Mutteen has become noted must be mentioned the superior shows of ladies’ jerseys, dress-serges, cashmeres, and merinos in all the latest and most fashionable shades; ladies’ and children’s aprons and underclothing in vast variety, corsets, and seamless hosiery of every conceivable kind. Mr. Mutteen, moreover, makes it a rule to periodically offer special cheap lines in all kinds of materials from time to time; and by personal attention, small profits, and straightforward dealing, has already succeeded in building up a first-class cash business, which is now generally reckoned to be second to none of its kind in the city.

LANGSTON & HARDEN, CANE AND WILLOW SKIP MANUFACTURERS,
21 AND 23, GRANBY ROW, AND 20, RAILWAY ARCH, ALTRINCHAM STREET, MANCHESTER.

IN connection with the hamper and basket making industry of Manchester of to-day, no better example perhaps could be afforded than the above notable house, which was organised in 1858, and has ever since continued to hold a leading place in its line. The firm operate on an extensive scale as manufacturers of all kinds of hampers, doffing skips, warehouse skips, packing skips and covers, bakers’ and butchers’ baskets, and travellers’ hampers; the last-named item being made a speciality of, and having gained for the firm an unsurpassed reputation. They, moreover, do a very large and substantial wholesale business as importers and dealers in canes and willows, of which they hold an enormous stock. The premises occupied consist of a large three-storied building, the ground floor being utilised for offices and stockrooms, while the upper floors form the perfectly-equipped workshops, where a staff of skilled and experienced hands is employed under the able personal supervision of Mr. Langston. The business in all its branches is conducted with conspicuous energy and ability; and no firm could have won by more honourable and legitimate means the eminent position and extensive business connections which this house has so long and so worthily enjoyed.

ISAAC JOHNSON, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL BED AND MATTRESS MANUFACTURER,
162 & 164, GREAT JACKSON STREET, HULME, MANCHESTER.

THIS flourishing business has been prominently before the commercial world ever since it was first launched in the year 1859. The extensive and commodious premises consist of two large shops thrown into one, with ample store-rooms above. The large and comprehensive stock is very effectively displayed, and comprises all kinds of hair, flock, and spring mattresses, brass and iron bedsteads, &c.; a large stock of feathers, hair, wool, and cotton flocks always in hand. A large trade is also done in the repairing, cleaning and re-dressing of mattresses of all kinds, as well as in re-upholstering, &c. Mr. Johnson not only has a very considerable business of a wholesale character, but he has also a very large and influential connection amongst retail buyers. The reputation of the house for superior quality and sound workmanship is unexceptionable, and the management in every department is characterised by the most skilful and experienced judgment. Mr. Isaac Johnson is a shrewd and capable man of the highest personal qualifications, and he is looked up to and esteemed by all with whom he enters into relations in business or in private life.

WILLIAM EAGLES, SODA WATER ENGINEER, &C.,
SPRINGFIELD BRASS AND COPPER WORKS, EAST YORK STREET, SPRINGFIELD LANE, SALFORD.

THIS business was originated more than thirty years ago by Mr. William Eagles, and was by him developed with much ability and foresight. The work he turned out became soon recognised in the trade as among the best procurable, and the solid and secure foundation of the present extensive business was speedily raised. The administration of affairs is now in the hands of his sons, Messrs. Joseph, Richard, and Harry Eagles, Mr. F. Eagles (nephew), and Mr. J. Sharrocks, an old servant of the firm. The premises occupied are amply sufficient for the adequate control of the business on hand. They comprise a number of two-storey buildings, including well-appointed offices, warehouses, shops of various sizes for the different branches of manufacture, and furnaces, &c., the motive power being supplied by a powerful steam-engine. All the different departments are perfectly equipped with plant and machinery of the best and most improved kind that the experience and judgment of the proprietors could procure, the slotting machines and turning lathes calling for special mention.

A large and valuable trade is here controlled in the manufacture of aerated water machinery, and all kinds of brass and copper work. Quality is made the first consideration at this noteworthy establishment. Specious and fanciful improvements find no favour with this firm, their object being to supply goods at a reasonable price which shall give the utmost satisfaction to their clients. Best material, sound and finished workmanship, perfect mechanism, and all the latest real improvements are the characteristics of all their manufacture.

Among their many leading specialities may be noticed their Patent Eagle Turnover Filler, which has no equal for accuracy, rapidity, and ease in working. It is specially manufactured to sustain wear and tear, and by a simple arrangement a boy can connect, fill, regulate, inject, or disconnect the syrup with certainty and despatch. Their Double Soda Water Cylinders are so constructed as to enable the manufacturer of aerated waters to maintain two distinct and separate pressures, by which, he can bottle lemonade and soda water from the same cylinder. Each chamber has a capacity of from ten to thirty gallons, and each can be worked separately. This machine has met with great favour among large manufacturers, and in efficiency and price has few rivals. Another notable speciality is Messrs. Eagles’ Patent Syphon Filling Machine for beer, wines, and all still liquors. Vast numbers of this machine have been sold during the last few years. By its use there is no waste from syphons or overflow of bottles, being filled with a self-regulating supply arrangement. There is, as well, the Patent Treadle Corking Machine for beer, claret, wines, and still liquors, which is recognised as being the fastest and most perfect yet invented. It does a hundred dozen per hour, and never gets out of order. The cork is compressed and driven home with one pressure of the foot on the treadle.

The firm are noted manufacturers of acid cisterns, safety bottom boxes, complete plant for aerated water makers, pans, washing apparatus, fillers of all kinds, pumps, generators, syrup-room requisites, &c. A large connection has been established all through the country among mineral water manufacturers, wine and spirit merchants, bottlers of ale and porter, &c.; and a force of forty hands is employed to meet the demands upon the business. All orders receive prompt and efficient attention, and satisfactory prices and honourable treatment can always be relied upon at this responsible establishment. The proprietors are men of large experience and of great skill and ability in their special line, and their constant supervision is bestowed upon the manufacture in all its departments. No effort is spared on their part to maintain the high reputation their goods have achieved. In private life they are well known and much respected by a large circle of friends and acquaintances.

J. J. KNIGHT, BUILDER, CONTRACTOR, AND DECORATOR,
BOLTON STREET, SALFORD.

THE extensive business now carried on by Mr. J. J. Knight, was founded some eighteen years ago by Messrs. Knight & Woolley. This partnership was dissolved in 1886, and since that time Mr. Knight has been the sole proprietor. The premises in Bolton Street comprise a spacious yard well stocked with English and foreign timber and building materials, also well-equipped workshops, office, and every convenience for the successful working of a large and increasing business. Mr. Knight is well employed in every branch of the business as a builder and contractor, painter, and decorator, and one leading feature may be said to consist of warehouse work, both in the building and decorating. He has most successfully carried out many large and important contracts. The trade is not solely confined to Manchester and Salford, but the operations extend into various parts of the surrounding counties. Mr. Knight possesses the advantage of long and thorough practical experience. He is well known and highly respected in the trade and widely recognised as a courteous and enterprising business man.

RICHARD NEILD, THE OLD ORIGINAL LADDER & BARROW MAKER,
35, LIVERPOOL ROAD, OPPOSITE ST. MATTHEW’S CHURCH, MANCHESTER.

UNIQUE among the special industries of Manchester of to-day stands the house of Mr. Eichard Neild, whose nickname of “The Old Original Ladder and Barrow Maker” has for many years been familiar to purchasers of such commodities throughout the United Kingdom. The present proprietor, who is son of the late Wm. Neild, entered upon his career of activity in the year 1844, and is to-day one of the largest ladder makers in Manchester, and holds by far the largest stock of ladders, box and navvies’ barrows, painters’ trestles, step ladders, scaffold poles, and hand-carts and trucks in the city. He holds in readiness as many as three hundred iron and wood stave ladders, and one hundred step ladders and painters’ trestles, and from one or two hundred navvies’ barrows, box barrows, garden barrows, brick-makers’ barrows, and toy barrows. He operates on an extensive scale, not only as a general manufacturer and dealer in Norway poles and spars, but as a contractor to large companies, to the Manchester and surrounding district corporations and local boards; and in all correspondence it is necessary to address Richard Neild, 35, Liverpool Road, Manchester, as he has no connection with other firms of that name in Liverpool Road.

The premises occupied consist of workshops, sheds, and yard accommodation at 35, Liverpool Road, stocked to repletion with the goods for which Mr. Neild has become so justly celebrated. In addition to these Mr. Neild holds other workshops and stores, with ample space for the storage of barrows, ladders, and the like at Great Bridgewater Street. He employs a staff of skilled and experienced workmen, and personally conducts his undertaking with enterprise and energy, upon principles which have won for him the confidence and patronage of a very large, influential, and rapidly growing connection in all parts of the country.

H. J. MCBURNEY, CARVER AND GILDER,
CITY GILDING WORKS, 171, LONDON ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE mediaeval art of the carver and gilder is fitly and adequately illustrated by the well-known establishment of Mr. Hamilton James McBurney, which was founded at the above address in 1860. The premises consist of a handsomely-appointed shop, with a spacious workshop in the rear. The interior decorations are very attractive, and the working plant is well found and in thorough order. The stock held is very large and comprehensive, comprising a choice assortment of chimney glasses in gilt, wooden and ebony frames, picture frames of all descriptions, made of the best English, German and French mouldings, oak and Oxford frames, oval frames for photographs in filigree work, and a recherché collection of specially registered designs for photographs, and a splendid and varied selection of heavy gilt frames for oil paintings, &c. The work comprised in the executive department includes the manufacture of mirror and picture frames, the mounting and varnishing of drawings and the lining and restoring of paintings generally. The branch to which the greatest attention is devoted is frame-making, re-gilding, and picture lining and restoring, for which the house has a pre-eminent reputation. There is also a large and varied selection of window cornices, girandoles, brackets, &c., always in stock. A staff of from four to five skilled and experienced carvers and gilders is constantly employed. Mr. McBurney is the sole proprietor and personally superintends the business. He is a thoroughly practical craftsman and by his genial courtesy, strict integrity and punctilious exactitude with which he executes all orders entrusted to him by his patrons, has won their personal esteem and regard. The trade extends all over Manchester and adjacent districts, also Ireland and Scotland, and conducted among the upper and middle classes generally. Estimates are given (free), and high-class references if required.

A. DOVE & CO., TEA AND COFFEE MERCHANTS,
68, BRUNSWICK STREET AND 85, HIGHER TEMPLE STREET, MANCHESTER.

OPERATIONS were commenced by the present proprietor in 1875, and by enterprise, energy, and splendid executive ability, combined with a rare knowledge of the requirements of the business, he soon gathered round him the nucleus of an important connection. Repeated enlargements of the premises became necessary, and branch houses were opened in various parts of the city. The central premises are ample in magnitude and thoroughly convenient; they consist of an extensive block of two-storey building, with a commanding frontage of sixty feet in extent, comprising spacious sale-room with fine plate-glass windows, well filled with choice selections of first-class groceries and other goods, and a suite of well- appointed offices on the first floor, and warehouses and store rooms on the first floor; the cellars, which are of a very superior kind, are also utilized as store-rooms for the immense stocks the house holds for the supply of its branch establishments.

A large and important trade is controlled here in tea and coffee, general grocery and provisions. No house in the trade bears a higher reputation for the excellence and uniform superiority of everything it supplies. Mr. Dove has graduated in every department of his business, particularly in tea, of which he is an experienced judge, and his ability in this direction is fully recognised, by the high official position he occupies in the tea market and grocery exchange. Tea is made at this establishment a leading speciality. The proprietor’s intimate knowledge of the trade and his widespread and influential connections place him in a position to command the “pick of the markets,” and consignments from all the finest crops in China, India, and Ceylon find their way into his various establishments. In blended teas the house is particularly strong, and, indeed, their special “mixing” is the outcome of the proprietor’s many years’ experience in this department. Coffee forms another important feature here. The supplies are obtained from the choicest productions of the East Indies and Jamaica, and are always fresh. The coffee is sold whole or ground, and roasting is done every day upon the premises. Every department of grocery and provisions is thoroughly represented by well selected and superior goods, which in quality cannot be excelled in Manchester.

As a representative establishment the firm hold extensive stocks of first-class goods, which have been chosen with an intimate knowledge of the business and a thorough acquaintance with the acquirements of the public. They comprise tea, coffee, butter, and almost every article of grocery, together with splendid supplies of bacon, Wiltshire, Irish, American, English and mild cured, smoked and dried, Cumberland, Wiltshire and American hams, cheese of all kinds, including Cheddar, Stilton, Cheshire, American, and Gorgonzola. Butter is one of the leading articles, and they import largely of fresh, Danish, Kiel, and the productions of the most celebrated creameries. Tinned goods in all the best known brands. The business done is both wholesale and retail. An extensive and influential family connection has been established in Manchester and the surrounding districts, and an important wholesale trade is carried on with small grocers and dealers. A large staff is employed, including managers for the various branches, assistants, warehousemen, draymen and others, and every attention is given to orders of whatever magnitude.

The branch establishments are at 194, Stockport Road, C.-on-M.; The Longsight Tea and Butter Mart, 566, Stockport; and 2, Stockport Road, Lavenshulme. Mr. Dove gives his able and valuable supervision to the business in its entirety. He is well-known in private and commercial circles, and is much esteemed for his personal rectitude, his ability, public spirit and honourable methods of business.

JAMES NICHOLSON, TAILOR AND WOOLLEN DRAPER,
58, KING STREET, AND 45, SOUTH KING STREET, MANCHESTER.

MR. James Nicholson commenced operations in this trade as far back as the year 1855. The business has been located at its present headquarters since 1879. These premises are very commodious and handsomely appointed, and are admirably adapted to the purposes of the high-class trade to which they are devoted. The spacious shop, with its conveniently-arranged cutting and fitting rooms adjoining, affords ample accommodation to all departments of the business, and the large and varied stocks held on the premises have been selected with great care and judgment in the best markets, Mr. Nicholson’s policy being to supply only the best qualities of goods, and maintain a high standard of excellence in both the style and the quality of all his productions. He employs only the most skilful and experienced cutters and workmen, and in all branches of fashionable tailoring his establishment enjoys a reputation equal to that of any other house in Manchester.

Mr. Nicholson is justly famous for his elegant and stylish productions in ladies’ jackets, ulsters, and riding habits. Visitors, to this establishment will always find a splendid stock of piece goods to select from, all the newest patterns, shades, and textures for each season being added to the selection at the earliest date; and, haying made their choice and given their order, they will find that Mr. Nicholson is in a position to turn out garments equal to the very best in cut, fit, finish, and general workmanship. He sends his productions all over the kingdom, and has regular customers in many parts of the world. The general connection maintained is of a distinctly superior character, and the affairs of the house are personally directed by the principal, who is a thoroughly capable business man, and a master of his trade in all its departments.

LUKE WARWICK, SEWING AND KNITTING MACHINE MANUFACTURER,
CENTRAL WORKS, 25, HILTON STREET, OLDHAM STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was established as far back as the year 1861 by Mr. James Warwick, originally at No. 59, Hilton Street. Mr. Warwick was succeeded by his brother, Mr. Luke Warwick, the present proprietor, in 1888. The business was then removed to the more extensive and commodious premises now occupied, which consist of a large three-storey building and basement. The latter is used as a workshop for polishing, &c. On the ground floor are large and well-appointed offices and show-rooms. The floors above are used as workshops and for storage purposes. The premises are eminently suited to the business, having been specially fitted up and arranged in the most careful and complete manner, to ensure the effective and economical working of the various departments. Mr. Warwick employs a large staff of skilled and experienced men in the manufacture of sewing and knitting machines, and has introduced into the construction of these useful articles many important inventions and improvements, and it is interesting to note that Mr. James Warwick was awarded six first prize medals at different exhibitions.

In the show-rooms the firm have a splendid display of machines, both of their own manufacture and by other eminent makers, which are admirably arranged for easy trial and comparison. A large stock of accessories of all kinds are also held and oil specially prepared is supplied to the trade. Repairs of all kinds receive prompt attention, and are executed with the least possible delay, consistent with perfect and reliable workmanship. Mr. Warwick is a thoroughly practical man, with an experience extending over many years, and this advantage, combined with the possession of one of the largest and most complete works in the district, enables him to compete on favourable terms with any firm in the trade. The reputation of the firm’s sewing and knitting machines is well and firmly established, and their increasing popularity is well attested by the continued demand upon the resources of the works for their production.

BROWN & WILSON, SEED AND BULB MERCHANTS,
10, MARKET PLACE, MANCHESTER.

MESSRS. Brown & Wilson, who had been formerly with the well-known house of Messrs. Dickson, Brown & Tait, laid the foundation of their extensive and flourishing business as recently as the year 1888; they have since steadily and progressively increased and developed the scope and extent of their transactions, while the business shows every promise of still further continuous and satisfactory increase. The premises, which are centrally and prominently situated in an excellent business position in Market Place, consist of a large and handsome shop with roomy and commodious store-rooms on the ground floor, containing a large and comprehensive stock of all kinds of vegetables and flower seeds, as well as Dutch and other bulbs imported direct from the leading Continental growers. There is also an extensive assortment of garden tools and requisites of all descriptions, lawn mowers, &c., as well as seedsmen’s sundries of every kind.

The firm have in addition a spacious warehouse at Garden Lane, Salford, and here are stored immense supplies of clovers, grasses, turnips, mangolds and all other seeds appertaining to the farm. Messrs. Brown & Wilson enjoy the warmest confidence and substantial support of a very large and influential connection among the principal farmers and other buyers in a wide area of the surrounding counties, and they do a very considerable trade at the various weekly markets. They are well known as a sound and substantial firm, possessing a wide and valuable experience and intimate knowledge of all the details of the trade, while personally and individually Messrs. John George Brown and James Wilson are very popular in commercial circles, and universally respected and esteemed by all with whom they have dealings.

BIRCH & EDWARDS, THE MANCHESTER LINEN WAREHOUSE,
6, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was established in 1887 by the above-named gentlemen. The trade has been steadily progressive and the firm have secured the confidence and support of a very extensive and high-class connection. At the above address Messrs. Birch & Edwards occupy very handsome double-fronted premises, situate near the Cathedral the Exchange and the Victoria Railway Station. The interior, which extends back a distance of forty feet, is fitted up in a very superior style, admirably appointed and well arranged for the display and storage of the large and varied stock. To meet the extensive requirements of the trade the firm hold a very large and thoroughly representative stock of goods, including household linens of every description, down quilts, blankets, flannels, table linen, curtains, quilts, calicoes, &c.

Messrs. Birch & Edwards are also sole agents in Manchester for a new production — damask tea-cloths manufactured in silk and linen, in which some most recherché designs have been produced. The effects are something marvellous, the workmanship unique — in fact we have never seen anything to equal their beauty. Household linens are also hemmed and marked free of charge. These goods are all of exceptional quality, selected with great care and sound judgment and supplied direct from the best manufacturers. The trade is of a widespread, influential and steadily-growing character, and in addition to the extensive local connection the firm have patrons in all parts of the country. The business in every department receives the direct personal attention of Mr. Birch, who is now the sole proprietor, and is conducted throughout with ability, energy, and enterprise.

J. M. LEIGH & SON, GENERAL IRONMONGERS,
67, DEANSGATE STREET, AND 17, BARTON SQUARE, MANCHESTER.

FOR upwards of half a century this eminent firm has occupied a leading position in this line of business in Manchester. Originally established at No. 37, Market Street, the firm recently acquired the more extensive and commodious premises now occupied. These consist of a large building of five storeys, containing a handsome and well-appointed shop and offices on the ground floor, and elegantly fitted up show-rooms on the first and second floors. The premises also contain large and well-equipped workshops together with extensive storage accommodation and every convenience for the successful working of a large and increasing business. Messrs. Leigh & Son hold a very large and comprehensive stock of goods, embracing a most extensive assortment of general and furnishing ironmongery, lamps of all kinds, including many elegant examples of the new “safeties.” A very choice selection of electroplated goods, brassware of all kinds, fenders and fire-irons, coal-vases, fire-dogs, electric and other bells, and their accessories, and amongst the heavier goods may be mentioned agricultural and garden implements, tradesmen’s tools, stoves, grates, kitchen ranges, and steam cooking and heating apparatus, the latter being manufactured on the premises.

An efficient staff of skilled and experienced workmen being regularly employed, with the superior facilities at command, and this immense stock to choose from, Messrs. J. M. Leigh & Son are enabled to give their customers exceptional advantages and to execute orders on the best terms and with the utmost despatch. The business is now in the hands of Mr. T. R. Leigh, the son of the original proprietor. This gentleman possesses the advantage of long and thorough practical experience, and he conducts the business with commendable energy, and spares no effort to maintain and extend the high reputation the establishment has so long enjoyed.

THE NATIONAL COMMERCIAL AGENCY FOR THE PROTECTION OF TRADE,
9, TIB LANE, ALBERT SQUARE, MANCHESTER.

THE valuable and indispensable services rendered to the commercial community by such admirable institutions as those of which the National Commercial Agency for the Protection of Trade is a typical and representative example cannot be too highly estimated. The National Commercial Agency is admirably organised and managed with much experienced skill and judgment, while the office is well known as one of the oldest and most reliable of its kind, having been originally established in the year 1867. Its main objects are to undertake the collection of debts in any part of the United Kingdom, the colonies, and foreign parts, the making of inquiries as to the status and respectability of subscribers’ customers, the facilitating of the prompt and economical realisation of insolvent estates, the issue of authentic lists of bills of sale, registrations, bankruptcies, &e., with lists of creditors and other information, to suggest and support measures for the protection of traders and the improvement of commercial law, and finally to co-operate with other agencies or associations having similar objects. Monthly and weekly lists and gazettes are issued to subscribers, and notwithstanding the great utility and the undoubted benefits offered, the terms of subscription are remarkably low. The management and organisation of the agency reflect the greatest credit upon the energy, ability, and business experience and knowledge of the clever manager, Mr. Francis W. Burn, to whose successful and unwearying endeavours the present high position of the society is entirely to be attributed. This gentleman is also the author of the “Commercial Guide,” a work of wide circulation, and one acknowledged by the press and public to be of great utility to the trading community. The agency is in constant communication with other associations, and has branches and agents in every market town in the United Kingdom.

FRANCIS DICKINSON, PLAIN AND FANCY BOX MAKER,
10A, HULME STREET, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was established in 1857 by the present proprietor, who for a great number of years has enjoyed the reputation of turning out all classes of his work in a faultless style, the result being that his connection in Manchester and district is valuable and extensive. All kinds of plain and fancy boxes are made, by steam power and patent machinery. They are suitable especially for velvets and velveteens, sewing cottons, braids and laces, silk twist, linen thread, umbrellas, hosiery and haberdashery, elastic webs, boots and shoes, chemists and drysalters, pencils, underclothing, drapers’ stock boxes, rubber articles, &c. The large works are specially well adapted to the requirements of the business. They consist of offices, with warehouse and stock rooms, and the box-making rooms, which are of two floors. The box-making rooms are fitted up with many improved novelties in machinery, for quickly performing certain sections of the work. There are about eighty hands employed, mostly females. These perform their duties in a very quick and thorough manner, having evidently received careful training. The growing competition in this trade has caused a great number to relinquish the industry. Mr. Dickinson, however, is in that solid position that competitors — however numerous — make no difference to him. He has made his name, and his connection with the largest manufacturing houses in the kingdom continues to increase. He is a kind and considerate employer, many of his workpeople being with him upwards of twenty years, and he has the reputation of being a well- respected citizen.

ROBERT RAMSBOTTOM, GUT IMPORTER AND FISHING TACKLE MANUFACTURER,
81, MARKET STREET, MANCHESTER.

LOVERS of the “gentle sport” are perhaps nowhere in the world better catered for than at the celebrated house of Mr. Robert Ramsbottom, a gentleman whose experience as a practical angler of note during the past quarter of a century has served as a constant source of attraction for sportsmen to the busy city. Mr. Ramsbottom formed the nucleus of his now leading institution in the year 1866, and so zealously did he pursue his business, that it now unquestionably stands unique of its kind in the great city. The premises occupied are peculiarly suited in all respects to the business requirements of a first-class sportsman’s emporium. They consist of an exceedingly handsome and well-appointed shop, replete with every fitment for the display of a splendid selection of sporting guns and rifles by all the leading makers, prominent amongst which are numerous examples of Westley-Richards’ and Greener’s celebrated guns. Then there is every conceivable kind of ammunition game bags, and all kinds of sportsman’s requisites. But the main feature of the business is centred in the magnificent fishing-rods and fishing tackle held, and here Mr. Ramsbottom stands practically unrivalled in Manchester. He operates as one of the largest importers in the kingdom of all kinds of gut, and it may be mentioned, in this connection, that he won a gold medal and diploma of honour, being the only medal awarded for gut and gut casts at the Great International Fisheries Exhibition, London, 1883. In his executive department he employs a large staff of skilled workmen in the manufacture of high-class fishing tackle, and his trade connection extends, not only throughout the kingdom, but to all parts of the continent and colonies. His telegraphic address is “Piscator, Manchester,” and his telephone No. 1539, with a full staff of courteous assistants. Sportsmen will find in the worthy principal a ready and valuable adviser upon all questions relating to their favourite pastimes, and an unerring practical guide to the choice implements, and especially of those relating to the capture of the finny tribe.

SHARP & THOMPSON, ARTISTIC PRINTERS, STATIONERS AND ACCOUNT BOOK MAKERS,
10, WATLING STREET, MANCHESTER

THIS business was established as above in 1888, and at once took a prominent position in the trade. Messrs. Sharp & Thompson occupy very extensive and commodious premises, which comprise spacious and well-equipped workrooms, office, show-room and all the accessories of a large and thoroughly organised establishment. The various departments are replete with machinery and appliances, embodying all the latest improvements specially adapted for the production of high-class work. The firm undertake all kinds of general printing, and devote special attention to artistic work, as almanacs, catalogues, concert and ball programmes, menu and invitation cards, trade marks, show cards, coloured tickets for every description of goods, &c. Bookbinding is also carried out in all its branches. Samples of work which well display in beauty and originality of design, elegance and accuracy in every detail of execution may be seen on application. A large business is also done in general commercial and school stationery, account books, ledgers, journals, diaries, &c., &c., Messrs. Sharp & Thompson have an excellent connection and so complete are all the arrangements of the house and the facilities afforded by the large plant of improved machinery at command that the proprietors are in a position to compete on favourable terms with any firm in the trade. Both the partners are thoroughly practical and take an active part in the business, and a commendable spirit of enterprise and energy conspicuous in the management of every department. Mutual telephone No. 803.

T. J. SHEPHERD, BAKER AND FLOUR DEALER,
520, OLDHAM ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable business was organised in the year 1836 by the father of the present proprietor, who succeeded to the concern in the ordinary course of events, after a long and thoroughly practical training, which served him in good stead in enabling him to keep well in advance of the times, as may be gathered from the following observations concerning the present condition of his business, taken from notes collected upon the spot. The premises occupied consist of a spacious handsomely-appointed shop, augmented by a modern bakery, embodying all the most notable improvements for the production of wholesome, hygienic breads, and the like in quantities to meet the demands of a very large and constantly growing trade of the best class. A splendid selection of fancy and plain breads is always attractively disposed in the shop, which is characteristically clean and inviting in appearance, and the bread is daily distributed with despatch by the firm’s own vans to customers dwelling for many miles around. He has also opened a branch shop at 514, Rochdale Road.

Mr. Shepherd, a gentleman of very varied attainments, is also the proprietor of one of the best and most popular general and commercial stationery depots in the district, occupying the premises, No. 268, Oldham Road, to which is attached the Lower Oldham Road postal, money order, and telegraphic offices. To conclude, the enthusiasm and earnestness which Mr. Shepherd displays in the management of his extensive business, combined with his genial courtesy, have deservedly gained for him the confidence and esteem of a very widespread and valuable connection, and rendered this establishment one of the most populous and best patronised in the populous district of which it is the centre.

DAVID PRATT, PRACTICAL SHIRT AND COLLAR MAKER, HOSIER, GLOVER, AND GENTLEMEN'S OUTFITTER,
62, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable concern, which was organised many years ago by a Mr. Woodrow, has since the year 1879 been under the vigorous control of Mr. David Pratt, a gentleman whose extended experience and intimate acquaintance with all the details of his craft, has availed in placing his undertaking in the very foremost ranks of the trade. The premises occupied are very large, commodious, and handsomely appointed throughout to hold and display a stock which comprises a splendid assortment of real Scotch natural wool hosiery, warranted to be pure and undyed, lumbago and liver belts recommended by the medical profession, ladies’ and gentlemen’s English and foreign kid gloves, silk and cambric handkerchiefs, mufflers, collars, fronts, and wristbands, spun silk underclothing, braces, belts, jewellery, and the like, lawn tennis, cricket and boating trousers, coats, shirts, caps, belts, sashes, scarfs, and ribbons, hand- knitted sweaters, white long-cloth shirts, the best quality of Oxford and French cambric shirts, flannel shirts (of which a great speciality is made), pyjama suits made from selected materials, dressing gowns, rugs, and Scotch mauds, from all the leading manufacturers of the day, outfits for all climates, and ladies’ and gentlemen’s umbrellas.

Mr. Pratt operates on a very large scale as a high-class shirt maker, producing goods which will compare favourably both in point of price and finish with those of the best London makers. His workrooms, to the rear of the sale and show department, are large, light, airy, and perfectly equipped, and here a large staff of skilled hands is employed under his direct personal supervision. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume, locally as well as in distant parts, some of Mr. Pratt’s regular customers sending in their orders from London, and all parts of the kingdom, seeing that he keeps an accurate register of all measurements taken. The business in all its branches is most capably conducted, and unquestionably reflects the greatest credit upon the administrative abilities and business acumen of its worthy chief.

H. R. FREEBORN, OUTFITTER, CLOTHIER, SHIRT MAKER, HOSIER AND GLOVER,
COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS, 13, CROSS STREET, MANCHESTER.

A CONSPICUOUS position among the noted business houses of Manchester, not only on account of its extent and importance, but also for the unequalled range of high-class goods it offers to the public, must be ascribed to the well-known and reputable establishment of Mr. H. R. Freeborn, of Commercial Buildings, 13, Cross Street, outfitter, clothier, shirt- maker, hosier, and glover. This noteworthy business was established more than half a century ago. At its first inception it grew rapidly in public favour and patronage, and during the whole of the interim its career has been marked by continuous progress and prosperity, until at the present day it may justly claim to be, in its special line, the leading house in Manchester. Operations are carried on in an attractive and substantial block of buildings, four storeys high, comprising handsome and spacious shop, thoroughly fitted up with every requisite, large, lofty and well-lighted show-rooms and capacious warehouses. The interior of the establishment has been provided with every convenience of arrangement for accommodation, display, and sale. The stocks are disposed with judgment and taste, and with the greatest regard for the effectiveness of the exhibition, and every opportunity has been taken advantage of to minister to the comfort and even luxury of the large body of influential patrons. A manifest system of organization pervades the whole establishment, and even at the busiest time, when every department is thronged with a crowd of visitors, the business is conducted in a quiet, orderly and highly effective manner, and the wishes and wants of customers are promptly and courteously seen to by a large staff of competent, attentive, and well- disciplined assistants.

An extensive and important business is here conducted by the firm as high-class tailors, hosiers, and general outfitters to all parts of the world. Everything proffered by this celebrated house is of the best kind only, and such as can be absolutely guaranteed to be unsurpassed by the productions of any other kindred establishment. The large and wide experience of the worthy proprietor has given him a special acquaintance with all the most eligible sources of supply, and his stocks are replete with the best and most novel goods in every line in which he is engaged. The vast and varied stores held by Mr. Freeborn are unequalled by any other house in the trade either in extent or variety, and every want connected with this department of industry, however uncommon or outre it may be, can here be speedily, satisfactorily and fully supplied. So comprehensive and all-embracing are the resources of this emporium, that the enterprising traveller can be fitted out thoroughly and completely for a residence at the Equator or the North Pole at a few minutes’ notice — in fact, while he waits.

The tailoring department is kept in a high state of efficiency, and the coatings, vestings, and trouserings displayed include all the most fashionable materials and patterns, and a numerous staff of experienced cutters and tailors turn out garments to measure which for style, fit and fabric, cannot be surpassed. Servants’ liveries and ladies’ riding-habits receive special attention at the hands of the proprietor, who is also offering a new design of hunting-belt, which is receiving well-deserved patronage. Particular features are made of Melton and Tweed water-repellant overcoats, and the wide-famed Corazza shirts. An exceedingly large and very superior stock of hosiery for gentlemen is exhibited, including gentlemen’s under vests, drawers, hose and half-hose in silk, cotton, merino, mohair, cashmere, and lamb’s wool, in every gradation of size and suitable for every clime. Umbrellas and gloves are profusely represented, and every taste and every pocket can be thoroughly gratified and accommodated. The house is noted throughout the “north countrie” for the unequalled manner in which it furnishes complete outfits for all parts of the world.

Every requisite and desideratum is comprised in Mr. Freeborn’s omnigenous stores. Whether the “globe trotter” be bound for India, Australia, China, Brazil, New Zealand, Africa, or Siberia, he can find all he wants for the voyage and for use on arrival at his destination at this unique house alone without being troubled to visit half-a-dozen establishments; and at prices which will bear comparison with those of any establishment supplying one article specially. The diversity of the stocks is amazing, and include such a wide range of goods for wear or use as the following:— Arctic wool underclothing, jerseys for yachting, boating, &c., Cashmere shirts, India gauze pants, chamois pants, anti-cholera belts, pilot coats, alpaca jackets, Russia duck jackets, linen drill trousers, storm caps, travelling ulsters, Scotch mauds, India-rubber overcoats, cabin lamps and furniture, deck shoes, puggarees, India hats, hammocks, sunshades for the tropics, trunks, revolvers, mosquito curtains, &c., &c.

Special lines are made at this noted house of athletic clothing, of which there is ample and high-class variety of the newest and most approved styles and colours, together with gentlemen’s dressing gowns, of which the house shows, probably, the largest and choicest stock in Manchester. Particular mention may also be made of the following special items:— the Argosy and Cantab braces, invisible trousers’ stretchers, and the magnificent travelling bags, overland trunks, and Saratogas, which are perfectly and luxuriously fitted up and are of durable and superior workmanship. Mr. Freeborn, by his ability, energy and enterprise, has obtained a connection of uncommon magnitude and value, and every effort and desire is manifested by him to merit and obtain continued confidence and support. The variety and excellence of his. stocks cannot be surpassed, and reasonable prices are the characteristics of his administration. With such credentials as these, this representative establishment must have a bright career of increased prosperity and success before it.

A. H. GIBSON, COMPLETE HOUSE FURNISHER,
90, 92, 94, 96, STRETFORD ROAD, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the prominent firms in Manchester who have for a long period been actively and extensively engaged in supplying good substantial furniture at reasonable prices, none enjoy a wider or more prosperous connection than the above-named. A start was made in this direction in 1851 on the site still occupied, and by energy and ability the founder rapidly developed it into an important concern. Repeated enlargements of the premises were necessitated from time to time, and to-day the establishment, in the extent and importance of its operations, has few superiors in Manchester. The premises occupied are spacious in size and thoroughly adapted in every respect to the requirements of the business carried on. They consist of an extensive and attractive block of building, having a commanding frontage of two hundred and fifty feet, and extending one hundred feet to the rear, and possessing magnificent and capacious windows, which are admirably suitable for the display of the vast accumulations of high-class goods they contain. The showrooms, which are lofty and well lighted, are on the first and second floors.

A large and valuable business is here controlled in furniture of every kind. For sound, durable work, good style, and general finish, they have few, if any, compeers. The material is of the best kind only, and the making is done by skilled workpeople under responsible supervision, and every article offered to the public is guaranteed to be of superior quality and the best of its kind. The proprietor is well acquainted with the most famous makers in every line in which he is engaged, and his long experience has made him a competent judge of all the various goods. Patrons of this establishment can, therefore, place implicit trust on anything coming from this house as being of best material, sound workmanship, and the latest style and design. In carpets the house is particularly strong, and all the latest and best productions of the most renowned looms at Brussels, Axminster, Kidderminster, and other celebrated carpet-weaving centres are shown here in a great variety of styles and designs. Prices are exceedingly favourable at this establishment, the proprietor’s extensive and valuable transactions giving him great advantages in buying.

A. residence of any kind, from a cottage to a mansion, can be furnished completely and appropriately at a few hours’ notice. The stocks held include drawing, dining, and breakfast-room suites, bedroom suites, sideboards, chiffoniers, duchesse stands, loo tables, inlaid walnut work-tables, occasional tables, wardrobes, hall and library furniture, sofas, ottomans, settees, couches, chests of drawers, washstands, dressing tables, easy chairs, davenports, whatnots, screens, deal tables, cane-seated and Windsor chairs, and every description of kitchen furniture, &c.; rugs, linoleums, stair carpets, cocoa matting, brass and iron bedsteads of every kind, size, price and pattern, fire-irons, fenders, beds, bedding, &c. The number of assistants is ample, and every effort is made to push business, with what success the increasing demand can testify. A staff of experienced workpeople is kept, who are sent to any part of the country to fit up houses of all sizes. Mr. Richard H. Gibson is the sole proprietor of this popular emporium. He is a gentleman of large experience in his business and of great special ability.

A. & J. COLQUHOUN, WINE, SPIRIT, ALE AND PORTER
MERCHANTS, AND MINERAL WATER MANUFACTURERS,
SHREWSBURY STREET, BROOK’S BAR, MANCHESTER.

THE distribution of wines, spirits, beers, aerated waters, and bottled beverages of every description, is nowhere perhaps more ably developed in Manchester of to-day, than by this notable house, which was-organised in the year 1868 by Messrs. A. & J. Colquhoun, trading as dealers in malt liquors of the nature of ales and beers, and occupying premises under the Hulme Town Hall in the Stretford Road. In 1875, the wine and spirit trade was added to the business, and in the year 1881 the mineral water venture was adopted. In 1878, the enormously increased business necessitated a removal into more commodious quarters, and accordingly the present handsome premises were erected for the firm, and entered upon during the course of the year. They consist of a wholesale and retail sale department, a capitally appointed suite of general and private offices, and capacious, airy, well-regulated cellars in the basement.

Here a very brisk business is done in the bottling and storage of the ales, stouts and porter of all the leading brewers. The second floor is fitted with a splendid plant for the production of all the popular varieties of aerated drinks, and the bottling and storing of wines and spirits. In the large yard there is ample stable accommodation for seven horses and lurries; and altogether a staff of from twenty to twenty-five men is regularly employed in the various departments, to keep the large trade amongst licensed victuallers, hotels, and private families going. The firm are proprietors of a highly popular blend of old Scotch whiskey, called the Luss, which has been reported on by Granville H. Sharp, F.C.S. Analyst, late Principal of the Liverpool College of Chemistry, as follows:— Analytical Laboratory, Great Tower Street, E.C., 25th November, 1891. I hereby certify that I have submitted to a very careful chemical analysis a sample of the ‘Luss’ whiskey, received from Messrs. A. & J. Colquhoun, Manchester, and find it to be a perfectly pure spirit that has been thoroughly well matured, and which is quite free from contamination or adulteration in any form whatever. Much scientific judgment has been shown in the blending of this whiskey, the result being a very palatable and mellow product.”

The decease of Mr. J. Colquhoun has left the entire business in the hands of Mr. A. Colquhoun, who is a gentleman of recognised ability and extended experience in connection with the important branch of business to which his attention is now so vigorously and so successfully directed.

GEORGE RICHMOND & SONS, CARRIAGE PROPRIETORS,
OFFICES:— GASKIN STREET, DOWNING STREET, ARDWICK, MANCHESTER.

A LEADING firm of carriage proprietors in Manchester is that of Messrs. George Richmond & Sons, of Gaskin Street, Ardwick, whose extensive business has a history dating back over a very long period. It was originally founded by Lacey & Allen, in the old coaching days upwards of a century ago, and more than half a century ago it passed into the hands of the late Mr. Peter Long, for whom Mr. George Richmond was manager for a period of thirty-two and a half years. About sixteen years ago Mr. Richmond purchased the business, and he now conducts it with his wonted success, in conjunction with his sons, Messrs. William and Thomas Richmond, the firm bearing the title which heads our sketch. The premises in Gaskin Street comprise the head offices of the firm, together with a portion of the stables, yards, &c., and there are large branch establishments at Higher Ormond Street, Coral Street, Tipping Street, and under the Railway Arches in Hyde Road, Ardwick, the entrance to the latter being in Bennett Street. These several places afford excellent accommodation, and the whole business is admirably organised and conducted with great enterprise and ability by the principals.

The firm keep a remarkably large assortment of first-class carriages of all kinds, all of which are of a private type, and these they hold themselves in readiness to supply for wedding parties and for all other occasions calling for any number of superior vehicles. They have also a very fine stock of hearses and mourning coaches of the newest designs and highest style of workmanship, these being available for funerals. Altogether, Messrs. Richmond have about sixty high-class vehicles always ready for use; but, over and above this they were intrusted with the continuance of the contract on the death of the late Mr. Long, for the conveyance of Her Majesty’s letter mails (parcels post, &c.) in Manchester and district, and for this important work they supply about seventy-five special vans. The carriages and vans are suitably accommodated, when not in use, at the different branch establishments of the firm, and the stables at Gaskin Street afford room for about two hundred horses.

It is worthy of special mention that Messrs. Richmond do not supply any public conveyances, all their jobbing being done in finely-appointed private carriages; and the connection maintained is a very select one throughout. The house is one of the first in its line in the district, and its affairs are administered with due regard to the maintenance of the high position it has achieved. Mr. William Richmond, the eldest son of the senior partner, joined his father at the time of the latter’s acquisition of the business, and having perfected himself in all the details of the trade, he now personally supervises the general routine of the despatches, and by his ability and courtesy he invariably secures the satisfaction of patrons. Mr. George Richmond, the head of the house, and Mr. Thomas Richmond, the junior partner, both take an active part in the management of the concern, and contribute to the continuance of its well-merited success.

JOHN ASHWORTH & CO., WATCH & CLOCK MANUFACTURERS, SILVERSMITHS, DIAMOND MERCHANTS, WHOLESALE JEWELLERS, &C.,
20, THOMAS STREET, AND 67 TO 71, HIGH STREET, MANCHESTER.

A REMARKABLE instance of what self-help, indomitable energy and perseverance can do in building up the fame and fortunes of a splendidly organised business is afforded by the life labours of Mr. John Ashworth, whose notable undertaking furnishes the theme of the present brief historical review. Mr. Ashworth actually commenced life as a newsboy in Manchester and subsequently served seven and a half years at mechanism, afterwards working for the L. & Y. R. Co. at Oldham, as a parcel man, spending his nights up to a late hour repairing watches. His advent into the commercial world, of which he is now so distinguished an ornament, was made at Oldham in 1870, when he took a small shop, first of all at 121, Yorkshire Street, thence removing to 10, Mumps, in the same town. A few years later on the marked progress he had made warranted his transference to Manchester.

Having entered into partnership with Mr. Travis Fenton, of Oldham, with extra capital they opened a small place of business in Thomas Street, as J. Ashworth & Co., and in 1875, the premises at 20, Thomas Street, being only just rebuilt, they occupied the basement. Unfortunately Mr. Fenton was killed shortly after in Sheffield, which sad event embarrassed Mr. Ashworth for several years. However, overcoming all difficulties, he soon annexed the adjacent premises, until he now possesses the whole of the magnificent premises forming the prominent corner building No. 20, Thomas Street and Nos. 67 to 71, High Street. The ample accommodation here afforded comprises packing and store-rooms in the basement, commodious and elegantly-appointed show-rooms, and an office on the ground floor, and well-equipped workroom, store-rooms and show-rooms above.

The stock held is one of the largest and most carefully-selected of its kind in the city; and there is nothing that modern ingenuity and development have brought within the scope of the goldsmiths’ trade but may be found here in every style and at every price. Gold and gem jewellery, silver plate, fine gold and silver watches, regulator and other clocks, are stocked and displayed, and for completeness and diversity are certainly equal to any similar aggregate of valuable goods in Manchester. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume, being principally wholesale. Mr. Ashworth, it may be mentioned, en passant, was elected a member of the city council from 1886 to 1889; serious illness (being for months in an unconscious state) preventing him from offering himself for re-election after that date. Mr. Ashworth’s name is now associated with the highest achievements of the watchmakers’ and jewellers’ art and skill, and he is on the directorate of the Watch Movement Company, Coventry, and other limited companies. His house has honourably preserved the reputation so eminently creditable to all connected with it, and which has been identified with it since the date of its inception.

BRASSINGTON & COOKE, BASSINETTE, MAIL-CART, AND INVALID FURNITURE MAKERS,
33 TO 39, CABLE STREET, ROCHDALE ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was founded in the year 1865 by the gentlemen whose names are indicated in the title; but although that title is still retained, the present proprietors of the concern are Messrs. J. T. B. King and W. H. Brassington, under whose energetic administration the business is being greatly developed. The premises occupied at the above address are of large extent, comprising a four and five-storey block, each floor in which has an area of six thousand square feet, and this commodious establishment presents a scene of industrial activity. There are saw-mills for cutting up the timber required in the trade, turning-shop, and other wood-working departments. There are also perfectly-appointed smithies and other workshops for handling the iron and various metals that enter into this industry, and a department of special interest is the bassinette-body maker’s shop, where a stock of over three thousand bassinette bodies are kept.

Another busy department is the mail-cart department, and here, at the time of our visit, there were about four thousand mail-carts in hand; in fact, this firm have the largest variety of designs in this line of any firm in the country. One of these new designs is in the style of the everyday milk-float, and as the model is built low there is an entire absence of the element of danger. An upset is a very remote probability indeed, and anything in the nature of a serious spill is quite impossible, as the bottom of the little vehicle is only six or seven inches above the ground, the axle being bent upwards at each wheel after the manner of the ordinary “float.” Another clever novelty, which is sure to be a success, is the hansom cab in miniature, with a hood that can be made useful against sun or rain, and having accommodation for two children. There are also convertible mail-carts, which can be so arranged as to accommodate two children sitting or one in a reclining posture.

Among many other delightful novelties we note Tozer’s Patent Balancing Car, free from any jerking tendency and always horizontal, whether proceeding uphill or on level ground. Mr. King has just patented a new design in bassinettes, the main feature of which is that it forms either a bed, or, by letting down the front part, an ordinary perambulator; it is also wonderfully light. The main features and advantages of this novelty will be at once perceived on examining the illustrations given. Invalid-carriages also occupy a large space in this establishment, and in these there are many new and notable features. Dealers in mail-carts, bassinettes, and invalid-furniture should not on any account fail to see the new and standard designs of this house, catalogues of which can be obtained on application. Altogether about two hundred and fifty hands are employed at these works, and the goods produced are widely distributed throughout the whole of the United Kingdom, the Continent, and the Colonies. The firm supplies their workmen with the very best materials that money can procure, and their skill does the rest.

G. & A, PHILLIPSON, ARTISTS IN STAINED GLASS, MEMORIAL WINDOWS, &C.,
183 & 185, PRINCESS STREET, MANCHESTER.

ONE of the best exponents of modern window decoration and the formation of lead-lights for offices, as well as memorial and church windows, in Manchester, is without question to be discovered in Princess Street, in the firm above-mentioned. This notable house was for many years conducted by its founder, Mr. Arthur Standring, from whom it was but recently acquired by the present able proprietors. The premises occupied consist of a large and substantial three-storied building, each floor of which is divided into two spacious rooms; and here a very splendid show is made of a vast variety of designs in stained glass suitable for memorial windows, offices, halls, public buildings, and private houses, the work being carried out upon the premises by a number of skilled artists under the able guidance of the talented principals. Messrs. Phillipson have already achieved many noteworthy results, having but lately erected the William Sutcliffe memorial window for Todmorden Church, a series of charming windows for the Blackburn Technical Schools, which were opened in January, 1892, and several windows for the Liverpool and District Banking Company in Manchester. A large and comprehensive business is also done in church mural decorations, figures, panels, altar pieces, pulpit panels, &c. The artistic skill that is so prominent a feature in the stained glass department is also characteristic of this branch. Their business needs no further recommendation than that which one inspection of their establishment will serve to elicit, and is conducted in all its branches with rare ability and judgment, upon a thoroughly sound basis of honourable mercantile principle.

THOMAS REDGATE & CO., IMPORTERS OF IRISH AND CONTINENTAL BUTTER, &C.,
18, WITHY GROVE, MANCHESTER, AND AT TIPPERARY.

THIS well-known firm is of long and honourable standing, being originally established in 1844 by Mr. Isaac Warburton at that time in Oldham Street, and that business being one of a retail grocer. Some years subsequently to its establishment Mr. William Dunkerley became a partner, and the concern speedily developed into one of the largest wholesale establishments of its kind in Manchester. The partnership continued for some years, the business largely increasing all the while. In 1864 Mr. Warburton retired, and for about three years Mr. Dunkerley was sole proprietor, when he took into partnership, in 1867, Mr. Thomas Redgate. This wise step further enhanced the standing of the business. Mr. Redgate had been with the firm from the commencement, it being the first place after his apprenticeship. Dunkerley & Redgate was now the name of the firm, Mr. Dunkerley, in 1877, retired from this firm, and the business became the property of Mr. Redgate. The present firm of Thomas Redgate & Co. is composed of the following members, viz., the said Mr. Thomas Redgate, his stepson, Mr. William Eaton, and his son, Mr. Walter Truswell Redgate. Mr. Eaton has charge of the Tipperary business.

The commanding premises, which are the sole property of Mr. Thomas Redgate, and occupied by the firm, are about one hundred and seventy square yards in measurement, with four floors and basement. The basement is devoted to the Irish butter trade. The ground floor is used entirely for the reception of all kinds of continental butters — Danish, Swedish, German, and Dutch. On the second floor are the excellently situated rooms appropriated as offices. The firm are agents for the Exors. of J. J. Richardson, the famous Waterford bacon curers, holding the agency for the whole of this district. There is no lack of evidence of prosperity and good management from basement to roof; indeed, for a house doing one of the largest trades of its kind in such a town as Manchester, it is necessary that the despatch and order observed in Messrs. Redgate’s arrangements should be maintained. The branch establishment in Tipperary is the collecting house for Irish butters. This connection in England extends over the midland and northern counties.

Mr. Redgate has devoted his whole life to the knowledge of the commodities appertaining to the business he is connected with his rare judgment and keen business penetration justly entitling him to a foremost rank among the great butter merchants of England. Mr. Redgate is a native of Hartshill, Warwickshire; he was apprenticed here in 1837. He is well known in certain quarters as an ardent politician and supporter of religious and benevolent institutions.

JAMES DANIELS & SONS, BUILDERS AND CONTRACTORS,
FREDERICK STREET, BROAD STREET, PENDLETON, MANCHESTER.

IT was about the year 1866 when Mr. James Daniels entered upon his career of commercial activity in the capacity of a joiner. Twenty-six years have now elapsed since he opened a small workshop in the neighbourhood of Broad Street, where, by dint of perseverance, he built up the nucleus of an undertaking that had assumed quite respectable proportions by the year 1874, when, with the help of one of his sons as an apprentice, he engaged a small staff of skilled workmen, and entered upon possession of part of the premises now occupied. As time rolled on the premises were added to, and now consist of a large contractor’s yard, stocked with a splendid selection of timber and builders’ materials of every description, and augmented by three large well-appointed joiners’ workshops, an office, and band and circular saws, and planing and moulding machines, driven by one of Whittaker’s gas-engines. Messrs. Daniels operate in every branch of the builders’ and contractors’ crafts, paying special attention to joiners’ work and the fitting up of shops and offices, a large number of their workmen being constantly engaged away from the premises. Altogether, a staff of about fifty skilled artisans and others is employed on an average all the year round, but sometimes that number is much increased, according to the contracts in hand. A very important branch of the business is the fitting up of improved ice chambers for butchers, fishmongers, restauranteurs, and others by the firm, and it is only fair to say that in this speciality they stand practically unrivalled in the city. The personnel of the firm consists of Mr. James Daniels and his four sons, and they all devote themselves with enthusiasm and earnestness to the maintenance and further development of a reputation which has won for them the confidence and liberal support of a very large, valuable, and rapidly growing trade connection.

WILLIAM J. GIBSON, PROVINCIAL SHIRT FACTORY,
56, SPEAR STREET, MANCHESTER.

MR. Gibson has been established only some six years, but he, like a number of firms in other lines of business in Manchester, has brought energy, tact, and experience, all of the best order, into his undertaking. Mr. Gibson’s establishment was founded at 34, Great Ancoats Street in 1885. He removed to the present warehouse in 1889. The premises which are on the fourth floor of a very extensive building, which has a frontage of forty-five feet by one hundred and twenty-five feet, are divided into office, cutting-room, warehouse, and general workroom. Sixty hands are employed on the premises, and there are over two hundred outside hands kept fully going. A valuable business has been established in the home and export trade, as well as with a large number of wholesale Manchester houses. It has become well known that Mr. Gibson’s work can be relied upon, that he has any amount of facilities at hand to execute the heaviest orders, and that he never disappoints a customer. The cutting-out department receives the most careful attention, style and comfort being specially studied. All the various rooms are under the direction of the proprietor, who closely inspects all work before it leaves the premises. Samples and quotations sent to any part, and all orders are executed up to time. This prosperous business, under the guidance of the very respected proprietor, is rapidly making a name throughout the entire district for really superior workmanship.

JAMES SMITH, TAILOR AND BOYS’ CLOTHIER,
MANCHESTER ROAD, DENTON.

THIS business was established by Mr. Smith in 1860 in small premises in the same thoroughfare. Owing to the necessity for increased accommodation, the present extensive and commodious premises were erected in 1875. These consist of a large and handsome shop, having a plate-glass frontage of nearly fifty feet. It is admirably fitted up in a most superior style, and forms a striking and attractive feature of this busy thoroughfare. There are also two large showrooms, the smaller one being set apart for the juvenile department, and the larger one is devoted to gentlemen’s clothing. The stock, as becomes a business of this magnitude, is very large and comprehensive. The piece and other goods held in stock are of a select description, consisting of the best English, Scotch, and Irish tweeds, Meltons, West of Englands, broadcloths, box- cloths, cashmeres, and other serviceable and wear-resisting fabrics. A very large bespoke trade is carefully cultivated by this firm, and their very large and growing connection in this department speaks volumes for the efficiency of the workmanship, as well as for the quality of the material supplied. The cutting department, the crucial place in a practical tailoring establishment, although occupied by experts in the art, is under the special care and supervision of the principal, who is himself well known as a practical and extremely proficient cutter. All the working staff are picked tradesmen, Mr. Smith carefully superintending every garment made, the result being that every article is turned out in the best possible style. A very extensive and valuable trade is carried on among a good medium and high-class connection which extends to all parts of Denton and vicinity. Mr. Smith is a gentleman well known and highly esteemed for his long and honourable connection with the town. He takes an active interest in all. matters relating to. the welfare and advancement of the commerce and industries of Denton and the district.

AMOS DAVIES, LEATHER DRESSER AND MANUFACTURER,
AUDENSHAW, MANCHESTER.

THIS important business was founded in the year 1853 by Mr. Robert Noblett, who became widely known as the pioneer of improvements in the hat leather trade. With Mr. Noblett Mr. Amos Davies commenced his business career, starting as a boy assistant, and working his way up to the post of manager. On the death of Mr. Noblett, in 1885, Mr. Amos Davies recognised the opportunity presented to him and at once purchased the business, which he has since conducted with steadily-increasing success, and which undoubtedly owes a great deal to the energy and practical skill he has devoted to its affairs during the past twenty years or more. The leather works at Audenshaw now form the headquarters of a most important industry, which gives employment to a large number of hands. The whole routine of the manufacture here carried on receives the constant personal superintendence of Mr. Davies, and the general organisation of this establishment certainly reflects very high credit upon him. Every process in the interesting industry of leather dressing and manufacture here carried on is effected under conditions which ensure a high standard of excellence in all the goods produced. The work throughout is done upon the most scientific principles and with the aid of the most perfect modern machinery.

Mr. Amos Davies is a large manufacturer of every description of coloured skivers, roans, &c., hat and cap leathers, fancy designed leathers, &c., and for all these productions he enjoys an eminent and well-earned reputation. His leading speciality (in which he stands unsurpassed), consists in white leather linings, which are treated in a specially devised manner, calculated to produce a soft, full feel, without in any way damaging the skin. Bookbinders’ leathers are also produced in the same way, and are held in high esteem. All Mr. Davies’s manufactures are in large and constant demand, their reliability, excellent appearance, and all-round merit being widely recognised, and his extensive output is distributed to all parts of the United Kingdom, and a large trade is also done with Australia, America, and the Continent. Travellers are employed to wait upon the valuable home connection, and there are also numerous agents abroad. Mr. Davies, besides being a capable and energetic business man, devotes a portion of his time to local public affairs, and is well known and highly respected as a member of the Audenshaw Local Board, in which capacity he looks well to the interests of the public in this district.

JOHN HILL, GENERAL HOUSE FURNISHER,
266, WATERLOO ROAD, CHEETHAM, MANCHESTER.

ALTHOUGH this business has only been in existence a comparatively short space of time, having been established by the present proprietor at the above address in 1888, it has, nevertheless, rapidly assumed a very prominent position, and commands a trade that is increasing both in extent and importance. The premises consist of a good substantial two-storied block of buildings, having a frontage to Waterloo Road — in reality two shops converted into one. They are large, commodious, suitably appointed, and admirably adapted to the purposes of their designation. The stock is vast, varied, and valuable, and includes every kind of furniture and furnishings suited to the tastes of all classes of customers. Bedsteads in brass and iron, French, half-tester, and, in fact, every kind, are found in stock. Bedding is made by the firm’s own workpeople, the quality of which can be guaranteed. Floor covering, including linoleum, oil-cloths, wax-cloths of every description are here seen; carpets also in Brussels, Kidderminster, and others, suited to all classes. There are also sideboards, cabinets, dining-room and drawing-room suites, parlour, library, and kitchen furniture, bassinettes, mail-carts, wringing-machines, &c.

The specialities of the house consist in the large assortment of first-class quilts, sheets, blankets, toilet-covers, tablecloths, towels, curtains, mats, hearthrugs, &c., which for quality and price are unsurpassed by any other house in the trade. This firm claims to be the cheapest house in this branch of business in Manchester. It is conducted on cash principles, or on the easy payment system, on terms agreed upon at the time of purchase. A large staff of skilled and experienced hands are employed, the proprietor personally superintending the general organisation of the business. The trade is well established in Cheetham and the surrounding districts. Mr. Hill is a gentleman practically conversant with the details of the business and highly respected throughout the trade.

THOMAS LEIGH & CO., ENGRAVERS, PRINTERS, AND STATIONERS,
51, ST. STEPHEN’S STREET, SALFORD.

IN the list of the principal old-established and representative commercial houses in Salford a leading and important position has for many years been successfully maintained by the well-known firm of Messrs. Thomas Leigh & Co., who carry on the business of engravers, printers, stationers and bookbinders, at the above address on a very extensive scale. This establishment was originally founded as long ago as the year 1857 and has since been conducted with uniformly satisfactory and continuous success and progressive development. The business comprises engraving and printing in all branches, tickets for goods of every kind, lithography and letterpress printing. The firm have a very numerous and influential connection of old standing among the principal business houses, manufacturing and shipping firms.

H. T. JOHNSON & CO., VENTILATING AND SANITARY ENGINEERS,
ST. ANDREWS CHAMBERS, ALBERT SQUARE, MANCHESTER.

THE many inventions and discoveries comprised under the head of ventilation and sanitation call for the highest praise to be devoted to those who have spent so much time and expense in bringing about their perfection, and among the ventilating and sanitary engineers of Manchester Mr. H. T. Johnson should meet with honourable mention. This gentleman has laboured hard in his calling, and has succeeded in introducing various improvements, which can be applied with but little trouble or cost. Mr. Johnson has been engaged in sanitary work for about twenty years, and for the last six years has devoted his attention more particularly to the business of ventilation. His practice is not confined to the Manchester district, but extends pretty well over the kingdom. He has undertaken the ventilation of several important buildings, and takes every opportunity, when circumstances will admit, of testing the result of his work, for the satisfaction of his clients and for future guidance. He is ever ready to give his advice, and personally superintends the carrying out of his work.

CROSBY & WALKER, WHOLESALE DRAPERS, MILLINERS, &C.,
82, 84, 80, AND 88, OLDHAM STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable concern was founded in the year 1879, and during the twelve years that have elapsed since then its affairs have been administered with marked ability, judgment, and enterprise, while the business has assumed proportions of much more than ordinary magnitude. For several years prior to the date of their commencement in Oldham Street, Messrs. Crosby & Walker had been in the house of Messrs. Rylands & Sons, one of the best training schools in the kingdom for any one purposing to devote himself to the textile trade. The premises occupied in Oldham Street comprise a large and lofty building, with a fine frontage of about one hundred feet, and the whole of the interior is appointed in a manner rendering it admirably suited to the purposes of the business. All the show-rooms and stockrooms are spacious and convenient in their arrangement, and the whole establishment has been considerably enlarged during recent years to meet the demands of a constantly increasing trade. Messrs. Crosby & Walker hold enormous stocks, which include every article usually found in a modern drapery and fashion emporium of the first class, and their specialities in dress-goods, silks, Manchester goods, plushes, velvets, velveteens, shawls, costumes, millinery, corsets, hosiery, gloves, lace, ribbons, flowers, feathers, prints, ladies’ underclothing, and children’s outfittings have a reputation extending far beyond the Manchester district.

In referring to one of their great specialities, the following is an extract from the Christian Union of December 31st, 1886:— “It is hard to distinguish the twilled black velveteens manufactured by Messrs. Crosby & Walker, of Manchester, from Lyons silk velvet, being so exquisite in its soft bright colours, downy warmth, and depth of shade, which we are accustomed to admire in flowers or in the plumage of birds. The twilled black velveteen is a credit to the looms and dyes of Manchester. For dresses, trimmings, and indeed for all purposes for which silk velvet is required, nothing can form such a lasting substitute as the twilled black velveteens.” The above velveteen can only be had from this firm. Their name and guarantee is stamped on every yard. They undertake to give a new dress length, and pay the cost of making, if these velveteens prove unsatisfactory in the wear. Better velveteens cannot be bought at any price, although many firms charge 5s. 6d. for the same goods. The price is 2s. per yard. This velveteen is specially commended by “La Mode Illustré” and other fashion journals.

Recently a new and important department has been added in gentlemen’s and boys’ hats, and the superior stock held therein has made it a highly successful departure. Every arrangement is made to promote the convenience of customers, including a finely-appointed Ladies’ Tea Room, in which tea, coffee, and various light refreshments are served at exceedingly moderate prices. The firm are masters of the art of advertising, and have successfully instituted several prize-giving schemes, which have greatly enhanced the popularity of this establishment. Catalogues and price-lists are issued with great frequency, and splendid enterprise is displayed in all details of management. Not only do Messrs. Crosby & Walker conduct an immense retail business which is supported by a most valuable local and district connection, but they also control a wholesale trade of rapidly increasing magnitude, while a considerable amount of export business is carried on, chiefly with the markets of North and South America. The principals of this prominent house are both well known and highly esteemed in Manchester, and Mr. Crosby is immensely popular among the shop assistants of the city and district, for he has long been an earnest and influential advocate or the half-holiday movement, both in private conversation and on the public platform. Moreover, he practises what he preaches in this important matter, and the establishment of Messrs. Crosby & Walker closes at one o’clock every Wednesday, to the great satisfaction of his many employes.

J. J. MILLSON, ARCHITECTURAL AND MONUMENTAL SCULPTOR, WOOD CARVER, &C.,
24, CITY ROAD, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the notable establishments in Manchester engaged in the production of high-class artistic work, and who have been instrumental in the modern development of wood carving, a prominent position belongs to the above reputable and time-honoured house. Operations were initiated more than half a century ago, by the late Mr. Williams. Subsequently the undertaking was presided over by Messrs. Williams and Millson, and afterwards, in 1878, it was taken over by the present sole proprietor, Mr. J. J. Millson, under whom the business has rapidly increased in extent and value, until at the present day it may be accounted one of the first of the kind in the county. The premises occupied are sufficient in size and ample in accommodation for all the requirements of the business. They comprise well-appointed offices and large studio on the ground floor, and a number of workshops, thoroughly fitted up with all appliances and facilities, at the rear, together with open sheds for the sawyers and “rough-hewers.” A large staff of skilled assistants is employed, and here, under very favourable circumstances, an extensive and important business is controlled in every kind of architectural and monumental sculpture, in marble, stone and wood, wood carving, &c.

Mr. Millson has achieved an enviable reputation for his superior and artistic productions. He particularly excels in the carving and sculpture of reredos, pulpits, fonts, altar screens, and ecclesiastical decoration generally, his achievements in this line being marked by great beauty of form, delicacy of expression and perfection of finish. In every branch of monumental art, he is an acknowledged master, while as a facile, accomplished, spirited and original wood-carver he has few, if any, rivals in the northern counties. Mr. Millson has been honoured with many important contracts, and his artistic and masterly handiwork can be seen everywhere in the public buildings in and about Manchester. His skill has been most recently employed on Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank; high altar, sedilias, &c.; St. Patrick’s, Oldham; Franciscan Monastery, Gorton; Lord Sefton’s mansion, Abbeystead; wood-carving at Glossop Hall for Lord Howard; Congregational Church, Broughton Park; St. Peter’s, Bury, St. Paul’s, Burnley; Nantwich Church; Manchester and Salford Savings Bank; Manchester and County Bank; Inland Revenue Stamp Office, Manchester; Deansgate Improvement; Household Stores, Exchange Arcade; Grammar School, Manchester; Salford Free Library; Grammar School, Burnley; Midland Bank, Nantwich; Summer House, Eaton Hall; Bostock Hall; Free Library and Museum, Oldham, &c.

A valuable and widespread connection has been formed and the reputation of the firm increases with every year. Mr. Millson’s services are in request in every part of the country, and quantities of his productions are exported to the colonies. He gives his personal superintendence to everything intrusted to his house, down to the most minute detail, so that persons employing his services can be sure of having their wishes fully carried out. He is an honourable and upright man of business, and he is highly respected and esteemed by large numbers of people in private and professional circles.

ALBERT WAGSTAFF, DEALER IN PIANOFORTES, ORGANS AND ALL KINDS OF MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS,
282, ASHTON OLD ROAD, OPENSHAW, MANCHESTER.

THIS important depot is a noted local source of supply for pianofortes, organs and harmoniums by all the leading makers, and also for every other description of musical instrument in general use at the present day. Mr. Wagstaff is a gentleman of very comprehensive attainments in musical matters, possessing a thorough knowledge of the theory of music and an understanding of the practical construction of the various instruments in which he deals. All this has enabled him to build up a highly successful business in a comparatively short space of time, and besides his fine premises in Ashton Old Road, he has a branch in Fairfield Road, Droylsden, near Manchester. On Mr. Wagstaff’s premises splendid stocks of musical instruments are to be found, a noteworthy speciality being the pianofortes of the Waldemar Piano Co., Berlin, for which firm Mr. Wagstaff is district agent. These are full trichord iron-frame instruments of exquisite tone and finish, at a moderate price, and their great success is thoroughly well-merited. Another noteworthy class of pianos in stock are those of Mr. Justin Browne, London, which enjoy a high reputation in musical circles. The famous pianofortes of Messrs. Kirkman & Son, John Brinsmead & Son, Collard & Collard, and Hilton & Hilton are also to be found in stock, Mr. Wagstaff being sole district agent for the last-named firm. Mr. Wagstaff is also sole agent for Lancashire and Yorkshire for the Miller Organ Co., of Lebanon, Penn. U.S.A. The instruments made by this company have a superb pipe-like quality of tone, and a very skilful arrangement of stops, by the proper, use of which many delightful effects can be produced. A full, stock of these high-class organs is always held by Mr. Wagstaff, in styles, sizes, and prices to suit all requirements.

This house adheres closely to the sound policy of supplying only the most reliable instruments, and the prices asked are in all cases remarkably moderate when the superior quality of the goods is considered. Equitable arrangements for payment by easy instalments are always made, when desired by the customer. Mr. Wagstaff is a thoroughly competent musician, as well as a capable and straightforward business man. He is the director of all the concerts held at Crossley Hall, Openshaw, and has charge of all the musical arrangements, both vocal and instrumental, in connection with this hall. He is also the energetic secretary of the Openshaw Choral Union. Mr. Wagstaff has a wide circle of musical friends, and is well known to and much respected by the musical public of this thriving and busy part of Lancashire.

WILLIAM HOLT, BUILDER AND CONTRACTOR,
ELIZABETH STREET, CHEETHAM, MANCHESTER.

MR. Holt originally commenced operations in the year 1869, and having rapidly attained an encouraging and marked degree of success, he has since developed and increased the scope and extent of his transactions, with very satisfactory results. His premises are roomy and extensive, and are admirably adapted for the purposes of a builder and contractor on a very extensive scale. They consist of a large and substantial block of buildings, having conveniently arranged offices on the ground floor at the front, with capacious store rooms, workshops, and sawmills, and a commodious timber yard at the rear. Mr. Holt undertakes very heavy and considerable contracts, and usually employs about forty workpeople, his business relations extending all over Lancashire, where he has a very high reputation for the sound, substantial, and reliable character of the work executed under his direction. His firm is one of the oldest in the district, and he is personally a man of wide and valuable practical experience in the trade and very capable and energetic in all matters of business. He is very popular and widely respected in the district, takes a prominent part in all local matters and public business, and for over six years has represented the Cheetham Ward in the Manchester City Council.

E. WILLIAMS, HOSIER, OUTFITTER AND GENERAL DRAPER,
755, ASHTON OLD ROAD, HIGHER OPENSHAW, MANCHESTER.

THE above establishment was opened in 1879 by the present proprietor, and at once took a leading position in the district. The premises occupy an excellent position in Ashton Old Road. The spacious handsome double shop has a very imposing plate-glass frontage of fully thirty feet; the windows are well and tastefully dressed with high class hosiery, laces, and fashionable novelties in millinery, &c., forming a prominent and attractive feature. The interior is fitted up in a very superior style with elegant, yet substantial and appropriate, appointments. The premises also contain extensive storage accommodation, well equipped workrooms, and every convenience for the successful working of the business. The various departments are well and completely stocked with goods of a quality and character admirably suited to the trade. The shop is specially noted for wools, a very large assortment of Berlin, eider, German, and fingering being always in stock. The entire stock is selected from the best sources with great care and sound judgment. The millinery department affords many special attractions in hats, caps, and bonnets, feathers, flowers, and trimmings. This branch of the business is extensively carried out on the premises, an efficient staff of skilled and experienced hands being busily employed. A very brisk business is done in every department, and the whole is conducted throughout with marked ability and enterprise. The proprietor, Mr. Evan Williams, possesses the advantage of long and thorough business experience. He is well known and highly respected in the neighbourhood, and enjoys the confidence and support of a very extensive and high class patronage.

E. PLEASANCE, FAMILY PROVISION MERCHANT,
8, UNION TERRACE, CHEETHAM HILL, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was established by the present proprietor in 1883 at 122, Cheetham Hill Road, and developed to such an extent that in a very short time it was found necessary to open other branches to more conveniently carry on the business, and having purchased the very old-established provision business at 8, Union Terrace, that was made the head-quarters, where all branches of the trade could be carried on, including the roasting of coffee, smoking and drying of bacon, &c., under Mr. Pleasance’s own personal superintendence. His trade is now carried on in four different branches, namely, at 277, Waterloo Road, Hightown; 908, Rochdale Road, Harpurhey; 122, Cheetham Hill Road; and 8, Union Terrace, Cheetham Hill, the Hightown establishment, being less than a mile distant from the headquarters. The stock held is large, varied, and valuable, and consists entirely of groceries and provisions of the highest merit in point of quality and freshness. Teas of the finest blends are here found in grand, display, cheese and butter from all the districts noted for these products, hams, and bacons, from, Wiltshire, Cumberland, Belfast, Limerick, and other centres of production. Eggs in abundance, the best of condiments, pickles, sauces, jams, jellies, bottled stuffs, canned meats, fish, and fruit, and colonial produce generally, from all the most eminent makers extant, and from the best known sources of supply. Biscuits by all the celebrated makers, and all the innumerable items comprehended in the term provisions.

A very large trade is controlled among a widespread and highly influential connection, which extends throughout the entire district. Mr. Pleasance has many customers in Broughton Park, Prestwich, and other fashionable places adjacent to the village. A good counter trade is also done, an unsurpassed reputation being maintained for selling goods of a very superior quality. The shops are all spacious, and handsomely fitted and appointed, the trade done in each being similar in its character, and includes all branches incidental to the grocery and provision trade. A full staff of experienced assistants is employed. The business is conducted with remarkable vigour and ability, and occupies a prominent and leading position among the principal houses similarly engaged.

REDMAYNE & ROWLANDSON, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANTS AND BOTTLERS,
CLITHEROE.

THIS old-established business was founded in 1799, its founder being a Mr. Kirkpatrick, who afterwards admitted his nephew, Mr. Brennand, to partnership. Subsequent to the death of the founder, Mr. Brennand was joined in partnership by Mr. William Redmayne, and upon the death of Mr. Brennand, Mr. Redmayne became sole principal. As such, he carried on the business till 1870, when he assumed Mr. Charles Heber Rowlandson as partner. Since then the concern has been conducted under the present title of Redmayne & Rowlandson. The firm’s establishment is a two-storied stone building, heavily stocked with wines and spirits, and having large cellars in which bottling is extensively carried on. It is to the bottling trade that Messrs. Redmayne & Rowlandson devote themselves, and in connection with it they have gained a wide connection throughout the district. They bottle ale and porter, as well as wines and spirits, a special feature being made of Bass’s ales and stouts; retailers therefore can obtain complete supplies of the very best qualities in bottle from this firm. Messrs. Redmayne & Rowlandson have a reputation for the reliability and excellence of the liquors they purvey wholesale. The firm are widely respected, and as both principals travel, they are well known to, and personally esteemed by their numerous clients. They are locally prominent, for Mr. Redmayne is a borough magistrate, and Mr. Rowlandson is governor of the Clitheroe Grammar School and of the National School. Both partners are gentlemen of standing and repute, and occupy an eminent position.

JOHN BIRD, CHEMIST AND DRUGGIST,
77, YORK STREET, CHEETHAM, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was originally established in the year 1852, the present proprietor having acquired possession about twelve months ago. The premises comprise a fine double-fronted shop situate in the busiest part of Cheetham Hill Road and York Street, beautifully decorated and fitted, and presenting a very attractive appearance. Among the leading specialities are Bird’s “U.S.” Pills, a safe and reliable remedy for headache, indigestion, wind, flatulence, and all stomach, and liver complaints; Bird’s Foot Powder, Antiseptic, and Absorbent. This quickly hardens the feet, and prevents unpleasantness arising from excessive perspiration. Bird’s “U.S.” Cough Elixir has relieved hundreds of sufferers, and Bird’s Children’s Cough Mixture, an agreeable remedy for infants and young children, especially valuable in whooping cough, &c. The stock is very large and comprehensive, embracing all the best drugs and chemicals, patent medicines, proprietary articles, perfumes and toilet requisites. Particular attention is devoted to the dispensing department, the most judicious care being exercised in the preparation of medical prescriptions, the business done in drugs being very extensive. The business in every department receives the strict personal supervision of the proprietor, who is aided by two duly qualified assistants. A very large trade is controlled among a widespread and influential connection. By enterprise and ability it has been placed in the foremost ranks of the trade, and is now one of the most thriving and successful in the district.

T. OLIVER, ILLUMINATOR
8, KING STREET, MANCHESTER.

IN A work devoted to a record of the arts, crafts, and industries of Great Britain, some notice of the business of the illuminating artist and writer must not be omitted. Mr. T. Oliver, who operates at the above address, is also a lithographic artist, and has been established since 1876 on the present premises, which comprise large and commodious workrooms on the third floor, with offices attached. This business is a very well known one, and the proprietor himself controls with energy and acumen its every detail, and is the best guarantee of its steady growth and continuance in prosperity. He has done a large amount of artistic illuminated work for the corporations of Manchester and Salford, and other public bodies and celebrities, and was one of the first firms in the district to produce illuminated addresses in the artistic designs and harmonious colourings which have happily now become more familiar to us. Mr. Oliver, in addition to possessing an accurate knowledge of the general materials of his art, is an expert in all questions of heraldic emblazoning, producing arms, crests, monograms, &c., to embellish the various parts of his designs. In lithography, his line of work ranges from a chromo down to a circular, and is executed with the promptitude and accuracy which this class of work calls for. His connection is very large in both the city and district, and judging from a knowledge of all the main facts of the establishment and the business conducted thereat, no conclusion can be arrived at, than that energy, capability, and perseverance have done their work, and have secured for the principal an assured standing and status in the commercial ranks of his locality as a trader, and in the niches of his own artistic calling, as a credit to himself and the interests of a profession which is so very dependent for successful progress, as a whole, on the skill and personal repute of particular exponents.

JAMES ROBINSON & SONS, SILK MERCERS, LINEN DRAPERS, HABERDASHERS, SHAWLMEN, MANTLE MAKERS, AND COSTUMIERS,
299, 301 & 303, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE extensive business carried on by the above firm was founded upwards of fifty-five years ago, and has had a highly successful career. At first the trade was carried on in very small and unpretentious premises, subsequently being removed to more commodious quarters; and eventually, about twelve years ago, the business had become so large that the firm secured their present spacious and handsome establishment, in order to fully accommodate its various departments, and give scope for their further development, and their fine shops and show-rooms are daily thronged by a gathering of customers. This firm exemplify every branch of the modern drapery trade, and their many departments display the newest and choicest specialities of the home and foreign markets.

Silks, linens, and dress materials are special features upon which the most careful attention is bestowed; but equally important are the mantle, jacket, and dressmaking departments, in which all the latest fashions of London and Paris are illustrated to perfection. In connection with these departments the firm have not only splendidly appointed show-rooms, but also fitting-rooms provided with every desirable convenience; and the skill and experience of their numerous staff of modistes and couturieres are amply attested by the exquisite taste and finish displayed in their various productions. The principal hands are all possessed of London training and experience, and the work-rooms are constantly under the able and watchful supervision of Mr. Robinson. Hosiery, gloves, and haberdashery are also fully represented, the assortment of gloves, for instance, being undoubtedly one of the largest and most select in the city; and the firm have a reputation for the care and completeness with which they execute orders for mourning and for funeral furnishing, their stock in this respect being remarkably comprehensive.

Another very noteworthy feature of this business consists in the large importation at Christmas time from France, Germany, etc., of toys and fancy goods suitable for the festive Yuletide season, and old and young alike find delight in a visit to Messrs. Robinson’s establishment at this time of year, when many of the show-rooms present a scene of attractiveness and beauty which it would be difficult to surpass. Altogether, the business is one of the very best and largest of its kind in the city, and is, we believe, the oldest drapery concern in Oxford Street. It has always been conducted upon principles which command respect, confidence, and consequent prosperity; and its continued success is a matter for unqualified congratulation to its energetic and enterprising proprietors, who are personally well known and much esteemed in trade circles, as well as among the very large section of the public from which their house draws its regular and valuable patronage.

HARRY H. WARD, WHOLESALE MERCHANT FOR PATENT PRIZE BEER AND SPIRIT MACHINES, &C.,
23, BOOTH STREET, PICCADILLY, MANCHESTER.

THIS comparatively new business, which was projected by its present proprietor in 1889, is well worthy the attention of all who are- engaged in the licensed victualling and catering trades in general. The premises occupied consist of a large and substantial three-storied building, covering an area of thirty-six feet by forty-five feet, and fitted throughout in the most elaborate modern style to hold and display a stock of superior chandeliers, hall lamps, brackets, and globes, lavatories, closets, and enamelled ware, all kinds of outside lamps, household filters, fire- and thief-resisting safes, iron and brass pumps, bar fittings of every description, and, as a great speciality, patented prize BEER AND SPIRIT MACHINES. The basement floor is utilised for stores and the packing of goods; the ground floor forms a handsomely-appointed showroom with office attached. Mr. Ward operates on a very large scale as a dealer in the goods already named, and controls a substantial and rapidly growing home and export trade amongst merchants and shippers. Care and promptitude in the execution of orders characterises his business, and it is manifestly his intention that the brilliant beginning he has made shall not merely be well sustained, but steadily enhanced.

JOSEPH KENNERLEY, GENERAL TAILOR, &C.,
52, JOHN DALTON STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was established in 1879 by the present proprietor at No. 48 in the same street, and after a number of years of successful trading was removed in 1889 to the present roomy and commodious building, consisting of four spacious floors. The large and well lit shop on the ground floor is excellently stocked with an extensive display of materials from the best manufacturers suitable for garments for all occasions, effectively and tastefully arranged, and comprising all the newest patterns and most fashionable designs. A very considerable business is done of a general character, and this flourishing house is thoroughly trusted and relied upon by a very numerous and high-class connection This extremely gratifying reputation has not been obtained without considerable energy and hard work, combined with careful and unremitting: personal attention to details, and much practical and experienced skill in the management, and it is owing to the judicious employment of these necessary qualifications that Mr. Kennerley sees his business daily growing and increasing in extent, and in every way showing a continuous, development of the success which has attended his enterprising operations ever since the inception of the undertaking. Mr. Joseph Kennerley is not only a business man of prominent qualifications, but in private life he is a gentleman of high character, who is universally regarded with respect and esteem.

W. M. SIMMONS, WINE, SPIRIT AND CIGAR MERCHANT,
14, ST. ANN’S SQUARE, MANCHESTER;
TELEPHONE NO. 1,619.

NEARLY fifty years have now elapsed since this thriving concern was first organised; and an inquiry into its history shows that its commercial development has been both rapid and continuous from the very first. The premises occupied are exactly adapted to the requirements of a very brisk business of the kind. They consist of a handsomely-appointed suite of offices on the ground floor, furnished with the electric light, augmented by perfectly-equipped stores and cellars in the basement, which extend for a distance of between two hundred and three hundred feet, and are very fully stocked with a grand selection from the best growths and vintages of wines, all the noted varieties of well-matured spirits, liqueurs, and the ales and stouts of the leading brewers of the day. In addition to this splendid stock the firm holds vast quantities of liquors in bond in London, Scotland, and elsewhere, and also does a large business as an importer of the best brands of cigars. The business, which is one of considerable volume, is confined exclusively amongst the best families, hotels, restaurants and other large consumers, and also does a very substantial export trade to India and the Colonies. The founder of the firm, the late Mr. W. M. Simmons’, personal career was one of great business activity, and in all his work he brought that sound judgment and strict integrity, for which he was so well known and esteemed, to bear upon the pursual of all the details of his difficult and responsible undertaking. The business is now conducted by the late Mr. Simmons’ two sons, who have had considerable experience in the trade, both here and on the Continent and are noted for their sound judgment in the selection of the choicest wines and spirits.

EDWARD WARD, UNIVERSITY SCIENCE DEPOT, DEALER IN MICROSCOPIC AND PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTICLES, &C.,
249, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was initiated in 1876, and during the quarter of a century of its existence it has steadily increased in reputation, while the house has been honourably distinguished for the prominent position it has always taken in the progress of scientific knowledge and research, especially in the branches in which its interests are chiefly concerned. A large three-storey block of buildings, conveniently situated in proximity to Owens College, is occupied, comprising an extensive single-fronted shop, perfectly and handsomely fitted up with all the requirements for successfully and expeditiously conducting a business of this description. Above are several workrooms, in which skilled work-men are employed under competent management. A large and important business is here controlled in the manufacture of microscopes, magic lanterns, photographic apparatus of every description; and the productions of this house are widely and favourably known in the scientific world and among the general public, for their uniform excellence and their reliability and perfect finish. Every advancement that has been made in the arts and sciences affecting his specialities has been readily adopted by Mr. Ward, with the result that the goods are always among the most reputable and best in the market. The stocks held are extensive, valuable and varied, including a high-class assortment of microscopes, and the accessories and appliances belonging thereto, zoophyte troughs, geological hammers, clinometers, botanical vasculums, presses, entomological nets and lanterns, scalpels, forceps, photographic cameras, lenses, stands, lamps and chemicals, electrical batteries, bells, pushes, magic lanterns and slides, dry plates, spectacles and folders, chemical apparatus for experimental work, reading glasses, magnifiers, magnets, scientific books, &c..

For many years past Mr. Ward has produced an extensive and valuable series of microscopic objects, prepared for the use of amateurs, every packet accompanied with simple and concise instructions for mounting, so that the purchaser has little difficulty in preparing his own microscopic slides. The house is extensively known for its success in the manufacture of lantern slides to illustrate scientific and other lectures, and the demand for these high-class goods in the principal technical colleges and scholastic institutions throughout the United Kingdom and abroad is continually on the increase, and constitutes in itself an irrefragable proof of the superior excellence and great popularity of the firm’s productions in this department. Mr. Ward has devoted a considerable time, nearly three years, to the prosecution of a task which will fee of considerable importance to the scientific and engineering world at large, and of great interest to all classes of people. He has been employing his time and ability in the production of a fine series of lantern slides and photographs, illustrating the progress and construction of the Manchester Ship Canal, embracing every special feature of the works and every point of interest. As many as four thousand different slides and photographs have been prepared, and they are already being well received in various parts of the world. Among Mr. Ward’s contributions to science we may mention his popular and explicit manual on microscopic mounting, which should be in the hands of all amateurs. With the pushing enterprise characteristic of the proprietor, a public telephonic call office has been opened at this establishment, and much impetus and facility have thereby been imparted to the business — the telephonic number is 4,213.

The house enjoys a connection of an exceptionally important and high-class kind, and patrons of the establishment are found in all parts of the world. Several assistants are employed in the warehouses, under the able and experienced supervision of the worthy proprietor. Mr. Ward is a man of extensive knowledge and a born scientist. He is affable, enterprising, and strictly honourable in his transactions; he is, moreover, a gentleman with whom it is highly pleasurable to have business relations.

J. U HALLAM, STAMP MAKER, DESIGNER AND LITHOGRAPHIC DRAUGHTSMAN,
1, COOPER STREET AND 32, BOOTH STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable house was founded in the year 1878, upon a modest scale, by a Mr. Peter Cameron, in small premises located at Blackfriars. In 1880 the property, which had previously passed into the hands of Messrs. R. C. Perry & Co., was transferred to 35 & 37, Spring Gardens, and was finally acquired in 1884 by its present able proprietor, Mr. J. U. Hallam, under whose fostering care its progress became so marked that he found it necessary recently to move to the present more convenient and commodious quarters, occupying the prominent corner site formed by the junction of Cooper Street and Booth Street. The premises occupied are in every point of character and situation exactly adapted to the wants of the brisk business being carried on. They consist of a suite of offices and work-rooms elaborately equipped in every essential detail, and calling into active requisition the services of a staff of from eighteen to twenty talented artists and workmen. The firm enjoy a very large and high-class business, especially in the supply of trade-marks to merchants and local manufacturers; and so unexceptionable is their work that they have been appointed contractors to Her Majesty’s Government for all kinds of stamps and designs, and have also done good service for the War Office, the Admiralty Office and many of the corporations and public bodies generally in all parts of the United Kingdom.

WALLACE GREENGRASS, LADIES’ OUTFITTER, MILLINER, HOSIER, AND GLOVER,
187 AND 189, OXFORD ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS superior business was founded in 1874, and has enjoyed a most successful career. The premises consist of a large and commanding three-storey building. The handsome shop has a fine frontage, and is laid out in a most attractive manner, and the whole establishment is at once complete and large. In the well-arranged shop are to be seen all the novelties of the season in their turn. The valuable stock, the largest of its kind in the district, is composed of all kinds of the more artistic articles for ladies’ and children’s wear, laces, velvets, millinery, jerseys and blouses, sunshades and umbrellas, ladies’ and children’s underclothing, corsets, gloves, hosiery, handkerchiefs, perfumes, fans, haberdashery, fancy articles, &c. In each of these there is a wide selection, and having been purchased from the leading makers’ only, their quality can be implicitly relied upon.

Mr. Greengrass is possessed of very considerable taste and judgment in buying, and he always secures the latest styles and materials as soon as they make their appearance on the markets. Particularly is he known for the excellence and variety of his stock of ladies’ gloves, which for style and value is always up to date. The proprietor has long been favourably known over a wide area for the extent and valuable nature of his goods, and the inhabitants of the district wanting really good and reliable articles invariably flock to Mr. Green grass’s celebrated place. Not only are the prices extremely moderate, but there is a liberal selection in each and every department not found in smaller and less patronised establishments. The business is carried on under the personal supervision of the respected proprietor, and is conducted on strictly cash principles both in buying and selling, and the success of this method is evidenced by the fact that the business has, during the last few years, necessitated the addition of the adjoining premises. Every-thing is conducted in a superior manner, and the requirements of customers are well attended to. The business-like and obliging disposition of Mr. Greengrass makes, him a great favourite with the frequenters of his place, and his own personal merit has much to do with the popularity of his exceedingly deserving establishment.

W. LOMAS (LATE G. BINTCLIFFE), WHOLESALE AND RETAIL PORK BUTCHER AND PROVISION MERCHANT,
126A, ASTON OLD ROAD, LOWER OPENSHAW, MANCHESTER.

IT appears, upon an inquiry into the antecedents of this thriving concern, that it was organised in the year 1871 by the late Mr. Godfrey Bintcliffe, upon lines which very soon made him famous in the district as the leading purveyor of pork products. On Mr. Bintcliffe’s death in 1886 the business was acquired by Mr. W. Lomas, whose vast experience of the trade stood him in good stead, and enabled him to develop the concern with almost phenomenal success. The premises occupied comprise an extensive block of buildings, with a capitally appointed shop of thirty feet in width at the front, and large and lofty slaughterhouses, pork-curing, sausage-making, and pie-making rooms, replete with the best cutting machinery and appliances, driven by steam-power, and nothing could be more commendable than the wholesome appearance of everything, and the strict cleanliness which reigns supreme in every part of the premises. A large staff of hands is employed, and the trade controlled is one of considerable volume, both retail and wholesale, among the smaller shops for many miles around. The business in all its branches. is conducted with spirited energy and enterprise, and reflects the highest credit upon the administrative abilities and business acumen of its worthy director.

FREDERICK HAMPSON, FLINT GLASS AND BOTTLE MANUFACTURER,
PERSEVERANCE GLASS WORKS, DUNCAN STREET, OLDFIELD ROAD, SALFORD, MANCHESTER.

THIS house deserves more than passing notice, from the long time it has been in existence, having been established in 1851. The business was initiated by Mr. Charles Phillips. The firm afterwards became Phillips and Hampson, and subsequently the whole business was taken over by the present proprietor, Mr. Frederick Hampson, a gentleman of special experience and skill. The works cover a large area and consist of various detached buildings and sheds lighted from the roof. The front block is two stories high, and contains a suite of offices, warehouses and stock rooms, as well as a large and handsomely appointed show-room, in which are displayed a choice collection of the various articles manufactured by the firm. The works are thoroughly well fitted up with every apparatus, plant, and convenience requisite for the successful and expeditious control of an extensive business, including grinding mills, several capacious furnaces, large annealing ovens, &c. An extensive and valuable trade is done in the manufacture of all kinds of bottles for drysalters, druggists’ sundrymen, ink and gum makers, pickle and sauce manufacturers, &c.; pickle, spice, and confectionery jars (with lids to fit), medical bottles, spirit flasks, lubricators, cane and steam gauges, paraffin chimneys, fireproof chimneys, &c.; glass stoppers for sauces, vinegars, and gin, and all kinds of finished vials.

The productions of this noted house have achieved a high position in the trade, and are great favourites with buyers generally. They are made of good, clear metal, free from blisters and detects, and the workmanship is always of the most finished and thorough kind. Not only is the house noteworthy for the reliable superiority of its products in every branch, and for the variety and admirable patterns and designs it has introduced, but also for the moderate and eminently satisfactory nature of its prices. The connection enjoyed is both large and valuable, extending to every part of the United Kingdom, while a considerable export trade is done with Australia and the colonies. The firm are also agents for the French and German capsule manufacturers. Forty hands are continually employed day and night, and all orders intrusted to this firm are sure to be filled in a perfectly satisfactory manner. Mr. Hampson is a thorough master of his business, and he bestows his energetic and constant attention upon it in its entirety. By his fair and honourable policy, he retains the esteem and confidence of his patrons, and in all his transactions he is watchful to uphold the enviable reputation the house enjoys. In private life he is much respected for his many sterling qualities, his active labours as a citizen, and his commercial integrity.

HENRY COLLINS, PRACTICAL TAILOR, WOOLLEN DRAPER, AND; OUTFITTER,
361, 363 AND 365, CHAPEL STREET, SALFORD.

ONE of the most prominent and distinguished houses in Salford in the tailoring trade is that of Mr. Henry Collins, which was established by him at the above address in 1880. Mr. Collins previously had been in partnership with a celebrated firm, widely renowned in Manchester as a tailor of the highest class. The premises consist of three large shops at the corner of Chapel Street and Oldfield Road, occupying a conspicuous and commanding position, handsomely appointed throughout, having large plate-glass windows, wherein a splendid selection of cloth and ready-made clothing, &c.,: is tastefully and artistically displayed, making it one of the most attractive tailor’s shops in the neighbourhood. The upper floors are utilised for cutting and fitting rooms, with spacious workshops at the rear, the whole being scrupulously clean, well lighted, and thoroughly ventilated. The stock is large, comprehensive, and valuable, embracing suitings in English, Scotch, and Irish tweeds, coatings in woollens, worsted, and melton cloth, plain and fancy trouserings, vests, &c., together with a rare and choice selection of best Scotch and English tweeds, meltons, broadcloths, box-cloths, cashmeres, and other serviceable and wear-resisting fabrics.

Mr. Collins’s clothing is well known all over the city and its environs for its excellence, fashionable cut, and finished appearance. He has built up a large and permanent patronage in superior ready-made goods, but makes a speciality of fine bespoke work, and the greatest care is taken that the workmanship in every detail is of the highest standard of merit, the general design and finish of all work turned out from the establishment being all that culture and taste in the matter of scientifically-cut clothing could desire. All the working staff employed are picked tradesmen, every garment being made under the superintendence of the principal. The proprietor has a perfect system of measurement, whereby any one can measure himself, and on sending the measurement to Mr. Collins the clothes can be made up, a perfect fit being guaranteed if the instructions are carefully carried out. This system is invaluable to customers residing at a distance. A very large bespoke trade is controlled, as well as a good ready-money one over the counter. The connection is a highly influential one, confined chiefly to the immediate locality and surrounding district. The business is conducted in a most able manner by the genial and courteous proprietor, who by his untiring energy and great ability, combined with strict integrity and sound business capacity, has placed his house in a pre-eminent position among the leading houses similarly engaged.

EDWARD WILLIAMS, CABINET MAKER, &C.,
358, REGENT ROAD, SALFORD.

THIS business was established in 1866, and has had a singularly prosperous career. This is accounted for by the fact that the proprietor is a thoroughly practical man who has devoted his whole time and energy to producing goods which cannot be surpassed. During the twenty-five years Mr. Williams has been in business his fame has spread, not only through his own immediate neighbourhood, but also through all parts of Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cheshire. The premises consist of a superior-looking shop. Show-rooms occupy the ground and upper floors, the cellars are the store-rooms, and the workshops are at the rear. All these are admirably arranged and are fitted up in a decidedly superior manner. The show-rooms contain splendid specimens of the cabinet maker’s art. There are noble drawing-room suites, beautifully upholstered, splendidly made, carved and finished, and in all kinds of wood. The massive sideboards in walnut, with plate-glass panels, rarely carved, are fine examples of workmanship, and will vie with those turned out by any firm in the country. All kinds of suites for dining, drawing, and bedrooms, are made on the premises. Houses can be completely furnished. There are rich stocks of carpets, oilcloths, kitchen furniture, &c. The staff of workmen employed is most experienced and gifted. Mr. Williams being a thoroughly practical cabinet-maker, superintends all operations carried on. Any kind of furniture can be made to order, and the business is chiefly making to order, although valuable stocks of suit[e]s are constantly on view in the show-rooms. Although the goods turned out can compete in every way with the biggest firms in Manchester, the prices are very much lower. Mr. Williams, the sole proprietor, is held in universal respect by all who have the pleasure of claiming acquaintance with him. To his patrons he is courteous and obliging, to his employes a kind and considerate master, and to those around him, whether in public or private life, he is invariably warm hearted and generous.

JOHN SMITH, UMBRELLA MANUFACTURER,
45, MOSS LANE, WEST, MOSS SIDE, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was established by the present proprietor in 1858, since which date it has steadily progressed under a sound and judicious system of management. The premises occupied are not very large, but they are compact and well-situated. The operations of the house consist in the manufacture of umbrellas of every description and in every kind of material. The manufacture embraces many specialities, notably umbrellas for artists, photographers, and for tent and garden use. A very important feature of the business consists in the re-covering and repairing of umbrellas, which are executed with neatness, promptitude and dispatch, and in this direction a large business is done. Mr. Smith was one of the first to recognise the suitability of light steel wire for umbrella frames. Up to that time whalebone was entirely in use. Mr. Smith has enjoyed a long and prosperous career, and the work turned out at his establishment to-day is unsurpassed by any other house in the trade. The premises consist of a single shop, which is exceedingly well-stocked, and there is a suitably-appointed workroom attached, where an efficient staff of skilled and experienced workmen is employed. A very extensive trade is controlled among a good and influential connection, which extends throughout the locality and surrounding neighbourhood. The business is well and ably conducted by the genial and courteous proprietor, and ranks among the foremost in the trade.

BIRCH & ASHTON, BUILDERS AND CONTRACTORS,
HIGHER OPENSHAW, MANCHESTER.

TO the energy and enterprise of these well-known gentlemen is due the comfort enjoyed by the industrial classes of Openshaw more particularly, and district generally. Messrs. Birch & Ashton have entered with commendable vigour into their calling, and no firm of a similar nature in the district is held in such high respect. One reason for this is the thorough manner in which their work is done. No matter the section or department, all will bear the closest scrutiny. Of recent years they have undertaken gigantic contracts in the district, and have fulfilled them to the entire satisfaction of all concerned; frequent favourable comments appear in the local papers on the ability and resources of these enterprising gentlemen. The business was founded in 1875 by Mr. Joseph Edward Birch. In 1888 Mr. Alfred Ashton was admitted as partner. They have very large and convenient premises. The yard extends each way about four hundred feet. It contains large joiners’ shop, masons’ shed, timber steers, &c. They also hold a branch establishment of equal extent, and having the like trade facilities at the rear of the Gransmoor Hotel, off Ashton Old Road. All these are well fitted up, and adapted for the large requirements of the calling pursued. There are immense stacks of all kinds of building material in various parts of the yards. Messrs. Birch & Ashton contract for the excavating, draining, sewering, paving, &c., of property. They have already erected large blocks of property in their neighbourhood, and keep extending their operations. Over one hundred trained workmen are employed. All the work of this firm bears the stamp of solidity and finish so closely connected with the name of Messrs. Birch & Ashton. Both gentlemen take an active interest in affairs, and are universally respected and esteemed for their unvarying courtesy and attention. They are equally, liked for the honourable and manly way in which they conduct all their business transactions.

T. VICKERS, MILLINERY, DRESS, MANTLE AND MOURNING WAREHOUSE,
155 AND 15 7, GREAT DUCIE STREET, STRANGEWAYS, MANCHESTER.

ESTABLISHED by the present proprietor in 1876, this busy and flourishing concern is located in commodious and advantageously-placed premises opposite the Assize Courts. The two large shops communicate by convenient arrangements, and are handsomely fitted and appointed, displaying with skilful effect a very extensive and well-chosen stock of the various articles of feminine attire in all the latest and most fashionable styles, including laces, feathers, flowers, trimmings, and millinery generally, with mantles, dresses, &c., in tasteful and varied assortments. The character of the business is of the very best class, and a very excellent reputation attaches to Mr. Vickers’ establishment, which is supported by a very widespread and influential connection. The business» succeeded admirably from the very first, and continues to increase and develop with steady and gratifying expansion, the excellent and gratifying results achieved being largely attributable to the great care and personal attention devoted to the business by the spirited and experienced proprietor, whose energetic and untiring efforts have resulted in a trade that necessitates at present the employment of over twenty competent and skilled assistants. Mr. Vickers is well known throughout the district, and apart from his popularity in business circles he is personally greatly liked and esteemed by all who know him.

J. AND J. M. WORRALL, LIMITED, BLEACHERS, DYERS, PRINTERS AND FINISHERS,
ORDSALL DYE WORKS, SALFORD, MANCHESTER.

THE above is one of the most representative houses in the trade, and dates back in its foundation to the days of the past century. The personnel of the company, which is a private limited concern, consists of Messrs. James Henry and Charles F. Worrall, trading under the style and title above designated. The premises consist of an enormous six-storied block of buildings, magnificently equipped throughout with a plant of the most modern and improved dyeing and bleaching machinery and appliances, driven by a powerful steam motor, and calling into active requisition the services of a large staff of skilled operatives in dyeing, bleaching, printing, and finishing velvets, cords, plushes, moleskins, shirtings, and kindred commodities. These stupendous works moreovor are augmented by the old Garratt Dye Works, Princess Street. Manchester; the Ford Lane Works, at Pendleton; and the Crimsworth Water Dyeing Co.’s Works, at Hebden Bridge, Yorkshire, altogether constituting the largest and best institution of its kind in operation in the north of England. The trade controlled is commensurate with the vastness of the industrial proceedings, and extends not only to all parts of the United Kingdom, but, through the Manchester merchant, with all the leading houses abroad.

JOSEPH A. COOKE, CABINETMAKER, UPHOLSTERER, &C.,
14 AND 16, WALKER STREET, DENTON, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the notable houses engaged in the cabinetmaking industry in the populous district of Denton, there are perhaps few that are better known or more widely patronised than the admirably conducted concern above named. This thriving business was projected in the year 1887 by its present able proprietor, Mr. Joseph A. Cooke, a young gentleman of recognised ability and thorough practical experience in connection with the important branch of industry to which his attention is now so vigorously and successfully directed. The premises occupied consist of a large and commodious shop very heavily stocked with a carefully chosen selection of suites and single pieces of furniture; iron and brass bedsteads and mattresses, pictures, toilet and pier glasses, carpets, oilcloth, and linoleum, lace, Madras Tapestry, and other curtains, window blinds of all kinds, and in short, every conceivable article for the complete furnishing of a house. In the workshops Mr. Cooke superintends a staff of picked cabinetmakers and upholsterers; producing goods which combine all the strength, solidity, and durability of the furniture of our forefathers, with all the grace, elegance, and finish of the best modern designs. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume, and extends for many miles around.

S. DIGGLE, JUNIOR, DRAPER, HOSIER, &C.,
LIVERPOOL HOUSE, QUEEN’S ROAD, MILES PLATTING, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the notable houses in Manchester whose present marked degree of mercantile prosperity stands pre-eminent is that of Mr. S. Diggle, Junior, which was organised by that gentleman in the year 1880. Mr. Diggle commenced operations on a comparatively small scale in the same neighbourhood, applying himself with such zeal to the duties before him, that he found it necessary in 1888 to transfer his business to the present extensive range of shops, now known as “Liverpool House.” The spacious sale and show-room, forty feet by twenty-five feet, on the ground floor, is very fully stocked and most methodically arranged with an exhaustive series of goods, comprising cashmeres, merinos, velvets, dress fabrics, small-wares, lace hosiery, gloves, ribbons, umbrellas, corsets, stays, shirtings calicoes, flannels, blankets, and a splendid assortment of knitting yarns, particular prominence being given to the drapery and hosiery departments. A very brisk middle-class trade is carried on, under the personal supervision of the principal; and nothing could be more commendable than the order and system which prevail in every part of the premises. Indeed, the business in all its branches is conducted in the most masterly manner, and reflects nothing but the highest credit upon the administrative abilities and commercial capacity of its worthy chief.

JOSEPH MOTTERSHEAD, CROWN BAKERY,
HYDE ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was founded by the proprietor in 1879, originally At No. 484, Rochdale Road, and in consequence of its rapid development, and the necessity for increased accommodation, the more extensive and commanding central premises, 265 So 267, Hyde Road, were taken and reconstructed in 1883. The “Crown Bakery” is a large and admirably constructed building of three storeys, with a frontage of thirty feet. The baking department runs the whole length of the basement and is replete with ovens constructed on the most approved principles and other appliances embodying all the latest improvements and the most comprehensive utilities. On the ground floor is the spacious and well appointed shop and offices, which are lighted by the new patent Fourness lights. The premises are eminently suited to the business, having been specially fitted up and arranged in the most careful and complete manner to ensure the effective and economical working of the various departments. Mr. Mottershead has always on hand a liberal supply of plain and fancy bread, scones, and whole meal bread, rolls, biscuits in great variety, plum and seed cake, and confectionery.

Mr. Mottershead has recently added another department for the sale of tea and jams of superior quality. And being keenly alive to the fact that the best goods can only be made from the best materials, the greatest care is exercised in the selection of ingredients only of the best quality, and quality is never sacrificed to price. The original premises at 484, Rochdale Road are still as a branch shop. In 1885 Mr. Mottershad opened another at No. 97, Ashton Old Road, Ardwick, and a third, in 1889, at No. 320, Hyde Road. The trade is of an influential and steadily growing character and a very brisk business at all the establishments. A large staff of skilled and experienced bakers and assistants are regularly employed, the proprietor’s own vans deliver goods in all parts of the city and suburbs, and no effort is spared to meet the convenience of customers in the punctual execution of orders. Mr, Joseph Mottershead is well known and highly respected in the district, and brings to bear upon the conduct of this extensive and rapidly developing business the advantage of long practical experience, and his spirited enterprise, genial courtesy and prompt attention to the requirements of his customers have secured the confidence and support of a very extensive and high-class connection.

HARRY BRAZENOR, TAXIDERMIST, OSTEOLOGIST, AND FURRIER,
11, BRIDGE STREET, MANCHESTER.

WE have much pleasure in announcing amongst our subscribers Mr. H. Brazenor, taxidermist, osteologist and furrier, of 11, Bridge Street, who in two years has succeeded in consolidating a business second to none in the north. Mr. H. Brazenor is a member of the Brazenor family — naturalists of Brighton, established there in 1864 — hence is a born naturalist, and not as many so-called naturalists are, depending on others to do the work they themselves lack the skill to do. Gentlemen becoming clients of Mr. Brazenor can depend upon receiving both courtesy and consideration in all business dealings they may have with him; and as we ourselves have seen him manipulating an elephant of ten foot stature, we have no hesitation in saying that, however large or complicated the work, Mr. Brazenor is competent to undertake and carry it out. His place of business has not the fancy-bazaar appearance of some places, the nature of his work not permitting it. Nevertheless, it is the place where good work is done by a good workman, who stands out in bold relief against a background of novices who are entirely dependent on others to do the work they claim as their own.

THE MANCHESTER DRAPERY SUPPLY, GENERAL DRAPERS AND MILLINERS,
332, STOCKPORT ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE Manchester Drapery Supply was organised by Mr. F. W. Grayson in the year 1885. The premises occupied are admirably adapted to the requirements of a brisk first-class business of the kind. They consist of a large and substantial two-storied brick and stone building, having a fine frontage of 50 feet, and the ample accommodation thus afforded is capitally appointed throughout, and arranged in the most methodical manner to hold and display an exhaustive selection of household linen and general drapery goods on the ground floor, and a most tasteful display of millinery on the floor above. In the executive department Mr. Grayson operates on a large scale as a milliner devoting the most careful and competent attention to every detail of the business, with the result that everything emanating from his establishment may be relied upon as being made of the best materials by skilled workers in the most fashionable styles. The entire business is conducted with spirited energy and enterprise, and no firm could have won by more honourable and legitimate means the eminent reputation and widespread patronage which this well-conducted establishment has for the past eleven years so worthily enjoyed.

RICHARD BARLOW, STONE AND SLATE MERCHANT,
ARDWICK STATION, L. & N. W. RAILWAY, MANCHESTER.

MR. Barlow, who has been established at the above address for about twenty years, previous to which business was carried on at a wharf in Union Street, Aricoats, deals largely in stone and slates of all kinds, as well as sewerage pipes, fire-bricks, chimney tops, blue bricks, tiles, ridges, copings, lime, cement, and similar goods of every description. The premises in which these considerable operations are successfully conducted consist of a spacious yard with a convenient siding adjoining the Ardwick Station, L.&N.W. Railway. There is a capital office and every facility and accommodation for carrying on the business upon a very extensive scale. Mr. Barlow has year from year increased and developed the scope and extent of his operations, and he now enjoys the support of a very extensive and valuable connection among the leading architects, builders, and contractors, over a wide area of the surrounding district, from whom he secures large and important contracts for supplying materials for the construction of public buildings, private residences and other important undertakings. Mr. Barlow keeps a large staff of men constantly and busily employed, has his cartage and haulage work done by his own carts and horses, and in the commercial department of his business is assisted by members of his own family. He bears a very high reputation in the city as a capable and practical man of upright and thoroughly reliable personal character, and he is alike popular and deeply respected by all who know him.

EDWARD TRANTER, WHOLESALE CHAIR AND CABINET MAKER,
5 & 7, NORTH STREET, MILLER STREET, MANCHESTER.

FIFTEEN years ago Mr. Edward Tranter entered upon his industrial career in Rochdale Road, where, by dint of perseverance and well-directed energy, he contrived to build up a business of such proportions that he found it necessary some ten years since to very considerably increase his accommodation by acquiring more convenient and commodious quarters at No. 8, Mayes Street, and subsequently finding these insufficient for the requirements of his increasing business, he, in September, 1888, removed to the present extensive premises. These comprise six large floors in Nos. 5 & 7, North Street, the ground floors of which are appropriately divided into handsomely-appointed offices and show-rooms, while the remaining ones are elaborately equipped with all the best and most modern appliances incidental to the trade. Mr. Tranter operates with a staff of from thirty-five to forty skilled workmen, as a manufacturer of chairs and cabinets of all kinds, on an extensive scale, and devotes the most careful and competent attention to the production of these goods, including drawing, dining, and bedroom suites, as well as single pieces of furniture, all of which are remarkable for the elegance of their design and finished workmanship. The entire business, which is distinctly wholesale and confined to the trade, is conducted with rare ability and energy under the personal superintendence of the proprietor, upon principles which have won the confidence and support of a very large, valuable, and rapidly-growing connection.

R. S. DAWSON, TIMBER MERCHANT, WOOD AND TIN PACKING CASE MANUFACTURER, JOINER, &C.
WHARF SAW MILLS, GRANBY ROW, MANCHESTER.

FORMERLY carried on under the trading style of S. & R. S. Dawson, this flourishing enterprise was established in Gloucester Street in the year 1879, when only half a dozen hands were employed. The first year saw a rapid and considerable growth in the extent and scope of the operations of the firm, and to-day the business gives active occupation to nearly one hundred workpeople. The premises consist of a substantial building of three storeys, possessing a frontage of one hundred feet, and a depth of one hundred and thirty-five feet, the ground floor being occupied by offices, with the saw-mills and drying sheds for timber at the back, and the floor above devoted to the packing-case making department, whilst the remaining floor is used for the manufacture of the necessary tin linings for the packing-cases made in the business. A new room has also been added during the last few years for the purposes of the joinery work. The various floors are practically and skilfully fitted with all the latest machinery and appliances known in the trade, and the motive power is derived from a powerful steam engine. The building up of such an important and eminently representative business-undertaking in so comparatively short a period of years is an achievement of which Mr. Dawson may well be proud. Mr. R. S. Dawson is, however, not only a man of high reputation and important standing in the business world, but he is also in private life a gentleman who is greatly esteemed and respected in the circle of his personal acquaintance.

J. ATKINSON, DOMESTIC MACHINE MAKER AND FACTOR,
ALBERT WORKS, 11, BLACKFRIARS BRIDGE, MANCHESTER.

THIS thriving and prosperous concern was founded in the year 1856 by the father of the present proprietor, and has for over thirty years been conducted with the most highly satisfactory results. The premises are roomy and conveniently situated for business purposes, and in every way admirably adapted for the purposes of the trade. The offices are well arranged and there are extensive show rooms and storerooms, as well as large workshops at the rear, and an adequate staff of thoroughly skilled and experienced workmen are employed. A speciality is made of the “Universal” prize medal rotary knife cleaner, all the improvements in which are patented and which gained the first prize medal for merit at the great exhibition in Manchester in 1875, and also the first prize in 1879. Another speciality is Atkinson’s Solid Grooved Rubber Knife Machine Stay — registered July 1st, 1891. Other leading articles are the patent mincer, general mincer, coffee and spice mills, wheat mills, and other cleverly devised and ingenious domestic machines, which are all made by hand on the premises. Mr. J. Atkinson, who has devoted much attention and special study to the manufacture of domestic labour-saving machines, is a thoroughly practical business man of much energy and capacity, and the marked success which has at all times attended his operations has been mainly due to his own untiring and indefatigable personal exertions. He is well known in commercial circles, and is very popular and highly esteemed by all with whom he comes in contact.

LEWIS & PRITCHARD, TAILORS,
78, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

IN the ranks of the most successful practitioners of the sartorial art in Manchester a high place is held by Messrs. Lewis & Pritchard, whose business, established in 1882, affords a striking example of the substantial position that may be gained in the space of nine years by a combination of skilled practical experience and sound and enterprising management. The commanding premises are neatly and attractively appointed, and all the work is executed in the commodious workshops on the first floor. The trade is entirely of a bespoke character, and is eminently high class. The extensive and well-chosen stock comprises a tempting variety of fine cloths of every description and is very attractively and effectively, displayed. The unvarying success which the firm have obtained in ensuring a perfect fit and good style has gained them a very high reputation and secured them many valuable orders for uniforms, riding breeches and other garments requiring special care and attention in their manufacture. A large staff of experienced men is employed and the principals are themselves both thoroughly practical men, fully experienced in every branch of the trade. Messrs. Thomas Lewis and Hugh Pritchard are gentlemen who are well known and highly esteemed in business circles in Manchester, and their firm is regarded as one of the most promising commercial undertakings in the city.

ROBERT JONES, SANITARY PLUMBER, GLAZIER AND AUTHORISED GAS AND WATER FITTER,
43, UPPER BROOK STREET, CHORLTON-ON-MEDLOCK, MANCHESTER.

THIS prominent and eminently representative business was originally established as far back as the year 1837 by Messrs. J. and T. Hughes, who commenced operations on premises in the same street, and the concern was subsequently acquired by Mr. Robert Jones, who transferred the scene of his operations to the present address in 1885. The premises, which are spacious and in every way excellently adapted for the purpose of the business, have a frontage of about twenty-five feet, and extend to a depth of about seventy feet in the rear. The principal workshop is in the basement, extending the whole depth of the building, while the well-appointed shop on the ground floor is excellently arranged, and contains an extensive stock of gas and water fittings, filters, stoves, &c. Sanitary plumbing work of every kind is executed on a large scale, as well as the fitting of pumps, baths, lavatories, &c., and glaziers’ work. The principal is an authorised gas and water fitter, and this department is a very active and busy branch of the business. Houses and other building are inspected and reported upon for sanitary purposes, and contracts of any magnitude are entered into for the various kinds of work in which the firm are interested. Mr. Robert Jones has an excellent connection in and around the city, and bears a very enviable reputation for sound and reliable work, doing a very steady continuous trade, and keeping about half a dozen hands constantly and regularly employed. He is personally very well known in the district, and is universally popular and greatly respected.

OHM & WEBSTER, HOSIERS, GLOVERS, AND SHIRT MAKERS,
2 & 4, PRINCESS STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE hosiery, glove, and general outfitting trade in Manchester finds admirable exemplification at the hands of Mr. Webster, under whose sole guidance the flourishing business, which was organised by him in association with Mr. Ohm twenty-one years, is now being conducted with redoubled vigour and enterprise. No. 2, Princess Street, adjoins the Town Hall, and is constituted by a large and exceedingly well-appointed shop, affording in its prominent corner position every facility for holding and displaying to the best advantage a very large and comprehensive stock of superior goods, embracing, as leading lines, all kinds of gentlemen’s high-class hosiery and gloves, umbrellas, cricket, lawn-tennis, football and other suits; shirts in great variety and of the best makes; tourists’ and colonial outfits, and, in short, everything incidental to a first-class business of the kind. Mr. Webster is the sole agent in the city for the goods produced by the celebrated Dr. Jaeger’s Sanitary Woollen Clothing and Bedding Company, Limited, which, since its introduction during the days of the memorable Health Exhibition, where it won the gold medal, has created one of the greatest and most valuable clothing reforms noted in the history of modern times. A large and distinctly high-class trade is controlled under the personal supervision of the principal, who is everywhere esteemed and respected, in virtue of the strictly sound and straightforward lines upon which he conducts his difficult undertaking.

C. S. LEADBETTER, MECHANICAL AND OPERATIVE DENTIST,
61, GREAT DUCIE STREET, STRANGE WAYS, VICTORIA STATION, MANCHESTER.

PROGRESS OF DENTISTRY IN LANCASHIRE.

AMONGST the living four thousand eight hundred registered members of the dental profession in the British Isles, few of them have been identified with it from birth, and fewer possess any depth of professional originality, and fewer still have stepped out in a marked manner into the arena of public notoriety. To these observations Mr. C. S. Leadbetter, of Manchester, forms a singular exception. In fact, this humble follower of the dental forceps sustains a unique position, having been cradled in dentistry, and possessing by natural tastes and habits, an aptitude enabling him to follow up with interest the various phases the practice of dentistry has passed through within the past forty-five years. For thirty-five of these years he has been identified with the private practice in Manchester of his father, the late Edward Leadbetter, formerly of Newcastle-on-Tyne, and originally from London, who in his day, in common with other members of the Leadbetter family, did duty periodically in a branch of his professional services at Windsor Castle, &c. Therefore, from this source Mr. C. S. Leadbetter imbibed strong Court and Government tendencies. In addition to the cares of this so old-established dental practice he devotes not a small portion of his time, his means, and attention to Court and Government questions, and by the public knowledge of these is in request with the simple address of C. S. Leadbetter, dentist, Manchester, as the public have long learned to regard him as a representative practitioner and a master in the profession, and repose the utmost confidence in him, and follow his simple address, wherever it may lie for the time being.

This is by no means misplaced, seeing Mr. Leadhetter has devoted the whole of his life to the science of dentistry and the technicalities of the tools and materials employed therein; as a result of his extensive thought and experiments, he has patented at home and abroad a number of valuable improvements in dentists’ essentials. His chief specialities up to date consist in new and improved mineral teeth, mineral and composite gum teeth, pin teeth, bridge work, patented pins for pinning teeth, and appliances for the speedy manufacturing of the same, patent metal lined, unbreakable dental rubbers, made from the raw materials — purified by his special patent processes, — and also from the ordinary manufactured dental rubbers, in gold, platina, and other precious metals, gold coated or otherwise, patent dental metals, and similar dental specialities. Of these he is the patentee and sole manufacturer, and supplies the public with the above patent materials and fits them to the palate and gum of the human mouth by perfected methods, and in suitable cases introduces his patent suction chamber which, it is claimed, produces less irritation and inflammatory symptoms in the mouth than other suction chambers now in use, and reconstructs old cases of dentistry with the same. In all cases the fees are exceptionally reasonable.

Mr. Leadbetter being familiar with the lively interest his patients take in his manifest improvements in dentistry when clearly demonstrated to them, and their willingness to pay extras for their advantages, which relatively are safer to wear and cheaper in the long run, has ready for the press subject matter for circulation amongst his reputable professional brethren, offering to them to share the advantages of his patented inventions for a small initial fee and other considerations payable in advance, to enable them to practise and profit by his professional industry, and otherwise benefit themselves, their families, if any, and their patients at a modest outlay. The public are respectfully reminded that the dental profession is not free from a percentage of rascality amongst its members, some of whom are ever on the alert to fleece both the public and their brother practitioners for a mess of pottage. Of these the too confiding public is requested to beware, as Mr. Leadbetter’s improved materials are marked, “Leadbetter’s patent,” and can only be obtained direct from him or from his certified, dental agents and licensees.

It is not generally known that Mr. Leadbetter was a subscriber to the fund to promote the Dentists Reform Bill, 1878, which practically is the outcome of Manchester energy, and the late Hugh Birley, M.P., held Mr. Leadbetter’s brief on the Bill in its passage through the House of Commons. The most lively incident in Mr. Leadbetter’s career consisted of his. initiating and acting the part of the moving genius in a bazaar to release Mr. Wm. Birch, junr.’s, Cornbrook Orphanage of its financial deficiencies, when Mr. Leadbetter’s project was opposed in the Manchester Old Town Hall, King Street, by a select portion of the best people of Manchester, but in this, instance “man proposed but God disposed.” When the goody good people’s opposition enterprise was fitted up at Cornbrook it was blown spark out by a terrific hurricane which visited the locality, and Mr. Leadbetter’s project survived the wreck and went into the Free Trade Hall, and a gross sum of £2,600 was raised; and to complete the goody people’s defeat, Mr. Leadbetter went into the bazaar with neither stock nor capital, and he stood out at the finish with a collection of about £60 in money and about £100 in goods and clothing for the orphans.

The most grave incident in this gentleman’s career consisted at the critical hour in his supporting the instructions of the admiral of the British Fleet to make the passage of the Dardenelles — by force, if necessary — during the last Turko-Russian war, which was done successfully, when all the elements of force were presented to secure it, with the sacrifice of at least one life, in the person of one of the name of Johnson, formerly a Manchester Cathedral Sunday scholar of Mr. Leadbetter’s, and it formed part of Mr. Leadbetter’s duty to sign the Admiralty papers to enable Johnson’s relatives to receive his ship’s pay, effects and savings. The most difficult incident which called for Mr. Leadbetter’s staying power was the franchise question and the Commoners’ Redistribution of Seats. To this question, one of the first magnitude, Mr. Leadbetter drafted no less than about 170 large sheets of details worked by a set of rules, of which the cumulative vote was a feature, including representation by single division. Under this arrangement Manchester was entitled to seven members in Parliament. The papers were drafted and. mapped out to embrace an extended Local Government and Imperial Federation.

The enterprise which commanded all the talents, commercial, naval, as well as military, and the reserved energies of Manchester, was the Ship Canal. In this enterprise Mr. Leadbetter was quite at home, and being a Tynesider by birth, was cognisant of the advantages of an inland port, and therefore at once claimed the sympathy and support of the Court, and Government on its behalf, but its success was not assured until he had passed the word, “Bring your docks from Old Trafford nearer Manchester,” along the line, which was taken up with an enthusiasm which would not be denied, and in due time big ships will cease to be a novelty in Manchester. This was somewhat endangered by many adverse circumstances, but the shareholders’ directors were equal to the occasion and appealed to the ratepayers of Manchester through its council chamber, which was liberally responded to. This brought with it fresh troubles to disorganise the shareholders. To resettle them Mr. Leadbetter suggested, through the columns of the local press, “that it was quite time the shareholders formed themselves into an association to watch over their interests.” This suggestion was promptly taken up, and resulted in such an association being formed as will give tongue to the interests of its members. In the midst of these struggles for the good and efficient progress of Manchester, &c., Mr. Leadbetter was no luke-warm Sunday-school teacher, which the records of the Cathedral schools can testify, and he is also well known as an ambitious church reformers as his issue of an elaborate draft of a bill entitled, “Cathedral and Parish of Manchester Reform Bill,” many details of which are already known and in circulation, and there is more in store to be said in its favour as it provided for the conversion of certain unnecessary city churches into higher grade schools, on lines in accord with reformed church principles, and in touch with free education principles.

The interest Mr. Leadbetter takes in public and private hospitals and the like institutions may be presumed from the fact that when in London in 1883 he visited the Temperance Hospital, and from observations taken there, supported by an appeal from the inmates of an institution in Manchester devoted to the isolation and treatment of fevers and similar infectious diseases, he instituted for free distribution monthly amongst hospitals and infirmaries a pamphlet, entitled “The Hospital Patient’s Spiritual Pillow,” which contained the principal parts of the Church Communion, services for the visitation of the sick and dying, with the guide for Spiritual Communion, including the Collects, texts of Scripture and abridgements for the month’s epistles and gospels. And, in his busiest moments, Mr. Leadbetter found time to serve about ten years in the ranks of the 3rd M.R.V., and passed an examination for a commander’s certificate, which served him, at a later date, substantial service in this — it gave an amount of force to his observations to the Horse Guards and the War Office, which they would not have otherwise possessed, and to claim for Manchester and Salford their suitability, if linked to the Ship Canal, for an inland military and naval arsenal, and similar subjects, including definite “Improvements in Military and Naval Weapons, Kit, and Equipment.”

But other subjects have also a claim for a passing notice:- “The Trade in Alcoholic Drink.” From this, question Mr. Leadbetter has his remedy based upon a medical basis, as it is generally admitted that the laxity of the medical and allied practitioners in their recommendations of alcoholic drinks has contributed an unjustifiable share to its general abuse, and it is Mr. Leadbetter’s opinion that they, with the clergy, hold the keys of its amendment, and are fully competent to devise the ways and means, if not to demolish it, to deprive it of its sting, and Mr. Leadbetter has embodied his ideas into a patent having several adjuncts dealing directly with the question at issue, and hopes at an early date to hold a public demonstration of its merits under distinguished patronage, and proposes to. invite the traders in alcoholic drinks to co-operate with the chief patron of the Church of England Temperance Organisation to reduce the consumption of intoxicating drinks to approved proportions. It appears that unsolicited, Mr. Leadbetter was, on December 30th, 1891, in Paris elected a member of the “Parisian Inventors’ Academy,” a society having a roll of over 500 members, and was awarded a first-class diploma and a medal, an action in accord with the Master’s utterance, “That a prophet is not without honour save in his own country.” For a fuller account of what may be done in humble duty under difficulties and opposition, which Mr. Leadbetter has overcome, the reader is referred to other fields of literature.

S. EYRE, HATTER,
97, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable house was founded in 1847 by the present proprietor at the foregoing address.

JOHN RILEY, WINE MERCHANT,
COBDEN STREET, PENDLETON, MANCHESTER.

A NEW departure in the wine trade, that has had an almost phenomenal development since its inauguration in the year 1887, is that which was successfully introduced by Mr, John Riley, Wine Importer, Pendleton. Mr. Riley was one of the first to conceive the idea that Invalids’ Port Wine could be vastly improved, and its strengthening and stimulating properties greatly enhanced, by compounding it suitably with such valuable tonic and digestive preparations as Liebig Company’s Extract of Meat, Malt Extract, Quinine, Pepsine, and Iron, to suit the individual wants of the weak and infirm. He boldly set about his task, and succeeded in producing some of the most valuable recuperative agents known, in his select series of preparations. These comprise Riley’s Beef and Malt Wine, a palatable compound of fine old Port Wine, Liebig’s Extract of Meat and Malt Extract, which is undeniably a boon and a blessing for convalescents; Riley’s Liebig’s Beef, Malt and Quinine Wine, which, by the addition of pure Quinine, embodies all the tonic, soothing, and blood purifying properties of cinchona; Riley’s Liebig’s Beef, Malt and Iron Wine for persons suffering from an impoverished condition of the blood, or are at all prone to anaemia; Riley’s Beef, Malt and Pepsine Wine, which cannot be too highly recommended to such as are subject to dyspepsia and alimentary disorders. The above preparations must not be confounded with articles sometimes sold under somewhat similar titles. They are each and all unique, and their medicinal and health-giving properties are the outcome of Mr. Riley’s wide experience and comprehensive research. Of one article alone — viz., Orange Quinine Wine — he is probably the largest manufacturer in the North of England, if not in the United Kingdom. Mr. Riley’s premises consist of a large warehouse which formerly belonged to the Pendleton Cooperative Society, and affords excellent and ample accommodation for a very large stock of the several preparations named. The business is conducted in person by Mr. Riley, assisted by his son and a large and manifestly efficient staff; and a rapidly rising wholesale connection has been developed, which gives every promise of still further extension.

W. BENTLY CAPPER, DRUG STORES, DRYSALTER, AND DEALER IN THEATRICAL MAKE-UP,
21, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS popular establishment, which is advantageously situated immediately opposite to the well-known firm of J. Rylands & Sons, was founded by the present proprietor an 1880. The commodious premises consist of a large building of three floors, fronted by a large double shop and have extensive store-rooms at the rear, in which are stocked a varied and comprehensive supply of Drysaltery goods and Painters’ Materials, together with Drugs, Chemicals, and Patent Medicines, as well as Surgical Appliances and Sanitary Requisites. A special feature is made of the department engaged in the supply of Grease Paints, and articles of Theatrical Make-up, for which Mr. Capper is widely and favourably known in the Dramatic Profession. In all the various branches a considerable trade is done, stimulated by the fact that all goods are sold at Store Prices, and a considerable amount of business is transacted through the medium of the parcels post with an extensive and widespread connection. One of the many proprietary articles emanating from this firm is that well-known and productive Hair Producer “Crinidone,” which is so highly esteemed for the preservation and production of the human hair, as the many testimonials received by Mr. Capper shows. Other specialities are Capper’s Rose Leaf Powder, for the complexion, Creme Imperatrice, Rouge and Bloom of Roses for cheeks and lips, &c. Previously to starting the present business, over eleven years ago, Mr. Capper had been for fourteen years in a leading position with the important firm of Goadsby & Co., and it is no doubt to the invaluable experience gained during that period that must be ascribed the marked success that has attended his operations in the present business, which has developed a noteworthy degree of prosperity, and is daily increasing and extending in scope.

PIGOTT BROTHERS, WHOLESALE AND FAMILY GROCERS AND PROVISION MERCHANTS,
89 AND 91, GORTON LANE, GORTON, MANCHESTER.

AMONG the notable firms that may be said to have contributed materially to the commercial prosperity of the populous district of Gorton, there are perhaps few that are better known or more widely appreciated and patronised than the above. In 1887, Messrs. Pigott Brothers, two young gentlemen of ability and spirited enterprise, became associated in forming the nucleus of the thriving business of which they are now reaping the reward. Their premises are in every point exactly adapted to the requirements of a very brisk first-class business of the kind. They consist of a large and substantial three-storied building, admirably appointed throughout, and most methodically arranged to hold and display a very large and comprehensive stock of goods, which comprise all the very best every-day groceries, teas, and coffees, Italian and Continental goods generally, American canned wares and table delicacies, Indian and Colonial produce, and prime provisions from all the leading markets of the day. The firm, moreover, act as direct importers of Irish and Continental produce, and do a very substantial wholesale as well as sound family trade, which extends both throughout the district and for many miles around. They hold branch establishments at 308, Hyde Road, and at 81 & 83, Cross Street, Gorton, and employ a large staff of assistants, all of whom endeavour to emulate the example of their principals by the prompt, careful, and courteous manner in which they attend to the requirements of customers.

B. J. ROBINSON, CIGAR MANUFACTURER,
28, BRADSHAW STREET, SHUDEHILL, MANCHESTER.

THIS notable house, organised in the year 1862, under the auspices of Messrs. Driver and Robinson, is now, since the year 1872, under the sole vigorous proprietary control of Mr. B. J. Robinson. The business was for many years conducted at Oldham Street, when, on account of more accommodation being required, in 1872 it was removed to its present more commodious and convenient quarters. Mr. Robinson’s factory consists of a large and substantial four-storied building, the basement being set apart for the storage and due preparation of the tobacco leaves, and here Mr. Robinson’s vast experience is shown by the skill and judgment with which the materials are selected and manipulated prior to manufacture. The ground floor is admirably appointed throughout in the form of sale and store-rooms in which a very large and valuable stock of the cigars manufactured is held in readiness for despatch to dealers throughout the northern and midland counties of England; the trade being energetically pursued through the agency of a staff of first-class commercial travellers. The principal stories of the building constitute the manufactory proper, where a staff of about one hundred and twenty hands, including men, women and girls is employed. The entire work is conducted with a regularity and system that are beyond all praise.

Mr. Robinson operates on a very extensive scale as a maker of high-class English cigars of every grade, and among his productions special mention must be made in this place of his celebrated “Startler” brand, which has during the past few years become almost phenomenally popular. The “Leader” brand, the cigars of which are retailed at 2d. each, and the “Blissful Hours” brand, sold at 3d. each, have long carried every thing of the kind before them in the trade. Early in the present year Mr. Robinson introduced a new brand of cigars, the “ Hydrella.” These are manufactured of the finest quality Havanah tobacco, and are selling freely. Personally Mr. Robinson is a gentleman possessing the advantage of a thorough knowledge of every branch of his business in both the executive and commercial departments, and no house could have won by more legitimate and honourable means the high reputation which his valuable undertaking has so long and so worthily enjoyed.

THOMAS HUNTLEY, BUILDER AND CONTRACTOR,
SMITH STREET, HADFIELD STREET, CORNBROOK, MANCHESTER.

IN connection with the development of the modern builder and contractor’s craft in Manchester to-day, it would indeed be extremely difficult to indicate a more noteworthy example than the above, which has already achieved almost phenomenal success. This has, unquestionably, been due to the large experience which Mr. Huntley has been enabled to apply in the conduct of his new project, through having, for about twenty-five years, been connected with the well-known firm of Messrs. Wilson, Toft, and Huntley. The premises occupied are in every point of character and situation exactly adapted is the requirements of a very brisk business of the kind. They consist of a very large and spacious yard, fully stocked with all kinds of well-seasoned timber and builders’ materials, augmented by a great covered shed, elaborately equipped as a first-class saw-mill, and replete with planing, turning, and joiners’ machinery of the most modern types. Annexed are the offices, drawing-rooms, and stable accommodation, giving ample employment to a staff of from twenty to thirty skilled hands, who execute work of exclusively the best kind in the building line. Personally, Mr. Huntley is a gentleman possessing a very thorough knowledge of his business in all its branches, and he exercises that sound judgment and well-directed energy which have always been so eminently characteristic of his commercial career.

RICHARD KILL, FURNITURE REMOVER AND STORER,
POLYGON REPOSITORY, 114, STOCKPORT ROAD, ARDWICK, MANCHESTER.

THIS successful business was founded at the above address in 1865, by the present proprietor, and its progress and development since that date have been steady and uninterrupted under a sound judicious system of management. The premises, which are called the Polygon Repository, are spacious, commodious, and thoroughly well adapted to the purposes of their designation. They were formerly a large private mansion, and contain numerous large dry rooms which are utilised for storage. There is also splendid stabling for thirteen horses, all well arranged, and the latest improvements in the different departments. Mr. Hill undertakes the removal of all descriptions of furniture by road or rail, and refixing the same in their new destination. Six vans, built on the latest and most improved principles, and thirteen horses are permanently employed in the conduct of the business. A large staff of experienced packers and assistants are also engaged, the proprietor himself personally superintending the general organisation of the business. Estimates are given for removals to and from all parts of the kingdom, the terms being of the most liberal character. Mr. Hill’s residence is at 592, Stockport Road, Longsight, where he has a compact and neatly furnished office, to which all orders should be sent. The storage rooms are dry and spacious, and a fact deserving of prominent mention is, that all goods stored therein are covered by insurance. A large volume of trade is controlled, the connection, which is a substantial and influential one extending to all parts of Manchester and surrounding districts. Mr. Hill conducts his business in a most efficient manner, and much of the success which has been achieved is largely due to the great ability, untiring energy, and sterling business capacity displayed in the management, which has resulted in placing his house in the very foremost ranks of the trade.

JOHN TAIT, MERCHANT TAILOR AND BOYS’ CLOTHIER,
43 AND 45, STRETFORD ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE modern tailors’ and clothiers’ craft and calling, in Manchester of to-day, finds admirable exemplification at the hands of the notable house whose business doings furnish the theme of the present brief historical review. It appears upon an inquiry into the commercial annals of the city that the firm was organised as a tailor’s establishment in the year 1850, having finally been acquired by Mr. John Tait two years ago, and by him developed with such zeal and spirited enterprise that it practically stands unrivalled among institutions of its kind in the district in which it is located. The premises occupied consist of a large block of two-storied buildings, forming a prominent corner shop, with splendid window displays in the best and busiest part of Stretford Road. The stock held and displayed is a very large, well-selected, and comprehensive one, and includes a very superior series of Scotch, Irish, and West of England tweeds, black worsted coatings, Vicunas, serges, fancy trouserings, and summer overcoatings, all of them exactly adapted to the requirements of the high-class bespoke trade done, and for which Mr. Tait employs only skilled and experienced cutters and tailors, thereby being able to guarantee that perfection of fit, style, and finish for which his house has already become noted. A very substantial trade, moreover, is done in men’s, youths’, and boys’ ready-made clothing, special attention being devoted to the juvenile department, whilst another special feature is made of a provident clothing club, for the purpose of supplying members with reliable garments at the most reasonable rates of subscription. The whole business is conducted with conspicuous ability and sound judgment, under the able personal supervision of the principal, to whom the highest credit is due for the altogether admirable manner in which he administers the affairs of his representative undertaking.

GEORGE BENSON, ORGAN BUILDER,
CORNBROOK PARK ROAD, CITY ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE thousand and one parts of an organ are thoroughly understood at the above establishment, and the most minute detail has as much attention paid to it as the largest sections. The result is that the instruments turned out by this noted maker have the full, rich, and brilliant tone so intimately connected with his name. Every organ built contains the very latest known improvements. Every shape and size are built, to accommodate buildings to be fitted. The business was established by the present proprietor in 1884. The premises are double works, one being at the above address, the other at Cedar Street, Hulme. The Cornbrook works are of two stories. There are cutting, fixing, and erecting rooms on ground floor, also the office and counting house. On the second floor is the tuning room and stores. Both works are fitted with steam power. The machinery is of the most improved type, as are all the various other appliances used. Mr. Benson is particularly careful in the selection of the timber for the interior and case of the organs, and he keeps a large stock of well seasoned woods. The business is home and export. The large staff is composed of the best workmen. Organs are tuned by annual contracts, and estimates will be given on application. Mr. Benson issues a very useful little book on “Electricity and Organ Building,” which will be read with great interest by organists. It goes to prove the great benefits of the introduction of electricity in connection with the manipulation if properly applied. The electrical arrangement likewise allows of the more convenient placement of the instrument, and offers many other valuable advantages. The works of Mr. Benson are admirably managed, and the increasing business he is enjoying proves that his workmanship is of the highest order.

CONWAY & CO., TILERS AND TILE MERCHANTS,
77, BRIDGE STREET, MANCHESTER.

THE introduction of tiles into the construction of public buildings and private dwelling-houses has given origin to a special industry which has of recent years been developed in quite a phenomenal manner, and in no instance is this better exemplified than in the one here named. This notable house was organised in the year 1876, and has ever since been marked by a singularly brilliant series of successes. The premises occupied are well adapted to the requirements of a brisk thriving concern. They consist of an exceedingly fine long show-room capitally lighted. The centre of the room is occupied by handsome stands displaying, to the best advantage, a splendid series of every kind of art, encaustic, mosaic, and enamel tiles, hand-painted tiles, and lustre tiles; while the walls are flanked with ebony racks holding all kinds of border, vestibule, and other small samples. Across the end of this show-room there runs another apartment, lighted from the roof above and admirably arranged for exhibiting a very select series of handsomely-tiled fireplaces, hearths, panels for gentlemen’s houses, and the like; and this department leads to the elegantly-appointed office. The basement is used for storage purposes, and the firm also hold large stores at 18, Coupland Street, near Owens College. A great speciality is made by Messrs. Conway & Co. of the new lustre tile, which is peculiarly effective for fireplaces, and of which they hold a particularly large and varied stock. The firm operate on a large scale, employing a full staff of skilled hands as tilers; some of their work may be seen adorning the handsome staircase and the dining-room grill at the Athenaeum, the staircase and entrance hall of the Manchester Co-operative Society’s new premises; the mosaic pavement at Messrs. Whitworth’s offices, Openshaw; the floors of many churches, and a large number of private houses in the city and suburbs. A very large local trade is controlled, and the firm enjoy the reputation of allowing only the most substantial and perfect work to pass muster at their hands, and doubtless this has enabled them to maintain their prominent position in this important trade.

THOMAS ASHWORTH, PRINTER, BOOKBINDER, STATIONER, NEWSAGENT, &C.,
LIBERTY STEAM PRINTING WORKS, 156 AND 158, LONDON ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS thoroughly representative business was founded by its present able proprietor twenty*-seven years ago, and has since the date of its organisation continued to command a very prosperous trade, which to-day is reckoned to be one of the best of its kind in the city. The premises occupied consist of a large and substantial three-storied building, with a capitally appointed double-fronted shop on the ground floor, augmented by admirably equipped printing works to the rear. As a printer and bookbinder, Mr. Ashworth is well and favourably known, not only within but beyond the limits of the city. A great amount of jobbing work is done for commercial men, as well as fine letterpress printing, the machines and appliances used being the best and newest invented. In addition to this Mr. Ashworth controls a very brisk stationery and news agency trade, supplying all kinds of plain, fancy, and commercial stationery, account, books, office requisites, stationers’ sundries, and all the daily and weekly papers of any consequence, periodical publications, and the like, with despatch. His stock is a very large and varied one, and in both the mercantile and executive departments of the business he has occasion to employ a goodly staff of skilled hands. The trade of the house is very large indeed, and the business is conducted by its capable proprietor upon principles which have thus far secured, and will undoubtedly retain, the confidence and support of a most extensive and, desirable patronage.

J. W. SHAW, FAMILY GROCER AND PROVISION MERCHANT, &C.,
WAREHOUSE, 1, CLARENCE STREET, AND 71, YORK STREET, CHEETHAM, MANCHESTER, AND NUMEROUS BRANCHES.

THIS prosperous and flourishing undertaking is not of very old standing, having been established in the year 1882, but from the first a very considerable degree of success has been attained. The headquarters of the business are at Clarence Street and York Street, Cheetham, where the roomy and heavily-stocked warehouse adjoins the principal retail house, and the other branches are situated at 36, Oak Street, Smithfield Market; 11, Swan Street; 566, Rochdale Road (corner of Churnett Street); 33, Crumpsall Terrace, Cheetham Hill; 137, Great Ducie Street, Strangeways; 73, Bury New Road; 71 Cheetham Hill Road, 207, Cheetham Hill Road, and 65 and 67, Clarence Street, Lower Broughton. The shops are each situated in good business Centres, and are all exceedingly well fitted and appointed; presenting a very attractive and pleasing appearance. Large stocks of high-class groceries and provisions are held, and supplies are drawn from the warehouse at Clarence Street, where heavy quantities of all kinds of goods are always kept on hand. Here Mr. Shaw has large and conveniently arranged offices, and has a numerous staff of clerks constantly employed. A very extensive and important family trade is in operation of the. best kind, purely on cash terms. Buying very large quantities, and having a thoroughly practical and experienced knowledge of the trade, Mr. Shaw is enabled to secure every advantage of the markets, and to offer the benefit to those who do business with him. His connection is widespread and influential, and the scope and extent of his transactions is daily growing, and the markedly satisfactory results that have been achieved have been entirely due to the energy and foresight devoted to the details of management by the enterprising and indefatigable principal.

JOHN WILLIAMS, CARRIAGE DESIGNER AND BUILDER,
MANCHESTER.

THIS celebrated house stands in the front rank of the carriage building trade in Manchester, and traces its history back to the year 1868, at which time it was founded by the late Joshua Trappe, at Park Street, Cheetham, and was under the management of Mr. John Williams until the death of Mr. Trappe, which took place in the early part of 1875. The business was then purchased by the present experienced principal, Mr. John Williams, and successfully carried on there until the spring of 1888, when, finding the premises in Park Street too small for the rapidly increasing business, the present large and commodious premises were built from plans drawn by Mr. Williams, so as to meet the demands of his extensive and improving trade. The entrance to the works, is situated on an old and historic spot, namely, the approach to the old foot bridge connecting Long Millgate with Victoria Station, whilst the front entrance in Station Approach Road leads into the large show-rooms, which are situated on the ground floor, and the splendid carriage bazaar upstairs, where Mr. Williams displays a most interesting assortment of his productions in high-class carriages of every kind.

The stock held here is a large one, and is also remarkably comprehensive, embracing every style of two- and four-wheeled carriage now in general use, from the most stately and superb landau, the very stylish brougham, the neatest of phaetons or elegant victorias, to the smart Manchester drag (specially designed by this firm), or the eminently useful pony carts, gigs, &c. These vehicles are in most cases produced from special designs drawn by Mr. Williams, whose skill in these matters is widely known, and the unsurpassed workmanship and splendid finish of the different carriages speak volumes for the practical ability of his staff and the resources of his large and well-equipped factory, which adjoins these handsome show rooms. Public opinion has for many years voted Mr. Williams as one of the best of Lancashire carriage builders, and this general verdict has been endorsed by that of the judges at numerous exhibitions, where the house under notice has won a large number of notable awards, including many silver medals, silver cups and first prizes, and stands in the proud position of never having been beaten in open competition. These successes fully indicate the high standard of merit maintained in all Mr. Williams’s productions, and justifies the high reputation he enjoys in general circles. A very large business is done, all the operations of which come under the direct supervision of the principal, and the house stands deservedly high in the esteem and confidence of a widespread and valuable connection, which extends not only throughout Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, and Derbyshire, but also to other parts of the kingdom, where the sound construction, elegant design, and perfect finish of Mr. Williams’s vehicles have met with every appreciation.

E. GOTHARD, MINERAL WATER MANUFACTURER, HOREHOUND AND GINGER BEER BREWER,
EAST PHILIP STREET, SPRINGFIELD LANE, SALFORD, MANCHESTER.

THIS business has not been in existence any great length of time, having been established by the present proprietor in 1887. But there are very few firms that have developed such an extensive and substantial trade in a similar period. The premises occupy the whole of the ground floor at the above address and comprise two rooms, which are spacious and commodious, and well equipped with washing, bottling and filling apparatus, gasometer, corking machines, and all other plant and appliances of the most modern and improved type, incidental to this branch of industry. Mr. Gothard is extensively engaged in the manufacture of all classes of mineral waters, such as soda, seltzer, lithia, and potass waters, lemonade, ginger ale, apple wine, &c., &c. An important feature of the business consists in the brewing of horehound and ginger beer, for which the proprietor has acquired a high reputation. The quality and class of the goods manufactured by this firmware of surpassing excellence in every detail. A very large and rapidly-increasing trade is controlled among a widespread and substantial connection, which is exclusively confined to shopkeepers, grocers, confectioners, milk dealers, &c., throughout Manchester and its suburbs. A large stock is always kept on hand, and a staff of from eight to ten experienced workmen and boys are kept constantly and busily engaged. The business is conducted in a most efficient manner by the energetic and genial proprietor, who is a gentleman thoroughly conversant with the mineral water trade in all its ramifications.

GOADSBY & CO., COLOUR AND PAINT MANUFACTURERS, OIL MERCHANTS AND DRYSALTERS,
2, 4 AND 6, ALBERT BRIDGE, MANCHESTER.

FOR considerably over a century the eminent firm named at the head of this sketch has held a place of prominence and distinction in the English paint and oil trade, and its industrial operations in the manufacture of all kinds of paints and colours are carried on upon a very extensive scale at Newton Heath, The Manchester headquarters are in large and commodious premises at the above address at Albert Bridge, and here may at all times be found an immense stock of paints, colours, varnishes, brushes, and all other requisites for painters, together with oils for burning and for lubricating, the firm being extensively engaged in the oil trade. Among Messrs. Goadsby’s numerous specialities may be mentioned their prepared enamelled varnish paints, mixed ready for immediate use; and they deal very largely in terebine, patent dryers, putty, &c., for the home and export trades. Another important speciality consists in the firm’s ready-mixed “household paints,” in all shades. These are packed in all sizes, from one pound upwards; the tins can be easily opened and hermetically closed again, thus preventing waste, and in this way the contents will keep in perfect condition for years. Messrs. Goadsby claim for these paints a distinct superiority in quality, neatness, and convenience.

This firm’s concentrated oil dryers is very largely used by the leading houses in the trade, particularly in connection with linseed oil for tarpaulins, waggon covers, oil cloths, and linoleums. Being a rapidly drying agent, one part of this preparation to twenty parts of linseed oil ensures perfect drying in from six to eight hours. It dries very elastic, and never cracks or blisters, being perfectly soluble in hot oil. Coloured varnishes for lacquering are also produced by Messrs. Goadsby in a manner adding to their high reputation in other branches of the trade, and there are many other specialities in connection with which the name of this old-established firm has become very widely and favourably known. It is a tribute to the sterling qualities of the products of this firm that they are very largely in use on the principal railways of the kingdom for decorative and other purposes, notwithstanding the many articles of this kind on the market.

The large works at Newton Heath are splendidly equipped for all the purposes of the industry to which they are devoted, and their excellent productive facilities enable the firm to meet with promptitude and satisfaction all the demands of their wide and influential home and export trade. The founder of this noted house, Mr. Thomas Goadsby, has been dead some twenty years, and Mr. Davies, whom he took into partnership, in conjunction with Mr. Leonard Hunt, is also deceased. Mr. Hunt, therefore, remains sole proprietor of the business, which he personally superintends and directs with conspicuous ability. The late Mr. Goadsby was a much respected Mancestrian, and was mayor of the city in 1861-62. The statue of the late Prince Consort in Albert Square, called the Albert Memorial, was erected soon after the decease of Mr. Goadsby, by a fund to which he was the principal subscriber. We should add that the telegraphic address of Messrs. Goadsby & Co., is “Prompt, Manchester,” and that they have a branch at 35, King William Street* London, E.C.

JOHN HOPE & CO., MANUFACTURERS,
28, GEORGE STREET, MANCHESTER.

FOR twenty-three years this house has held a very important position in the world of commerce, and has been largely patronised and supported. It was founded originally in Fountain Street by Messrs. Henry Hurst, Jno. Hope, and James Wood, under the firm name of Hurst, Hope, & Wood, and removed to the present much more commodious building close upon twelve years ago. A very large and valuable connection is attached to the concern, which, under the energetic management of the present proprietor, formerly one of the original firm, steadily continues to increase. Mr. John Hope, the sole proprietor, trading as Messrs. John Hope & Co., is a gentleman well known to the trade, and highly respected. He has had large experience in his calling, and is an admitted authority in connection with the goods in which he deals. The chief departments may be classified under the headings of muslins, dyed goods, and umbrella cloths, and of these a great variety is held, especially in muslins and umbrella cloths. Every conceivable article connected with these very important sections of commerce will be found fully represented here, all of the highest quality. The well-appointed premises comprise on the ground floor, convenient offices and grey rooms, and on the higher floors are stock-rooms, &c. The place is well adapted to the calling pursued, there being plenty of room and light. The business is conducted in an able and superior manner, the outcome of long experience and undoubted ability of the principal, who continues to enter very heartily into the management of the undertaking. The trade is chiefly home and export, but there is a large turnover in the city and district. The house is represented by agents in London, Glasgow, Belfast, and New York. In the various departments a number of hands are employed. Mr. Hope, by his courtesy and integrity, has won many warm and lasting friendships.

HENSHAW & LOEBELL, LIMITED, MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MANUFACTURERS, IMPORTERS, AND DEALERS,
20 AND 22, SWAN STREET, MANCHESTER.

ONE of the largest and most important English firms of musical instrument dealers and manufacturers is that of Messrs. Henshaw & Loebell, Limited, of Manchester, whose immense establishment is such a prominent feature in Swan Street. This notable concern was founded in 1875. A few years ago it was formed into a limited liability company. The Manchester establishment is the headquarters of the house, but there is also a large and fully-equipped factory, and an important connection in Germany, whence many of the firm’s instruments are imported. The premises in Swan Street are of very large extent, and form a great block of buildings in the shape of a hollow square, bisected by a transverse range which contains the American organ and harmonium factory. The premises are three storeys high throughout, and comprise the fine show-rooms in Swan Street, the stock-rooms for the wholesale and export departments, drum and banjo factory, and various other divisions so arranged as to promote convenience and facility in the general working of the firm’s unusually large business. As we pass through room after room, noting the splendid organisation that prevails on all sides, we become aware by degrees of the enormous stock held by this company, a stock that embraces every description of musical instrument known and used in modern times, together with every conceivable accessory of the same.

Within the limits of such, a sketch as this it would be impossible to give detailed particulars of this vast collection of musical requisites. Indeed; Messrs. Henshaw & Loebell’s, Limited, large illustrated catalogues are no more than sufficient for this purpose, and to these interesting and carefully-compiled publications we must refer our readers for information concerning what is unquestionably one of the largest and most varied stocks of its kind in the kingdom. As might be expected in such a house as this, Messrs. Henshaw & Loebell, Limited, have numerous specialities for which they have become especially noted, and among these we must mention a new patent musical box, which has just been perfected and completed on the premises by the inventor. Briefly, this excellent invention is a musical box which can be made to play any number of tunes — the new patent “Star” musical box, a complete revolution in this kind of instrument. The box is arranged to play pieces of music of any length, or even a complete opera, and the tunes can be changed at will. The tone is superior to the very finest Swiss musical box, and the cost will be much lower than the ordinary musical box with barrel.

Messrs. Henshaw & Loebell, Limited, are, we believe, also preparing a number of other pleasant surprises for the musical world, and their enterprise has brought them into the very front ranks of the European trade. They control an enormous volume of business, both home and export, and we are assured that, should the establishment in Swan Street be by any mischance burned down or otherwise destroyed, it could not be replaced in its present complete condition in less than seven or eight years. We should imagine that those seven or eight years would form a period of hard work calculated to appal any man of merely average energy. In fact, it is quite impossible to form an accurate idea of the resources of this vast emporium of musical instruments and accessories otherwise than by a personal visit; and the whole establishment stands as a striking testimony to the industry, enterprise, and commercial capability of Mr. Loebell, who has been, and still is, the guiding spirit of its progress and development.
Telegrams for this company should be addressed, “Music, Manchester.”

B. WILKINSON & CO., GENERAL WOOD TURNERS, &C.,
FALCON WORKS, PORTUGAL STREET, POLAND STREET, OLDHAM ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THE pastimes of Old England are well catered for by many firms of eminence in the northern counties; but there are few firms that can vie in point of importance or the magnitude of their operations with that of the above old-established and well-known house, which was organised in the year 1824 by Mr. Benjamin Wilkinson, the grandfather of the present able proprietor, who entered upon his career of activity under peculiarly favourable auspices, having been born and bred, so to speak, to the business. The premises occupied are very extensive, and are appropriately divided into departments and elaborately equipped with powerful turning and sawing machinery, augmented by machinery for finishing, polishing, staining, &c. Vast quantities of the various special woods used are carefully stored, and the firm operate on a very extensive scale as manufacturers of cane-handled and willow cricket-bats, ash wickets, toys, and all kinds of paint and fret-saw work. The business in all its departments is conducted with conspicuous care, ability and enterprise, upon principles which have gained the confidence and support of a very large and influential trade connection in all parts of the United Kingdom, and has won for the establishment a high reputation, which it is manifestly Mr. Wilkinson’s resolution shall not only be well sustained but steadily enhanced in days to come.

GEORGE SHAW & CO., HAT TRIMMING MANUFACTURERS,
63 & 65, STOCKPORT ROAD, DENTON, MANCHESTER.

AS a hat-manufacturing centre the district of Denton has long been famous in the north of England. It was in the year 1882 that Mr. George Shaw entered upon his now prosperous career in administering to the wants of the numerous local producers aggregated around Denton, Hyde, and Stockport hatting districts, by the advantageous introduction of hat trimmings of every kind, making specialities of certain splendid lines of goods, for which he acts as the sole accredited agent. These include the celebrated furs of Mons. Joseph Durdilly, of 56, Rue Sala, Lyons; the inimitable pouncing papers, &c., of Messrs. Herman Behr & Co., of New York, and the highly reputed productions of Messrs. R. Northy & Co., the well-known inventors of health-hat attachments for easy fitting and ventilation, in a multiplicity of design. All these goods are held in heavy stock at the firm’s capacious, well-ordered premises in the Stockport Road, which has recently undergone considerable extensions to enable the firm to cope with the enormous influx of trade that has accrued. Personally, Mr. Shaw is a gentleman of high intellectual attainments, whose life, apart from commercial pursuits, has been actively devoted to the advancement of educational movements and to the amelioration of the condition of the poorer classes of the community in which he lives, and where he has won the admiration and esteem of all those who have had the privilege of his acquaintance.

HAMPSON, WRIGLEY & CO , FINISHERS, STIFFENERS, BEETLERS, &C.
OPENSHAW BRIDGE BEETLE WORKS, MANCHESTER.

THE immense business carried on by this noted firm was founded in 1883 by Mr. Alfred Hampson, in co-partnership with Mr. C. H. Wrigley. Mr. Hampson, who, before entering into this undertaking, had had a most extensive and thorough practical training in all branches of the finishing trade, is a highly popular local man, who is well known for the interest he manifests in the general welfare of this busy neighbourhood. His partner, Mr. Wrigley, is a gentleman possessing great and valuable commercial experience, and he is also noted as a talented and capable musician, both as a theorist and as an executant on various instruments, particularly the pianoforte and organ. The various processes of the industry are carried on in premises which are extensively and commodiously arranged, and splendidly equipped with a fine plant of machinery calculated to meet every requirement of the trade. The very highest results are achieved in the work done, Messrs. Hampson, Wrigley & Co. having devoted the most careful attention to every detail in the organisation of their working resources. The firm employ a numerous and highly efficient staff of hands, and everything is conducted under the personal supervision of the principals, Mr. Hampson keeping a watchful eye upon the progress of affairs in the various practical departments, while Mr. Wrigley’s careful superintendence of the counting house and commercial department is equally to the advantage of the house and its many patrons. Messrs. Hampson, Wrigley & Co. are finishers, stiffeners, beetlers, raisers, and stretchers of twills, drills, ticks, flannelettes, Oxfords, Harvards, lustres, cantoons, &c., &c. Duly considering the character of the work done by this firm, it is impossible to be surprised at the daily increase in the amount of goods sent to their establishment for treatment. Messrs. Hampson, Wrigley & Co.’s town address is Queen’s Chambers, No. 3, York Street, Manchester.

R. & J. D. THISTLETHWAITE, GROCERS, TEA DEALERS, AND MERCHANTS,
VICTORIA BUILDINGS, KING STREET, CLITHEROE.

THIS fine business was founded in 1874 by Messrs. Robert & J. D. Thistlethwaite, on the above premises, the former gentleman being now the sole proprietor, his brother having withdrawn from the firm in 1886. The handsome, commodious, and substantial premises occupied consist of a building of three-storey elevation. The shop has a specially pleasing and business-like appearance, and the care and ability displayed in the arrangement of the goods in the same, speaks volumes for the interest taken in it by the proprietor. A very extensive, thoroughly useful, and well-bought stock fills the place, and there is, in addition to the shop, ample warehouse accommodation. The trade is wholesale and retail. In the former, the connection extends for some twelve to fifteen miles around, and is of a very extensive and satisfactory nature, thanks to the enterprise of Mr. Thistlethwaite and the reputation he has gained. The proprietor has had long and practical experience in his calling, and goes to the best markets for his supplies. His knowledge of the tea trade is extensive, and he is enabled to put before his customers the richest blends, at prices which defy competition. General groceries of the highest quality are kept, and a large turnover is done in corn, &c. A very important department is that of the wines and spirits. A fine selection, in excellent condition, may be relied upon here. The agency is held for Symington’s Celebrated Canister Coffees, Old Calabar, and Spratt’s Patent Dog Biscuits. The agency is also held for the “Tip-top” Soap, manufactured by Messrs. Brown & Deighton, of Preston, which is coming rapidly into public favour. As an all round, well-managed grocery stores, the one under notice is a decided credit to its owner, a gentleman, who by his genial demeanour, commercially and socially, has won the cordial respect of his customers and fellow-residents of Clitheroe.

51, LEVER STREET, PICCADILLY, MANCHESTER.

MR. Thomas Mabbott entered upon his commercial career in the year 1880 at Hilton Street, developing the resources, scope, and aims of his business with such vigour and success that he found it necessary some three years ago to remove to his present more commodious quarters. The premises occupied consist of a large and substantial two-storied building, covering an area of forty-two feet by sixty-six feet, the ample accommodation thus afforded being admirably appointed in every particular to hold and display a large and very valuable stock of goods, of which some notion may be gained from the following list of leading lines there represented. These comprise all kinds of washing, wringing, and mangling machines, ironing machines, peggy and wash tubs, peggies, and rubbing boards, laundry stoves and buckets, towel rails, step ladders, and lawn mowers; garden rollers and seats, potato chip-cutting machines, fish-cutting machines, pie-making machines, meat cutters, egg whisks and mixers, sausage and mincing machines, fish and potato chip pans, patent fish and , potato chip cooking ranges, tobacco cutters, household furniture of every description, suitable for the cottage, the villa, the mansion or hotel, brass and iron bedsteads, spring, woven wire, and straw mattresses, bedding, blankets, sheets and counterpanes, carpets, oil cloth, linoleum, hearth rugs, &c , and as a great speciality, sound and substantial furniture, at strictly economic prices, exactly adapted to the wants of working men. All kinds of furniture are procured or made to order with care and dispatch, and Mr. Mabbott spares no effort to make his establishment a real convenience to all classes of the community, and accordingly enjoys a very large local and district patronage, which it is manifestly his resolution shall not only be well sustained but steadily enhanced in days to come.

THOMAS CHADWICK, MANUFACTURER OF BRAIDS, SMALLWARES, CRINOLINE STEEL, &C.,
ALBION MILLS, ALBION STREET, GAYTHORN, MANCHESTER.

THE above is a thriving and prosperous business of considerable extent, which has been conducted with marked success for over twenty years, and continues to increase and develop with very gratifying results. This leading and representative house was founded over twenty years ago and is now in the hands of Mr. John Chadwick, the son of the original proprietor. The works, which are roomy and well fitted, are conveniently arranged on one floor, and provide admirable accommodation for a numerous staff of hands of skill and experience, who are constantly and busily employed in the various departments of the manufacture. The goods produced consist chiefly of braids, smallwares, crinoline steels, &c., as well as corset cords, window-blind cords, and patent cotton velvet ribbons, &c., which are made in great variety and of the best quality and most finished make. The large and extensive connection not only embraces a considerable number of the leading firms engaged in the home trade, but a considerable business is also done with the principal export and shipping houses. The popularity and increasing success with which the flourishing business has been carried on for so many years have been largely owing to the care and judgment with which the exceptionally high reputation of the house has always been kept up, as well as the experienced skill and administrative capacity which have been devoted to the general management of the multifarious transactions of the firm. The present Mr. Chadwick is well known is commercial circles as an energetic and enterprising man of business, whilst his high personal character and qualifications command universal respect and esteem.

THE MANCHESTER & LIVERPOOL COPPER, BRASS AND RE-TINNING COMPANY (MESSRS. ALEXANDER STUART & CO.), TINNERS. BRAZIERS, TIN-PLATE WORKERS, COPPERSMITHS, &C.,
116, PRINCESS STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS energetic and pushing company was established in 1889 at the above address, under the management of Mr. Alexander Stewart, who formerly held a leading position with Messrs. Jones, Dray & Co., and Messrs. Benham and Froud, of London. The premises consist of convenient offices and two very roomy and well-lighted work-shops, where a competent staff of experienced and efficient workmen are employed. The business has been very successful in the short period that has elapsed, and since the Liverpool branch at 5, Wapping was opened, a large number of very satisfactory accounts have been opened with leading firms, the connection with whom is constantly increasing and developing in sympathy with the very extensive operations for the firm’s works in Liverpool. A long list of, orders has been executed for the principal railway companies, ship-owners, clubs, hotels, and restaurants, &c., &c., by whom the tinning method of this company has been thoroughly tested and approved, and of whom a long array of well-known names has been published. The rapid growth and noteworthy success of this prominent enterprise is due to the practical and scientific skill, as well as the eminent business qualifications, of Mf. Alexander Stuart, a gentleman who has made many friends in Manchester and is everywhere popular and respected.

JAMES MCCREDIE, PAPER MAKERS’ AGENT,
32, CANNON STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS establishment was originally founded by the present proprietor in 1878, in Corporation Street, but owing to a rapidly-increasing business he removed to more commodious premises in Peel Street in 1880, and finally to the present address in 1886, where he now occupies the whole building. This structure is seven yards by twenty, and four stories in height. The basement of the premises is used for brown papers of every kind and as a packing room, the ground floor for well-appointed office and spacious store-room, and the second and third floors as store-rooms. The houses represented by Mr. McCredie are Messrs. Flender & Schluter, Dusseldorf, makers of the “best vegetable parchment,” hard and soft finish; Messrs. Paulmann & Kellermann, of Elberfeld, one of the largest firms of envelope manufacturers in the world; also sole agent for England for the celebrated “Lombard Parchment” and margarine parchment. Mr. McCredie is also a very extensive dealer in account book papers, note and cheque papers, drawings, card boards, tracings, blottings, filterings, &c., and a manufacturer of wax and oil papers, imitations and grease proof parchments, &c., and a very large dealer in blue and nature skips, cheap tissues, browns, fine gold, casings, drapers’ and grocers’ caps, tea demy, &c. A vast and valuable stock is held, which is stored on the premises; the heavy and bulky stock, however, is deposited at the several carriers’ warehouses in the city, packed ready for delivery. A large staff of hands is constantly and busily employed, and a number of travellers are permanently employed in covering the ground all over the country. An immense trade is controlled, the connection extending throughout the whole of the United Kingdom. Mr. McCredie is a gentleman possessing thorough practical experience, and superintends the business personally. Great experience and ability have been shown in the management, as may be judged from the fact of the house having so rapidly attained its present leading position.
The telegraphic address is “Parchment,” Manchester.”

BINNS BROTHERS, PIANOFORTE, ORGAN, AND HARMONIUM BAZAAR,
62, 64, 66, & 68, CHESTER ROAD, MANCHESTER.

THIS good old-fashioned firm was founded in 1857. Messrs. Binns Brothers are perfectly satisfied to rely upon the good name they have enjoyed for so many years, and while, of course, moving with the times, and securing all the latest and most useful novelties in pianos, organs, &c., taking strict care that the old traditions of the house for reliable instruments be maintained to the utmost degree. In this way the confidence of the musically-disposed portion of the community is not abused, but every help in making a selection is cheerfully afforded. A walk through the fine show-room will reveal a very fine stock of pianofortes, organs, and harmoniums, all bearing the names of the leading makers. The Bazaar, as the proprietors style their establishment, is very extensive, and has a large double-fronted shop, which also serves as a show-room. There is also the store-room and repairing shop. In the latter, skilful men are employed, who can do any kind of repairing. Competent tuners are also engaged. Old instruments are taken in exchange, and the most advantageous terms are offered to those wanting to make an exchange. Instruments are sent, carefully packed, to all parts of the country. The well-known integrity of the brothers, together with the ability they display in their calling, has resulted in a large and valuable business having been formed. Messrs. Binns court inquiry respecting their system of business, which is of the most honourable and straightforward nature, in high favour with hundreds in the northern and midland counties.

J. H. PARKINSON, L.D.S., DENTAL SURGEON,
46, MOSLEY STREET, MANCHESTER.

FORTUNATELY for dwellers in Manchester and the North of England, there are many celebrated practitioners to be found, prominent amongst whom stands the name of Mr. James Howarth Parkinson, L.D.S., P.P.S., of Glasgow, who entered upon his now distinguished career in Manchester about ten years ago in Oxford Road, where his business developed so rapidly that he found it necessary, some three years since, to take up his quarters in the present splendidly-appointed four-storied building in Mosley Street. The premises are elegantly fitted up in every detail with all the latest and best appliances and instruments of the day. Patients receive every care and attention, are comfortably, even luxuriously accommodated in the reception and waiting rooms, and have the full advantage of the attendance of specialists in the administration of nitrous oxide or chloroform for painless dentistry. Mr. Parkinson, moreover, operates on a large scale as a maker of all kinds of artificial teeth, and has the largest factories in the world for the production of liquid nitrous oxide, and for the extraction of oxygen from the atmosphere by his patent process. In addition to the Manchester house, Mr. Parkinson has surgeries at 24, Church Street, Liverpool, and George Street, St. Helens, and he is universally recognised in the North of England as a most accomplished, humane, and successful dentist.

J. H. WOOD & CO., PLAIN AND FANCY BOX MAKERS,
36, CANAL STREET, SACKVILLE STREET, MANCHESTER.

MESSRS. J. H. Wood & Co. were established as recently as 1889, and in the course of only two years have made very satisfactory headway and secured a very excellent position in the trade. This enterprising and flourishing young firm is located in roomy and commodious premises, having a frontage of 36 feet and a depth of 60 feet, and in the spacious workroom occupying the whole of one floor some twenty or more hands are busily employed in box making for the Manchester houses for their stocks of laces, handkerchiefs, velvets, and fancy goods generally. The favourable reputation of the firm is rapidly growing and extending, bringing a steady and progressive increase in the scope and magnitude of their transactions. A good name has always been scrupulously maintained for high-class quality and sound and neat workmanship, and to this the eminent success which has so quickly attended the operations of the firm, must be mainly attributed, combined with the close personal supervision and experienced practical knowledge devoted to the management by the active and energetic principal, Mr. J. H. Wood.

JOSEPH TAYLOR, CIGAR IMPORTER AND TOBACCONIST,
39, CROSS STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS well-known and prominent concern was originally established in 1861 by Mr. Coppell, and after many years of successful and prosperous business was taken over by the present proprietor in 1882. The premises in which Mr. Taylor’s extensive transactions are carried out consist of a prominently situated and substantial four-storied building, with a handsome plate-glass front to the shop, which extends to a considerable depth, and has a conveniently arranged office at the rear. The window is splendidly arranged and very attractive in appearance, and the very extensive stock kept on hand includes a magnificent assortment of choice cigars and tobaccos, together with a variety of fancy goods and the latest fashions and inventions in smokers’ requisites generally. In the great display of pipes, &c., Mr. Taylor exhibits a very large and choice selection of Messrs. Loewe & Co.’s celebrated briar pipes, for which he is the sole agent in Manchester and district. The trade is essentially of a retail character, and enjoys the favour and support of a very large connection attracted by the varied selection of high-class goods offered, and the advantages which Mr. Taylor’s long experience of the trade and keen and skilful buying enables him to give to purchasers, as well as by the courteous attention and excellent management for which this establishment is renowned. Personally Mr. Taylor is an able and energetic business man, who is very widely known and universally respected.

WELLS, MARSH & RUSSELL, WOOLLEN AND TAILORS’ TRIMMINGS MERCHANTS,
9, CANNON STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS is a firm which only commenced business last year, but which is nevertheless rapidly coming to the front, and is doubtless destined to attain a very prominent position in the trade. The premises occupied consist of the three upper stories of 9, Cannon Street. The individual members of the firm are Mr. William Henry Wells, Mr. Herbert Marsh, and Mr. John Russell. On their first floor is the office and stock-room, in which a good supply of tailors’ trimmings of varied description is kept under the charge and superintendence of Mr. Russell. The second and third floors are utilised for the display of woollen goods, consisting of worsteds, plain and fancy vicunas, winter and summer overcoatings — Scotch, Irish, West of England, and Yorkshire tweeds, under the care and superintendence of Mr. Marsh, whose practical knowledge of the woollen trade is beyond question. The stock in its entirety is superb in its diversity and superior excellence, both of design and material. An over-extending trade is already controlled amongst a highly-influential connection in Manchester and neighbouring towns. The business is most ably conducted, each of the partners taking an active and keen interest in its advancement, and owes much of the success it has attained to the spirit of enterprise and energy displayed in the management, and the extent and importance of its transactions fully indicate the rising influence of this firm amongst the mercantile establishments of this city.

JOHN JAMES, WHOLESALE TOBACCONIST,
24, OLD MILLGATE, MANCHESTER.

THIS business, which has a large and valuable connection attached to it, has been established on the above premises since 1836. The premises consist of a large three-storey building, with commodious double shop on the ground floor, with warehouses at the back. The general appearance of the place denotes prosperity, and it is apparent that a good steady wholesale and retail trade is being done. The house is famous for the undoubted superiority of its goods. Whether it be tobaccos, cigars, or pipes, the result of a trial is sufficient — satisfaction is given. Mr. James, the obliging and agreeable proprietor, has long held first place for his cigars, a large stock of which he imports from the very best makers. His variety is extensive. Equally prized are his British cigars, by those who prefer an English-made article. All the most noted and popular brands of cigarettes are stocked. Mr. James certainly shows no special favour to the manufacturer of tobaccos, for he keeps on hand a large assortment of all the favourite brands of all the favourite makers, either loose or in packet. He has also a very handsome assortment of every requisite required by the lover of the fragrant weed, including pipes of every description, meerschaum, briar, cherry, asbestos, &c. Many of these are handsomely provided with silver mounts. There are also cigar and cigarette tubes and holders, pouches, tobacco jars, &c. A special line of the business is in churchwarden pipes, this being the only firm in Manchester dealing in these articles. Mr. James supplies a large number of retail shops in the locality, and employs four assistants. He takes an active interest in the business, and has made hosts of friends on every side, and is much esteemed throughout the neighbourhood.

GEORGE DAY & SON, PAINTERS, PLUMBERS, GLAZIERS, FITTERS, &C.,
16, LEVER STREET, PICCADILLY, MANCHESTER.

THIS fine old business dates back to the year 1838, when it was founded by the father of the present proprietor. The operations were commenced in Thomas Street, City, and a removal was made to the present premises in 1876. These are very extensive, and occupy the whole of the basement of 16, Lever Street, covering ground measuring forty-three feet by fifty-five feet. There is an excellent workshop, office, shop, and wareroom, all most suited to the requirements of the calling pursued. The workshop is well fitted with all the most recent improvements in machinery and appliances for carrying on the trade. The respected founder of this concern was a splendid workman, and his son, equally practical, follows in his footsteps. There is an old and valuable connection attached to the business, and the firm have successfully carried out a number of highly important contracts. They have long been renowned as superior plumbers, glaziers, painters, and house and church decorators. They are authorised gas and water fitters, and are skilled in fitting up baths, pumps, closets, &c. All kinds of repairs and alterations in all branches of the building trade are undertaken. A large staff of workmen is constantly employed, and contracts can be carried out in town or country. Mr. Day gives his personal supervision to the business and examines all work in process, so as to guard against any imperfection, His frank and genial manner — apart from his recognised skill in his calling — makes , him a great favourite with his large and valuable connection.

WILLIAM DEAN, R.P.C., PLUMBER, GAS, VENTILATING, AND SANITARY ENGINEER, &C.,
72 BLOOM STREET, PORTLAND STREET, CITY, MANCHESTER.

THE science of sanitary engineering, which has of late years so enormously developed in importance, has been the means of bringing into special prominence the prosperous firm carried on by Mr. William Dean, who has for some time held a leading and representative position in the commercial world of Manchester. The business was originally founded by Mr. George Dean, the father of the present proprietor, in the year 1849, and Mr. William Dean only succeeded to the ownership of the concern in 1875. The premises occupied consist of a substantial and roomy building of four floors, the ground floor of which comprises conveniently arranged offices and workshops, the basement being used for heavy work and the upper floors for storage purposes. The business embraces all kinds of plumbers’ and glaziers’ work, and the principal is also an authorized gas and water fitter, as well as a clever ventilating and sanitary engineer, undertaking the construction, fitting and repairing of drains, hot-water apparatus, baths, lavatories, &c. A steady and flourishing trade is done in the city and surrounding district, where the firm has a very widespread favourable reputation and an influential connection. In answer to an enquiry by one of the leading architects in the City, the answer was: “Mr. Dean is the best plumber we ever had about our establishments”; and this from the manager of the largest woollen establishment in the city, a firm who have spent enormous sums of money in making their extensive premises in Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, &c., speak for themselves of the master mind in these splendid fittings and architectural details. A speciality of the firm is an improved gas-stove for tailors’ use, which is of novel and ingenious construction. Mr. Dean devotes active and experienced personal supervision to all work entrusted to him, and bears a high name in the business world as an energetic and capable man, possessing considerable scientific knowledge.

JOSEPH BROOME, FUNERAL UNDERTAKER,
42, DOWNING STREET, MANCHESTER.

THIS business was established in 1861, by the late Mr. Joseph Broome, and is now carried on by Mrs. Broome, who is very ably assisted by her sons, Messrs. Joseph and James Broome, who have had a life-long experience in every department of the business, and being thoroughly practical men, have been enabled to develop and increase their business to its present large dimensions. The premises comprise a large double-fronted shop, at the corner of Grosvenor Street and Downing Street, admirably fitted up with extensive, well-appointed, light and airy workshops behind, and a large and commodious yard at the rear for the storing of hearses, carriages, and mourning coaches. An extensive stock of coffins is kept, made of oak, and other woods handsomely designed, and elegantly fitted with soft linings, and the shrouds are specially made by skilled and experienced hands. The stock also comprises a beautiful assortment of memorial wreaths and crosses, in porcelain and artificial flowers, in all the latest designs, with corresponding marble and other stands. An efficient staff of experienced workmen, pall-bearers, &c., is employed, who carry out the details of the business with the greatest efficiency in accordance with the wishes of bereaved mourners.

Funerals are undertaken throughout, thus relieving the mourners of much trouble and anxiety, and interments are conducted from or to any part of the Country. The business is personally superintended and conducted in a most able mariner. The charges are exceedingly moderate, and the superior manner in which all interments undertaken by the firm are conducted, together with the courteous and becoming style in which all arrangements are carried out, have gained a host of friends, and entire satisfaction is invariably expressed by patrons in all classes of the community. The business connections of the house are well established in all parts of the city and surrounding district, and principally conducted with the better class of customers. Orders by telegram (to the only address, 42, Downing Street) are promptly attended to, no matter what the distance may be.

PRACTICAL DRESS-CUTTING ASSOCIATION, MADAME GAUNT’S SYSTEMS OF DRESS-CUTTING AND DRAPING BY MEASUREMENT
(PROPRIETORS: MISSES S. & M. A. HILL),
174, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

A DISTINGUISHED exponent of the art of scientific dress-cutting and draping has come prominently before the notice of the public in the person of Madame Gaunt, the inventor and patentee of the system which has already won for her a well-merited renown, and a large and liberal patronage amongst the ladies of Lancashire. The premises in Deansgate are elegantly appointed throughout, and consist of a large double-fronted shop, with spacious, well-equipped class-rooms at the rear. Miss Hill operates as a teacher of dress-cutting and draping on Madame Gaunt’s system, giving daily lessons at extremely moderate fees. In dress-cutting, only one guinea is charged for lessons until proficient in the art of drafting and cutting-out bodices, sleeves, collars, and skirts. The draping scale, with twelve designs for skirts, is half a guinea, while glove-fitting bodice patterns, without and with skirt, are available for 1s. 9d. and 2s. 6d. each. On the first Wednesday of every month commencing at 3 o’clock in the afternoon, Miss Hill delivers free demonstrative lectures, to which ladies are invited to attend; and she, moreover, devotes both time and great energy and skill to public lectures and demonstrations, holding classes at Cheetham Hill, Pendleton, Bolton, Farnworth, Walkden, Stalybridge, Ashton-under-Lyne, Dukinfield, and other districts in the neighbourhood of Manchester, for which she has received universal encomiums from the press, and is fast becoming popular.

RICHARD GADD, CIGAR MERCHANT,
ST. JAMES’S CIGAR STORES, 53, OXFORD STREET, MANCHESTER.

MR. GADD is a modern tobacconist in every sense of the word, for he keeps distinctly in touch with the times by stocking every popular brand of cigar made, by bringing new and finely flavoured articles to the fore; and by catering thoroughly well for all classes of the community. Some of his specialities are worthy of mention. Towards the close of 1889 he created quite a sensation in the city by making a truly magnificent show of Mexican cigars, the “El Puros” at 5 for 1s., in his windows. These cigars still draw crowds, and require no further recommendation other than that which one trial will serve to elicit. For connoisseurs he keeps some splendid Larranagas, Partagas, Cabanas, Espanolas, Intimidads, and other fragrant samples from the celebrated Vuelta d’Abajco, or low valley, of Havana; in fact, all the noted brands may be here obtained, Mr. Gadd paying special attention to his selection of cigars. Then, too, for those who affect the humbler pipe he has three specially superb mixtures: an exceedingly mild and cool one at 6d. per ounce, called the Special Court Mixture; a medium mixture at 5d. per ounce, termed the St. James’s; and a rich, full-flavoured tobacco, very fragrant, sweet, and aromatic, at 4d. per ounce, yclept the Special Shakespeare Mixture. These beautifully blended tobaccos can only be procured direct from his headquarters. Mr. Gadd is essentially a man of to-day; he keeps all kinds of cut, spun, pressed, and fancy tobaccos in stock; is mindful of the fact that the makes and mixtures of well-known firms must be kept; and in every detail keeps his place always prominent. As a consequence he enjoys a “stunning” wholesale and retail trade, and things with him now look “rosy” - very.

E. PEARSON, GENERAL DRAPER AND SILK MERCER,
235 AND 237, BROAD STREET, PENDLETON, MANCHESTER.

THIS time-honoured establishment was founded in or about the year 1824, and is the oldest drapery business in Pendleton, and Mr. Pearson has been the proprietor for the last eighteen years. The premises consist of a large and commodious three-storied building, which was formerly three houses, now made into one, having a spacious and handsomely appointed shop on the ground floor, with large plate-glass windows, which contain an exceedingly elegant and attractive display of a rare and choice selection of dresses, mantles, &c. The valuable stock embraces silks, satins, velvets, plushes, &c., of the finest quality; dress goods, serges, tweeds, and fancy dress materials in all the newest designs and colours, and of superior excellence; mantles, jackets, ulsters, prints, cambrics, lawns, sateens, zephyrs, damask table cloths, towels, sheets, pillow cases, calicoes, white and coloured quilts, counterpanes, blankets, flannels, underclothing, hosiery, gloves, ties, collars, scarfs, millinery, and in fact everything appertaining to the business of a first-class silk mercer and general draper.

The speciality of the house is dress goods, mantles, millinery, and the Manchester department. The top floors contain the work-rooms of the establishment-spacious, airy, well-lighted, and in all respects perfectly equipped. Here a staff of skilled and experienced workwomen are employed in dress-making, millinery, &c., the work produced being of the highest excellence. A large number of courteous assistants are employed at the various counters. A very large business is controlled; the last extension of premises was made five years ago, when very considerable additions and improvements were made. Mr. Pearson conducts the business personally, and has achieved success by the business-like manner in which he has dealt with the public, supplying first-class goods in every department. He has thus gained an unsurpassed reputation among a highly influential connection, which extends throughout the whole of Manchester and surrounding district. It is very ably conducted, and deservedly ranks among the most renowned and leading houses of its class in the trade.

JOHN HALLAM, KNIFE GRINDER,
GREAVES STREET, LITTLE PETER STREET, KNOTT MILL, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

AS a knife grinder, this well-known gentleman has for a great number of years paid unremitting attention to his calling, with the result that over a very wide area he has become noted for the superior manner in which all his work is turned out. All kinds of knives are ground and set for printers, bookbinders, paper manufacturers, cardboard, india-rubber, cork, cloth and leather manufacturers, tobacco cutters, hay, straw and chaff cutters, &c., sheep-skin slitting knives, butchers’ knives and cleavers; garden and other shears receive first-class attention. The speciality of the trade is the guillotine machine knife. This most useful instrument has special care bestowed upon it, and the edge may always be relied upon. Mr. Hallam does all this class of work himself, a sufficient guarantee that it will be of the highest order. All kinds of surgeons’ instruments are ground and set. The works are fitted up with all the necessary tools and machinery required by the trade. There is a very large connection, the utmost confidence being reposed in Mr. Hallam by those who extensively use knives or guillotines. All work is very promptly performed, and orders by post have close attention. New knives of the best quality are supplied, warranted perfect in every respect. For some years Mr. Hallam was knife-grinder to Messrs. R. E. Lazenby & Co., and has had besides many years of valuable experience. His attentive and cheerful manner is much appreciated by those having business dealings with him, and for his many sterling qualities he is highly esteemed throughout the district in which he resides.

MISS JENKINS, MILLINER,
21, ST. ANN’S SQUARE, MANCHESTER.

THIS large and fashionable establishment, now so successfully controlled by Miss Jenkins, was established some years ago by Miss Devonport, and about three years since was taken over by the present proprietress. The premises occupy an excellent position in St. Ann’s Square; the spacious and handsome shop has a very imposing plate-glass frontage, the windows are well and tastefully dressed and display to great advantage a choice selection of hats, bonnets, and fashionable novelties in high-class millinery, &c. The interior is fitted up in a very superior style with elegant yet substantial counters, show-cases, stands, skilfully- arranged mirrors and other appropriate appointments. The premises also contain well-equipped work-rooms and all the accessories of a thoroughly organized establishment. Miss Jenkins has on view a very choice display of hats, bonnets, caps, artificial flowers, trimmings, &c. An efficient staff of skilled and experienced milliners, &c., are busily employed, and no effort is spared to meet the convenience of customers in the punctual execution of orders. Miss Jenkins frequently visits Paris, so that the latest fashions are simultaneously introduced with their appearance in this city. Miss Jenkins possesses the advantage of thorough practical experience, and enjoys the confidence and support of a very extensive and high-class connection, numbering among her patrons many of the local aristocracy and members of the highest circles of society in the city and district.

BRADLEY & CO., BOOKBINDERS AND MANUFACTURING STATIONERS,
10, ST. MARY’S PARSONAGE, MANCHESTER.

THOUGH only recently established this business has already assumed a very prominent position, and commands a trade that is increasing both in extent and importance. The premises are spacious and commodious, and thoroughly well adapted to their purpose. They consist of a compact and neatly fitted office, spacious workshop and extensive warehouse on the second floor. The workshop is particularly well appointed, and contains an excellent working plant. It is the constant endeavour of the firm to turn out first-class work at the lowest possible price. Every description of bookbinding in all the newest styles is executed in a very superior -manner. The proprietors do a very good trade in this direction for public and private libraries as well as a large amount of trade work for booksellers and others. A large assortment of commercial and general stationery is also held. The stock also includes a choice selection of stationers’ sundries and office requisites generally. The proprietors keep an efficient and experienced staff and conduct their business with conspicuous energy and ability, all orders being executed with exactness and despatch. Bradley & Co. are gentlemen who are most popular with their clients, and whilst they have already established an influential and widespread connection, the trade is increasing in a most satisfactory manner.

J. S. WORTHY, MANUFACTURER OF KNITTED HOSIERY, GENTLEMEN’S OUTFITTER AND GENERAL DRAPER,
71 AND 73, STOCKPORT ROAD, MANCHESTER.

MR. J. S. WORTHY acquired this business in the year 1870. It had been established twenty years previously, and had passed through many proprietorial mutations. Mr. Worthy soon found it necessary to greatly augment his business by adding No. 71 to his original premises at No. 73, the entire establishment forming a good double shop, capitally appointed throughout, fully stocked, and provided with a perfectly equipped and essentially wholesome workshop on the second floor. The ample accommodation afforded is very fully stocked with a remarkably complete series of goods in general drapery, gentlemen’s outfits, family mourning, fingering wools, and the like; a great speciality being made of home-knitted clothing, including socks, stockings, jackets, and kindred commodities. All these goods are made upon the premises by a large staff of skilled workwomen, and the trade controlled is certainly one of the best of its kind in the city. The business is conducted by Mr. Worthy with marked ability and energy; and no firm could have won, by more honourable and legitimate means, the high position and eminent reputation which this representative house now so worthily enjoys.

MISS A. RAYNER, GENERAL AND FANCY DRAPER,
271, WILMSLOW ROAD, FALLOWFIELD.

THE prosperous establishment of Miss A. Rayner was only founded as recently as the year 1890. The premises occupied consist of a roomy and well-lighted shop of very attractive appearance, appointed in a superior manner and displaying a varied and tastefully selected stock of general and fancy drapery, ladies’ underwear, baby linen, gentlemen’s hosiery, and an extensive and comprehensive assortment of wools, smallwares, &c. Although this is quite a new business, the favour and support of a large and valuable connection have rapidly been secured, especially as the establishment supplies the long-felt want of a really superior business of this description in the neighbourhood. The success of Miss Rayner’s spirited and enterprising undertaking is therefore pretty well assured, and is mainly due to the capable and conscientious personal attention which she has from the first bestowed upon the management of the business, and her own experienced skill and innate good taste. Miss Rayner is not only a lady of high business qualifications, but she is personally very popular and equally esteemed and respected by all who enjoy the privilege of her acquaintance.

EDWARD DAY, WRITER ON GLASS AND SIGN WRITER,
228, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

THE modern sign-writer’s craft, especially with reference to the embellishment on glass, has attained to a pitch of high perfection, and in this important art a place of distinction must unquestionably be accorded to the above house, which, organized in the year 1860, is to-day under the able and vigorous control of Mr. Edward Day. The four-storeyed premises occupied consist of a spacious, beautifully-lighted shop, divided by a partition into a well-appointed show-room in front; and here a very splendid window and interior display is made of all kinds of wood, brass, zinc, and glass signs and name-plates, pictorial and heraldic signs, emblazoned in the most superb manner — a speciality of the house being the manufacture of glass show-tablets for brewers and others, and the making of framed glass signs for the interiors of hotels, and brewers’ tied houses. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume, and takes effect in all parts of the United Kingdom, all the work being done upon the premises by a staff of skilled and experienced hands, under the personal supervision of Mr. Day, who has succeeded in establishing a business the present prosperity of which stands not only as evidence of past energy, enterprise, and honourable method, but as an earnest enhanced success in days to come.

D. J. CAPELL, MANUFACTURING FURRIER,
43, DALE STREET, MANCHESTER.

AFTER many years’ practical experience Mr. D. J. Capell commenced business on his own account as a manufacturing furrier, at No. 43, Dale Street, in 1890, where he occupies very commodious premises, located on the second floor, and comprising large and well-equipped workrooms, office, warehouse, and every convenience for the successful working of a large and increasing business. Mr. Capell gives employment to a large staff of skilled workmen in the manufacture of all kinds of fur goods. The stock of furs held is one of the largest and most complete in the city. Mr. Capell is an extensive but judicious purchaser of these goods in every market of the world, and with the superior facilities at command he is enabled to give his customers exceptional advantages and to execute all orders with the greatest dispatch. Alterations and repairs of every description are done on the premises, sealskin jackets are re-modelled, re-dyed, and re-lined to the present fashions and estimates promptly given for all kinds of fur work. Mr. Capell personally superintends all the practical details of the manufacture. He is well-known and highly respected in the trade, and although but recently established, he has taken a position in the first rank among his contemporaries and secured the confidence and support of a very extensive and high-class connection.

W. T. MOORE, ARDWICK BAKERY,
12 AND 14, ASHTON OLD ROAD, ARDWICK, MANCHESTER.

THE domestic art of bread baking is appropriately represented by the well-known establishment conducted by Mr. William Thornton Moore, which was founded by him at the above address in 1883. The premises consist of a handsome and substantial three-storey building, having a frontage of fifty feet, with an elegantly appointed shop and spacious bakehouse, fitted with superior-constructed ovens and other essential appliances, large warehouse for storing flour, &c., and stabling in the rear. A large number of experienced men are employed, and every kind of plain and fancy bread and confectionery is produced under the personal supervision of Mr. Moore. The bread is celebrated for the purity of its ingredients and nutritious qualities, and is justly held in the highest estimation. Mr. Moore also holds a large stock of the best Scotch oatmeal, Austrian flour, marrowfat peas, and a choice selection of cheese and bacon of the very best brands and from the highest sources. A most extensive and valuable trade is carried on, the house having important wholesale and retail connections in all parts of Manchester, horses and vans being employed in delivering goods throughout the city and suburbs daily. The proprietor is thoroughly acquainted with the business in all its details, and conducts the business in the most enterprising manner, and by his sterling integrity, combined with a frank and obliging manner, has won the esteem and regard of his numerous customers.

W. H. LANDLESS, LETTERPRESS PRINTER TO THE TRADE,
8, ST. MARY’S STREET, DEANSGATE, MANCHESTER.

THIS flourishing and thriving concern was established in the year 1861, and has for thirty years pursued a career of unbroken prosperity and steady and progressive growth and development. The premises are conveniently and advantageously situated in a good business position, and comprise a well-arranged office and extensive printing works occupying two roomy and commodious floors. The place is admirably fitted with valuable machinery of the newest description and most approved construction, and the plant and appliances are very complete and admirably adapted for carrying on a high-class business. The work done is principally for the trade, with whom Mr. Landless has a very large and exceedingly valuable connection. Mr. Landless has a very enviable reputation for sound and finished work, executed with the utmost promptitude and punctuality, and his very large and constantly increasing business keeps a large staff of experienced hands constantly employed. He takes an active part in the business, of which he has a thoroughly practical knowledge, and he is personally much liked and greatly respected by all with whom he has business relations as well as in a large circle of private friends and acquaintance.

JAMES MCMURDO, JACQUARD MACHINIST,
NEW STREET, MILES PLATTING, MANCHESTER.

FOR many years the name of Mr. James McMurdo has been a noted one in Manchester and other places where Jacquard machines are used for the manufacture of fancy goods in the textile trade. At the present day Mr. McMurdo's renown as a Jacquard Machinist is second to none, and his establishment at Miles Platting forms we believe, the largest Jacquard works in the north of England. The premises comprise four large blocks of buildings, well equipped with machinery of the best type for his special class of machines, and here may be seen about eighty hands regularly employed in the making of single, double-lift, and double Jacquard machines, &c. Piano reading-in and cutting machines, repeating machines and stamping plates for hand or power, lead and iron wire lingoes, brass and steel mails, &c., &c. Mr. McMurdo has a number of specialities, for which he enjoys an exceptionally high reputation, and among these the following are particularly prominent:— Double-lift double-cylinder machines, from 200’s to l,200’s, with two sets of hooks and two sets of needles and two cylinders. For the manufacture of cotton, linen, &c., where great speed is required there is certainly not a better machine in the market. Mr. McMurdo has also a great demand for machines of the double-lift one cylinder type. Previous to 1870 these machines were made for damask weaving with two heights of hooks, but somewhere about that time Mr. McMurdo invented a machine with level hooks and deep knives, which has been very successful, so much so that all the machine makers of the present day have adopted the same principle. All the Jacquard machines made by Mr. McMurdo can be supplied with either the swing or horizontal motion for working the cylinders.

Another very noteworthy speciality of this house is Mr. McMurdo’s patent Jacquard repeating machine and peg and lace hole-cutting machine. This machine will repeat cards at the rate of forty per minute; it is made in two sizes, to cut either 400’s or 600’s cards — of course the 600’s machine will cut a 400’s card or 600’s card. Space will not permit of us giving a full description of this machine, but we can say that it is a machine of the highest accuracy and reliability. All Mr. McMurdo’s productions are held in very high esteem, both at home and abroad, and the demand for them has placed him in control of a large and constantly increasing home and export trade.

The shipping business is conducted through the medium of Messrs. Goldschmidt, Hahlo & Co., 100, Portland Street, Manchester, who are his Continental agents; he is also represented by Messrs. Smith; & Christie, of James Street, Bridgeton Cross, Glasgow, for Scotland and Ireland. In the general management of his business Mr. McMurdo displays both practical skill and judgment, and his concern stands in the front rank of those whose business it is to cater to the requirements of our great textile manufactures.

JAMES HENRY, WHOLESALE PERAMBULATOR MANUFACTURER,
93 AND 95, PORT STREET, MANCHESTER.

IN Mr. James Henry, the proprietor of this most flourishing concern, is exemplified all the elements of a typical successful commercial gentleman. The business was established by the present proprietor in 1873, in the present premises. The building consists of three stories and large basement. The frontage is seventy-five feet by forty-eight feet. In the basement is stocked the large quantity of materials used in the manufacture of perambulators. On the ground floor is the shop, warehouse, and workroom. On the second and third floors are the workrooms and fitting-up rooms. There is also a very complete smithy in Little Lever Street, for making the framework and other parts. The perambulators are well known for their elegant appearance, lightness, superiority of finish, and for their durability. Mr. Henry is a thorough believer in turning out his goods complete, even to the smallest detail. All who want a thoroughly sound and reliable article know where to seek it. Mr. Henry supplies it. There are now thirteen rooms devoted to the business, and a staff of thirty hands finds employment. The trade is both for home and export, the former being the larger of the two. It cannot but be highly gratifying to the proprietor to witness the steady advance of his business, and to hear from all sides that his goods are giving the utmost satisfaction. Above all he must feel proud of having earned what all true men so earnestly strive for — a good and trusted name.

GEORGE SIDEBOTTOM, SKIRT AND LADIES’ UNDERCLOTHING AND PINAFORE MANUFACTURER,
15, KING STREET WEST, MANCHESTER.

MR. George Sidebottom has carried on a prosperous and progressively increasing business at the above address for more than twenty years, having been originally established in the year 1870. The premises, which are roomy and excellently adapted for the convenience of a large wholesale trade, consist of a large shop, which is used as a show-room for the display of an extensive and varied stock of ladies’ outfitting goods, baby linen, costumes, &c., with a making-up room for the preparation of parcels for despatch, and still further in the rear, receiving and store rooms, workrooms, &c., all admirably arranged. The business is entirely wholesale, and is maintained by the appreciative support of a widespread and valuable connection of old standing, extending throughout Manchester and a wide surrounding area. Active and constant employment is given to a numerous staff employed under the personal supervision of the principal, a shrewd and enterprising man of business, who spares no pains to sustain the very favourable reputation which his house has so long enjoyed. Mr. George Sidebottom is well known in the commercial circle» of the city, and is universally respected and esteemed by all with whom he is brought into contact.

ALFRED BIST & CO., HOUSE DECORATORS, AUTHORISED PLUMBERS AND GAS FITTERS,
BROOKS’S BAR, MANCHESTER.

In the populous district of Brooks’s Bar, the modern high-class decorators’, plumbers’, and gasfitters’ crafts are admirably exemplified by the above notable house. It was in the year 1886 that Messrs. Alfred Bist & Co. organised their present thriving undertaking. Their premises comprise a spacious, handsomely fitted shop, very fully stocked with a splendid series of choice wall papers, decorations, gas fittings of every kind, fancy globes, electric bells, sanitary wares, and plumbers' and painters’ requisites of all descriptions. The firm operate on a very large scale in every branch of their trade, the style and character of their work being well known, and having received universal praise, special attention being paid to the decoration of public buildings, churches, mansions, &c., and to the fitting and fixing of electric bells. A varying number of hands is engaged, according to the contracts on hand. The business in every department receives the strict personal superintendence of the principals, and is conducted with marked ability and energy. The extensive connections of the firm are well founded upon the eminent reputation it has always, enjoyed, and the continually increasing business is an ample guarantee of the confidence of the public in the abilities, artistic taste, and high-class workmanship of this popular establishment. The firm also occupy central premises situate at 20, Tib Street, City, consisting of office and spacious workrooms at rear.

TODMORDEN

ORMEROD TAYLOR & SON, MANUFACTURING CHEMISTS AND DRYSALTERS,
WALSDEN, TODMORDEN, MANCHESTER.

IN connection with the textile industries centred in Manchester of to-day, the manufacturing chemist and drysalter, and dealers in kindred commodities, necessarily play a most important part in the every-day economy of things; and it would indeed be difficult in this record of progress to indicate a better-known or more noteworthy house than the one whose history furnishes the theme of the present brief review. In the year 1888, upon the retirement of Mr. Taylor, junr., from a business which had flourished continuously for close upon four decades, the concern was conjointly acquired by three gentlemen of vast experience, who now constitute the personnel of the firm, viz.:— Mr. John Shackleton, its quondam manager for the preceding twenty-three years; Mr. Thompson Helliwell, who had acted as its chief traveller for a period of ten years; and Mr. Richard Hargreaves, trading under the original style and title as designated, above. The telegraphic address of the firm is “Taylor, Walsden”; and the gigantic, elaborately-equipped works, which cover an area of 5,000 square yards, and call into active requisition the services of a large and experienced staff of hands, are conveniently located on the banks of the Rochdale Canal at Walsden, whence the bulk of their raw material arrives.

Briefly put the firm operate on a very extensive scale — first, as manufacturers of Epsom salts, chloride of zinc, sulphate of soda, soda crystals, and other sizing and filling ingredients; secondly, as dealers in chloride of magnesia, rice, sago, and wheat sizing flour, farina, china clay, French chalk, paraffin wax, glycerine and glucose, and as dyewood grinders and chippers; thirdly, and lastly, they are the accredited English agents for Actiengesellschaft fur Anilin-Fabrikation, an der Treptower Brucke, Berlin; manufacturers of all aniline colours, and original patentees of the well-known substantive cotton colours. The firm is represented on the Manchester Exchange by Messrs. Helliwell and Hargreaves, and one of their travellers, Mr. T. Lord, and the trade controlled is one of very considerable volume, both home and export, amongst finishers, fillers, sizers, dyers, calico printers, and others; the entire business being most capably and energetically conducted, in both its industrial and commercial departments, upon principles which reflect nothing but the highest credit upon all those who are in any way concerned with the administration of its affairs.

WILSON BROTHERS, LIMITED, BOBBIN AND SHUTTLE MANUFACTURERS AND TIMBER MERCHANTS,
CORNHOLME MILLS, NEAR TODMORDEN.

IN reviewing the representative trades of the Manchester district, it is impossible to overlook the prominence that has been gained by many of the industries that are in a close degree associated with the vast textile manufactures of this and other parts of England. Particularly noteworthy in this connection is bobbin-making, and of this highly important trade Messrs. Wilson Brothers, Limited, of Cornholme Mills, Todmorden, are recognised as leading representatives. This old and distinguished house was founded about seventy years ago by the late Mr. Lawrence Wilson, who was afterwards joined by three of his sons, under the firm-name of Lawrence Wilson & Sons. Subsequently the title was changed to Wilson Brothers, and in 1889 the concern became a limited liability company, trading as Wilson Brothers, Limited, and having for its directors Mr. Joshua Henry Wilson, Mr. Herbert William Wilson, and Mr. John Greenwood. Under the able administration of these experienced gentlemen the success of the business has been fully maintained, and the company (which has a nominal capital of £90,000 in £5 shares) is doubtless the largest and most notable concern of its kind in the kingdom.

Messrs. Wilson’s numerous and valuable patents, some of which have been very recently introduced, mark almost every stage of advancement in the bobbin industry, and give the company a monopolistic position in the trade. Indeed, the magnitude of the business speaks sufficiently for this fact, and the output of the Cornholme Mills is now enormous. It has undoubtedly been greatly increased by the successful introduction of Messrs. Wilson Brothers’ most recent speciality, which consists in a clever American invention (now the property of the company under notice), embodying a process whereby bobbins may be enamelled and rendered impervious to grease and moisture. This valuable invention has. efficiently met a great and long-existent want, and the bobbins thus treated are proving no less successful than the celebrated “protected bobbins” introduced by Messrs. Wilson about a dozen years ago. The latter patent, as most of our readers are aware, consists in a metal protector which greatly enhances the durability of bobbins, and also improves them in other important respects. Upwards of a hundred millions of these “protected bobbins” have been turned out and supplied by Messrs. Wilson Brothers since the idea was first introduced.

Among the many other specialities that have helped to make this firm famous wherever textile manufactures are carried on, we may mention the following:— slubbing, intermediate, and roving tubes, with patent plate-steel shields and protectors; small diameter tubes, with steel-plated ends, for Bolton fine counts; ring Rabbeth bobbins, with patent plate- steel shield and patent steel bush; warping bobbins, with patent binder and steel bush protector; throstle bobbins, with improved metal bushes; throstle and doubling bobbins of superior quality; skewers with patent metal tips, &c., &c. Altogether, twelve highly important patents for improvements in bobbins are secured to Messrs. Wilson Brothers, and they may fairly be regarded as the greatest and most enterprising’ promoters of advancement in this industry. They use the very best timber, and guarantee and thoroughly test every bobbin they send out. Few firms have been so successful in general competition in any line of trade, and none can show a more creditable array of first-class awards, the list including high honours at the great exhibitions of Paris (1878), Manchester, Calcutta, New Orleans, the Inventions (London), Edinburgh, Liverpool, Saltaire, Brussels, Barcelona, and Paris (1889).

That Messrs. Wilson Brothers possess every resource and facility for carrying on their immense industry upon an increasing scale is evident to even the most casual observer who pays a visit to Cornholme Mills. This vast establishment, situated in the very heart of all activity in the textile industries of Lancashire, covers a great area of ground and affords employment to no fewer than six hundred and fifty hands. It is replete from end to end with machinery and appliances of the most effective and ingenious character, and in its extensive and systematic organisation of departments it presents to our notice a world of industrial interest and animation which we cannot pretend to portray in the brief space at our disposal here. It is enough, perhaps, to know that every process incidental to the making of textile bobbins and suchlike articles is here carried out upon a gigantic scale under the most favourable conditions; and day after day the work goes on with ceaseless energy, bespeaking the extraordinary dimensions of the trade that requires such large and continuous efforts to meet its demands.

Especially conspicuous are the extensive arrangements for seasoning, storing and drying timber, and it should be noted that Messrs. Wilson Brothers are themselves very large timber merchants. They have saw-mills and timber-yards of great extent at Athlone, Ireland, and employ there an additional force of about one hundred and twenty hands. One of the remarkable features of the present age is the manner in which we now contrive to utilise many residual products which were formerly regarded as refuse. Messrs. Wilson Brothers, Limited, produce at their works at Cornholme over one hundred tons of shavings, sawdust, &c., weekly, and all this used to be burned in the furnaces of the boiler-house. Recently, however, the firm have erected spacious buildings near the works, and fitted them up with an elaborate and efficient plant of the necessary apparatus for the carbonisation and distillation of all their waste wood; and thus, the vast quantities of what was formerly indifferent fuel are now made to yield various useful and marketable chemical products, including charcoal, acetate of lime, naphtha, &c.,—all of which are valuable commercial commodities. This important adjunct of the Cornholme Works is additionally noteworthy for the reason that it contains the plant and general arrangements for enamelling bobbins, &c., in the manner above referred to.

In its entirety Messrs. Wilson Brothers’ business ranks among the most important and interesting concerns associated with the working of Lancashire’s great textile industries, and such is the fame of this eminent house that its customers are to be found in every quarter of the globe, India, Germany, France, Russia, China, Japan, Mexico, and many other countries being regular markets for its productions. Samples of all Messrs. Wilson Brothers’ manufactures may be seen at any time at their city office, 14, Marketplace, Manchester; and their representatives attend at Pillar Q, Royal Exchange, on Tuesdays and Fridays, from 1.30 to 2.30. The telegraphic address of the house is, “Wilsons, Cornholme.”

Mr, Joshua Henry Wilson and his son, Mr. Herbert William Wilson, are well known and greatly esteemed for the constant and beneficial interest they take in the social and general welfare of Cornholme and the district. Confining attention largely to their business, they have not entered into public life to the extent of assuming any office, but they are bountiful supporters of deserving local institutions, and have repeatedly shown in a practical manner that they have the best interests of the neighbourhood at heart. Mr, John Greenwood, the third director of the company, has been connected with Messrs. Wilson’s business since his boyhood, and has for many years had the management of the works at Cornholme. The personal respect in which the directors of this notable concern are held by all who have intercourse with them is upon a par with the high favour and confidence their house enjoys in the commercial and industrial world.

LORD BROTHERS, ENGINEERS AND MACHINISTS,
CANAL STREET WORKS, TODMORDEN.

THE old-established and distinguished firm of Messrs. Lord Brothers, of Todmorden, holds a position of great prominence in connection with the cotton machine-making industries of the Manchester district, and dates its history from the year 1830, when it was founded by the grandfather of the present proprietors. Steadily the business has developed from the first, until it is now one of the most notable concerns of its kind in the north of England, and the extent of its undertakings will be understood when we say that the Canal Street works at Todmorden, with their sheds, timber yards, &c., cover an area of fully fifteen acres of land. These works present an example of practical organisation, and in their many busy and interesting departments they possess every facility for the proper conduct of the large machine-making industry here carried on. Some of the most effective modern plant and machinery in England can be seen in operation at this establishment, and we do not remember ever having visited a works arranged upon a more convenient plan, or possessing better resources for the production of first-class work.

Cotton machinery forms the speciality of Messrs. Lord Brothers’ trade and in this line of operations they have few equals. Their productions are almost too well known to need enumeration, but the following are a few items of special importance with which the name of this house is very creditably identified. These include:— Cotton Pulling, Bale Breaking, or Mixing Machines; Patent Vertical Cylinder Exhaust Openers; Patent Openers, with Cylinders and Beaters, combined with Scutchers and Lap Machines; Patent “ Express” cards (Risler’s); patent improved “Piano” Regulators; patent “revolving” flat and improved “Wellman” Flat Cards; Single and Double Roller and Clearer Carding Engines, with patent setting arrangements of a most simple but highly effective character for Rollers, Clearers, and Grinding Rollers. All the above apparatus embody the latest improvements suggested and sanctioned by the requirements of the cotton trade, and the same may be said of the following highly important specialities: Drawing Frames; Slubbing Frames, with patent steps and long or short collars, built to stand high speeds; intermediate, roving, and fine Jack Frames, with improved stop motions and long or short collars; Improved High-speed Flyer Throstle, with numerous improved features; High-speed Flyer Doubling Frames for thread or lace yarns; Ring Spinning Frames, with Rabbeth or elastic spindles; Winding, Warping, Ball-sizing, Warp-drying, and Beaming machinery; Improved Patent Looms of various types; and a great amount of other plant and machinery of a kindred nature, for all of which this firm’s reputation stands second to none.

The making of indigo mills and of all kinds of gearing, shafting, pulleys, &c., also comes within the scope of the industry carried on at the Canal Street works. In fact, it is quite a usual thing for Messrs. Lord Brothers to undertake and carry out the entire equipment of a spinning mill or weaving factory, or both — supplying not only the requisite textile machinery, but also the driving plant and all accessories. Altogether, this is one of the foremost of Lancashire machine-making concerns, and there are few places at home or abroad where the cotton industry is extensively carried on, that cannot show a goodly array of Messrs. Lord Brothers’ celebrated machinery.

Besides controlling a world-wide trade and maintaining an international reputation as textile machinists, this eminent firm are also themselves engaged in cotton manufacturing. The Manchester warehouse for the manufacturing department and the Manchester office for the machinery department are at 39, Spring Gardens. All the affairs of the business are personally administered by Messrs. Walter and Will Lord, who regularly attend ’Change. Mr. Mills, who also attends ’Change, is the manager at the works. Mr. Redman, the home trade representative, also attends ’Change.
Telegrams for Messrs. Lord Brothers should be addressed “Lords, Todmorden.” The telephone is No. 6.

ABRAHAM ORMEROD & BROTHERS,
RIDGEFOOT, HOLLINS, AND ALMA MILLS, TODMORDEN.

THIS thriving and flourishing firm was established over seventy years ago, and during a long and honourable career a high reputation has at all times been scrupulously and jealously maintained for the first-rate quality, superior finish, and thoroughly reliable character of the goods manufactured. The three establishments — Ridgefoot, Hollins, and Alma Mills — are situated at no great distance the one from the other, andaltogether 44,000 spindles and 1,300 looms are kept regularly and constantly running, employing eight hundred or nine hundred hands. The goods manufactured comprise domestics, T-cloths, long cloths, sheetings, and shirtings, &c., of which very heavy quantities are produced and find a ready sale. The present partners in this important and influential house are Mr. W. Ormerod and Mr. Abraham Ormerod, both of whom are very active and energetic business men, of ripe judgment and long and valuable experience of the cotton spinning industry. Mr. W. Ormerod attends the Manchester ’Change regularly on behalf of the firm, which is highly respected in commercial circles as one of the principal and most substantial houses in Lancashire. Both gentlemen are very popular locally, and much looked up to for their estimable personal qualities and high character. They hold a high position among the families of social standing and consideration in the neighbourhood, and Mr. W. Ormerod is a justice of the peace for both the counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire, and the chairman of the Todmorden Local Board.

LUKE BARKER & SONS, MANUFACTURERS OF DRILLS, TWILLS, AND PLAIN CALICOES,
TODMORDEN, MANCHESTER.

A RECORD of the textile industries of Manchester would indeed be sadly deficient without ample reference to the important part taken therein by the manufacturers of drills, twills, and plain calicoes, and in this particular connection it would be equally reprehensible were all mention to be omitted concerning the notable house whose rise and progress furnishes the theme of the present brief historical review. Projected under the auspices of Messrs. Barker & Crabtree, the commercial development of the concern was both rapid and continuous from the very commencement, but, in consequence of the decease of Mr. Crabtree, some years ago, the change in the proprietory resulted in a reconstitution of the firm, under the style and title above designated, and doubtless the most effectual way in which to indicate its character, scope and aims would be to give a concise account of the present aspect of the business, supported by a few pertinent facts and figures.

Messrs. Luke Barker & Sons operate on a very extensive scale as manufacturers of all classes and grades of drills, twills, and plain calicoes, at their three elaborately equipped mills, known respectively as the “Crow Carr Ings,” “Dancroft,” and “Friths” Mills, all of which are located at Todmorden, calling into active requisition the services of a staff of no less than six hundred operatives, whose labours are assisted by a magnificent plant of some fourteen hundred modern looms. The firm have gained an unsurpassed reputation for the high marketable excellence of all their productions; their trade extending principally through merchants and shippers to every part of the kingdom and every quarter of the globe. Each individual member of this progressive firm takes an active part in the management of the business; and the marked success that has attended the concern is directly due to the personal ability and energy, system and regularity which have characterised its administration from the very first.

DICKENSON BROTHERS, WHOLESALE AND EXPORT CLOTHIERS,
SALFORD MILLS, TODMORDEN.

THIS large and busy establishment was founded by Messrs. George and Edward Dickenson (its present proprietors) five or six years ago, and has become the headquarters of a most extensive and still rapidly-increasing trade. Devoting their attention wholly to one special department — the manufacture of clothing in cotton cords and moleskins — Messrs. Dickenson Brothers have attained the first rank therein, and give regular employment at the present time to no fewer than one hundred and twenty hands. As the business is rapidly developing, moreover, plans have been made for largely augmenting this number in the near future. The Salford Mills, a large and well-planned block of three-storey stone buildings, are admirably equipped and fully organised to promote progress in both the industrial and the commercial departments of the business. All the sewing machines (of which there are a great many), are driven by power, and the work-rooms are particularly lofty, well lighted, and well ventilated, every provision being made for the health and comfort of the hands. There is also a spacious warehouse, containing a large and comprehensive stock of the firm’s manufactures, and an inspection of these goods will speedily show that Messrs. Dickenson Brothers have won and maintained their high position in the trade by the genuine merit of their productions. Sound materials and good workmanship are the characteristic features of the clothing turned out at Salford Mills, and this fact sufficiently explains the rapid and continuous advancement of the firm. At the present time Messrs. Dickenson Brothers command a very large and important trade, not only with the whole of the United Kingdom, but also with the Cape and Australia, to which countries they export large quantities of their serviceable and appreciated manufactures. A London office at 4, Hamsell Street, Jewin Street, E.C., facilitates the routine of the trade in the metropolis, where there is a large demand for this firm's goods. The Messrs. Dickenson are both young and energetic, and they have won golden opinions for the ability and sound judgment, as well as for the consistent straightforwardness they have displayed in the administration and development of their highly successful business.

CRABTREE & CRYER, CHEMICAL WORKS,
WALSDEN, TODMORDEN, MANCHESTER.

THERE are few centres of industry in Lancashire that can compare with Todmorden and the district in the number and variety of its manufactures, or the enterprise and energy of its inhabitants, and prominent among the many large and important industrial establishments which contribute so materially to the prosperity of this busy district are the extensive chemical works of Messrs. Crabtree & Cryer, Walsden. The business is of very old foundation, having been established as far back as the year 1854, by Mr. John Crabtree, who was joined by Mr. William Cryer in 1889, when the firm assumed the present title. The works are amongst the most complete of their kind in the district, and are replete in the various departments with machinery and appliances of the most improved description. The premises also contain extensive warehouse accommodation, offices, counting house, and every facility for the effective and economical working of the business. The firm give regular employment to a numerous staff of skilled and experienced workmen in the manufacture of various chemical products, as Epsom salts, aniline dyes, ammonia, caustic soda, sulphuric acid, and chloride of zinc, of superior quality, the latter being their leading speciality. These goods are well and favourably known in the district, and with the superior facilities at command, the firm are enabled to give their customers exceptional advantages, both in quality and price, and to compete on favourable terms with any house in the trade. Both the partners take an active part in the business, and that commendable spirit of enterprise and energy which has always so strongly animated the members of this firm is conspicuous in the management of every department.
Telegrams should be addressed “Crabtree & Cryer, Walsden.”

ASTIN & BARKER, ENGINEERS, MILLWRIGHTS, IRON AND BRASS FOUNDERS, TOOL MAKERS,
VICTORIA IRON WORKS, TODMORDEN.

THIS well-known firm of engineers and millwrights was founded over half a century ago by Messrs. James Astin and John Barker, who are now both deceased, and the present principals are Mr. James Barker, grandson of Mr. James Astin, and Mr. Josiah Barker, son of the late Mr. John Barker. Both these gentlemen have had a sound practical and theoretical training in the trade in which they are engaged, and they personally superintend all the operations carried on at the Victoria Iron Works. This establishment is of large extent and excellent equipment, and affords every desirable facility for the purposes of an industry in which the chief feature is mill-wright work of every description, in which department Messrs. Astin & Barker have long maintained an eminent reputation. Many of the most noted mills in Lancashire and Yorkshire have been fitted by this house, among these being those of the Rochdale Spinning Co., the Peel Spinning Co. (Bury), the Palmer Mills Co. (Stockport), the Yew Spinning Co. (Heywood), the Garfield Spinning Co. and the New Hey Spinning Co., Haugh Spinning Co. (at New Hey), the New Parkside Spinning Co. (Royton,) Park Road Spinning Co. (Dukinfield), and many others.

Messrs. Astin and Barker fit up mills for either rope or wheel driving, and their work in every instance is of the soundest and most reliable character, besides being carried out upon the best modern principles. Rope pulleys, and cast and wrought iron drums are turned out by this firm in a very high state of perfection, and a large amount of attention is also devoted to tool making, and general engineering, in which very superior results are achieved. The business in its entirety is one of the leading industrial concerns of Todmorden, and is conducted by the Messrs. Barker with conspicuous skill and enterprise. A large and widespread trade is controlled, and the firm enjoy the support and confidence of an old-established and influential connection, whose favour they have won by first-class work and straightforward dealings. Messrs. Astin & Barker are represented at 12 Pillar, Manchester Royal Exchange, on Tuesdays, at 2 p.m.
Their telegraphic address is “Astin, Barker, Todmorden.”

HERBERT MADDOCK, DISPENSING AND FAMILY CHEMIST,
THE PAVEMENT, TODMORDEN.

MR. MADDOCK acquired the old-established business and premises of the late Mr. Charles Lord in the year 1889, and he has since increased and developed a valuable connection of old standing with considerable success, and every prospect of still further satisfactory expansion in the future. He is an Associate of the Pharmaceutical Society, and a family and dispensing chemist by examination. He has had long and valuable practical experience in several of the principal firms in the North of England, having been associated with Messrs. Clay & Abrahams, Liverpool; Messrs. Townson & Co., Bowdon; Mr. E. G. Hughes, Manchester; and Messrs. Crofts, of Birkenhead. His premises are roomy and well appointed, presenting a very pleasing and attractive appearance, and the stock is large, and selected with much judgment and experienced care, comprising all kinds of drugs, chemicals, and pharmaceutical preparations of the best and purest qualities, as well as genuine and reliable homoeopathic preparations, and every description of patent medicines and proprietary articles. Great attention is bestowed upon the dispensing department, and physicians’ prescriptions and family recipes are made up with the utmost care and scrupulous accuracy.

Mr. Herbert Maddock is also the sole proprietor and manufacturer of a variety of special preparations, which are made in his own laboratory, and find a ready sale in the district. The principal of these are Lord’s Tonic and Pick-me-up Bitters, the Aromatic Quinine and Iron Tonic, Rosemary and Cantharidine Hair Wash, Blood Purifier, &c. Not only does Mr. Maddock attend to the higher branches of pharmacy and allied arts, but he also does a considerable trade in oils, paints, colours, glues, cements, &c., all of which are of a first class quality, and the demand is increasing in consequence of the genuine articles supplied. Mr. Maddock is a gentleman of considerable professional attainments and scientific knowledge, and he enjoys the confidence and substantial support of a large and influential connection, while he is personally greatly esteemed and respected by an extensive circle of business and private acquaintance.

LIVERPOOL

THE history of the world-famous seaport named at the head of this page presents to our notice within the last two hundred years an almost unparalleled illustration of the rapid growth and development of a progressive and intelligent community moving forward under the influence of that spirit of advancement and improvement which is always the governing power in the thoughts and deeds of the Lancastrian people. Liverpool, the commercial metropolis of north-western England, and the second city in the Empire as regards the wealth of its merchants and the universal influence of its maritime connections, stands to-day as one of the most wonderful products of the century in that great department of evolutionary creation, the making and the building of a vast modern city; and as we contemplate the place in its entirety, and view and reckon up the many material advantages with which it has surrounded itself, we find in this busy, bustling port, and in the thousand streets of the populous city diverging therefrom, one of the grandest of all monuments to the special and oft-proven capacity of Lancashire men to excel in most things — in nothing more conspicuously than in the expansion of trade and the rearing and fostering of flourishing and prosperous communities, the names of which almost invariably become widely and favourably known to the outer world at a very early period of their corporate existence.

It is in the nature of a Lancashire man’s undertaking, whatever it may be, to prosper and flourish exceedingly; and he seems to have been gifted with a special faculty and talent for the management of great numbers of his fellow-men, the promotion of their interests in common with his own, and the development of sound and thoroughly practicable systems of municipal organisation and government, the merits of which can be readily seen and understood, though they would seem to be difficult of imitation. All these peculiar attributes of the men of Lancashire, forming so many passports to the success they have as a body so conspicuously won, have been called into play in the making of Liverpool, and the result of their co-operation is little less than a marvel.

The metropolis of the Mersey is, in fact, a typical Lancashire town in all that embodies the vigour, the pushing industry, and the indomitable perseverance of the people of this county; and at the same time it is something more — something which is well described in the words of Thomas Erskine, who once spoke of this city as standing “like another Venice upon the waters . . . the busy seat of trade, the gay scene of elegant amusements growing out of its prosperity — where there is the most cheerful face of industry, where there are riches overflowing, and everything which can delight a man who wishes to see the prosperity of a great community and a great empire.”

Modern Liverpool, as a seaport, has only one superior in existence. In the magnitude of its maritime interests and the perfection of its arrangements for the conduct of an immense shipping trade, it is second only to London itself; and it is impossible to survey the many acres of unrivalled docks, to note the scene of activity prevailing there, or to sum up the thousand and one outward evidences of the mighty trade which brings into the broad waters of the Mersey at Liverpool vessels from every land and merchandise from every clime, without being deeply impressed by the immensity of the undertakings here represented, the completeness of the organisation that enables each enterprise out of many thousands to be carried to a successful and profitable issue, and the vastness of the capital that must be involved in many of the city’s great mercantile ventures.

Through the port of Liverpool the countless products of the New World find their most natural and convenient entry into the British market; and as Liverpool’s commercial intercourse with the western continent was one of the prime factors in promoting its rapid growth and progress, it is gratifying to note that the closest connections are still maintained between this port and the great sources of supply in America, the relations subsisting between Liverpool and New York being of a character which tends to enormously enhance the mutual welfare of the two cities and the two nations they represent.

The volume of trade transacted in the city and port of Liverpool constitutes one of the grandest items in the commercial statistics of the empire, and has been thus referred to by Mr. Baines, in his valuable local history:— “The commerce of Liverpool extends to every port of importance in every quarter of the globe. Commencing with the continent of Europe, it is found in every port, from Archangel, on the frozen shores of the White Sea, to the sunny regions that encircle the Mediterranean, and from the mouth of the Tagus to the river of the Don Cossacks, which divides Europe from Asia. In Asia it is found in every port open to European commerce, from Smyrna, in the Mediterranean, to Shanghae, in the Yellow Sea, and from Trebizonde, on the Euxine, to the island of Java. In Africa it may be met with in every port from Alexandria, in Egypt, along the coast of Barbary, on the shores inhabited by the negroes, round the Cape, up the eastern coast of the continent as far as the entrance of the Bed Sea. It is met with in all the porta of Australia, Van Diemen’s Land, and New Zealand in which the European race is settled. In America it commences in the Hudson's Bay territory, and extends to Patagonia, including every port, on the eastern coast from the St. Lawrence to the River Plate, and on the western from San Francisco to Valparaiso.

Not only is the volume and widespread range of this vast trade remarkable, but its comprehensiveness is extraordinary. It deals with every conceivable kind of merchandise, but is especially concerned with articles of real utility, coming within the every-day requirements of humanity, and embracing food stuffs of every kind, clothing materials, fuel, metals for the useful and artistic industries, building materials, and implements of various descriptions — all these being brought from a multitude of sources, and representing the output of scores of different markets in foreign lands and in our Colonial possessions. The importance of Liverpool as a port of entry for raw material of divers kinds might easily be dilated upon at great length, but it will suffice for our purpose to draw attention to the fact that something like seven-eighths of the vast quantity of raw cotton imported to supply the great mills and factories of Lancashire comes; into the country through the Mersey. It has been stated that from Liverpool there is annually exported a sufficiency of textile fabrics to clothe one-fourth of the whole population of the world, and we can hardly consider this assertion an exaggeration when we remember that for generations past Liverpool has been the seaport of Manchester and the great outlet for the enormous textile product of that busiest of manufacturing centres.

Liverpool is a magnificent example of a purely commercial city, using the word “commercial” as distinguished from “industrial.” Its manufactures are not by any means unimportant, and embrace some very extensive operations in engineering and machine-making, tobacco and soap manufacture, brewing and distilling, chemical manufacture, paint and oil manufacture, milling, woodworking, &c. The shipbuilding industry is also developed very largely on the Mersey at Liverpool, and in recent years there have been many fine sailing-vessels and steamships for ocean traffic built and launched at the leading shipyards adjacent to the port.

It is, however, as a trading port rather than as a manufacturing town that Liverpool stands pre-eminent, and in its vast and supremely interesting docks will be found the great source and fountain-head of the city’s wealth and prosperity. They yield to-day an enormous revenue; they have made Liverpool the second seaport in the world for mercantile-activity, and they have placed her merchant princes among the proud ones of the earth, wielding the irresistible influence of almost unlimited riches. Auspicious indeed was that day, over a hundred and eighty years ago, when the Corporation of Liverpool first seriously turned their attention to the building up of the wonderful system of docks and quays, the revenue from which has since made them one of the wealthiest municipal bodies in the whole world. We can see what the docks have done for Liverpool by a glance at the shipping statistics of the last three hundred and fifty years.

The tonnage of Liverpool’s shipping in the time of Henry VIII. was about 180, and in the reign of Elizabeth it was 270. Progress was slow during the Stuart period, but from the year 1709, when the idea of founding a better system of dock accommodation was first actively taken up, the advancement became rapid and continuous. Within a hundred years after this we find the tonnage of vessels using this port rising to nearly a million tons. Before 1860 that figure was quadrupled, and now the total for 1860 has been well-nigh doubled.

Simultaneously with the growth of the shipping, the populative increase of the city is noteworthy. At the dawn of the eighteenth century there were only about 6,000 inhabitants in the whole of Liverpool. A hundred years later there were about 75,000. In 1851 the census returns gave the number of inhabitants as 375,955, and the census of 1891 shows that the population had then increased to 517,951. This is, of course, exclusive of Birkenhead, which has undoubtedly shared to a great extent in the prosperity of Liverpool, and which in 1891 had a population of no less than 99,184.

The spirit of progress and improvement, which has achieved so much in the past records of this great port, has not by any means become inactive. Its beneficial influence is being constantly exerted to promote the interests and general welfare of the city and its trades, and among the new harbour improvements which promise to produce such valuable results in the immediate future, we may refer to the scheme now on foot for dredging away the bar of the Mersey, which has always been a serious impediment to the ocean-going traffic of the port. Mr. Lyster, engineer to the Board, issued his report of progress in this matter in August, 1891, and from it we learn that 350,000 tons of sand had been dredged away and removed in less than a year. According to the original estimate, the removal of 800,000 tons of sand would deepen a channel 3,000 feet long by 1,000 feet wide, some 6 feet 6 inches below the shallowest depth then existing, that is, 11 feet below low water spring tides — all this, of course, being conditional on there being no re-deposit. On August 13th, 1891, a further expenditure of £6,000 was sanctioned, and the statement was made that there was then 16 feet of water against a former 11 feet over the whole space attacked by the operations. The completion of this great work will undoubtedly contribute very largely to the convenience of shipping in the port, and will obviate delays formerly unavoidable.

Certain persons of pessimistic proclivities have prophesied a fate for Liverpool and its port similar to that which has befallen the Dee ports owing to the silting up of the latter river. Were the Mersey to act as the Dee has done, the consequences would undoubtedly be disastrous; but many instances can be cited of the manner in which man’s artifice and energy have overcome the antagonism of nature, and the activity of the Dock Board of Liverpool in keeping open and constantly improving the river channels of the Mersey will doubtless prove quite sufficient to cope with any danger that may threaten the port in the direction referred to. Each year witnesses some advance in the facilities of navigation here, and there is no reason to doubt that Liverpool will maintain in the future as in the past the maritime supremacy she has won by her own native enterprise and perseverance. Had the men of Liverpool lived on the banks of the Dee it is highly improbable that that once magnificent estuary would have been allowed to fall into its present useless condition for the purposes of navigation on a large scale. Money and energy and public spirit have constructed the port of Liverpool and made the city what it is to-day, and the same great and powerful factors are, we think, fully capable of preserving and improving what they have created.

We cannot speak further in this necessarily brief introduction concerning the trade of Liverpool in its manifold aspects, but it will be our endeavour in the following pages to illustrate by individual examples the magnitude, comprehensiveness, and worldwide range of this great city’s commerce, as well as the importance and progressive character of the manufacturing industries that have taken root within its borders and flourished under the influence of local enterprise and capital. Earlier in this volume we have briefly reviewed the topographical and structural aspects of Liverpool, and little need now be added to what has already been said on these points. The streets of- the city present a scene of busy activity which is surpassed nowhere in England outside of London itself; and if they do present to our notice any grand and historic, monuments of the past, they are none the less interesting because of the magnificence and architectural beauty of their modern edifices, among which the visitor will not fail to note some of the largest and finest structures for commercial purposes to be found anywhere in the United Kingdom. Noble public buildings also are here in goodly number, and testify (as do many other conspicuous evidences) to that excellent and public-spirited civic government in which Liverpool may stand as a model for other large communities to imitate.

What a contrast between these broad, clean, and stately streets and the same or corresponding thoroughfares as they must have appeared a hundred years ago! Those were the days of sedan chairs and huge lumbering coaches slung on creaking leather springs, of wigs and cocked hats, of cobblestones and buckled shoes. The swift hansom, the convenient omnibus, the steady-going and commodious tramcar were undreamt of. Steam had not then forced the evidence of its power upon the attention of mankind through the humble medium of James Watt’s tea-kettle. Railways had yet to come, and steamboats did not exist even in the brain of the wildest visionary. Travelling was full of inconvenience, and was only undertaken under, stress of necessity. Two stage-coaches journeyed from London to Liverpool, and vice versa, performing the trip in two days in summer and three in winter; and once a week a coach was despatched to Lancaster and Kendal. Those whose means did not allow them to travel by coach were obliged to have recourse to carriers’ waggons, which were also largely used for the conveyance of merchandise, and by this means the journey to London was usually accomplished in a week. Contrast all this with the Liverpool of to-day, the huge, populous city which boasts one of the most complete and elaborate systems of communication by railway and steamer to be found among the towns of Britain.

To-day one may journey from Liverpool to London, in all possible ease and comfort, in the space of four or five hours, and the city’s railway facilities are admittedly unsurpassed, there being no part of Great Britain which cannot be reached with expedition and convenience from one or other of the Liverpool railway stations. A special interest attaches to this city in connection with railways, for was not one of the earliest of these iron highways that between Liverpool and Manchester, which was opened in September, 1831? Since then the development of railway enterprise has been enormous in this part of England, and we have seen, among other great works, the completion of that fine piece of engineering, the Mersey Tunnel, which, in conjunction with the splendid Woodside ferry-boats, has drawn closer the bonds of intercourse and communication between Liverpool and its thriving neighbour, Birkenhead on the Cheshire side of the Mersey.

The relations maintained between the Lancashire and the Cheshire banks of this broad river have long been recognised ae highly important in promoting and preserving the commercial interests of the double port. Birkenhead and Liverpool are on the best of mutual terms, for they are invaluable to each other, and there is therefore none of that hard-headed rivalry which frequently exists between towns similarly situated. Many of the leading merchants of Liverpool have taken up their private abodes “across the water,” and the Cheshire side of the river, with its excellent views and fine residential properties, offers many inducements to those who wish, after their day’s work is over, to escape from the bustle and turmoil that necessarily exist in the great city opposite. It is worthy of mention, while we think of it, that Liverpool is now beginning to enjoy the benefits of its new system of water supply, whereby water of very excellent quality is to be brought into the city from Vyrnwy Lake, in Wales, a total distance of about 72 miles. Up to June, 1891, over £2,000,000 had been expended on this great work, which is one of the most important and extensive schemes of water-supply carried out in modern times.

Politically and ecclesiastically, as well as commercially, Liverpool is a power in the land, and exercises an influence that must always be taken into consideration. The city returns nine members to Parliament from its several divisions, which are named as follows:— Abercromby, Everton, Exchange, Kirkdale, Scotland, Toxteth East, Toxteth West, Walton, and West Derby. It is also the see of a bishopric, founded in 1880. The present bishop (and the first to rule the new diocese) is the Right Rev. John Charles Ryle, D.D.

As to the remarkably important and interesting retail trades which flourish in Liverpool as in every other great centre of population, it may be said that they include every conceivable branch of business enterprise, and the principal warehouses and shops in different lines are possessed of a reputation which is in several cases international. Out of the abundant resources of these great emporia all domestic and general requirements can be satisfied; and nowhere does one find merchants more enterprising or more thoroughly skilled in all the details of the trades they exemplify than are those of Liverpool. Many of these merchants receive in the following pages the individual mention to which their high achievements in the city’s trade have entitled them.

In conclusion it maybe said — though it goes almost without saying — that all the educational, artistic, and benevolent institutions of Liverpool are of a character in the highest degree creditable. The city has a large, independent, and influential Press, ever eloquent in behalf of the best interests of the place and its people; and within itself it possesses all the elements of municipal, commercial, and political greatness, together with all the factors that combine to secure its enduring and increasing prosperity.

With these few introductory remarks we may now invite our readers’ attention to the following articles, compiled from authentic sources, and designed to afford reliable information up to the most recent date concerning the history and operations of the various commercial and manufacturing concerns of which they treat. It is to such concerns as these that Liverpool owes in a very large degree its universal renown in the world of trade and industry.
LIVERPOOL
REPRESENTATIVES OF COMMERCE

COFFEY BROS., PROVISION MERCHANTS,
40, VICTORIA STREET STORES, 10 AND 12, PETER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AN account of the oldest and most favourably known amongst the leading and substantial houses in the provision trade must needs contain a suitable record of the position and reputation of the Successful business of Messrs. Coffey Bros., provision merchants, of 40, Victoria Street, and 10 and 12, Peter Street, Liverpool. This thoroughly representative house was started about a quarter of a century ago by the well known and popular gentlemen who constitute the proprietary, Messrs. John and W. J. Coffey. The centrally well-situated premises in Victoria Street contain extensive offices, sample and sale rooms, and warehouse accommodation on the ground floor, and a roomy basement, which is utilised for the storage of lard; whilst the rapid development of the business connection from the commencement has necessitated the acquisition of additional warehouse room in Peter Street, where room is found for the remainder of an extensive stock of American and Irish provisions, the leading line being American bacon, hams, and cheese. The business relations of the firm extend to all corners of the United Kingdom, and it is a noteworthy characteristic of the business methods adopted by the Messrs. Coffey Bros, that they employ neither agents nor travellers, but rely solely upon the orders coming to them spontaneously direct from wholesale and retail provision merchants and grocers, amongst all classes of whom the high repute of the firm is proverbial. It should not be omitted to mention that the firm are agents for several marks of the finest Creamery Butter, which took prizes at Dublin, 1886, London, 1887, 1889, and 1800., and Limerick, 1890, a department in which their undoubted knowledge of the article enables them to ensure the fullest satisfaction of their customers.

Out of their own immediate business concerns the Messrs. Coffey Bros, are widely known and highly esteemed in influential and public circles. Mr. John Coffey is a member of the Select Vestry and Overseer of the parish of Liverpool, and Mr. W. J. Coffey is a member of the West Derby Local Board, both gentlemen bringing into the service of these important public offices the same business-like acumen and method as have enabled them to raise their private trade to its present highly creditable state of prosperous development.

TURNER & DUNNETT, GENERAL PRINTERS,
19, FENWICK STREET, LIVERPOOL.
Telephone No. 643.
Telegraphic address “Turnett,” Liverpool.

OF THE three leading Liverpool houses in the trade, that of Messrs. Turner & Dunnett is probably pre-eminent. Theirs is an old-established as well as a high-class and important business, for it was founded over half a century ago. During recent years the proprietary has undergone alteration, owing to the death of the former principals, for Mr. Turner has been deceased two, and Mr, Dunnett five years. The firm now comprises Mr. W. N. Turner, son of the former gentleman, Mr. A. Gilmour and Mr. R. Turner, another son of the first-named founder. The firm are now principally engaged as mercantile export printers and stationers, but their business is also a general one. That their trade is very extensive is shown by the, fact that, at their works, 10 and 12, Moor Street, and 7, Old Ropery, they employ from a hundred and seventy to a hundred and ninety hands in the printing departments and the warehouse. The works are of considerable size, admirably arranged for the various details of the business, and splendidly equipped. Their equipment includes the newest and best models of printing machinery; also a large stock of the most effective founts of type for display purposes. The men engaged, both in composition and machine work, are judiciously selected, and the quality of the printing, artistic or general, turned out from this establishment is of the, highest class.

A very special feature is the lithographic department; some splendid specimens of work of decided artistic merit have emanated from this house, and there is probably no firm in Liverpool or the district who have made such progress in colour printing, or who have executed a better class of work, than the firm under notice. For all the requirements of the mercantile stationery business, including account-book manufacturing, the firm have the perfection of plant and thoroughly efficient workmen. Their stocks of paper are exceedingly large and varied, and there are few warehouses in any part of the country where equally comprehensive stocks can he found. Possessed of exceptional resources, the firm are able to execute all classes of work, and to supply goods at the very lowest quotations. To this fact in a great measure their very important connections is due; but the partners are entitled to credit for the very able and enterprising way in which they have directed the various details of their considerable business. Their offices in Fenwick Street are extensive and? very handsomely appointed, and in connection with these a numerous staff is employed.

C. S. WILSON & CO., ENGINEERS AND BOILER MAKERS, BRASSFOUNDERS, &C., SHIP REPAIRERS,
77, REGENT ROAD, LIVERPOOL
(Telephone No. 1449).

ONE of the most prominent firms of engineers and boiler makers in Liverpool at the present day is that of Messrs. C. S. Wilson & Co., whose immense business was founded under the present title about thirty-five years ago. For the past two and a half years the concern has been carried on by Mr. George Kendall, a gentleman of well-known ability and experience, whose administration has been attended by the most excellent results. The premises occupied in Regent Road, Liverpool, are very extensive, and possess a splendid equipment of the best modern machinery, enabling the firm to undertake all descriptions of work in general engineering, brassfounding, coppersmithing, ship and tin smithing, plumbing, and general ship repairing. A very large plant is in operation in all departments, and the firm have superior hydraulic machinery for bending copper pipes. There are no less than nine furnaces in the brass foundry, with a total capacity of 18 hundredweight of metal; and throughout the establishment we noticed the existence of very exceptional facilities for the rapid execution of large orders in all branches of the industry engaged in. Messrs. C. S. Wilson & Co. are widely known as wholesale ships’ ironmongers, in which line they do an exceedingly large business; and they are likewise noted as the sole makers of Kerr’s Patent Piston Rod Lubricator, and Downie’s Patent Step Plates, two important specialities which enjoy great favour everywhere. An average staff of about ninety hands, besides twenty-three apprentices, is employed at the works in Regent Road, and the business in its entirety is one of the most flourishing and progressive concerns of its kind in the city, being supported by a very extensive and valuable connection. A large share of credit for the marked development of this business during the last two years is undoubtedly due to Mr. Kendall, the present esteemed principal, who possesses a fund of practical knowledge and experience qualifying him in an eminent degree to direct an important industrial undertaking of this description. Mr. Kendall was formerly ship and engineer surveyor to Lloyd’s Register at Cardiff, Glasgow, and Newport (Monmouth) for seven years, and few men are better known than he in connection with this trade. He personally superintends all the affairs of his business, and enjoys the unreserved confidence of his numerous and influential clientele.

DURANDU & WORTHINGTON, PROVISION MERCHANTS,
20, STANLEY STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A GENERAL review of the wholesale provision trade of Liverpool of to-day would indeed be meagre and incomplete without reference to the important part taken therein by the splendidly organised house of Messrs. Durandu and Worthington, whose efforts, commenced in the year 1886, have resulted in successes so marked and brilliant, that a record of their doings is at least worthy of a place upon these pages devoted to the promotion of commercial enterprise and legitimate trade in industrial Great Britain, and perhaps the best way in which to indicate the character, scope, aims, and magnitude of their work would be to give a succinct account of what their premises are like, and to supplement this with a few observations upon the nature of the operations there being carried on. No. 20, Stanley Street, is an imposing six-storied warehouse, the whole of the great basement of which, extending back for a distance of fully sixty feet to the rear, has been divided into a handsomely appointed office and commodious warehouses for the storage of an enormous stock of prime provisions, the principal items of which consist of hams, bacon, and cheese, the latter especially being one of the largest and most carefully selected stocks of its kind in the city.

Messrs. Durandu and Worthington, who are the registered proprietors of the celebrated “Challenge” brand, Chicago, U.S.A., for bacon and hams, operate exclusively as wholesale distributors, supplying grocers and provision dealers in all parts of the United Kingdom, the brisk business done entailing the full and regular employment of a contingent of well-chosen agents, and a staff of first-class travellers, several clerks, and a number of active warehousemen. The affairs of the house are administered in person by the partners and the commercial principles observed by those gentlemen in the control of their important undertaking has won for them, as a representative mercantile institution, the full confidence and esteem of an influential and rapidly growing connection, both at home and abroad.

THE BRITISH AND FOREIGN MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY, LIMITED,
HEAD OFFICE: BRITISH AND FOREIGN CHAMBERS, 5, CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG the most notable marine insurance organizations with headquarters in Great Britain stands the British and Foreign Marine Insurance Company, Limited, whose chief offices are in Castle Street, Liverpool. This Company was founded in the year 1863, and the careful administration that has marked its nearly thirty years of steady progress has established it upon a thoroughly sound financial basis. The Company’s operations were commenced in Manchester Buildings, but after a time a move was made to Exchange Buildings, and eventually, in 1890, their own premises in Castle Street were occupied. This is a five-storey building of noble dimensions and exceedingly handsome appearance, and is in all respects well-suited for the headquarters of an insurance office of wealth, influence, and eminent repute. The offices are commodious and perfectly appointed, and the numerous staff whose services are called for in the routine of the Company’s affairs have every desirable accommodation. The business undertakings of the British and Foreign Marine Insurance Company take effect in all parts of the world, and are facilitated by agents in every seaport of importance in the United Kingdom. In New York the Company have a most experienced manager and under-writer, in the person of Mr. L. Allyn Wight, and their capable manager in London (Mr. T. F. Denniston) looks after metropolitan business with highly satisfactory effect.

The following is a list of this Company’s Foreign Agencies:—
Europe: Amsterdam, W. Bjreitenstein; Antwerp, Vandevelde & Simons; Barcelona, G. J. Huelin; Bordeaux, James Moss & Co.; Bremen, F. Keck & Co.; Copenhagen, P. A. Halkier; Cognac, A. Delezinier & Co.; Coruna, D. H. Rowstron; Gibraltar, John Garese; Hamburg, Paul, Weber & Co.; Havre, Ch. de Heyder; Lisbon, Garland, Laidley & Co.; Malaga, P. C. Lamothe; Marseilles, Hofmann, Lantier & Co.; Patras, V. G. Marshall; Paris, V. Kinen & Co., Bankers, Monsieur Henri Desprèz; Reval, Charles Robert Cattley; Rotterdam, John Hudig: Santander, C. Saint Martin.
Mediterranean: Alexandria, Peel & Co.; Constantinople, Ed. Barfield; Genoa and other Italian Ports and Trieste, B. Mackenzie; Smyrna, Paterson & Co., E. Keyser & Co.
India: Bombay, Killick, Nixon & Co., Wallace & Co.; Calcutta, Gillanders, Arbuthnot & Co., F. J. Kingsley, MacDowell & Co, Mackinnon Mackenzie & Co., Petrie, Turner & Co; Cocanada, Hall, Wilson, & Co.; Cochin, John Grieve & Co.; Colombo, Skrine & Co.; Kurrachee, James Currie & Co., A. McHinch & Co.; Madras, Arbuthnot & Co., Binny & Co.; Rangoon, Gillanders, Arbuthnot & Co.
Africa, &c.: Durban, William Dunn & Co.; East London, Dunn & Co.; Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Swanston & Co.; Madagascar, Porter, Aitken & Co.; Mauritius, Ireland, Fraser & Co., Charles Jacobs & Sons; Port Elizabeth, Mackie, Dunn & Co.; Zanzibar, Thomas D. Charles worth & Co.
Straits Settlements, &c.: Batavia, J. Peet & Co.; Manilla, Ker & Co.; Penang, Huttenbach, Liebert & Co.; Samarang, Burt, Myrtle & Co.; Singapore, Gilfillan, Wood & Co., Huttenbach Brothers & Co.; Sourabaya, Burt, Myrtle .& Co.; Zebu, Smith, Bell & Co.; Saigon, Diethelm & Co.
China Seas: Foochow, Hankow, Hong Kong, Butterfield & Swire; Hong Kong, Gilman & Co.; Kobe, Japan, Browne & Co.; Kinkiang, Swatow, Shanghai, Tientsin, Yokohama, Butterfield & Swire.
Australasia: Adelaide, John Darling & Son, L. A. Jessop, Esq., sub agent; Auckland, J. Macfarlane, Esq.; Brisbane, Gibbs, Bright & Co.; Christchurch, New Zealand, W. D. Meares, Union F. & M. Ins. Co.; Dunedin, Neill & Co. Limited; Dunedin, Napier, and Wellington, Murrays Roberts & Co.; Melbourne, Lorimer, Rome & Co., J. Sanderson & Co.; Nelson, J. H. Cock & Co.; Sydney, Lorimer, Rome & Co., W. H. Mackenzie & Co.
North Pacific: Honolulu, T. H. Davies & Co.; Portland, Oregon, San Francisco, California, Balfour, Guthrie & Co.; Victoria, British Columbia, Findlay, Durham & Brodie.
West Coast of South America: Arica, La Vinda, Nugent & Co.; Guayaquil, M. Orrantia; Iquique, James, Inglis & Co.; Lima, Duncan, Fox & Co.; San Salvador, W. F. Manning; Valparaiso, Duncan, Fox, & Co.
River Plate & Brazils: Buenos Ayres, Norton and Drysdale; Monte Video, N. Goddard & Co.; Rio Janeiro, W. A. Gordon; Rio Grande, Lefebvre & Co.; Rosario, Barnett & Co.
West Indies: Havana, J. F. Millington; Jamaica, J. H. McDowell; Matanzas, George L. Washington; San Juan, Porto Rico, Mullenhoff & Korber.
United States: Baltimore, Maryland, Cunningham, Coale & Co.: Boston, Massachusetts, Endicott & Macomber; Charlestown, South Carolina, Ravenel, Johnson & Co; Galveston, Texas, Beers, Kenison & Co.; Mobile, Alabama, A. A. Marsh; New Orleans, Louisana, A. K. Miller, Meletta & Co.; New York, Branch Office and Sub-agencies: L. A. Wight, attorney; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Mather & Co.; Savannah, Georgia, C. A. Reitze.
Canada, Montreal, and Sub-agencies: E. L Bond.

A glance at the last annual report of the directors of the Company reveals the fact that the business of the concern is not only extensive and steadily increasing, but is also in a state of gratifying prosperity. While honourably and conscientiously fulfilling all their engagements and meeting every demand authorised by their policies, the Company contrive to manage their affairs with such judgment and economy that the profits of the underwriting account has been very satisfactory for some years past, and long-continued prosperity in this respect has made the financial status of the office a matter for congratulation to all who have been concerned in bringing it up to its present level.

As an indication of the magnitude of the business transacted by this well known and highly esteemed office we may say that the nett amount insured upon freight and goods in 1890 was no less than £64,790,781, while the nett amount insured upon ships in the same year was £3,248,749. We have much pleasure in recording the continued success of a Company whose name has always been an honoured one in English marine insurance, whose directors (with Thomas Chilton, Esq., as their present Chairman), include many gentlemen of eminent influence in the commercial and financial world, and whose reputation for integrity and straightforwardness in all its dealings has never lacked ample justification.

The executive staff of this Company is composed of gentlemen of the highest efficiency in the conduct of insurance business. Mr. Dale, who had been the underwriter of the Company from the beginning, retired from the active management at the opening of this year, taking a seat at the boards, both in Liverpool and London, and supervising the whole business as managing director. He was succeeded in Liverpool by Mr. Davies as underwriter, a gentleman who has been trained in the Company’s office and who has there acquired large experience, and is deservedly popular with every section of the insurance community. Mr. Arthur McNeill, who was also educated in the office, is the secretary, and contributes largely by his conspicuous ability to maintain the Company’s substantial position in the insurance world.

SHARP & TYLEE, AMERICAN AND CANADIAN MERCHANTS,
61, SOUTH JOHN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS interesting and thoroughly useful concern was founded in 1890 by the present partners, Messrs. Sharp & Tylee, who are possessed of all the necessary essentials for conducing to the success of an undertaking. Already they have three commercial travellers covering the whole of the kingdom, and each day sees a perceptible increase in the business. They are importers of all kinds of timber for agricultural purposes, making a leading speciality of second-growth white oak spokes. Among the valuable and extensive stock will be found ash shafts and poles, hickory squares for picking sticks, maple roller blocks, “Coe’s” pattern screw wrench, ice-cream freezers, zinc and wood washboards, patent blind fixtures, American chairs, veneer chair-seats, broom, hammer, and sledge handles, and shafts of every description, Shaw door checks and spring clothes-pins, butchers’ and poulterers’ skewers, hay and manure forks, hay rakes, compressed and cut bungs, &c. The firm also import an automatic cork puller, a most useful invention, and rapidly being taken up by the trade. The premises occupy a, prominent corner position, and have a frontage to King Street, on one side, of fifty feet. They comprise commodious warehouse and well-fitted- up office, &c. The business is entirely wholesale, and is chiefly among manufacturers of all kinds of tools and makers of agricultural implements. The extensive operations are carried on in a manner which reflects great credit upon the organising powers of Messrs. Sharp & Tylee.

CHEESBROUGH & ROYSTON, PATENT AGENTS AND CONSULTING ENGINEERS,
15, WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

NO house in its line in Liverpool is better known or enjoys a more honourable or deserved reputation than that of Messrs. Cheesbrough and Royston, Consulting Engineers and Patent Agents, of 15, Water Street. The business was initiated more than twenty-five years ago, by Mr. Cheesbrough, who brought to bear large experience and marked energy, and a thorough knowledge of the various ramifications of the profession. By the aid of these powerful factors, the foundation, broad and deep, was soon laid of an important business, and as clients began to recognise the ability with which all transactions were conducted and the honourable methods of doing business, the house grew rapidly in public favour and patronage. About twelve years ago, Mr. Royston was taken into partnership. He possesses special and high-class qualifications for this business, and under their joint administration the prosperity of the house has been fully maintained and augmented, while its reputation has been raised to an equality with that of the best London houses engaged in this business. Mr. F. J. Cheesbrough is an original Fellow of the Institute of Patent Agents (and both gentlemen are Fellows of the Chartered Institute of Patent Agents). The premises occupied by them are spacious in size and ample in convenience, they comprise a handsome suite of general offices with accommodation for a large staff of clerks, private offices and consulting rooms. They are admirably fitted up and contain an extensive and well-selected patent library.

The business conducted by the firm as consulting engineers and patent agents is of a very valuable character, and they number among their clients some of the largest and most influential firms and companies in Lancashire and the north of England. Their thorough knowledge and wide experience in every department of this intricate subject, enable them to give the soundest and most practical information upon the most complex and difficult points, and patrons consulting these gentlemen can accept their advice as the best and most reliable that can be obtained. The partners possess a thorough knowledge of the principles of patent law, and a complete knowledge of the practice and precedents governing the administration of the English and foreign patent laws and rules. Their long and special experience has eminently qualified them for the success they have achieved. They give close personal attention to the preparation and prosecution of applications for patents, trades marks, and designs, including the making-out of specifications, drawings, designs, trades marks, labels and copyrights.

From their extensive acquaintance with everything pertaining to this branch of their profession, they are notably successful in making the requisite examinations as to the patentability of an invention, and in enquiring into the scope and validity of patents. By following their advice, clients avoid the expense and disappointment of commencing to patent an article or design only to find, after much money and time have been spent, that a similar or approximate thing has already been patented. In disputes respecting the infringement of patents their opinion is of the highest value, and is much sought after by clients in every part of the country. Both the partners of this noted house are men of large experience, knowledge, and executive ability. By their fair and straightforward transactions they have gained the confidence of all their numerous patrons, and the continuously increasing development of the business shows in what estimation they are held by the public generally. In social circles they are much respected for their personal rectitude.

SIMPSON, MACKIRDY & CO., FORWARDING AGENTS, &C.,
29, SOUTH CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS extensive and well-managed business has for half a century played an important part in the commercial transactions of Liverpool. Its nature is a particularly useful one, and all its operations are carried out with an enterprise and thoroughness which stamps it as one of the leading concerns of the kind in the city. It was founded by Mr. John Clerk, and was taken over by Mr. Simpson in 1863. The following gentlemen constitute the firm:- Mr. Simpson, Mr. Mackirdy, and Mr, H. Mackirdy. As forwarding agents these gentlemen are known in pretty nearly all the commercial centres of the world. They undertake to dispatch goods with perfect safety to their destination. They have a splendid connection with all the leading shipping houses, and work in conjunction with the Foreign Express Company, New York. They have an unique system of conducting their business, the outcome of long practical experience and experiment.

Messrs. Simpson, Mackirdy & Co., act as agents to the following celebrated firms:— The Pulsometer and Engineering Company, whose machinery for all duties connected with pumping is so universally known and so largely used. Messrs. H. M. Newhall & Co. of San Francisco, Simpson’s ships’ boat disengaging and collapsable chocks, and Evan’s patent ventilators and furnace blowers. The premises consist of a handsome and commodious suite of offices — general and private — well fitted up and occupied by eight clerks. The standing of the firm is of the highest, and the individual members are held in the highest esteem. As a combination of capable and trustworthy gentlemen their equal is exceedingly difficult to find.
The telegraphic address is “Mackirdy,” Liverpool.

CHARLTON R. HALL & CO., WINE AND SPIRIT BROKERS,
11, ORANGE STREET, CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IN recording the century’s progress made in the arts, crafts, and commerce of Great Britain, due recognition must be made of the important part taken therein by the wholesale distribution of superior brands of wines and spirits, and in this connection, in Liverpool of to-day, it would be impossible to indicate a more typical or noteworthy house than the above. The commercial chronicles of the city show that this representative institution was organised in the year 1860 by the father of the present able proprietor, in Dale Street. This gentleman was the founder of the Wine and Spirit Association, one of the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, and this institution he represented in the chamber of commerce for many years, in fact until the time of his retirement, Mr. Hall having previously gained his splendid experience with the well-known firm of Messrs. R. W. Preston & Co. In 1886 the flourishing concern was taken over by Mr. Charlton R. Hall, junior, and transferred to its present more convenient and commodious quarters, which comprise an exceedingly handsome suite of offices, sample-room, and extensive cellarage, with bonded stores in Fazakerly Street and at the Albert Docks.

The ample accommodation thus afforded is stocked to repletion, in the most methodical manner, with perhaps one of the largest and most valuable selections of choice liquors in the city; and some notion of the magnitude and character of the brisk business carried on may be gathered from the following list of well-known producing firms, for whom Mr. Hall acts as the accredited agent in Liverpool, viz.:— The Hibernian Distilleries Co., Dublin; J. and J. Grant, Glen Grant, Glenlivet; Messrs. John Ross & Co., Kintyre, Campbeltown; M.M. Filleux Frères, Cognac; MM. Vanzellers & Co., Oporto; Mons. A. Gratien, Saumur, and Messrs. Jules Robin & Co., Cognac. He is also the sole proprietor of the celebrated blend of old Scotch whiskey, “Glen Ghoil”; and sole proprietor of the products of M.M. Felix Visinier & Co., Epernay; M.M. Salle & Fils Frères, Cognac; M.M. De Vemeuil & Co., Saumur; the “Battle Axe” sherry; and “Rose” brand Tarragona. The firm moreover operate on a very extensive scale as blenders of several choice brands of Scotch and Irish whiskies and rums; and control a large wholesale trade, which takes effect in all parts of the United Kingdom. Their telegraphic address is “Grapes, Liverpool,” and their’ telephone No. 1,012.

The business in all its branches is under the active personal supervision of Mr. Hall. Associated with the firm are Mr. Wm. Foulkes and J. T. Bramley, who were for many years prior to being taken into partnership, responsible employes of the concern. The firm keep a staff of ten clerks and a large number of warehouse hands actively employed, and conduct the entire concern with vigour and sound judgment, upon principles which have won for it the esteem and respect, as well as the liberal support, of a very large and valuable trade connection in all parts of the country.

JOSEPH OWEN & SONS, TIMBER MERCHANTS, STEAM SAW-MILLERS, &C., &C.,
67, ST. ANNE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS very extensive and important business originated upwards of thirty years ago under the auspices of the late Mr. Joseph Owen, and is now continued by the founder’s two sons, Messrs. John Johnson Owen and Harold Owen, who retain the old title of Joseph Owen & Sons. At the above address in St. Anne Street, the firm have their chief offices and extensive sale yards, in which they hold a very large and comprehensive stock of timber of all kinds besides a great variety of manufactured goods, such as bent woods, spokes, felloes, and all kinds of wheelwrights’ requirements. Ladders and turned goods are also features, together with plastering laths, hair, &c., and the firm exemplify all departments of the joinery trade, and execute sawing, sweep cutting, turning, moulding, planing, stoving, &c., at the usual rates. They have special facilities for timber bending and the production of all kinds of cabinet-makers’ and coachbuilders’ prepared work, in which they do a large and important trade.

Messrs. Joseph Owen & Sons have their works at Stanley Mills, Stanley Road, Kirkdale, where their immense establishment stands at the junction of Stanley and Melrose Roads, both leading thoroughfares communicating with the centre of Liverpool. These mills are four minutes’ walk from Bankhall Station, and within ten minutes’ walk from Kirkdale, Sandhill, and Canada Dock Stations. They cover over twenty thousand square yards of ground, and are equipped in the most perfect manner, the plant and machinery in use being unsurpassed in power, efficiency, and productive capacity by that in any other Liverpool establishment of the same kind. Here there is every appliance for saw-milling, turning, and steam-joinery work of all descriptions, and the firm carry on the general conversion of timber upon a scale of very great magnitude, using steam-power to the extent of nearly three hundred and fifty horse-power (indicated), and employing a staff of two hundred and fifty hands in the various departments of their industry. The firm have also a wholesale office at Canada Dock, Liverpool, wholesale depots, North Docks, Liverpool, Garston, and Fleetwood, an important buying establishment in County Tipperary, Ireland, and a branch house at 21, Grosvenor Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock, Manchester. The trade controlled, we need hardly say, is an enormous one, and the house stands deservedly in an eminent position, enjoying the support and confidence of a great number of large and regular customers, who appreciate the able and straightforward manner in which all the affairs of the house are administered.

BENNETT BROTHERS, CABINET MAKERS, UPHOLSTERERS, DECORATORS, MARBLE MASONS, KITCHEN FITTERS, IRONMONGERS, COPPERSMITHS, AND DEALERS IN GLASS/CHINA, AND EARTHENWARE,
LIME STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THERE is no better known business firm in Liverpool than that of Messrs. Bennett, of Lime Street, and the progress and development of this notable concern during the century that has elapsed since its foundation have been very remarkable. The business was started at Boughton, Chester, in the year 1790 by the grandfather of the present proprietor, who also opened at the same time a small branch foundry in Harrington Street, Liverpool. In 1805 the founder of the house died and was succeeded by his sons, Messrs. Joseph M. and W. Bennett who adopted the firm name of Bennett Brothers. This title has ever since been retained, but the sole principal now is Mr. William Bennett, eldest son of the above-named W. Bennett. In 1862 the firm erected their fine Lime Street premises, which cover a very large area of ground, and which have a total extent of floorage amounting to about 60,000 superficial feet. They also built a large show-room and iron foundry at the corner of Victoria Street and Sir Thomas’s Building, but they vacated those premises in 1890, the site being secured for the new General Post Office.

The Lime Street establishment is now, therefore, the headquarters of the business, and a splendid block it is, being of handsome design and commodious arrangement, built of stone, and containing four lofty floors above the basement. The situation is a most advantageous one, and the semi-circular front of the building faces St. George’s Hall and Lime Street Railway Station. The ground floor is divided into several sections, the leading departments here being kitchen ranges, tiled hearths, stoves, grates, and marble chimney pieces. The firm also make a magnificent display of general and household ironmongery and useful and ornamental metal wares, of every kind, besides cabinet furniture, carpets, bedsteads, bedding, upholstery, china, glass and earthenware, fine electroplated goods, cutlery, clocks, bronzes, and oil lamps in all imaginable kinds and styles.

Each of these departments shows a most complete and carefully selected stock, embracing all the newest and best goods in its particular line; and in those branches into which the element of artistic beauty enters, Messrs. Bennett Brothers are always “to the front” with elegant and attractive novelties of superior, design and workmanship. They display their goods to great advantage, and their establishment is universally admitted to present as fine a sight as any in the city. On the upper floors there are spacious supplementary show rooms, and here we find (in addition to the goods already referred to) a great variety of brass and copper ware, steam closets, baths, confectioners’ ovens, &c. A word of special praise is due to the various styles of grates and stoves tiled in such exquisite designs by Messrs. Bennett’s own talented draughtsmen; and these upper show-rooms also exhibit a most noteworthy array of ranges in which the latest modern improvements are exemplified. These floors, in fact, form one of the finest suites of show-rooms in the kingdom, and are especially suited to the requirements of such a business as the one under notice. Laundry appliances and heating apparatus are to be numbered among the leading specialities of Messrs. Bennett Brothers; also cabinet furniture of all kinds.

About five years ago the firm took over the old-established retail branch business of Messrs. Davenport & Co., a well-known house in the Potteries, in glass, china, and earthenware trade, and the stock now shown in this department at Lime Street is a most magnificent one. Associated with it there is a unique collection of chiselled and Japanese bronzes, mosaics, Florentine marbles, statuary, cameos, Italian and Dutch pottery, and choice selections of Royal Worcester, Spode, Coalport, Wedgwood, Crown Derby and other wares of great beauty and value. The carpet stock forms another most important feature, and embraces exquisite productions from all the leading centres of manufacture at home and abroad. In the basement we find the firm’s perfectly appointed workshops for kitchen fitting, coppersmithing, plumbing, bellhanging, gasfitting, and the execution of all manner of domestic repairs, and there are also workrooms for marble masons, tilers, engineers, whitesmiths, cabinet makers, &c., fitted with the most improved modern appliances for dealing with 1arge orders and ensuring perfect satisfaction in the work done. The firm make a very excellent type of “smoke curer,” so well contrived as to form an effectual cure for that greatest of domestic nuisances, a smoky chimney.

In short, Messrs. Bennett Brothers conduct one of the largest and most comprehensive complete house-furnishing businesses in this part of England, employing about one hundred workmen and salesmen, and their connection extends, not only throughout Liverpool and Lancashire, but also to other parts of the kingdom, and even to distant quarters of the globe, a considerable export trade being carried on. All the affairs of the house are administered with conspicuous ability and enterprise, and the firm have won and retained the extended confidence and patronage they enjoy by close adherence to the most honourable and straightforward methods in all their dealings with the public. Mr. William Bennett, the sole surviving partner, is much respected by all who have the privilege of knowing him, and worthily sustains the good repute and eminent standing of his old and noted house.

A. WALKER & CO., DISTILLERS,
VAUXHALL DISTILLERY, 271, VAUXHALL ROAD, LIVERPOOL.

ONE of the best-known business establishments in Vauxhall Road is that of Messrs. Archibald Walker & Co. The premises, or rather part of them, were occupied by one of the Mayors of Liverpool, this being the site of his mansion in the good old times of long ago. The business of Messrs. Walker was established in 1857, by the present proprietors. The distillery is most extensive, and has been modelled on the most scientific and approved principles. The latest and most capable appliances have been introduced throughout, and nothing has been spared in the way of expense in any single detail. Rare skill and experience has been concentrated on bringing the brands to the high state of perfection they are in to-day. Vast quantities of carefully blended spirits are vatted, and the trade done among wholesale spirit merchants, shippers, &c., is enormous. The commercial standing of the firm is of the highest order, far and wide, the fame of the distillery being equally great. The premises cover an area of about twenty thousand square yards, and are in admirable order. The store-rooms, offices, counting-house, &c., all present the same uniform superiority, and attention and courtesy throughout reigns supreme. Ample employment is given to one hundred and sixty hands, in addition to a large number of clerks. This is decidedly the largest, and without doubt, the best conducted distillery in the city.

ELKINGTON & CO., LIMITED, ART METAL WORKERS, SILVERSMITHS, AND ELECTRO-PLATE MANUFACTURERS,
23 AND 25, CHURCH STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS world-renowned firm control the largest and most notable industry in connection with high-class and artistic electro-plating that has ever existed, and their vast business is the result of more than half a century’s steady development, for it was in the year 1836, that the late Mr. G. R. Elkington and Mr. H. Elkington first began to take out patents for their invaluable discoveries. To these gentlemen belongs the honour of having first placed the process of electro-plating upon a sound commercial footing, and though many claims have been put forward for the distinction of the original discovery, it is beyond question that Messrs. Elkington were foremost in the field as its practical exponents, and that they soon outstripped their rivals and imitators by reason of the superior skill and talent they brought to bear upon their work. It is known in every quarter of the globe, goods bearing the Elkington registered mark (“E. & Co.” on a shield) being esteemed throughout the civilised world for their perfection of design, quality, and workmanship; and besides their headquarters in Newhall Street, Birmingham, and their fine showrooms in Liverpool, Messrs. Elkington & Co. have branches in London, Manchester, Sydney, Melbourne, and Calcutta. At these establishments may always be seen a large variety of the firm’s choicest productions, and the several branches are active and important local centres in the wide area covered by the international artistic and commercial influence of this great house.

The depot in Church Street, Liverpool, was opened a good many years ago, and occupies a fine building of handsome proportions and striking appearance, standing just opposite the Pro-Cathedral of St. Peter. The internal arrangements are excellent, affording every convenience for the purposes of the high-class business in which this firm are engaged. From the vestibule there is access by a broad staircase to the principal show-room, ninety feet long by thirty-six feet broad, and throughout this magnificent and spacious saloon are ranged numerous fine glass-cases in which the unrivalled wares of Messrs. Elkington & Co. are exhibited with splendid effect and to the best advantage from an artistic point of view. The quality of Messrs. Elkington’s goods is beyond the fear of cavil or the need of praise. Their processes, greatly improved by their own enterprise and skill during the lapse of years, have stood all the tests of time; and public opinion has fully satisfied itself as to this great firm’s unquestionable reliability and prestige.

Ever since the inception of Messrs. Elkington’s business it has been the rule of the house to employ only artists of eminent renown and designers distinguished not only for their manual skill, but also for their pure artistic spirit and self-evident talent. So many of their greatest works have been largely exhibited to the public that it is impossible not to believe that valuable results have accrued from the widespread knowledge of the principles and possibilities of genuine art thus disseminated. The celebrated “Milton Shield” in South Kensington Museum is one of these superb creations; so also are the much-prized “Abyssinian Trophy” in oxidised silver, and the “Helicon Challenge Cup” in repousse silver and steel damascened with gold. The “Pilgrim Shield” (of which Mr. G. A. Sala has written a fine description) is another grand work, produced expressly for the Paris Exhibition of 1878, and depicting “the most striking dramatic episode in Bunyan’s immortal allegory.” Among other productions which have shed lasting distinction upon the name of Elkington is the shield representing the leading incidents in the “Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire,” also that exquisite piece of repoussé work portraying the cathedral scene in “Much Ado about Nothing;” and few finer things of the kind have ever been done than the “Elkington Challenge Shield,” which is competed for annually at the Birmingham Cattle Show, or the beautiful Venus Rose-water Dish, the latter being the first prize given by the Queen to the Volunteers at Wimbledon.

One of the most charming pieces of electro-deposition ever executed by Messrs. Eikington was the facsimile of a wickerwork basket filled with natural grasses and beautiful ferns, all electro-plated in gold, silver, and copper, which was presented by the firm, at the hands of Miss Elkington, to H.R.H. the Princess of Wales on the occasion of a Royal visit to Birmingham in November, 1874. When Her Majesty the Queen recently visited Liverpool, the royal presents were from the studios and workshops of Messrs. Elkington, as also was a very handsome and richly ornate sword for H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught; and on many other occasions the firm lave been honoured by Royal patronage and approval.

The Liverpool show-rooms are visited by many distinguished persons, and form a veritable treasury of art in fine metal working. They have a numerous and competent staff, and are personally supervised in the most able and effective manner by the firm’s experienced local representative. They issue a beautiful pattern book for articles in solid silver and their renowned electro-plate, copies of which can be had on application; also special estimates and designs for presentation plate, and outfits of plate for ships, hotels, restaurants, &c. Wisdom, enterprise, and cultured taste have, from the first, prevailed in the counsels and operations of this eminent house, and it has left an indelible impression upon the artistic condition of our country, the good influences of which will, doubtless, be accentuated by the still higher achievements which can confidently be looked forward to in time to come.

CHARLES BOOTH & CO., WHOLESALE AND RETAIL STEEL AND FILE MERCHANTS, DEALERS IN BLACKSMITHS’ AND ENGINEERS’ TOOLS, &C.,
38, 40, 42, 46 & 48, PARK LANE, AND 1 & 2, LIVER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS celebrated concern was founded as far back as about the year 1820 by the late Mr. Jeremiah Booth, who was familiarly known in the trade as “Jerry” Booth, and forty years ago it was not possible to obtain an anvil or a pair of smith’s bellows in Liverpool without resorting to “Jerry Booth’s,” —a circumstance which shows how influential this house has always been in the trade it represents. The founder of the business was succeeded by his brother, Mr. Charles Booth, and for the past twenty-seven years the sole proprietorship has been vested in Mr. George Pollard, whose connection with this house dates back over a period of forty-one years. The firm’s principal establishment in Park Lane forms a splendid shop or sale-room, with three floors above, the whole being admirably arranged for the accommodation of an immense stock, the principal items in which are engineers’ tools of every description. There are also on the different floors a very large assortment of fine lathes, drilling and punching machines, planing and mortising machines, vices, saw-benches, crab winches, pedestals, shafting, horizontal and vertical engines, anvils and portable bellows, cisterns, piping, cast and spring steel, blocks, and stretching screws, spades, smiths’ bellows, rollers, weighing machines, oil feeders, and every kind of engineers’ stores for ships. The cellars contain a large stock of chains, anvils, and second-hand heavy goods.

This completes the contents of the Park Lane warehouse, but at Nos. 1 and 2, Liver Street, the firm have a large seven-storey warehouse which is devoted entirely to heavy machinery. Here we find stone-breaking and mortar-making machines, lathes, boilers and engines, punching machines, shearing machines, shafting, mortising machines, pumps, weighing machines and bellows, pulleys, &c., &c., besides scrap iron, iron tubes, angular iron, &c. At the back of this block is a spacious yard, exhibiting a number of large tanks, engines, boilers, pumps, &c., and in this yard we find another good-sized five-storey warehouse, in which the firm keeps a great supply of pulleys, screw presses, and donkey pumps. All Messrs. Booth’s buildings are comparatively new and constructed upon a very spacious and convenient plan, but large as they are, they are literally packed with the vast stocks it is found necessary to keep to meet the requirements of the business, and a new gallery is now being built over the yard in Park Lane (46 & 48), to afford the necessary increased accommodation. The business continues to be the largest and most important concern of its kind in Liverpool, and is supported by a widespread and old-established connection of the most influential character.

Messrs. Charles Booth & Co. are favourably known throughout the country for the sound quality and efficiency of the various machines, tools, &c., they supply, and engineers and others have always found it to their advantage to place their orders with this eminently respectable and reliable house. We may mention the fact that Messrs. Booth devote considerable attention to the second-hand department of their trade, and are always in a position to supply first-rate second-hand tools and machinery, in excellent working order, at very reasonable rates. Mr. Pollard, the esteemed head of the house, continues to devote his personal attention to all its affairs, and by so doing to sustain it in the favour and confidence of the large clientele whose patronage it has so long enjoyed.

CHADBURN & SON, PATENTEES AND MANUFACTURERS OF SHIPS' TELEGRAPH,
TELEGRAPH WORKS, 11, WATERLOO ROAD, AND 17, JAMES STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE business of this eminent firm was founded in the early part of the present century under the auspices of the Chadburn family, who still control its affairs, and it has its head quarters at the above address in large and commodious premises, which are admirably adapted to the requirements of the trade. The various workshops are all of spacious extent and excellent equipment, and the most valuable and effective machinery is in use in the several departments of the industry. Messrs. Chadburn and Son, who employ a numerous staff of highly-skilled workmen, held the appointment of Opticians to H.R.H. the late Prince Consort, and they are the possessors of a great number of Prize Medals gained at all the leading Exhibitions at home and abroad for the superior excellence of their different productions. They now make a leading speciality of Ships’ Telegraphs, and their apparatus in this connection has attained such practical perfection that it has been adopted by all the principal ships of the Royal Navy, as well as by merchant steamers, and most of the tugs and tenders used in the river traffic of the United Kingdom. These telegraphs have also been largely supplied to many foreign navies, and the number the firm have produced and fitted up amounts in all to many thousands. By the use of Messrs. Chadburn’s telegraphs the officer in command of a steamer is enabled to communicate all his orders to the engine-room, helmsman, or man of look-out instantly, and without any fear of misunderstanding, and the longer the apparatus is used the greater becomes the favour and confidence in which it is held.

Messrs. Chadburn & Son also do a very large trade in chronometers, compasses, sextants, and other nautical instruments, in which they reach and maintain the highest possible standard, of merit and reliability. This old-established and influential business increases continuously from year to year, and all its affairs are administered with a degree of skill and judgment that augurs well for its uninterrupted progress and prosperity in the future. The firm has branch establishments in London at 105, Fenchurch Street; Glasgow, 69, Anderston Quay; Newcastle-on-Tyne, 83, Quayside.

LONDON AND LANCASHIRE FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY,
45, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IT IS a matter of supererogation in these modern days to advocate the propriety or to dilate upon the advantages and benefits of insurance against fire. The sole question with property owners, merchants, and householders is as to the company with whom they shall place their risk. In connection with this subject may be mentioned the old-established and reliable London and Lancashire Fire Insurance Company, whose offices are situate at 45, Dale Street, Liverpool. The company was established in 1862, and by the enterprising and sagacious policy of its able directors, its career during the last fifteen years has been an unusually brilliant one, and it now stands pre-eminent among the principal fire insurance companies in the country. All its claims and liabilities have been met in a prompt, honourable and perfectly satisfactory manner. Its financial success has been unprecedented, and the dividends paid to shareholders have been steadily increasing with the prosperity of the company. With regard to the success of this noted company, we may remark that much of it is due to the great energy, skill, foresight, and splendid administrative ability of the honoured and courteous chief, Charles G. Fothergill, Esq.

The Liverpool offices are admirably located in a magnificent block of four-storied buildings, in Dale Street, at the corner of Moorfields. They comprise manager’s and sub-manager’s rooms, and general offices on the first floor. These offices are fitted up in a superb style, with every appliance and convenience — each desk is supplied with the electric light and the desk-rails are of copper, highly ornamented, instead of brass. The offices are over one hundred and fifty feet in length, and thoroughly adapted in every respect for the efficient despatch of the immense and important business that is transacted there. A staff of seventy clerks is permanently engaged at the head office alone, without counting the numerous employes at all the branches of the company. The other floors of the building contain the accountants’ rooms, and the committee and board rooms.

The report just issued is of the most satisfactory character, and reflects the greatest credit upon the management. The net premiums, after deducting sums paid to other offices in reduction of the company’s liabilities, amounted to £702,346 12s., against £587,084 13s. 1d. in the previous year. The net fire losses, including full estimates for all such as were not adjusted at the closing of the books, amounted to £382,618 5s. 8d. The balance of the year’s working, after provision for all expenses, bad debts, depreciations, and other charges, and including interest on investments, amounts to £119,284 14s. 9d. Adding this sum to the balance of £140,930 0s. 5d., brought forward from the previous account, there resulted an amount of £260,214 15s. 2d. to be dealt with, less the interim dividend of 3s. per share, amounting to £11,112, paid to the shareholders in the previous November. The directors paid a further dividend of 7s, per share, free of income tax, making a total dividend for the year of twenty per cent., as against sixteen per cent, for the previous year. This must be as satisfactory to the fortunate shareholders as is the marked increase in the financial strength of the company to the policyholders.

The remarkable progress of this reputable company may be seen from the fact that in 1875 the net premium income was £251,516, while in 1889 it had risen to the splendid amount of £702,347; in 1875 the market value of the shares (on issuing the report) was £2-and-one-sixteenth; in 1890, when the last report was published, they stood at £21-and-a-half. The present highly satisfactory financial position of the company is as follows:— Paid up capital, £212,750; reserve funds £738,080; reserved capital at call of the directors £1,914,750; making in all a total security to policy-holders of £2,865,580. A splendid record of commercial prosperity and stability, which few of the most successful companies can equal. A special feature of this company is that it transacts fire business only, there are, consequently, no life business or liabilities; all funds are available for fire claims, and policy-holders incur no liability.

The chairman of the company in Liverpool is Duncan Graham, Esq.; deputy-chairman, Edward H. Harrison, Esq.; manager and secretary, Charles G. Fothergill, Esq.; sub-manager, F. W. P. Rutter, Esq; and the board of directors includes some of the best known, most influential, and most honourable gentlemen in the commercial and financial circles of Liverpool. The London offices are at 74, King William Street, E.C.

WILLIAM HENDERSON & SONS, SILK MERCERS, DRAPERS, &C.,
11, 13 & 15, CHURCH STREET, LIVERPOOL.

UNDOUBTEDLY one of the foremost houses in the Liverpool silk and drapery trades at the present day is that of Messrs. William Henderson & Sons, whose fine establishment in Church Street is so well and favourably known to the best circles of society in the city and county. When the late Mr. William Henderson started this firm in 1827, he was, as a matter of fact, taking over a business which was then of excellent standing, and which had been founded by his former employer, Mr. E. Little. This business Mr. Henderson continued, and eventually handed it on to his sons, Messrs. William and John Henderson. Mr. William Henderson retired in 1889, and the concern now remains under the control of Mr. John Henderson, who is ably assisted by his son, representing the third generation. It is under its present able and energetic administration that the house has gained its almost unrivalled position in the trade, and the growth of the business since Mr. John Henderson first became connected with it is amply evidenced in the increase of the staff in the warehouse. Forty years ago only five hands were employed; to-day there are two hundred and fifty names on the pay-roll of the firm.

Messrs. Henderson occupy a splendid corner block of buildings in Church Street, with a long range of most attractive show-windows; and from the ground floor to the top flat of this handsome four-storey structure all the appointments are upon a scale of great elegance and richness. Every department of the high-class drapers’ and silk mercers’ trade is exemplified to perfection, and the stock in its entirety is one of the largest, most valuable, and most select in the city. The standing of this celebrated house among the drapery concerns of Liverpool is certainly of the first class, and the flow of business is continuous and remarkably extensive. Equally notable is the superior character of the connection maintained, the establishment enjoying the patronage of a most distinguished clientele, from the counties as well as from the Liverpool district.

All the affairs of the house are personally administered by the principal, who to his other sterling qualities as a business man and a citizen adds those of kindliness and justice in all his dealings with his many employes. Mr. John Henderson plays an important and prominent part in the public life of Liverpool, taking an active interest in all municipal affairs, and ably discharging his duties us one of the city magistrates. He is especially well-known for his high attainments as a statistician, and is much esteemed and respected by all who enjoy the privilege of being numbered among his personal friends and acquaintances.

C. & F. DEAN, WAREHOUSE KEEPERS MASTER PORTERS AND AGENTS,
8, BANCROFT’S BUILDINGS, OLD HALL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ONE of the oldest and most eminently-reputed houses of its kind in Liverpool is that of Messrs. C. & F. Dean, the well-known warehouse keepers, master porters and agents of 8, Bancroft’s Buildings, Old Hall Street. The extensive and representative business controlled by this firm was originally established in the year 1851, as William Dean & Co., and is now carried on by Messrs. C. & F. Dean, the two nephews of the original founder. The premises consist of a large suite of well-appointed offices, general and private, in which a numerous and efficient staff of clerks and correspondents are busily engaged. The firm are warehouse keepers, master porters and agents, and in each and all of these branches a business of very considerable magnitude is done.

As warehouse keepers the firm own an immense number of warehouses in the north, central and south districts of Liverpool. These are all situate in the immediate vicinity of the docks, which is of great advantage, as goods and merchandise can be removed at once on their arrival at the port. These warehouses are largely used for the storage of cotton, flour, grain, sugar, American and Colonial produce, &c., the appliances for the handling of which are of the most modern character and cannot be surpassed. The firm are also proprietors of a number of fire-proof vaults for storing resin, tar, &c., and also bonded vaults in Union Street, North John Street, and Brook’s Alley. The warehouses are all certified, well built, commodious, and dry and airy. A vast volume of trade is controlled, the connections of the firm embracing the leading merchants, manufacturers, and large firms in Liverpool. The permanent administrative policy of progress and judicious enterprise which has always conspicuously characterised the management of this representative concern is faithfully pursued by these well-known and respected gentlemen to-day as at all times in the past, and operates to the, continuous enhancement of the success of their house and the preservation of the eminent status and prestige it has achieved.
The telegraphic address of the firm is “Warehousing,” Liverpool, and the telephone number 94.

C. H. BIGLAND & CO., PAINT AND COLOUR MANUFACTURERS,
22, BATH STREET, PRINCES DOCK, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG the many supremely important industries of Liverpool the position occupied by paint and colour manufacturers is a most important one. Although but comparatively speaking established recently, the firm of Messrs. C. H. Bigland & Co. has pushed itself rapidly forward into public and trade favour. Already there is a large and valuable connection, which continues to increase in a manner which cannot be otherwise than highly gratifying to the proprietor. This gentleman, trading as C. H. Bigland & Co., is to be complimented upon possessing works of so complete and prosperous a nature. Throughout the extensive concern there is evidence of capable management, and the various duties are undertaken by the large staff of men employed, with great expedition. The works are well supplied with powerful machinery of an improved type, for grinding colours, and for the general purposes of the trade. The suite of offices — private and general — is situated on the ground floor. A portion is also used for stores. The upper floor is used for making and mixing paints, and contains some serviceable machinery for the purpose. A very considerable trade is done in painting ships, and for this important line the firm is now well known, and they have recently added the manufacture of an antifouling composition known as “Bigland’s Patent Speedwell Antifouling Composition,” which is proving a great success. The colours made are of first-class quality, and contain valuable properties for preserving iron and steel. A large wholesale business is done, and the sale of the oils, paints, colours, &c., is exceedingly heavy. The paints are made in a great variety of shades, and can be had moist or dry.

MOORE, VICARS & CO., DISTILLERS AND WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANTS,
BATCHELOR STREET, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE annals of business enterprise in Liverpool contain many notable instances of success, and in writing an historical notice of the many enterprising houses in this busy city it is particularly interesting to meet with a firm of such old standing and extensive connections as that of Messrs. Moore, Vicars & Co., Distillers, Wine and Spirit Merchants, Batchelor Street, Dale Street. This large and influential business, which presents many features of more than ordinary interest and importance, both industrial and commercial, dates back in its foundation to the year 1835. At the above address Messrs. Moore, Vicars & Co. occupy very extensive and commodious premises, which comprise sale and sample rooms, a large and well-equipped distillery, together with extensive storage and warehouse accommodation, offices and counting-house, and all the accessories of a large and thoroughly organised establishment. The firm occupy, besides these premises, very extensive bonded stores situate on New Quay, opposite the Prince’s Dock. These stores, which are subdivided into sixteen arches, contain a very large stock of wines in wood, cased wines, and a vast quantity of all kinds of spirits, of which latter liquors Messrs Moore, Vicars & Co. are large blenders They do a considerable business as distillers of gin and all kinds of cordials, the quality of which is acknowledged to be unsurpassed.

As wine and spirit merchants Messrs. Moore, Vicars & Co. hold a very large and valuable stock of the best brands of port and sherry, claret and champagne; also whisky, rum, and brandy from the leading English, Scotch, Irish, and Continental distillers. The whole of the stock is selected from the best sources with great care and judgment, and, buying in large lines direct from the producers and manufacturing extensively on the premises, the firm are enabled to compete on favourable terms both as regards quality and price with any house in the trade. The business, which is entirely wholesale, is of a widespread, influential, and steadily growing character. The firm have an excellent old-established connection with wine and spirit dealers and merchants in all parts of England and Wales. These extensive business relations are well founded on the eminent reputation so long enjoyed, and the thorough confidence established by the well-known quality and character of all the goods supplied. The business in every department secures the direct personal attention of the proprietors, and is conducted throughout with marked ability, energy, and enterprise. A large staff of clerks, workmen and assistants is busily employed, and several experienced travellers represent the firm in various parts of the country.

FREDERICK J. ABBOTT, GENERAL CARRIER AND FORWARDING AGENT,
24, JAMES STREET, LIVERPOOL.

DURING the twenty years Mr. Abbott has been in business he has gained the confidence and the support of a large portion of the trading community surrounding him, and now stands at the head of a remunerative and respected enterprise. Mr. Frederick J. Abbott, the sole owner and founder of the business, possesses special energies and qualifications for the calling in which he is engaged, and under his able direction the immense amount of work involved by the various branches and commissions is easily and correctly carried out. The entire business is a specimen of clever organisation, and does credit &c. the enterprising proprietor. The bulk of this business is carried on between Manchester and Liverpool, and principally by water. Mr. Abbott is the owner of twenty-one boats, all of great carrying capacity, so that it is readily seen how great are the facilities he possesses. The boat-building yard in Manchester covers a large space of ground, and there are also wheelwrights’ shops, shoe-forge, tarpaulin factory, &c., &c.; everything used in connection with the business being manufactured by the proprietor. In Manchester, also, the office, warehouse, and wharf are situate in Stanley Street, Salford, the telegraph address being “Concord,” Manchester, and the telephone No. 214. The head office is 24, James Street, Liverpool, the receiving depot being at Duke’s Dock, Liverpool. The premises are of good extent, and are well and appropriately fitted and furnished, a competent clerical staff being engaged. The number of hands employed in forwarding and carrying is very considerable. The telegraphic address is “Conveyor,” Liverpool, and the telephone No. 909.

RENTON GIBBS, ST. JAMES’ HEATING AND VENTILATING WORKS,
MILL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS large and important business was originally founded a quarter of a century ago in St. James’ Street, hence the name borne by the works. The concern has been in the hands of its present proprietor, Mr. Renton Gibbs, since 1868, and has its headquarters in Mill Street, where very extensive and commodious premises are occupied. The establishment has a frontage of one hundred and twenty feet, with a rearward extension of about eighty feet, and contains handsome and well-appointed showrooms, in which there may always be seen a large and interesting assortment of all kinds of heating and ventilating appliances. The remaining departments of these premises comprise workshops admirably equipped for all the purposes of the industry here carried on, and it may be noted that employment is given to a numerous staff of skilled workmen who perform their several duties under the careful personal supervision of the experienced head of the house. Besides the large staff engaged on the premises, Mr. Gibbs has many other hands at work in various parts of the country fitting up the celebrated heating appliances for which he is noted both as inventor and manufacturer.

The extent and importance of the business will be understood when we say that it takes effect all over the Continent, as well as throughout the United Kingdom; and as an instance in point we may mention the fact that Mr. Gibbs not long ago carried out the immense contract of fitting up his heating apparatus throughout the National Bank of Spain, at Madrid, the system there installed comprising no less than thirteen miles of piping and twenty-one boilers of the largest size. He has also just completed a similar contract for the “Senado,” or Spanish House of Lords.

Mr. Renton Gibbs has identified his name in the most creditable manner with the heating and ventilating apparatus for churches, schools, shops, offices, hotels, public building, and drying-rooms of all kinds, capable of creating a temperature from sixty degrees up to one hundred and eighty degrees Fahr. All his patents are of the most valuable and important character, being the result of his own long-continued researches and practical experience, and they are all for heating by means of hot water, which seems to be now universally recognised as the most healthful and effective method of warming any kind of room or building. The patent apparatus for heating and ventilating are unsurpassed in the opinion of thoroughly competent judges, and they gained the highest award at London, 1881, the silver medal at Liverpool, 1883, and the silver medal at Birkenhead, 1884. They are now in very extensive use everywhere, and may be found in the residence of Madame Adelina Patti, in the offices of the “Daily Telegraph,” “Daily Chronicle,” and “Engineering,” also in the Museum at Adelaide, and in upwards of seventeen hundred other buildings, both public and private, at home and abroad.

Mr. Renton Gibbs is also a large manufacturer of steam ovens for bakeries, in which connection he has introduced several very important patents. Altogether he controls an immense trade, not only in trade circles and with public companies, merchants, corporations, &c., but also among noblemen and gentlemen in all parts of Great Britain and Ireland. His house, in fact, is recognised as a leader in its particular line, and is conducted in a manner which fully sustains its high prestige and well-earned renown. There is an important branch establishment at Birmingham, and Mr. Gibbs’ name is almost as well known in that city as it is in Liverpool.
Telegrams for this house should be addressed “Heating, Liverpool,” “Heating, Birmingham,” or “ Calefaccion, Madrid.”

JOHN G. WHYTE & CO., LIMITED, MANUFACTURERS OF PALM OIL CASKS BY PATENTED MACHINERY,
67, BRIDGEWATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS important company was founded early in the present year 1891, under the managing directorship of Mr. John G. Whyte, with the object of engaging extensively in the manufacture of palm oil casks by means of ingenious, labour-saving machinery, the patents of which have been acquired by the company from the inventor, Mr. Alexander Dunbar, a Canadian, and a Q.C. of the Canadian bar. In Bridgewater Street the company have their registered offices, a handsomely-appointed and commodious suite; and in Watkinson Street they have organised a large and splendidly-equipped factory. The great feature of this factory, of course, is the special patented machinery above referred to. Not only is an immense amount of labour saved, but a very high degree of symmetry and finish is obtained in the goods produced, and the palm oil casks made at this factory are certainly equal in every essential respect to those produced by hand.

In the yard connected with the Watkinson Street factory there are huge piles of rough staves ready for conversion into casks of all kinds and sizes, and in close proximity is a chain elevator for lifting the staves up to the first floor of the factory. The staves are first put into the “dressing” machine, a powerful apparatus, which reduces them all to a uniform thickness, according to the size of cask they are making. From the dressing machine the staves go to the sawing machine, which prepares them for the jointer, and after this they are reduced to a proper length by another special machine. The next process is that of “jointing,” which is performed by the patent mathematical stave jointer, which requires only one lad to supply the feeding box. From this apparatus the staves are precipitated into the yard below, and are then put on to the measuring and setting-up form. This is another of Mr. Dunbar’s clever patents, the rights of which have been acquired by the company under notice. It is a simple yet ingenious contrivance, as it enables a boy to “set up” a barrel of any dimensions with greater rapidity and accuracy than can be attained by skilled coopers. Having been duly “set up” the barrel is subjected to the action or influence of Dunbar’s patent heater. The set-up cask is placed on one of the iron plates of the heater, and the cylindrical stove is then lowered into the barrel. The whole arrangement is then, made to revolve slowly so as to bring the perfectly heated barrel to a convenient place for the man working at the next apparatus, the trussing machine. After heating, the cask is placed in the patent trussing and crozing machine, a complex and most ingenious apparatus of the highest efficiency, by means of which all the remaining processes in the making of the cask are carried out, almost simultaneously, and with automatic precision.

The operations of “trussing,” “chimeing,” “crozing,” and “howelling,” are performed by this remarkable machine: in a most efficient manner. The “trussing” of casks as performed by Mr. Dunbar’s machine is practically perfect, and has this great merit, that even pressure is brought to bear on the inside as well as on the outside of the barrel. The “crozing,” “chimeing,” and “howelling,” work is regular and even, as all this is done when the barrel is in the same position as that in which it is trussed. The mode of revolving the barrel against stationary cutters, as here employed, is evidently productive of much better results than the use of revolving cutters at a high speed against the timber. Moreover, the power required to both “truss” and “croze” a barrel by the Dunbar process is not nearly so great as that necessary to work the crozing machine now in existence. The friction is reduced to a minimum and the high speed necessary for revolving cutters is dispensed with. The machine secures uniformity in the size of the casks, so that each cask contains an exact quantity, and it has many other advantages, which not only render it supreme in its own sphere of usefulness, but entitle it to rank among the most important mechanical inventions of the age.

The tops and bottoms of the casks are cut out by a machine which is also automatic, having revolving discs armed with cutters, and so contrived that a large variety of sizes can be produced. The heads are cross-cut, and are made in five or more pieces, which are then holed, pegs inserted, and compressed so as to ensure perfect tightness. The process of hooping the casks is done by hand, this being the only operation in the manufacture which is not performed by machinery. The company expect soon to have in operation a special machine for hooping, which will be one of the most ingenious contrivances in their remarkably interesting plant.

The company has already built up a very large and valuable trade in one department alone, its energies being entirely devoted to the production of casks for palm oil, which are exported in vast quantities to West Coast, Africa. Notwithstanding the immense saving of labour effected the company give employment to a goodly number of men and boys, and the activity prevailing at their factory is an unmistakable sign of a flourishing and increasing trade. Under Mr. Whyte’s able management the affairs of the business are administered in an exemplary manner, and the concern, though but recently organised, is proving itself to be one of the most vigorous and representative of Liverpool’s industrial undertakings. It should be added, in conclusion, that the foregoing remarks refer to Messrs. John G. Whyte & Co.’s cooperage, and although this firm works Mr. Dunbar's patent for palm-oil casks, the owners of the patent rights for making other descriptions of casks are the Dunbar’s Patent Cask Machinery Company, Limited, whose offices are at 65, South John Street, Liverpool, and whose telegraphic address is “Cask,” Liverpool, the telephone number being 457.

FAWCETT, PRESTON & CO., LD., ENGINEERS, MILLWRIGHTS, COPPERSMITHS AND BOILER-MAKERS, FOUNDRY, &C.,
17, YORK STREET, W.; BOILER YARD AND COPPER WORKS, 25, LIGHTBODY STREET, N., LIVERPOOL.

THE extensive development of the engineering industries in Liverpool has been one of the most notable features in connection with that city’s progress as a manufacturing centre, and has given birth to many large and celebrated firms. Among these, however, there are a few whose histories date back to the very dawn of engineering enterprise in Liverpool, and one of the oldest and most influential of them all is the widely known firm of Messrs. Fawcett, Preston & Co. This great concern originated as far back as the year 1784, under the auspices of Mr. Rathbone, who was shortly afterwards joined by his nephew, Mr. William Fawcett, who soon began to make a reputation as a producer of ships’ iron guns. To bore these weapons properly, Mr. Fawcett erected a “one-horse power” machine, and the “one-horse” was actually a living animal. About this time the use of steam power was fairly revolutionising the industrial world, and Mr. Fawcett having made the acquaintance of a son of the celebrated James Watt, obtained a deal of useful information from him, and embarked in the manufacture of steam engines. His first engine was built for a Mr. Bennett, of Greenfield, near Holywell, and it proved to be a failure. But failures are generally stepping stones to success, when the lessons they teach are properly utilised, and before long Mr. Fawcett was recognised as one of the foremost makers of steam-engines in England. He gave due attention to marine engines, his first production in this line being for the “Etna,” a ferry-boat built to supply a much-needed service between Liverpool and the Cheshire side of the Mersey. The “Etna” was a peculiar boat, being constructed in two parts, one containing the engine and the other the boiler, with the paddle-wheel revolving between the two.

Mr. Fawcett’s energy and practical talent enabled him to accomplish great things at a time when engineering science (as regards the application of steam) was in its infancy. His business prospered greatly, and in 1813 he admitted into partnership two gentlemen of the name of Littledale, who possessed a large capital and a wide business connection. The Messrs. Littledale retired in 1823, and their place was taken by Mr. Preston. Subsequently the firm was further strengthened by the accession of Messrs. Sillem & Mann, and the title of the house then became Fawcett, Preston & Co., as at the present time. The business by that date had assumed immense proportions, and the firm were turning out large numbers of steam engines and boilers for land and marine use, besides cotton presses, sugar machinery, ordnance, &c., for all of which a very high reputation has been won.

Mr. Fawcett died in 1842, but the business was too soundly established and too ably managed to suffer much, even by the loss of such skill and experience as his, and it continued to grow and prosper, developing constantly in all its departments. In 1872 Messrs. Sillem and Preston retired, and Mr. William Thompson Mann, the remaining partner, was then joined by Messrs. James Gregson Chapman, Alfred Chapman, and Henry Shield. In the year 1887 Mr. Mann died, and in the following year the concern was made into a limited company, with Mr. Shield and Messrs. Chapman as managing directors. The Crimean War, we should note, gave Messrs. Fawcett, Preston & Co. an opportunity to prove their ability and resources as makers of ordnance, and they supplied her Majesty’s Government with no less that eighty mortars of the largest calibre, not one of which proved defective, even under the severest strains of actual warfare.

Until the noted shipbuilding firm of Messrs. Laird Brothers commenced engine works of their own, most of the engines required for the ships they built were made by Messrs. Fawcett, Preston & Co., who have also supplied many engines to the home and foreign Governments, as well as to a host of private customers. The firm continue to hold a leading position as engineers and boiler makers, and work for the chief steamship companies at home and abroad, maintaining a connection of unsurpassed value and influence in this important branch of their industry. They have, at the same time, developed several other departments with conspicuous success, and a speciality has long been made of sugar machinery, for which this house is world-famous. Messrs. Fawcett, Preston & Co.’s celebrated sugar plants range from a small but highly effective apparatus, of the value of £70 to £80, up to the colossal plant for producing the finest qualities of refined sugar, which they constructed a few years ago for the then Khedive of Egypt, at a cost of over £100,000. The sugar machinery turned out by this firm is sent to Spain, Peru, Java, Cuba, Brazil, Mexico, Mauritius, Africa, Australia, the Argentine Republic, and the Canary and Philippine Islands — indeed to any place where there is a requirement for this class of plant; and it is unexcelled in efficiency, possessing many improvements, which are the outcome of years of study and practical experience.

Messrs. Fawcett, Preston & Co. also make cotton and jute presses for India, hay presses for Egypt, grape and olive presses for Spain, and wool presses for South America; and among the many other specialities for which they have an international reputation we note mill-engines, waterworks machinery, patent evaporators for recovering the soda ash from spent liquors in paper-works, and for making fresh water out of salt water or impure river water. Several of these evaporators are in course of erection, and a large number are at work. Amongst others we noticed one about to be shipped to Chili, arranged on a plan similar in many respects to the large shore condensers supplied by this company to the British Government, and erected at Suakim for the supply of drinking water to the troops.

The engineering works in York Street, and the boiler yard and copper works in Lightbody Street are both very extensive establishments, splendidly equipped and organised throughout, and the Company possess a distinct advantage in having under their own immediate control all the resources and facilities requisite for carrying on their work as engineers, brassfounders, ironfounders, coppersmiths, millwrights, and boiler-makers, upon a scale of great magnitude and completeness. Castings have been produced in the foundries of this firm which have weighed sixty tons, and taken nearly a month to cool. Employment is given to upwards of one thousand hands, and the labours of this army of workers are assisted by the most perfect machinery and appliances that experience and ingenuity can suggest and produce. The entire business is conducted upon the soundest lines and with conspicuous care and judgment, and it stands as a monument to the ability and enterprise of its past and present principals, and a proof of the important and effective parts they have one and all played in building up an industrial concern which reflects eminent credit upon the great and progressive city of Liverpool.

THOMAS ROYDEN & SONS, SHIPBUILDERS,
QUEEN’S PIER HEAD WORKS, WEST SIDE QUEEN’S DOCK, LIVERPOOL.

ONE of the largest and most notable, and at the same time one of the oldest, firms engaged in the shipbuilding industry at Liverpool is that of Messrs. Thomas Royden & Sons, of Queen’s Dock, whose extensive business was founded by Mr. Thomas Royden about the beginning of the present century. The records of the first ships built by this firm were, unfortunately, destroyed by fire about twelve years ago, but the books in existence show that in 1826 several sailing ships of from 200 to 300 tons were built — which was considered a good size in those days. Eventually Mr. Royden took one of his sons into partnership, and after a time the present title of Thomas Royden & Sons was adopted. The personnel of the firm now includes Mr. Thomas Bland Royden (M.P. for the Toxteth Division of Liverpool). Mr. Joseph Royden, and Mr. Thomas Royden, eldest son of Mr. Joseph Royden. Messrs. Royden have played a very prominent and creditable part in the development of iron shipbuilding on the Mersey; and we believe they built an iron vessel as far back as the year 1863, viz., the “Silvia,” of 1,300 tons. Since that time they have built and launched at their works no fewer than 200 iron and steel ships and steamers, besides three composite pilot boats of special construction for Bombay. Among many others we may mention the following splendid vessels, as fine examples of Messrs. Royden’s capabilities in the great industry with which their name is so honourably associated: The “Rossmore” (4,360 tons), “St. Regulus” (3,086 tons), “Britannia” (3,129), “France” (4,281), “Saladin” (1,999), “Obidense” (2,380), “Latham” (3,082), “Crompton” (2,717), and “Indrapura” (3,859).

The firm’s latest achievement, up to date of writing, has been the building of the “Sedgmoor” for the Johnston Line, trading to Boston and Baltimore. This fine vessel, of 4,332 tons, is built in accordance with the most recent plans and principles recommended by the Board of Trade for the conveyance of cattle, and is 405 feet in length, 46 feet beam, and 32 feet deep, with all-steel plates, steel masts, beams, and many other “modern improvements,” in which, by the way, Messrs. Royden have always proved themselves as well to the front as any other firm of shipbuilders. They have very large and splendidly organized premises at Queen’s Dock, comprising ship yards and general works, equipped to perfection as regards improved and powerful machinery, and affording facilities for building vessels up to 6,000 or 7,000 tons. We know of no shipyard more conveniently laid out, or managed with a greater evidence of practical ability and sound judgment.

At the time of our visit to this very interesting establishment there was on the stocks a beautifully modelled four-masted steel ship of 2,400 tons, nearing completion, for Messrs. Haws & Co., the well-known shipowners. Many other indications gave practical testimony to the fact that Messrs. Thomas Royden & Sons do an exceedingly large and important trade in all branches of shipbuilding. Their name is widely and favourably known throughout the maritime world; and their vessels, for steam or for sail, are noted for their graceful lines, commodiousness, strength, speed, and valuable improvements in structure and equipment. Though their works are replete with devices for saving manual labour, Messrs. Royden & Sons still employ between 700 and 800 hands; and their position is certainly in the front rank of English shipbuilders of the first class.
Telegrams should be addressed, “Royden, Liverpool.” The telephone at the works is No. 1,076.

WHITFORD & PALMER, SHIP AND INSURANCE BROKERS,
28, CHAPEL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business has occupied a prominent position in the shipping industry of Liverpool during the past twenty years. It was founded by Mr. J. A. Ledward in 1871, and is now the joint property of his nephew, Mr. Palmer, and Mr. Whitford, the latter gentleman having been manager since 1878. They are well known in connection with the large quantities of salt they ship to various ports, also for the extensive operations they undertake in chartering vessels, and loading vessels for St. John, N.B. They are agents for several large firms in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Messrs. Whitford & Palmer also undertake all branches as ship and insurance brokers, and are likewise commission merchants. The offices occupied are of considerable extent, and are well and conveniently fitted and furnished. There is an efficient staff of clerks engaged, and the entire business is conducted in a decidedly superior manner. The telephone number is 806, the telegraphic address is “Ledwards,” and the cable address is “Whitpalmer.” Both the partners are held in high respect by all doing business with them, and they bear the reputation of being very straightforward in all their transactions.

W. H. NOTT & CO., SHIPPING AND FORWARDING AGENTS,
23, BRUNSWICK STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG those eminently useful firms which have served to advance the interests of Liverpool to an enormous extent by their enterprise and ability, a prominent place must be reserved for Messrs. W. H. Nott & Co., the well-known and deservedly popular shipping and forwarding and commission agents. For over thirty years their operations in the above have been of an extensive and extended nature, and they have won the respect of all who have had dealings in any way with them, by reason of their strict integrity and knowledge of their calling. They are posted up in all the details, are thoroughly competent to discharge any duties in relation to the same entrusted to them, and do so in a manner productive of satisfaction to the client and credit to themselves.

This fine business was established in 1858, by the present senior partner, Mr. W. H. Nott. This gentleman is the joint manager with Mr. W. B. Hill of four limited steamship companies, known as The Steamship “Notting Hill” Company, Steamship “Tower Hill” Company, Steamship “Ludgate Hill” Company, and Steamship “Richmond Hill” Company (all limited). These fine companies are well known in the trade for their safety, speed, and good management. The firm’s head offices are at 28, Brunswick Street, Liverpool, and there is a Manchester branch at 27, Brazenose Street. The offices are very spacious and handsomely appointed, and there is a considerable number of clerks and writers employed. The business is in a highly flourishing condition, and is worthy of all the support bestowed upon it.

DANIEL HIGSON, LIMITED,
CHEAPSIDE BREWERY, LIVERPOOL.

PROMINENT among the industrial institutions in Liverpool is the old established, and well known “Cheapside Brewery,” which is now a limited company, entirely in the hands of the family of its late head, Mr. Daniel Higson, who, however, still retains an active share in the business. Reverting for a moment to its early history we find that the brewery was established upwards of a century ago by Mr. Harvey, and is consequently one of the oldest concerns of the kind in Liverpool. The business was carried on by members of Mr. Harvey’s family for forty years, when it passed into the hands of Mr. Howard, who continued up to the year 1865 and was succeeded by Mr. Daniel Higson. The brewery consists of a large brick building, enclosed in a spacious yard, and forming three sides of a square. The various departments are replete with machinery and appliances, embodying all the most comprehensive utilities. The machinery, &c., is worked by a powerful steam engine, and upwards of forty hands being regularly employed, the establishment at all times presents a busy and animated scene of industrial activity. Mild and bitter ales, porter and stout, are turned out in large and increasing quantities. The various operations are conducted with the advantage of long practical experience.

The “Cheapside” ales are unsurpassed for purity, strength, and quality. They enjoy a widespread and well-merited reputation. They are made of the very best ingredients, thoroughly matured, and sent out in splendid condition. The firm also hold a very large and well-selected stock of wines and spirits. The trade is of a widespread, influential, and steady growing character, and in addition to supplying their own houses they do a large business with hotels and free houses. Mr. Daniel Higson has clearly demonstrated that long experience and a thorough knowledge of every detail of the trade are the prime qualifications of a successful brewer, and the eminent position he has achieved is the meritorious outcome of perseverance, enterprise, and well directed energy.

J. NICKELS & SON, SAILMAKERS, SHIP CHANDLERS, AND VENDORS OF ENGINE STORES,
11 AND 12, STANLEY BUILDINGS, BATH STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS prosperous business was established in the year 1836 by Mr. Joseph Nickels, who took his son into partnership a few years afterwards, who in his turn was succeeded by his two sons, the present proprietors, and the firm are now doing a very large and continuously increasing and developing trade as sailmakers, shipchandlers, and vendors of engine stores. The premises are roomy and substantial, comprising a bold and commanding building of four storeys, having a frontage of about fifty feet to Bath Street, and extending to a considerable depth at the rear. The ground floor is used as a shop and store, containing a large and comprehensive stock of ship’s tackle and engine stores. The first floor is occupied as a store room for cotton, canvas, iron buckets, shacking, oakum, pitch and oils. The second floor is devoted to the manufacture of tarpaulins, the canvas being spread out on the floor of this large room and then coated with the proper preparation, after which it is hung up to dry. The third floor is the sailmakers’ room, and here also a large number of hands are constantly and actively employed. Messrs. J. Nickels & Son are agents for the Mount Vernon Company of Baltimore, Md., who are manufacturers in a very large way of cotton sail duck, twines, ropes, bags, paper, felt, and similar goods, in all of which a very extensive business is done here. The connection is of old standing and very widespread and influential, the firm having an excellent name as being thoroughly to be depended upon for the supply of goods of first-class quality and satisfactory in every respect. Messrs. J. Nickels & Son are smart and energetic business men, who are very popular in business circles in the city, and they are respected and esteemed by all with whom they have dealings.

JOLLY & GASKELL, GENERAL BROKERS,
15 & 16, IRWELL CHAMBERS WEST, FAZAKERLEY STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE house whose title heads this article was established about two years ago by the association in partnership of Mr. Mathew Jolly and Mr. Walter J. Gaskell, the former having been for about sixteen years with the large and well-known firm of oil brokers, Messrs. Meade, King & Robinson, and the latter graduating from Messrs. Bigland Sons & Jeffreys, general brokers. The firm occupy premises in the centre of the business portion of Liverpool, where a large and increasing business as general brokers is carried on, but it is in the mineral oil trade in which the firm are most widely known, in which they act as sole agents for the celebrated firm of American oil manufacturers, Messrs. Crew, Levick Co., who were one of the first firms to introduce mineral lubricating oils into the English market, and have been associated with the trade since its commencement, growing with its growth, until now, it is without doubt, one of the largest companies in existence, and this especially obtains since the firm amalgamated with several other large oil producing companies. Very large stocks are held and are ever ready to meet the growing requirements of an already large and increasing clientele, which is entirely among the trade. The firm also do an extensive business in Russian mineral lubricating and burning oils, paraffin scale, druggists’ sundries, and general produce, and are generally looked upon as a rising firm, with the ball of success well in command. They have a branch establishment in Bristol at No. 6, St. Stephen Street for convenience of customers in and round that port.
Their telegraphic address is “Spermoleine, Liverpool,” and their telephone No. 1886.

THE LIVERPOOL PLATE GLASS INSURANCE COMPANY, LIMITED,
IMPERIAL BUILDINGS, 68, VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS well-known and flourishing company is one of the oldest concerns of the kind in the kingdom, and it has from the first enjoyed a remarkable degree of popular favour. The business was founded in 1866, under the title of the Liverpool Royal Plate Glass Insurance Company, and after many years of encouraging and remunerative business development it was, in 1880, deemed advisable to convert the undertaking into a joint-stock company, when the present title was assumed. The Board of Directors of the Liverpool Plate Glass Insurance Company is formed of gentlemen of high standing and considerable repute in the business world. They have always made a point of effecting the settlement of claims with exemplary promptitude, and, indeed, in many cases the replacement of elaborate and expensive work has been carried out with almost incredible despatch. A special feature is made of the free insurance of replacements of breakages, which is peculiar to this company, and amongst other advantages may be noted the fact that there is ample and undoubted security for all the company’s liabilities. The Liverpool offices of the company are situated in a handsome stone building of four storeys, known as the Imperial Chambers, on the ground floor of which the general and private offices are conveniently arranged. The company insures every kind of glass against accidental breakage, and the numerous staff engaged testifies to the extent of the company’s transactions. The London offices are situated at 3, Liverpool Street, City, and the company has branches and agencies in all the principal towns in the kingdom.

W. GUNSTONE & SONS, IMPORTERS OF AMERICAN PROVISIONS,
56 TO 60, STANLEY STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS substantial and representative firm was originally founded by Mr. W. Gunstone at Broad Street, Sheffield, about the year 1860. The Liverpool house was established in 1882, in premises at No. 12, Stanley Street, and was transferred to the present address in 1886, and in 1890 Mr. W. Gunstone took into partnership his three sons, Messrs. W. W. Gunstone, J. B. Gunstone, and B. Gunstone. The premises occupied consist of warehouse, offices, and cellar, and are very roomy and commodious, occupying an area on each floor of twenty-eight yards by eleven yards. The offices and warehouses are conveniently arranged on one spacious floor extending from Stanley Street into Rainford Gardens, where there is a convenient entrance for loading and unloading goods, situated at No. 7 in that thoroughfare. The trade, which is very considerable, has of late developed and increased in scope and extent very rapidly, the quantities imported of American produce, which the firm handle exclusively, being very large, especially in cheese, hams and bacon. Abundant supplies of these articles are always kept on hand, and the stocks of fine American cheese from the best factories are particularly heavy. The firm have an influential and valuable connection of old standing, extending over the whole of the United Kingdom, and they are everywhere represented by capable and energetic agents. Both in Liverpool and in Sheffield the business continues to meet with the most gratifying success. In the Liverpool house six clerks and four salesmen are busily employed under the supervision of Mr. W. W. Gunstone, who is well known to the trade both here and in America, where he was for three years doing the firm’s business prior to taking charge of the Liverpool house.

STEAD, TAYLOR & STEAD, CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS,
10 AND 11, “THE TEMPLE,” DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL,
SUCCESSORS, in 1855, of the old firm of Thomas Crook and Son, who commenced business in Liverpool in the year 1825.

BANCROFT & CO., LIMITED, LARD REFINERS AND OIL MERCHANTS,
BANCROFT BUILDINGS, OLDHALL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG the many gigantic industries of Liverpool the above is worthy of special mention. Not only is it one of the oldest concerns of its kind in the entire neighbourhood, but it is also the largest in England. It was founded upwards of a century ago by an ancestor of Mr. Peter Bancroft, who, for a period of nearly sixty years managed the business. It is now a limited liability concern, owned for the greater part by the relatives of Mr. Bancroft. Immense operations are carried on in importing and refining lard. The firm claim to be the pioneers of the lard-refining business in England, and they appear to be perfectly justified in their claim. They are, in addition, huge importers of olive, rape, castor, mineral, and fish oils, and trade in every description of oils. In the lard refinery the most extensive arrangements exist for securing satisfactory results. The plant is of the most improved description, and capable of treating immense quantities of lard at one time. They are celebrated the world over for the purity of their lard oil. They possess every facility for the manufacture of soft soap, the weekly output of this commodity being extremely large.

The commercial standing of the firm is of the highest order, and their valuable connection extends all over the world. The number of hands employed is very large, and many have been for years with the firm, and have attained to great skill in the trade. The building in which the handsome suite of private and general offices is situate was erected by Mr. Peter Bancroft, and is a fine specimen of architecture. It contains a large number of business offices, which are rented to various firms. The works are in Pall Mall, and cover a vast extent of ground. The telephone number is 565, and the telegraphic address “Bancroft, Liverpool.” In the management of this important undertaking, the soundest judgment and skill is used, and the greatest credit is reflected upon the head of the establishment. All is worked on a perfect system, the outcome of long and practical experience.

THE ONTARIO GOVERNMENT AGENCY,
19, BRUNSWICK STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE Ontario Government Agency was established some ten years ago, under the direction of Mr. P. Byrne, for the purpose of encouraging emigration to that province (the principal province of the Dominion of Canada) by disseminating useful and reliable information respecting its resources, more especially those of agriculture. As a field for the British tenant-farmer possessed of health and energy, industry, perseverance and enterprise, Canada has no rival. Life everywhere is always the sum of the conditions of existence, and in Canada the emigrant will find these conditions and essentials to wealth, happiness, and prosperity better assured and more easily obtained than in any of the British Colonies. The young man with no capital, if possessing only an average knowledge of agricultural labour, and devoting himself earnestly to work, may, with the exercise of reasonable economy, realise a competence by the time he has reached middle life; and the man who is a practical farmer, and the possessor of means to stock an average English farm, can at once begin life in Ontario as his own landlord, with every assurance of a prosperous career before him. These are only samples of the possibilities open to those possessed of resolution; other industries also offer equal prospects of success. The climate of Canada is healthy and invigorating; the air is bracing, and does not produce that feeling of lassitude which is so often experienced in the Australian colonies. The resources of the country are illimitable, and its material wealth is rapidly increasing. Intending emigrants should write at once to Mr. P. Byrne, 19, Brunswick Street, Liverpool, for the pamphlets and maps which are issued by the authority of the Government of Ontario, and which contain a vast amount of essentially useful and thoroughly reliable information.

ALFRED HARDAKER, INSURANCE BROKER,
7, WESTMINSTER CHAMBERS, CROSSHALL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AS AN expert in insurance matters, possessed of a well-established and extensive connection, Mr. I Alfred Hardaker holds responsible appointments in connection with important corporations. He began business in 1861 at 35, Prescot Street, as a pawnbroker, and became resident secretary to the North of England Insurance Company in 1881. He removed to his present address in 1889, occupying, on behalf of the Company, offices on the ground floor. In the following year the North of England Insurance Company was amalgamated with the Yorkshire Life Assurance Company. Mr. Hardaker then removed to more commodious premises on the second floor, comprising spacious and well-appointed general and private offices. As an insurance broker he represents the following companies: The Royal Fire and Life Assurance Company, the Liverpool and London and Globe, and the London and Lancashire Companies.

In addition to fire and life insurance he also undertakes accident, guarantee, plate-glass, and burglary and housebreaking insurance with the best offices. This last is a novel but highly important development of insurance business, and perceiving that it was certain to be largely availed of by the public, Mr. Hardaker promptly took it in hand. Such insurance he effects through the medium of the Goldsmiths’ and General Burglary Association, Limited. With his knowledge, experience, and diversified connections, Mr. Hardaker is able to give the best advice and offer special facilities to all clients who consult him respecting insurance matters. He is, therefore, held in the highest esteem, his clientele is extensive, and his large business continues all the while to grow.

Mr. Hardaker’s intelligent enterprise is not limited to insurance, for he is an authority, also, on pawnbroking in its various phases — legal and practical. He is a contributor of leading articles to the “Pawnbrokers’ Gazette and Trade Circular,” and he was the first witness called before the Select Committee of the House of Commons in 1870 with reference to the new law affecting pawnbrokers. From these facts it must be evident that Mr. Hardaker is a gentleman of the highest attainments and standing in the special lines to which he has devoted himself, and that he is an acknowledged expert. We may add in conclusion that Mr. Hardaker is the author of an interesting and valuable work, entitled “A Brief History of Pawnbroking,” a book, which, although only recently published, has met with marvellous success.

GEORGE MCALLESTER & SONS, SHIPOWNERS, GENERAL COMMISSION AND FORWARDING AGENTS,
9, RUMFORD PLACE, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG the many important firms in Liverpool occupied as shipowners and forwarding agents, mention must not be omitted of that of Messrs. George McAllester & Sons. This important business was initiated some years ago by Mr. Geo. McAllester, and by him was developed with notable energy, perseverance, and ability. Every year he added to the extent and value of his concern, until at his decease, which occurred in February, 1891, it occupied a recognised position of prominence in this department of commerce. He was succeeded by his two sons, the present proprietors, Mr. Edwin and Mr. Arthur McAllester, both gentlemen of sound experience in the business, and fully capable of maintaining the reputation and prestige of the house. Both have been engaged in the business since its inception, though the senior partner has been the acting manager. Large and commodious premises are occupied, including a suite of well- appointed offices (general and private) with ample accommodation for a numerous staff of clerks. The firm are the co-managing owners of five sailing-vessels, trading to all parts. These have been built especially for the carrying trade; they are of great tonnage, three of them being over four thousand tons, and thoroughly well equipped with appliances and facilities for loading and unloading. They are well manned, and the officers have been selected for their special knowledge and experience. Every care is taken of the cargoes entrusted to this responsible house, and prompt and safe deliveries are notable features in its management. The firm have the intention of enlarging their fleet at an early date.

The ample and valuable support that shippers and exporters are giving to this firm is proof enough that everything connected with their services is perfectly satisfactory. They act as agents for Carson & Co. of Colombo, Ceylon, and for Kerr, Tarruck & Co. of Calcutta, Bombay, and Kurrachee, and they have agents and correspondents in all the principal foreign ports, and are prepared to place every transaction entrusted to them on the most satisfactory basis. In all their transactions they spare no pains to oblige patrons, and if signs go for anything, they have fully succeeded in their efforts. The partners are conversant with every department of their business, and are well known in commercial circles for their just and equitable methods. In business they secure the respect of all their patrons, and in private life they are esteemed for their personal worth and strict integrity.

WILLIAM KNOX, CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT,
6, LORD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A HIGH position in the list of the leading and most prominent gentlemen practising as chartered accountants in the City of Liverpool has been for many years occupied by Mr. William Knox, who occupies a handsome and well-appointed suite of offices centrally and conveniently situated. Mr. Knox has a long and varied experience of professional matters, having first established himself in the year 1873. He has from time to time held numerous onerous and responsible appointments, and is at the present time Secretary of the National Master Builders’ Association, and also the Liverpool Master Builders’ Association, of the Wirral Tramway Company, of the Wallasey Tram and Omnibus Company, and of the Birkenhead Tram and Omnibus Company. He is also secretary of the Liverpool branch of the Iron Trades’ Association and of the Mersey Lighter Company. In addition to these important positions Mr. Knox acts as secretary for the North of England and Scotland to the Builders’ Accident Insurance, Limited, with which he has been actively associated ever since the formation of the company in the year 1880. Although the head offices of this important and prosperous concern are in London, the need for such an association was first ventilated in Liverpool. Eventually, however, this concern commenced operations simultaneously in London and Liverpool. Mr. William Knox is very well known in commercial circles, and bears a very high reputation for the sound judgment and business acumen which he brings to bear upon the affairs entrusted to him by his numerous clients. He enjoys the confidence and esteem of all with whom he has dealings in his professional capacity, and is personally greatly liked and respected for his high character and excellent private qualifications.

H. C. ALLETSON & CO., LARD REFINERS,
118 TO 122, RATHBONE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE refining of lard, an industry of great importance in modern times, is carried on upon a very extensive scale in Rathbone Street, Liverpool, by the well-known firm of Messrs. H. C. Alletson & Co. The premises occupied by this notable house were erected in the year 1839 by Mr. Joshua Alletson, and were used as a candle warehouse, he being at that time largely engaged in the candle trade. In 1862, however, the business was diverted into its present channel by Messrs. H. C. Alletson & Co., and has been carried on since then in the same premises, which have been remodelled and in every way made suitable to the altered character of the trade. The establishment has a street frontage of one hundred feet, with a rearward extension of ninety feet, and is very commodious. The ground floor contains the counting-house and private offices, with a large warehouse, in which we find a stock of some hundreds of buckets of lard, ready for immediate delivery. The floors above are devoted to industrial purposes, and contain the lard-refining and oil-pressing departments, admirably equipped with a large plant of the requisite machinery and appliances driven by steam. A very large and important trade is carried on by Messrs. H. C. Alletson & Co., whose leading speciality, the “Goat Brand” of lard, is known all over the United Kingdom and in almost every foreign market. The firm’s home trade is particularly large, forming the chief part of their operations; and they are ably represented by travellers and agents in all quarters of England, Wales, and Scotland. This house is an eminently increasing respectable concern of the old and substantial school, doing one of the largest businesses of its kind in Liverpool, conducted with marked ability and judgment, and enjoying the esteem and confidence of a wide and influential connection.
Telegrams should be addressed “Alletson, Liverpool.” The firm’s telephone is No. 473.

THE COLONIAL MUTUAL LIFE ASSURANCE SOCIETY, LIMITED,
COLONIAL CHAMBERS, 38, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE Colonial Mutual Life Assurance Society, Limited, whose chief office is located at 33, Poultry, London, E.C., and of which the Right Hon. Lord Brabourne, P.C., is chairman, was organised in the year 1873, for the purpose of meeting certain special desiderata. Needless to say, the financial condition of the society is in a particularly flourishing state, the annual income exceeding £375,000. Branch offices have been established in all the large industrial centres throughout the United Kingdom, with Colonial offices in all the leading towns of Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Cape Colony, Natal, and the Transvaal. The Liverpool branch, which was instituted in 1888, is under the able management of Mr. Thomas Harper as resident secretary, a gentleman who practically instituted the business of the society in this city, and who has been connected with it since 1888. He is assisted by a numerous force of canvassers, agents, and collectors. The premises, appropriately called Colonial Chambers, are prominently situated in the best and busiest quarter of the city, and consist of a very handsome suite of offices, in every way adapted to the requirements of a brisk business of the kind, which is rapidly developing under Mr. Harper’s vigorous and well-directed administration.

The special feature of the Society is that they assure under two systems, the rates of premium charged for both being the same. The distinguishing characteristics of the two systems are that under the ordinary system the profits are divided every five years, whereas under the tontine system the profits are accumulated until the end of the tontine period (fifteen or twenty years as the case may be), and then divided amongst the survivors. The fundamental principles of the society, moreover, are worthy of record, and they run as follows:— 1. No insurance business other than life assurance, annuities, and endowments is transacted. 2. All policies are unconditional, unchallengeable, and indefeasible on any ground whatever (fraud alone excepted). Careful inquiry is made before acceptance, but when once a policy is granted the assurance is incontestable. 3. Persons once assured may change their residence or occupation, and may voyage to or travel in any part of the world without the necessity of notice to the office, or payment of any extra premium. 4. Nonpayment of premium does not necessarily vitiate the policy. 5. The premiums are very moderate. They are based on the experience of old and successful offices in Great Britain, and have been specially calculated for this Society, and combine the benefits of the moderate premiums of the proprietary system with the full participation in profits of the mutual Plan. The premiums are designed to afford the largest amount of immediate assurance by carefully graduated and moderate rates, with a return, by way of bonus, to those assured, of the whole surplus (or profits) derived from the operations of the Society, such surplus being the property of the Policy holders only. 6. Claims are paid immediately on proof of death and title. The general business of the society is conducted upon similar lines to that of other assurance companies with regard to ordinary matters; while the security offered to either investors or assurers is both ample and unexceptionable.

JEROME & CO., LIMITED, MERCHANT AND MANUFACTURER OF AMERICAN CLOCKS,
63, VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS very extensive and important business is one that has gained a prominent position in connection with the trade of Liverpool, and one whose success in its particular line of operations speaks for the energy and ability that have been brought to bear upon its development. The concern was founded in the year 1842 by Mr. Chauncey Jerome, of New Haven, who was the first American clock manufacturer to bring clocks to this country. He sent his son, C. Jerome, junior, and Mr. Ephroditus Peck over to Liverpool in the summer of 1842 by the sailing ship “Garrick,” and those two gentlemen started the English business, trading as Jerome & Co. That title was retained until the year 1877. when Mr. Edward Stevens (who succeeded Mr. C. Jerome, junior) converted the business into a limited liability company, under the style of Jerome & Co., Limited. The firm’s first establishment in Liverpool (forty-nine years ago) was in a warehouse near the Old White Bear Hotel. Subsequently they removed to Strand Street, and later on to Pitt Street, where they remained until 1883. They then entered into possession of their present fine, newly-erected premises in Victoria Street, which form one of the handsomest business establishments in Liverpool.

This splendidly appointed warehouse has been converted into a veritable emporium of every new and artistic product of the American clock industry, and the superb show-rooms on the ground, first, second, and third floors contain a display of clocks so large and so rich in variety that a detailed description of it would occupy many pages of this volume. Indeed, a catalogue of over two hundred pages is barely sufficient to afford space for illustrations and brief particulars of some of the most notable of these fine horological productions. All the clocks here displayed are manufactured by the New Haven Clock Company (formerly the Chauncey Jerome Clock Company), which is probably the most famous American concern in its line, and whose factories are in New Haven, in the State of Connecticut. To give some idea of the extent of the operations of the New Haven Clock Company, it - may be mentioned that the output for 1890 averaged 2,000 clocks for each working day during the year.

The general offices and sales-rooms of this great company are in Murray Street and Warren Street, New York; and there are branches in Chicago, San Francisco, Boston, London and Yokohama, in addition to Messrs. Jerome’s establishment in Liverpool. This latter emporium illustrates in a striking manner the immense resources of the company, and we do not remember ever having seen a display of clocks so remarkable in its comprehensiveness or so attractive in the wonderful variety, originality and artistic beauty of its various designs. The American manufacturers admittedly lead the world in the matter of clocks, and the enterprise they display in securing new features in design and construction is something marvellous. It is fully exemplified in Messrs. Jerome’s unrivalled stock, every item of which tends to sustain the splendid reputation and unquestioned supremacy the New Haven Clock Company have maintained for so many years in this important trade.

Messrs. Jerome & Co.’s beautifully-got-up catalogue is an index to an assortment of clock designs which probably has no counterpart in the world, and merely to glance over its many pages is a pleasure, no less than a revelation of extraordinary productive capabilities on the part of this distinguished firm of manufacturers. The managing director of the concern in Liverpool is Mr. J. A. Hitchcock, a courteous and energetic gentleman of sound business qualities and broad experience: and under his able administration the warehouse in Victoria Street more than maintains its success as a highly important branch of a business the range and influence of which is practically world-wide.

JAMES PICKTHALL & CO., LEATHER MERCHANTS AND FACTORS,
66, HANOVER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS thriving and prosperous concern was originally established at Kendal in the year 1870 by the present proprietor, who, however, in 1878 transferred the scene of his operations to Liverpool, on account of the latter place being a more important business centre. Mr. Pickthall is an importer of leather upon a very large scale, principally drawing his supplies from French and German manufacturers, and he is well known to the representatives of the leading Continental houses, with whom he has very large transactions. He has a sound and valuable knowledge of the article and has had a long experience of the trade, especially as representative of Messrs. Somervell Bros., of Kendal, a very well known house in the leather trade. Mr. Pickthall is also a manufacturer of boots in a large way of business, and his extensive factory is situated at Nantwich, and he has considerable transactions as a grindery factor to the trade. He carries on both a home and export trade, the latter being chiefly with the Continental, African, and Indian markets, and in the home trade his operations, which are purely of a wholesale character, extend all over the country. He is well represented by an energetic and able staff of commercial gentlemen, and his leathers, grindery, boots and trade sundries generally, find a ready sale. The premises in Hanover Street are admirably adopted for the purpose of this extensive business consisting of convenient offices, six spacious storerooms for boots, grindery room, and leather store, all of which are heavily stocked with the various classes of goods. The firm have a very high reputation in the trade and enjoy the favour and support of a very widespread and valuable connection, with whom their transactions are of considerable magnitude. All the details of the concern receive the close and experienced personal attention of the energetic principal, who is a gentleman of considerable business capacity, well known in trade circles and universally popular and highly esteemed.

HOLLINSHEAD & WALKER, CHINA, GLASS, AND EARTHENWARE WAREHOUSE,
16 AND 17, CLEVELAND SQUARE, LIVERPOOL.

ONE of the most important commercial interests to he met with in large towns and cities at the present day is the china, glass and earthenware trade, and in this interesting and artistic department of mercantile enterprise Liverpool has a very old and distinguished house in that of Messrs. Hollinshead & Walker, of Cleveland Square, whose history dates back as far as the year 1829. The business was then founded by a Mr. Plant, who was succeeded at his death by Mr. J. W. Hollinshead. That gentleman continued the concern in his own name until 1871, when it was taken over by Mr. Ephraim Walker, the present sole proprietor, who trades under the style of Hollinshead & Walker. The very extensive and commodious premises in Cleveland Square have been considerably enlarged and improved from time to time to meet the requirements of a constantly increasing business, and they now form a splendid establishment — one of the finest of its kind in the kingdom — with superb show-rooms and sale rooms, all of which are appointed in the most elegant and superior style.

The stocks held here are most complete and attractive, and embrace all descriptions of high-class china, glass, and earthenware in the greatest conceivable variety, the manufactures of the leading British and foreign makers being equally well represented. The goods are displayed with consummate taste and knowledge of effect, and the establishment in its entirety must be seen to be appreciated, and no amount of word-painting could do justice to the beauties of this firm’s unsurpassable stock. Everything that comes within the scope of the china, glass, and earthenware trade finds exemplification here, but the business has been developed upon an enormous scale, and the magnificent stocks are not less remarkable for their extraordinary magnitude than for their rare beauty and immense intrinsic value. Hotel furnishing, including the supply of toilet-ware and glass-ware of every description, also cutlery and plate, is a speciality of this house, and Mr. Walker is constantly introducing some notable novelty in this, as well as in every other department of his comprehensive trade. New and beautiful designs in spirit stands, spirit urns and decanters, are particularly noteworthy, and these are in all cases a great improvement upon the old-fashioned decanter.

There is no exaggeration in styling Mr. Walker’s vast and supremely interesting emporium the largest and finest glass and china warehouse in England. London has nothing finer than the superb stocks placed by this firm before their patrons, and it is not in the least surprising to learn that Messrs. Hollinshead & Walker’s home trade extends almost all over England, and also throughout Wales, Ireland, and the Isle of Man. The house is represented by travellers who are constantly “on the road,” and the warehouse gives employment to upwards of fifty salesmen, ladies, and assistants generally. Those who are interested in any of the many charming aspects of the ceramic and fictile arts should certainly take the first opportunity of paying a visit to this palatial establishment. While there, the visitor should not fail to ask for one of the neatly printed little brochures published by Messrs. Hollinshead & Walker, in which is told the “Story of the Willow-Pattern Plate,” as translated from the Chinese legend by .Doctor Browning. We need hardly say that the “Willow Pattern” has always received due representation in the stock-rooms of Messrs. Hollinshead & Walker.

This great business has had an unique development under the administration of Mr. Ephraim Walker, whose great capacity for the organisation and management of a gigantic trade has been amply demonstrated since he assumed control of the house under notice. Mr. Walker is one of Liverpool’s most prominent and most respected citizens, and represents the West Derby Ward in the City Council. He is also a churchwarden of the parish of St. Augustine, and enjoys the esteem of a wide circle of private friends, as well as the confidence of an extended and influential commercial connection.

WILLIAM LEA’S MUSIC WAREHOUSE,
50 AND 52, CHURCH STREET, LIVERPOOL.

FROM the smallest beginnings Mr. Lea has, in the course of twenty years, built up the largest business of the kind in Liverpool, and his establishment is probably the most important music warehouse in the kingdom. His success has been truly remarkable. He had not the advantage of starting business with large capital and resources. His whole stock-in-trade, when he boldly began on his own account, was a harmonium which he advertised for sale at four and a half guineas. A more unpromising commencement for one who aspired to success as a trader could not be imagined. Yet see what Mr. Lea has accomplished. Within thirteen years after he had disposed of his harmonium he had, as a dealer in pianos, harmoniums, and American organs, sold over twenty-two thousand instruments, a number representing more than the united sales of any three music sellers out of London. As may be supposed, he had not at the outset very imposing premises in which to display his small stock of goods. When he was able to buy more than one instrument at a time, he converted the front parlour of the house he lived in into a showroom. Next he acquired the adjoining house, and having the intervening wall pulled down, he had the two parlours converted into a fairly spacious showroom. So rapidly, thanks to his enterprise and methods of conducting business, did his trade grow, that within seven years from the start, he acquired the business of Messrs. Hime & Son, 57, Church Street, and within two years subsequently, he purchased the building for £15,000.

The good fortune which has consistently favoured Mr. Lea again came to his aid, for in a very few months he re-sold that property at a good profit. Then he secured for a long lease on favourable terms the magnificent premises he now occupies. These premises are three stories high, and present an imposing appearance. In the windows there is an elegant display of instruments by the most eminent makers. The interior of the premises, however, far exceeds expectation. It contains a showroom one hundred and ten feet in length and over fifty in width with galleries and showrooms. As the space available is sufficient to accommodate about one thousand, instruments, the stock is exceedingly valuable, and the arrangement of it is admirable. The secret of Mr. Lea’s success appears to be that he has always sold at a minimum profit and has relied on the public appreciation of his enterprise to ensure sales sufficiently large to be remunerative. He was the first music seller who gave large discounts to the public on pianos, harmoniums, American organs and music, and as his business extended and he became able to buy to better advantage, he continued to give purchasers the benefit of his increased resources. One fact alone will suffice to prove this — namely, that the scale of easy payments arranged by him is generally below that charged by other houses for cash. Another reason is that Mr. Lea has always been prompt to introduce the most improved makes by the best manufacturers. He has, therefore, on hand an exceptional variety as well as an immense stock, of instruments.

Visitors, whether they desire to purchase at the present moment or not, are always welcome to step in and inspect or try different instruments. So widely is Mr. Lea’s enterprise appreciated that his trade is not limited to Liverpool or district, but extends to all parts of the world. Not only is Mr. Lea pre-eminent as a dealer in organs, pianos and harmoniums, but his establishment is noted also as an emporium for the purchase of music. It is doubtful whether anywhere else such extensive selection of the best music can be obtained. When it is stated that Mr. Lea purchases some of his music by the ton, enough has been said to prove that his warehouse is unsurpassed. If Mr. Lea’s career has been unique, it has been one of high endeavour, for he possesses in an eminent, degree that rare combination of qualities which tends to ensure success in business. Up to the present time 27,969 instruments —pianofortes, American organs, and harmoniums — have passed through his hands, and the full name and address of every purchaser is kept registered on the premises.

THOMAS HARLING & CO., SHIP BROKERS, &C.,
21, WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE firm bearing the name of Thomas Harling & Co. has, for upwards of twenty-five years, been well and honourably known in Liverpool. Its immense transactions as steam and sailing ship brokers, forwarding agents, &c., have stamped it as a decidedly superior concern. The original name of the firm was Messrs. William Hunter & Co., and on Mr. Hunter’s demise in 1883 he left the business to Mr. Harling, who had been connected with it all his life. The style then became Messrs. Thomas Harling & Co. To meet the rapidly growing demands of the connection, a branch was opened at Montreal in 1891. Mr. Harling is the sole proprietor, and is one of the best-known gentlemen in shipping circles in Liverpool. His whole life has been devoted to its interests, and he gained his experience in the best quarters. This enables him with confidence and assurance of success to enter into the most enterprising dealings, which he does with infinite credit to his commercial tact and ability. His shrewd knowledge of maritime matters makes his advice and services of much value, and he has the confidence of some of the best clients in the city. The Montreal venture is succeeding admirably. It is known as Messrs. Harling, Ronald & Co., and bids fair to become as popular there as the firm is in Liverpool. Mr. Harling’s handsome and spacious offices are situate at 37, Drury Buildings, Water Street, in the very heart of the shipping community. The services of a large number of clerks are required, and the business is conducted on very superior lines. The proprietor, for his integrity and honour, is very highly esteemed.

JONATHAN BLUNDELL & SON, COLLIERY PROPRIETORS,
BOROUGH BUILDINGS, RUMFORD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE business under consideration represents one of the greatest industrial enterprises in the North, and the Blundell family, by whom it is controlled, has long been identified with, the development of the natural resources of Lancashire. The present proprietor is the grandson of the founder, and succeeded, on the death of his father in 1853, to the great mineral estate whence the coal in which the firm trade so extensively is derived. The importance of that coalfield will be appreciated when it is stated that the output of the firm’s pits represents about half a million tons per annum, and that the industry carried on affords employment to nearly two thousand hands. Mr. Blundell, the present owner, was formerly a colonel in the Grenadier Guards, and is now member of Parliament for the Ince division of Lancashire. His brother is a general in the Indian army. Mr. Blundell married the late Hon. Miss Beatrice Byng, who was one of the Queen’s Maids of Honour, and a descendant of the historic Admiral Byng. Her father, also, was an admiral. The Blundell family have always taken a great interest in the welfare of the district with which they are identified, and it is to Bryan Blundell Liverpool owes that splendid institution the Bluecoat Hospital, he being one of the principal founders in 1702, and was appointed second secretary in 1714. Other members of the family have actively participated in affairs of civic import, and have served as mayors, aldermen, and town councillors.

The head offices of the firm in Liverpool are extensive, and in connection with them a large staff is employed, under the direction of the manager, Mr. James Pickering. A feature of the business is the supply direct to consumers by a firm who are themselves colliery proprietors. The public are thus offered exceptional advantages, which they have not been slow to appreciate, superior household coal being delivered at minimum prices. The supplies include Orrell coals, classified as firsts, seconds, cobbles, and nuts; Pemberton coal, Wigan coal, King coal, and slack. The firm make a speciality of the new class of coal, designated “cobbles,” which, considering their quality, are the cheapest coals in the market. A feature of the retail trade is the delivery of coal in bags — a system which limits the breakage of coal in delivery and prevents dirt and annoyance. The advantages of this system only entail an extra charge of a shilling per ton, including, in ordinary cases, the cost of storage. For the convenience of customers throughout the district, there are branch depots in various localities on both sides of the Mersey. The principle of direct dealing which the great colliery firm of Messrs. Jonathan Blundell & Son has so long adopted is a modern development which has proved a boon to the public, and the success which has attended their enterprise has fully justified it. Moreover, under such a system the perfection of organisation and prompt deliveries, as well as the most moderate prices, are secured.

J. W. WEEKS & SON, PATENT COMPOSITION FOR STEAMERS’ FUNNELS, AND OTHER HEATED SURFACES,
OFFICE: 276, WESTMINSTER ROAD; WORKS: SMEATON STREET, N., LIVERPOOL.

AS producing an article of the greatest use to shipowners and others, special attention deserves to be drawn to the well-known firm of Messrs. J. W. Weeks & Son, manufacturers of composition for heated surfaces, steamers’ funnels, &c. The business was established as far back as 1868 by Captain J. W. Weeks, and was developed by him with notable success and perseverance. A name was soon gained for the reliable efficacy of the article made, and the house has gradually grown in the extent and importance of its transactions until it has assumed its present prominence. The offices are at 276, Westminster Road, and the works at Smeaton Street. They are ample in size, and thoroughly well equipped with plant and machinery, and every appliance that will save labour or improve the quality of the product. A large number of hands is kept constantly employed, and an efficient system of management is in force; an extensive trade is controlled, and the demand is increasing every year.

Captain Weeks’ composition is well known among users of all classes, and is justly regarded as the best article of the kind that has ever been introduced. Steamers’ funnels painted with this composition will stand the severest tests of heat and weather without blistering, changing colour, or washing off. In efficacy and durability it can safely claim to be without a successful rival. Funnels coated with it are in better condition after five years’ use than those coated with any other composition are after two years. The cost, too, is exceedingly moderate, and it is very economical in use, one pound of it going as far as two pounds of ordinary paint. An extensive connection has been established among steamship owners, companies, marine superintendents, and consulting and superintending engineers in this country and abroad, and the fact that many of them have used the composition since it was first introduced is proof positive that it possesses all the superior qualities attributed to it.

From the long list of patrons belonging to this house we may just specify the following companies and firms:— Cunard R.M.S.S. Co.; Oceanic R.M.S.S. Co.; Empress Line; Glynn Line; D. & C. Mclver & Co.; David Mclver & Co.; Hugh Evans & Co.; Guion Line; Nelson Line; the Atlantic Engine Works, Liverpool; Mersey Dock and Harbour Board (marine and engineers’ departments), &c. The present proprietor is the son of the founder, Captain Weeks. He is a gentleman of large and sound business experience, and fully qualified to maintain the reputation the house enjoys. He is fair and honourable in all his dealings, and of good standing in commercial and social circles.

THE NORTH BRITISH AND MERCANTILE INSURANCE COMPANY,
7, TITHEBARN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS is one of the oldest established, one of the most stable, one of the most popular insurance corporations in existence. It was founded as a fire office in 1809, and as a life office in 1823. With the latter department of the North British and Mercantile Insurance Company is merged the business of the Scottish Provincial Assurance Company. That it is one of the most stable corporations is shown by the fact that its assets exceed ten millions sterling with, in addition, the subscribed capital of £2,750,000, of which £687,500 is paid up. By special Act of Parliament the funds of the life and fire departments are kept distinct, even as regards investment. The income of the life branch from premiums and interest during 1889 amounted to £725,625, while the net premiums in the fire department during the same period amounted to £1,389,157. Year by year, in both departments, there is a steady and substantial increase of business.

From time to time, in the life department, the directors have altered, in favour of the assured, the rules regarding immediate payment of claims, foreign residence and travel, the vesting of bonuses, increased facilities for the revival of lapsed policies, indisputability, and suicide. While under all schedules the table of premiums is as low as is consistent with safety, the bonuses paid to the assured are calculated on a more generous scale than by most companies. For example, after each quinquennial valuation of assets and labilities, ninety per cent is divided among the assured entitled to participate, and ten per cent amongst the shareholders. Under this system the oldest policies have been more than doubled in amount by the addition of bonuses. The annuity branch is an important one, and the business done in it has, for some years, exceeded that of any other British office. In the fire department no charge is made for policies; the Company holds itself responsible for damage done by gas. The policies of the Company now extend to cover loss or damage by lightning; mercantile insurances and mill risks are undertaken on advantageous terms, and rents of buildings are insured. The Company are also prepared, through their numerous agents abroad, to undertake foreign risks on favourable terms.

Although the chief offices of the Company are in London and Edinburgh, the Liverpool branch, opened about half a century ago, is an important one. There is a local directorate, which includes Messrs. Richard Winsloe, Thomas Comber, Stanton Eddowes, Benson Rathbone, A. E. Rodewald, and J. Hamilton Wilson (Chairman). Mr. W. Richardson (who has been many years with the Company) is the local manager. The company, who own the building, occupy a portion of the ground floor as offices and board-rooms, and a large and profitable business is being carried on.

LIVERPOOL SCREW TOWING AND LIGHTERAGE COMPANY,
NO. 5, STRAND STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS Company have long been noted for the efficiency of their service and for possessing the largest and most powerful tugs to be found on the Mersey. The thorough reliability of the firm and the promptitude with which they answer to all summonses have gained them the favour and patronage of most of the leading shipowners in Liverpool. Their vessels are thoroughly equipped with every apparatus and appliance. They are well officered and manned, and the strictest discipline is maintained among the crews. The principal tug belonging to this company was the “Storm Cock,” built of steel by the celebrated firm of Laird, Birkenhead. It was two hundred and fifty horse-power, and was the first vessel of the kind into which the twin screw was introduced. On account of her great efficiency she was purchased by the Government in 1882 for towing purposes. The “Game Cock,” another of the firm’s famous tugs, is a sister ship of the “Storm Cock,” and was also built by the Messrs. Laird. Another tug was built in 1884 to replace the one sold to the Government, but this was also disposed of in the same manner, and a third “Storm Cock” has been built by the same firm, more powerful even than the two previous ones, being of three hundred horse-power, and having, also, twin screws. In addition to the tugs mentioned the Company possess seven other powerful tugs with single screws; these are the “Black Cock” (built by Laird, and two hundred horse-power), the “Weather Cock,” the “Sea Cock,” the “Peacock,” the “Bantam Cock,” the “Wood Cock,” and the “Moor Cock.” Each of these tugs has been equipped in the most complete manner, and carries a crew of twelve men. For strength, speed, and thorough capability they cannot easily be matched.

The Company have a splendid record of many notable performances done by their vessels. One of their tugs brought the “Norham Castle,” one of the Castle Line of steamers, all the way from St. Helena to Southampton. Another towed the “Adolph Woerman” vessel from Akassa, near Sierra Leone, to Liverpool; and vessels are frequently brought by their tugs from the Azores, Madeira, &c. Readiness and trustworthiness are the mottoes of the Company. They boast that they have never disappointed a client, and they hold themselves prepared to send their tugs at a moment’s notice to any part of the coast on receipt of a telegram.

Large and commodious offices are occupied on the first floor of No. 5, Strand Street. Mr. William Becket Hill is the well-known and respected managing director. He has had a long and valuable experience in everything relating to this important branch of business, and his advice and judgment can be followed with confidence. He is straightforward and businesslike in all his transactions, and the splendid success of the Company under his energetic and capable control is sure to be maintained and increased.

London Agency: W. Becket Hill, 103, Leadenhall Street, E.C.; telegraphic address: “Allan Line, London.” Cardiff Agency: Edwin J. Whitley, 109, Bute Street; telegraphic address: “Whitley, Cardiff.” Head Office: 5, Strand Street, Liverpool; telegraphic address: “Cock Tugs, Liverpool.”

PERRIN, HUGHES, & CO., MANUFACTURERS AND MERCHANTS OF ENGINEERS’, PLUMBERS, AND GAS-FITTERS’ BRASS WORK, &C. & C.,
OFFICE AND WAREHOUSE, 23 AND 25, HATTON GARDEN; WORKS, 59 AND 61, BRIDGEWATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

FOUNDED, in the year 1882 by its present able and energetic principals, the firm of Messrs. Perrin, Hughes, & Co. has become one of the leading concerns in Liverpool engaged in the manufacture and supply of all kinds of engineers’, plumbers’, and gas-fitters’ brass work, and other requisites, together with a large variety of general articles. A very large and commodious warehouse is occupied in Hatton Garden, and here the firm hold an immense stock, admirably arranged in all its departments, and comprising a remarkable variety of goods, among which we notice wrought-iron pipes and fittings for gas, water, and steam use, rain-water goods, sanitary earthenware, sheet lead and lead pipe, chandeliers, gas fittings, bell furniture, plumbers’ tools, sheets, brass, copper, and tin tubes, and wires of the various metals, iron and copper rivets, wall and pipe hooks, window and picture rods and fittings, cast iron baths, various kinds of pumps, all kinds of solders, copper and galvanized cylinders (a speciality), galvanized hot and cold water cisterns, and many other articles of first-rate quality and thorough reliability for the purposes of the plumbing, gas-fitting, and general engineering trades. Messrs. Perrin, Hnghes, & Co. are manufacturers upon a large scale of lead, water, gas, composition, and block-tin pipes, and also of lead encased block-tin pipes, &c., and for these and other branches of their comprehensive industry they have large and admirably equipped works in Bridgewater Street, consisting of brass foundry, fitting shops, &c., &c., in which there is a large plant of specially constructed steam-power machinery of the most effective character.

Nearly all the articles we have named above may be regarded as specialities of this house, for the greatest care is bestowed upon them in production, and Messrs. Perrin, Hughes, & Co. have become particularly noted for their lead pipes, lead-encased block-tin pipes, which are a very great speciality with the firm, and also block-tin pipes. The lead-encased block-tin pipe is an improved medium for the supply of pure water to dwellings, prevents lead-poisoning in water, beer, and other liquids, and is offered as a substitute for leaden pipes for the conveyance of water and other potable liquids, as shown by representation of pipe in section and trade name. It consists of an inner pipe of pure block tin, encased by one of lead; these pipes are so united at their surfaces of contact as to be inseparable by any contortion; the casing of lead forms a protective coating to the tin pipe, and being of much greater thickness than the latter, imparts to the pipe in its combined form, the physical qualities which characterise leaden pipes, while the perfect continuity of the tin pipe protects the water from that contamination by lead which so frequently results from the employment of ordinary pipe. The lead-encased block-tin pipe has been subjected to frequent analysis and scientific investigation, and is strongly recommended by the highest medical and other professional authorities as the best and most advisable substitute for lead pipe; for, while possessing all the working advantages of lead pipe, it affords absolute security from the danger of lead-poisoning in the conveyance of water or other liquid for dietetic purposes. This piping can be manufactured of almost any weight per yard ordered. With regard to the cost of this improved piping, the weights per yard being considerably less than those required by lead pipe for a given pressure, the cost, by lineal measurement is only slightly greater than that of lead pipe, while their brass goods of all descriptions enjoy a splendid reputation.

A large and efficient staff of hands is employed at the works and warehouse, and a trade of great magnitude has been-rapidly built up by enterprising and energetic methods, the connection extending among builders, plumbers, engineers, shipbuilders, &c., in all parts of the United Kingdom. Travellers represent the house in all important districts, and the affairs of the business are personally superintended by the three principals, Mr. R. H. Perrin, Mr. Lot Hughes, senior, and Mr. Lot Hughes, junior, all capable and talented business men, well known in the trade, and highly esteemed for their honourable and straightforward commercial methods. We should add that Messrs. Perrin, Hughes & Co. have a branch at 4, Hay-Market, Birkenhead, which is liberally patronized by the firm’s valuable connection in the great Cheshire seaport.

THE ORRELL COAL AND CANNEL CO., LIMITED,
7, INDIA BUILDINGS, FENWICK STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE foundation of this business dates back for nearly half a century, when it was established under the title of Messrs. Brancker & Co. The business was developed with great energy and perseverance. After many years of prosperous and successful trading, the concern was formed into a limited liability company, in 1875. Under the administration of the company the business has grown rapidly in extent and importance. The present managing director is Mr. Richard Brancker, a son of one of the original founders of the business. The offices are large and convenient, and afford accommodation for a numerous staff of clerks and managers. An extensive and important business is controlled by the company in coal and cannel among the large exporters and consumers in Liverpool and the surrounding country. The collieries are situated at Gathurst, near Wigan, and operations are carried on on an exceedingly large scale. The plant is one of the most complete in the district, and the powerful engines have been laid down to facilitate the output. The veins worked are exceptionally fine ones, and the coal is well known and much appreciated among a wide circle of buyers. It contains all those elements which go to produce excessive heat; it burns clear and bright without making any undue quantity of ashes or cinders, and it contains no bats or “wasters.” It is equally adapted to manufacturing or domestic uses, and when once used its intrinsic merit secures it a permanent demand. Their large resources and rich and ample supply enable the company to execute the largest orders with promptness and efficiency, and patrons can rely upon the best attention being given to all commands of whatever magnitude. Prices here are always as low as any quoted in the market, and every advantage is given to purchasers. The demand for this superior coal is continually increasing from every quarter. Vast quantities are shipped annually to South America, East and West Mediterranean, and to all other parts of the globe. Mr. Brancker, the managing director, is a gentleman of the widest experience in the business, and under his spirited and capable administration, the continued prosperity of the company is a foregone conclusion. By the fair and courteous manner in which he conducts all business he has gained the confidence and esteem of all who come into relationship with him, and business transactions in this direction will be found not less pleasant than profitable.

THOMAS WHALLEY, SEED MERCHANT,
12, ST. GEORGE’S CRESCENT, LIVERPOOL.

A HIGH position among the large houses in Liverpool, devoted to the seed trade, must be ascribed to that of Mr. Thomas Whalley, seed merchant, of 12, St. George’s Crescent. The history of this time-honoured house dates back to 1773, and the establishment justly claims to be the oldest engaged in this business in the city. Its career since its inception has been gradually and satisfactorily progressive; and as its affairs have always been administered in a spirited and enterprising manner, it has kept well in touch with the vast strides that have been made in the methods of controlling a business of this description; and, at the present time, the stability and standing which result to a business house from long and honourable existence, are joined to the ample resources and systematic improvements of the most important modern establishments. The present proprietor came into possession of the business on his father’s decease in 1882, and under his energetic and able management, the business has developed with noteworthy rapidity, till its reputation has become a most enviable one. Operations are carried on in substantial and double-fronted premises, containing a suite of well-appointed offices and ample warehouse and store-room accommodation. All the departments are thoroughly fitted up with the latest and best appliances and, resources for the convenient and proper storage of the immense stock.

A large home and export trade is controlled in seeds of every description, — agricultural, vegetable and flower. The seeds supplied by this noted firm have been obtained from the best sources of supply, and have been selected with the greatest care by the proprietor himself or by duly qualified experts. Much time and labour is expended in thoroughly testing every fresh consignment, and nothing is offered by this reliable house but what can be warranted to produce, under proper conditions, the greatest possible number of strong healthy plants. Vast stocks of seeds are held by the firm, and urgent orders of any magnitude can be completed on receipt. A speciality is made of grass and clover seeds, mangels, swedes, and agricultural seeds generally, for which the house has obtained a splendid reputation among all classes of buyers and here it may be remarked, with reference to Halewood Swede, that this firm are in possession of the original stock, which, it has been proved over and over again, is superior in every way to all other so-called stocks, and in this respect the firm have the well-founded conviction that they can never have any competitors. The proprietor’s wide experience does him yeoman’s service in this respect, and his flower-seeds are the pick of the choicest English and Continental growths.

Special and particular mention should be made of the unsurpassed collections of first-class asters, stocks, and all varieties of choice florist’s flowers, such as Balsams, Primulas, Calceolarias, &c. The stocks include, also, a large assortment of the finest Gladiolus, Lilium Auratum, and other bulbous roots for summer and autumn flowering; as well as an ample collection; of garden sundries and implements of every description, from the most reputed makers. Mr. Whalley is sole agent for Liverpool for With’s celebrated plant foods, which are so well known and appreciated for their efficacy in promoting the growth of every kind of plant, and also for their cleanly, economical and convenient character. The proprietor publishes a valuable catalogue of seeds, &c.; it is nicely illustrated and full of ample directions for growing all kinds of plants; it should be in the hands of every gardener, amateur and professional. A large and valuable home trade is controlled, while immense quantities of these reliable commodities are exported by the firm to the West Coast of Africa, United States of America, and the British Indies. The proprietor gives his valuable supervision to the whole of the business, and he is aided by a large force of assistants. Mr. Whalley is a man of large experience and of the soundest judgment, and he is thoroughly well acquainted with all the best sources of supply for his commodities, both at home and abroad. His business principles are strictly honourable and he retains the esteem and confidence of his extensive connection.

THOMAS MEADOWS & CO., SHIPPING, INSURANCE, AND FORWARDING AGENTS, GENERAL EUROPEAN AGENTS OF THE AMERICAN EXPRESS CO., NEW YORK CENTRAL AND HUDSON RIVER RAILROAD, ALSO THE MERCHANTS’ DESPATCH TRANSPORTATION COMPANY OF NEW YORK AND BOSTON,
13, WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE history of this business dates back a good number of years, and it is now more than thirty years since it came into the possession of Mr. Meadows. Under his energetic and sagacious control, the concern rapidly developed and assumed a leading position among houses occupied in this branch of industrial activity. In 1874 the founder was joined by Mr. J. Musson and Mr. T. H. Wye, who had been associated with Mr. Meadows as managers in Liverpool and London respectively; and during their joint partnership the progress and success of the house were fully maintained. Mr. Meadows retired at the commencement of the year 1891, after along and honourable career, and the present partners are Mr. Joseph Musson, who gives his personal attention to the Liverpool house, and Mr. Thomas H. Wye, who is a prominent member of the Corporation of the City of London, manages the London establishment. Operations are conducted in premises comprising large offices situated in Water Street. A large and efficient staff of clerks is employed, amounting to about fifty in the Liverpool and London offices, and the systematic and orderly way in which the multitudinous details in connection with the business are managed reflects the highest credit on the managerial skill and ability of the proprietors.

The company have an extensive, long, and valuable experience in their special lines, and the advantages of their knowledge and skill are partaken of by all patrons. They are thoroughly intimate with all the best and reliable routes, and were the pioneers of the through traffic for goods to Canada, via Boston and New York, by the Merchants Despatch Transportation Company, which as now the favourite route for fine goods, &c.; and all goods entrusted to them are despatched by the shortest, swiftest, and most economical way. By their arrangements with the different railway companies they are able to quote rates such as cannot be beaten by any house in the country, and consignees, before forwarding their goods to any rival establishment will find it greatly to their advantage to get quotations from Messrs. Meadows. Insurances are effected against all risks on the most favourable terms. The firm are also noted for the care they exercise with all their consignments, and the quickness and safety with which all goods are delivered.

They are the general European agents of the New York Central and Hudson River Railroad Company, and they are prepared to offer every information to persons desirous of availing themselves of this route. This is the great American four-track railroad, and the only line landing its passengers in the city of New York; it is also the direct line to Saratoga, Niagara Falls, and the West, North-west, and South-west of the American continent. Messrs. Meadows & Co. are also representatives of the Merchants Despatch Transportation Company. The patronage this company receives from the principal merchants and exporters of Europe shows how admirably it is catering in this especial department. Another important company represented by this enterprising firm is the American Express Company. This is the only company of that name in the United States of America doing business under authority from the United States Government, and who carry property direct and deliver it at destination for inland points in the United States and Canada, saving the time and extra charges necessarily attending the examination and payment of duties at New York and Boston. The American Express Company occupies exclusively for its express business over forty thousand miles of railroad, with agencies at nearly six thousand of the principal cities of America and Canada. They ship only by the fastest liners crossing the Atlantic, and all goods are forwarded by immediate transportation to places in the United States, Canada, Mexico, &c., in bond, without examination. The rates are exceptionally low, and the service quick and safe. Messrs. Meadows will be pleased to quote rates for consignments of any magnitude or description and to give all information. The firm control the whole of the business for the companies they represent in the whole of Europe.

In addition to their Liverpool house they have the following establishments:- London, 35, Milk Street, Cheapside, E.C.; Glasgow, 10, Hanover Street; Manchester, 51, Piccadilly; and Paris, 4, Rue Scribe. The telegraphic and cable address is “Meadows.”

T. H. WILLIAMS & CO., SHIPOWNERS AND BROKERS,
2, CHAPEL WORKS, SOUTH CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established in 1858, by the present senior partner originally in James’ Street, and transferred to the present address in 1862. Up to recently the firm owned a large number of vessels, but of late years have almost entirely devoted their attention to ship-broking, chartering vessels, and engaging freight for general cargo for all parts of the world. Mr. T. H. Williams is a gentleman well known in mercantile circles, and has a first-class old established connection among export merchants, travelling all over the world. His long connection with this branch of commerce, and his intimate knowledge and thorough experience of all matters connected with the shipping and export trade, enable him to offer and secure for his clients many-special advantages. At the above address Mr. Williams occupies a spacious and handsomely-appointed suite of offices, general and private, with an efficient staff of clerks and correspondents busily employed.

JAMES TYNAN, SEEDSMAN,
68, GREAT GEORGE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS is one of the oldest and best known seed warehouses in Liverpool. The business was established as far back as the year 1841 by the late Mr. James Tynan, and on the demise of that gentleman in 1862, it was taken over by the present proprietor, Mr. Hughes, who still retains the original title of the firm. The premises at No. 68, Great George Street comprise a large and commodious double-fronted shop, together with extensive warehouse accommodation, office and all the accessories of a large and thoroughly organized establishment. The large and comprehensive stock is replete with all the best features of the various lines engaged in, and thoroughly representative of the business in all its branches, embracing a most extensive assortment of florists’ flower seeds, vegetable and garden seeds, including every known variety used, for culinary purposes, and a large collection of agricultural seeds, mixed grasses and clovers for permanent pastures, &c. This large and varied stock of seeds is selected from the very best sources with great care and sound judgment; every precaution being taken to ensure the highest percentage of germination.

Garden implements and tools, pruning knives, manures, fertilizers and insecticides are also well represented in the stock. Amongst the specialities in this line may be mentioned the pure Ichthemic guano, which has received fifteen awards of merit. The trade controlled is of a widespread, influential and steadily growing character; the connection, which extends to all parts of Lancashire and adjoining counties, is well founded upon the eminent reputation so long enjoyed, and the thorough confidence established by the well-known quality and character of all the seeds supplied. This firm has a special reputation for excellent flower seeds, particularly imported asters, stocks, &c., which at exhibitions in all parts of the country have obtained prizes against all, competitors. These seeds are in great demand by the hundreds of amateur gardeners in Nottingham, Dudley and Northwich. Mr. Hamilton Hughes, who is the sole proprietor, is well known and highly respected in the trade, and no effort is spared to meet the convenience of customers in the prompt and accurate execution of orders.

HIGGINSON & CO., LIMITED, HYDRAULIC AND GENERAL ENGINEERS,

THIS widely-known and influential firm of engineers was founded in 1876 under its present proprietary, and has had a distinguished and successful career from the first. Its headquarters in Hurst Street comprise offices and works, the latter being equipped with a fine plant of modern and powerful machinery for engineering and machine-making purposes; and in Kelvington Place the Company have a large foundry, where they make all their own eastings. The upper floors of the works building contain other spacious and perfectly appointed workshops, bringing the industrial resources of the concern up to a very high level of completeness and efficiency. The business has made rapid strides from the date of its inception, and as hydraulic and general engineers and ironfounders the Company hold a high position in Liverpool.

Messrs. Higginson & Co., Limited, are the inventors and patentees of a large number of important specialities, prominent among which are the following:- (1) Higginson’s Patent “Steam Quarter-Master,” a steering machine, combining hand and steam power, and attaining the most perfect results in its action. The advantages of this excellent apparatus have been widely recognised, and have secured its adoption on upwards of 800 vessels, entire satisfaction resulting from its use in every instance. It has been declared to be the most perfect hand and steam steerer ever offered to steamship builders and own era, and its faultless automatic action has won for it a host of champions, who are not slow to assert that it will eventually become, on its own merits, the universal steam steering gear. (2) The “Steam Ash-Hoist,” which, ensures not only rapidity but also perfect silence in action, and which has been adopted by the Cunard, Guion, White Star, Allan, Inman, North German Lloyd’s, Pacific Steam Navigation, Orient, and in fact nearly all the great ocean steamship lines, besides being largely supplied to all the leading British shipbuilders on the Clyde, the Mersey, the Thames, the Tyne, the Wear, &c. (3) Higginson’s Patent Galvanised Wrought Steel Sheaves for ships’ blocks and other purposes—a very superior production indeed, and probably unrivalled by anything of the same class in the market. (4) Higginson’s Wrought Steel Blocks, fitted with the above-mentioned sheaves, and combining lightness with strength in a remarkable degree. (5) Higginson’s “Direct System” (Patented) Hydraulic Rivetters, which have the following special merits:- (a) The use of an accumulator is advantageously dispensed with; (b) the power required is only 33 per cent, as compared with the accumulator system; (c) the working pressure can be varied to suit different classes of work; (d) the weight of a complete plant is about one-third that of other hydraulic systems; (e) the first cost is considerably less. This “Direct System” gained a Gold Medal at the Liverpool Exhibition of 1886, and its advantages and economy have been so generally recognised that it has been adopted in the leading railway, boiler, girder, and shipbuilding works.

Having produced and successfully introduced such a remarkable group of novelties as the above-named specialities, it is not surprising that Messrs. Higginson & Co., Limited, should have won a very exceptional renown in their trade, and at the present time the resources of their large works and the capabilities of their numerous and skilful staff are frequently heavily taxed to meet the demands of the widespread and influential connection whose support and confidence they enjoy. This Company have London offices at 130, Queen Victoria Street, E.C., where their manufactures may be inspected.

CROGGON & CO, LIMITED, IRON ROOF AND CHURCH BUILDERS, TANK AND CISTERN MAKERS, FELT MANUFACTURERS, ELECTRIC LIGHT ENGINEERS, &C.,
19, TITHEBARN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS representative institution was formed upwards of half a century ago by the late Mr. J. J. Croggon, one of the pioneers in the erection of galvanized iron buildings. As time passed on, fresh, developments and new departures marked the progress of the house, which, since its incorporation, has grown into one of the largest and most widely known of its kind in the kingdom, and to-day occupies a leading place among the electrical engineers of the country for the supply and fixing of all kinds of installations in the way of lighting, telephones and bell-work. The company hold depots also at 16, Upper Thames Street, London, E.C.; 7, John Street, Glasgow, their telephone No. being 1191, and their telegraphic address, “Croggon, Liverpool.”

They operate on a very extensive scale as manufacturers of all kinds of galvanised iron goods, felt makers, and electrical engineers, and some notion of the comprehensive character of their trade may be gathered from the following list of leading lines which they place upon the market:— These include—ash buckets, asphalte in blocks, asphalte cauldrons, barb fencing wire, barge pumps, barrows, basins, baths, bell tube, bins, bolts and nuts, bowls, brass taps, etc., buckets, casks, cement, cisterns, coal barrows, coal scoops, corn skips and hoppers, corn bins, corn shovels, cylinders, dust bins, electric bells, telephones and fittings, roofing felt, sarking felt, inodorous felt, sheathing felt, dry hair felt, foundation slabs felt, varnish felt, fencing, filter bottoms, electric fire alarms, floor cloth, furnace pans, glue, gutters and fittings, hosepipe, hose reels, India-rubber door-springs, India-rubber hose, India-rubber squeegees, India-rubber tubing, iron (in sheets, plain, black and galvanized), corrugated iron, iron buildings, iron door mats, iron roofs, kegs, linoleum, mats and matting, measures, clout nails, conehead nails, slate nails, wire nails, zinc nails, netting, oil cisterns, oil drums, anti-corrosive mineral paint, perforated zinc, tin and iron, portable furnaces, Portland cement, Weston’s and Pickering’s pulley blocks, pumps, roll cap, iron-roofs, galvanized coach screws, cone-head screws, ships’ buckets, ships’ tanks, shovels, smoke dispersers, solder, speaking tubes, spelter, spring hinges, staples, stove pipes and fittings, straining bolts and nuts, strand wire, supply cisterns, tanks, taps, tin, tin plates, perforated tin plates. tinned sheets, tube brushes, India-rubber tubing, varnish, ventilator, wire, wire insulated for electric appliances, wire lattice, wire netting, wire trellis, wire wove, wrought iron tubes and fittings, zinc sheets, zinc bars, zinc nails, perforated zinc, zinc ridge cap.

Among their specialities, particular attention must be directed to their patent combination fencing, which is composed of white cedar spear-pointed pickets, woven together securely, at regular distances apart, with the best galvanised Bessemer steel wire of No. 12 gauge, which has a tensile strength of about half a ton per wire, thus giving the fence a resistance of from four to eight tons, according to its height. The pointed tops of the pickets renders the fence unclimbable, and serves to shed the rain water easily, while the galvanised wire binding keeps each wooden picket distinct, so that they cannot touch each other or any other wood. Climatic changes, moreover, do not affect the fencing, the wood and the indestructible wire having compensatory coefficients of dilatation and contraction, and it has been estimated that the pickets will last as long as the galvanised binding. The fencing can be rolled up for transport, and is therefore portable; while its price, is so reasonable that it needs only to become known to permanently supersede sheep hurdles, railway line fencing, tree railings, and the like. Other specialities in which the firm do a very large business, are their roofing, marking, inodorous, and ships’ sheathing felts, for which they have gained a universal and unsurpassed reputation. Their trade connection is one of considerable volume amongst plumbers, builders, and others in all parts of the United Kingdom and the Colonies.

WINDER & CO., WOOD HOOP MANUFACTURERS,
8, 5, AND 7, UPPER POWNALL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business has a just claim to be considered a leading one in its line, not only for the length of time it has been established but also for the well-won reputation held for the excellence of its products. It was founded as long ago as the year 1800, by Mr. James Winder, who died in 1838. Mr. Thomas Winder, who succeeded, carried it on for many years, and since 1884 it has been known as Messrs. Winder & Co. The present proprietor is Mr. W. H. Hesketh, who has had the business six or seven years. He is connected with the family of the founder, and continues to trade under the old title, as above. The premises occupied are of very considerable extent, and are in every way well adapted to the calling pursued. The ground floor contains the well-fitted and furnished offices, and at the rear is the “hoop”-yard. There are warehouses and lofts above for the purposes of storage. There is a large and valuable stock of various kinds of wood used in the different sections, and this is thoroughly seasoned. The principal kinds are hazel, birch, and chestnut. In the warehouse is a huge boiler used for softening the wood, the process being superintended by skilled workmen. The trade carried on is manufacturing and dealers in straight and round wood hoops, Dutch hoops, truss hoops, oxbows, and mast hoops, also helves of every description. Smith’s rods and coopers’ rushes, for home use and exportation, may be had in any quantity. The trade extends over the whole of the United Kingdom, and there is a heavy connection with the West Indies, for sugar plantations, and other parts of the world. The home trade is among coopers, brewers, chemical manufacturers, and kindred trades. The telegraphic address is “Hoops, Liverpool.” The proprietor, as the representative of a large and. useful industry, and one of the oldest of its kind in the city, is naturally very well known. He is much respected in both commercial and social circles, and is a popular citizen generally.

JAMES STEEL & CO., CIGAR MANUFACTURERS,
78, DUKE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

FOR ages Liverpool has been noted for the extent of its cigar manufactories, and ranks high in the great English cigar-producing centres. In this particular business the competition has long been exceedingly keen, and to maintain a position in the market the goods must be of a tried and superior nature. The firm under notice have more than upheld their reputation for just on sixty years. The demands from all parts of the United Kingdom are constantly increasing. It ranks amongst the largest concerns of its kind, and holds its own on account of the genuineness of the goods manufactured. All their best brands are made by hand, and are splendidly finished; they are prettily boxed, and are found on the counters of most of the leading hotels, cigar merchants, and tobacconists, and in the country through the whole of Yorkshire, Lancashire, and the Midland counties. The leaf is carefully prepared and matured, and is invariably of the best quality, a large stock being always held both in bond and at the factory duty paid. The factory throughout is very well appointed, lighted, and ventilated, and every contrivance has been introduced for the comfort of the workpeople. Six travellers are employed, who cover their several districts periodically. The premises consist of an office and sale-room, large warehouse, and store-room, &c. The factory is at the rear, and extends from front to back about 200 feet. The late Mr. James Steel succeeded Messrs. W. Maddy & Co. in 1850, and since his decease in 1885 the business has been carried on by his executors under the management of Mr. E. Gilbert, whose connection with the firm extends back to the time of Messrs. Maddy. The foreman of the factory is Mr. H. Mackay, who enjoys the unique distinction of having celebrated his jubilee of service with the firm three years since. Their careful tact and attention serve to retain the old connection and open out new. About 150 workpeople, chiefly females, are employed, as well as a competent staff of clerks and the six travellers before mentioned.

JOHN COOPER, TRUNK, PORTMANTEAU, AND SAMPLE CASE MANUFACTURER,
37, WOOD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ESTABLISHED in business as recently as 1882, this house has taken a very high position among the city tradesmen, and one not usually attained in so short a period. Mr. Cooper, the guiding and energetic principal of this establishment, served his apprenticeship to, and passed twenty years as workman and foreman with, the firm of the late J. T. Lenny & Son, one of the best known houses in the trade, and the skill and experience which he gained there affords ample proof of Mr. Cooper’s ability in his vocation. The premises occupied are spacious and commodious and suitably adapted to the requirements of the business, with extensive workshops, the latter being equipped with all the necessary appliances and plant incidental to the trade. Mr. Cooper is extensively engaged as a manufacturer of high-class trunks, portmanteaus and sample cases. In addition to solid leather travelling goods there is a selection of portmanteaus, cases, bags, trunks, &c., in strong brown canvas, black enamelled canvas, brown leather, strong heavy overland canvas, all strongly bound with hide leather; expanding top portmanteaus made of the best leathers, dress portmanteaus, &c. Also continental, cape, cabin or state room, boarding school and overland trunks in every variety. They are all made of the best material, are strong and durable, and at the same time neat and well-finished. A large and rapidly increasing trade is controlled among a good substantial connection, which is chiefly confined to the trade in the city, among whom he is well known and highly esteemed. He conducts his business with great energy and ability, and all orders either for new goods or repairs are promptly attended to, and executed with neatness and despatch. The business is noted for the enterprise of its management, and is justly reckoned one of the most thriving and successful houses in this important branch of trade.

W. B. BRIDGWATER & CO., PAPER MERCHANTS, PAPER BAG MANUFACTURERS, AND PRINTERS,
WHITECHAPEL, LIVERPOOL.

THIS extensive and remarkably well-developed business was organised as far back as the year 1830 by Mr. D. A. Weaver, who was succeeded in 1862 by Leicester Brothers, under the management of Mr. W. B. Bridgwater, during whose regime a removal to the present extensive premises was necessitated. In 1871 on the retirement of one of the partners, Mr. W. B. Bridgwater was admitted into the firm, which thereupon assumed the title of Leicester & Bridgwater. In 1882 the retirement of Mr. Leicester left the entire concern in the hands of the present proprietor, who thenceforward commenced trading under the style above designated. The premises occupied consist of a large and substantial four-storied building, apportioned as follows: the ground floor comprises a double-fronted office and great warehouse, where a heavy and exhaustive selection of goods is always held, of which a tolerably accurate idea may be gathered from the subjoined list of leading lines, viz.:— Grey, purple, blue, pink, green, lilac, buff, salmon, slate, c. s. white, b. s. white, and fine blue sugar papers. Cap papers in a variety of sizes and thicknesses for provision dealers, grocers, drapers, and confectioners. Tea and coffee papers of various kinds and colours; best fine glazed, white, lemon, and cream cartridge, tinfoil, fine blue for double wrapping. Tobacco papers in a multiplicity of colours. Brown parcelling papers, suitable for all trades, varying from rope and manilla papers, for heavy parcels, to thin for drapers and light use. Butter papers, including parchment (vegetable, greaseproof, and imitation), cartridge. Printing papers, &c. Twines in great variety. Also day books, ledgers, cash books, memorandum books, letter books, writing papers, note papers, envelopes, and general stationery.

The first and second floors are fully utilised in the storage of paper bags for every conceivable purpose, a few of which we may mention:— pink, fine blue, blue grey, purple, brown, and brown-lined blue for sugar; cartridge and tinfoil tea bags; seed, tobacco, and soda bags, biscuit bags, cap, manilla, cartridge, and brown flour bags; fruiterers’ bags — brown, manilla, cartridge, parchment, and cap; sweet bags, millinery bags, &c., and papers used for printing, and in the manufacture of the bags. The leading speciality of the house is handmade bags, to which the third floor is devoted, and in which a large staff of females are employed. Printing, both letterpress and lithographic, is carried on in detached works, where a splendid selection of type is kept, and any design required can be readily executed by expert craftsmen.

Mr. Bridgwater operates exclusively as a wholesale dealer in the commodities mentioned amongst grocers, provision dealers, drapers, tobacconists, and shopkeepers generally, his trading extending throughout Lancashire, Cheshire, Shropshire, and North Wales, each district being periodically visited by his travellers; while at the headquarters an efficient staff of clerks, warehousemen, and skilled workers, is employed under the direct personal supervision of the principal. A considerable export trade is also carried on, principally with the Mediterranean ports, West Coast of Africa, and South Africa, the latter place being, probably, the largest receiver of this firm’s productions. The entire business is conducted upon methods which are thoroughly well calculated to perpetuate the high esteem and public favour in which the house has always, and particularly under its present capable proprietary, deservedly been held.

JOHN MCCLELLAND & CO., AUCTIONEERS AND APPRAISERS, VALUERS, AND ESTATE AGENTS,
5, CLAYTON SQUARE, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established more than thirty years ago in Basnett Street by Mr. John McClelland who, by his energy, ability, and tact, laid the foundation of a prosperous concern. In 1869, on the death of Mr. McClelland in the month of April of that year, the seat of operations was transferred to Clayton Square, and the business was taken over by the present proprietors, Mr. Joseph H. Kelly and his son, Mr. Charles H. Kelly, who carry on the business under the old title. The premises are situate in a substantial and attractive block of buildings, and comprise a suite of well-appointed general offices, thoroughly equipped with every appliance and requisite. An extensive and important business is controlled by the firm as auctioneers, appraisers, and estate agents. Transactions are undertaken in the sale of land, estates, horses and cattle, agricultural shocks, household effects, machinery, dwelling-houses, and every description of property. They also give particular attention to the care and management of estates, providing responsible tenants, collecting rents, effecting repairs in the most economical manner, and keeping all properties left in their charge up to the highest standard of efficiency and productiveness.

Both the partners are gentlemen of large experience, and every transaction placed in their hands is sure to be dealt with in the best and most satisfactory manner. Their intimate knowledge of all kinds of commodities and their extensive acquaintance with all classes of buyers, together with their social and commercial influence, place them in a position to negotiate business with despatch and the best possible results, and their prompt and honourable methods of settling all accounts have given them an enviable reputation in the profession. The firm are widely known for their ability in making valuations of every description of property for probate or other purposes, and their long and special experience in the sale of land, houses, and goods of all kinds, gives them exceptional facilities in this department. The utmost care is exercised to ensure perfect accuracy and expedition, and in the matter of charges the firm compare favourably with any other first-class house. The transactions engaged in are not confined to Liverpool and the surrounding district, but extend to almost every part of the United Kingdom and abroad, and embrace some of the largest and most important valuations for transfer (a speciality being theatrical properties), sales of live stock, commodities, properties, and estates, as well as the arrangement of noteworthy cases, of complicated arbitrations. The staff are experienced, and the partners give their constant personal supervision to the business in its entirety.

Messrs. Kelly are gentlemen of great experience and of the soundest business capacity. They are esteemed everywhere for their ability, skill, and upright methods, and they command the fullest confidence of all with whom they come in contact in a public way., They are widely known and respected in private life. Mr. J. H. Kelly is prominent in the profession as a member of the council of the Auctioneer’s Institute, and the junior partner is also distinguished as a fellow of the same influential body.

CARNABY & CO., MANUFACTURERS OF GAS APPARATUS,
91, PITT STREET, LIVERPOOL.

PROMINENT among the notable inventions that have been introduced for the safe, convenient, and economical use of gas, either as an illuminant or for cooking or heating purposes, stands the valuable appliance known as Carnaby’s Patent Gas Apparatus, which is extensively used in mansions, factories, warehouses, hotels, shops, private residences, cathedrals, churches, and schools, not only in Liverpool but throughout the United Kingdom and abroad. Carnaby’s patent improved gas regulator and pressure indicator combines Carnaby’s patent safety gas apparatus with the pressure gauge, and is generally acknowledged to be the most efficient gas economiser yet introduced. The firm have great confidence in the efficiency of this recently perfected regulator, as they absolutely guarantee a satisfactory economy in the consumption by its use, or they will undertake to refund purchase money.

Carnaby’s Patent Gas-Distributing Governor, for the automatic distribution of heating and lighting gas, is likely to become almost indispensable to all gas corporations, on account of its economic and protective advantages. The system of distribution with the Carnaby governor would enormously accelerate the development of the use of heating gas, and when cheap heating gas, as on the Thwaite system, is not purposely produced, the plan of supplying ordinary gas for heating purposes in the daytime, at a lower price than for lighting, would be the means of popularising the use of gas for cooking, household fires, laundry purposes gas engines, &c., and the application would revolutionise the system of generating heat for domestic and industrial purposes in the majority of nstances.

All these valuable machines emanate from the workshops of Mr. S. Carnaby, where several of the very best modern gas appliances are made, and a staff of skilled workmen kept in readiness to undertake fitting and fixing the firm’s specialities. Mr. Carnaby entered upon his useful career of industry and invention some twenty-three years ago. His Liverpool premises are very compact, but equipped with machinery for the production of the finest work in gas-regulating machines and fitments; but a vast amount of his trade, in the way of manufacturing and distributing, is now carried on in Birmingham and at London.

To return to the patent gas apparatus and regulators with which the name has become identified, no better description can be given of them than that couched in the inventor’s own words, which run as follows:— These machines are for turning main or meter taps on and off from any part of the premises. For instance, the main tap being in the cellar, may be turned on and off in the counting house, hall, parlour, or even the bedroom — an advantage which cannot be too highly appreciated, as, in the event of breakage of gas fittings or leakage, the gas may, in an instant, be completely shut out of a house. By this most convenient arrangement the supply of gas is regulated or controlled before it passes through the meter. The exact quantity which the burners require, and no more, being thus admitted, perfect combustion is obtained, a considerable saving effected, and the unpleasant odour and heat which attend the wasteful and careless use of gas are avoided. The apparatus can be fixed in any position, and at almost any distance from the meter. Several being successfully worked at upward of one hundred yards; and in the majority of instances they are found to effect a saving of at least twenty-five per cent. Two instances are proved where a saving of £400 a year was effected on an outlay of less than £60 in each case. In fixing the apparatus, care is taken that property is not disfigured, and they can be readily removed to other premises.

The firm are also makers and fitters of improved pressure gauges, which are ornamental in appearance, being japanned similar to, and adapted for use in conjunction with, Carnaby’s patent apparatus and form — particularly where the latter are already in use — one of the best means of regulating and economising the consumption, as they enable the user to adjust the supply to any required pressure. The necessity for regulating the supply will be apparent when we intimate that a pressure of 2in. to 4in. occurs every evening in the mains of nearly all gas companies, and that half-inch pressure is advised by eminent authorities as the most efficient for gas-lighting purposes. Mention should also be made of Carnaby’s patent adjuster, for Venetian blinds, ventilators, &c., which as regards efficiency, durability, and simplicity, promises to become a favourite and a requisite wherever Venetian blinds are used.

Messrs. Carnaby & Co. are always pleased to give their would-be customers detailed information and a favourable opportunity of judging for themselves. The trade controlled by the firm has grown rapidly, gaining for them a wide reputation, which it is manifestly Mr. Carnaby’s resolution to sustain and increase.

SHUBROOK & SCALES, GENTLEMEN’S OUTFITTERS AND SHIRT-MAKERS,
11, CASTLE STREET, AND 4 & 5, QUEEN AVENUE, LIVERPOOL.

THERE is no firm in the business annals of this city that has come to be more closely and creditably identified with the hosiery, gentlemen’s outfitting and shirt-making industries than that of Messrs. Shubrook & Scales. Dating back in its foundation to the year 1869, the business was established by Mr. Shubrook, who previously had considerable business experience in Paris and London, as well as over ten years in Liverpool. He was joined by Mr. Scales in 1881, he having had considerable experience in the manufacture of linen and cotton goods, when the firm assumed the present title. The establishment occupies an excellent position in Castle Street (close to the Town Hall and Exchange). The spacious and handsome shops have very imposing plate-glass frontages towards that thoroughfare, and in Queen Avenue. The massive and lofty windows display to great advantage a choice selection of high-class hosiery, shirts, &c. The fixtures in the interior are of a very superior character, the appointments and decorations are elaborate, yet in good taste and in excellent keeping with the high tone of the business, the whole, both internally and externally, being brilliantly illuminated at night by the electric light. The stock is very large and comprehensive, being replete with all the best features of the various departments engaged in, embracing a most extensive assortment of hosiery and underwear, linen and woollen shirts, pyjama suits, collars, cuffs, ties, and scarfs, dressing-gowns, waterproof coats, travelling rugs and bags, and umbrellas; gloves of all kinds by the best English and Continental manufacturers, and a large and varied selection of general outfitting goods suitable for every climate. Indeed, it is impossible to glance round this large and handsomely-appointed establishment without being much impressed with the extensive nature of the stock, and the beauty and variety of the numerous articles presented to view on all hands, as well as with the great care, taste, and sound judgment Messrs. Shubrook & Scales have exercised in their selections and arrangements.

The leading speciality of the business is shirt-making to measure, this having been the study of the head of the firm from his earliest days in Paris and London to the present time, and all work is still carried on under his personal supervision by hands specially trained by himself. The cutting-out department is located on the top floor of the premises, and is reached by hydraulic lift and in communication by speaking-tubes. All measurements are registered, patterns cut, and kept for future requirements. The extensive work-rooms of the firm are situated in the neighbourhood of Edge Hill. Upwards of fifty workpeople are here busily employed, whose labour is supplemented by a large number of improved sewing-machines and other labour-saving appliances. In addition to the extensive and high-class connection in the city and throughout Lancashire, the firm are continually executing large orders for goods to all parts of the United Kingdom, and to such distant places as Australia, South America, the United States, Egypt, India, China, and other parts of the world.

Both the partners take an active part in the business, and that commendable spirit of enterprise and energy which has always so strongly animated the members of this firm is conspicuous in the management of every department. The business transactions of Messrs. Shubrook & Scales have become so well known that nothing further need be added, beyond saying they hold the reputation for being one of the most extensive high-class shirt-makers in the North of England.

KILLICK & COCHRAN, IRONFOUNDERS, DOMESTIC ENGINEERS, &CEE.,
51 & 53, SEEL STREET, AND 54 & 56, FLEET STREET; LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established in 1889, by the present proprietors, who brought to bear a long and sound experience in every department of this industry, both partners having been for many years works’ managers in the well-known firm of Messrs. Bennett Brothers. Large and commodious premises are occupied, comprising general and private offices, show rooms and warehouse. The works are spacious in size and in all respects suitable for the successful carrying on of a business of this description. They include casting sheds, and turning, fitting and finishing shops, all thoroughly equipped with plant and machinery of the most modern type, driven by a powerful “Otto” gas engine. An extensive trade is controlled by the firm as manufacturers of all kinds of cooking apparatus, heating apparatus and improved hot and cold water appliances, &c. All the work turned out by this house is well known to be of a superior kind and such as can be thoroughly relied on for accuracy, finish and efficiency. The proprietors have had extensive experience in fitting up kitchens with every description of cooking appliances, hot water service and heating, and all orders in this branch placed with them are sure to be executed in a perfectly satisfactory manner, both as regards good and sound work and moderate prices.

The ability of the firm has been fully recognised in Liverpool and the surrounding districts, and many of the principal hotels, hydropathic institutions, mansions, and workhouses have been furnished with everything of this kind by them. The apparatus supplied by Messrs. Killick and Cochran are of the best construction and embody all the latest improvements. Their specialities are made throughout on the premises, and patrons can rely upon every part being perfect. Among the principal articles manufactured by the firm are kitchen ranges, carving tables, grills, hot closets, potato steamers, gas ovens and hot plates, laundry fittings of all kinds, &c. A leading speciality is their new combined heating and ventilating radiator, the use of which forms a healthy warming medium, and is of much improved appearance over the old-fashioned hot-water pipes.

By their energy, enterprise and skill, the proprietors have already established a very valuable business, chiefly of a retail character, as they prefer to do their business direct with the users. A force of from one hundred and twenty to one hundred and fifty skilled workmen is kept constantly employed in meeting the ever-increasing demands, and all orders entrusted to the house receive careful and prompt attention. Plans and estimates are freely supplied and experienced men are sent to every part of the country. By their admirable specialities the proprietors have established a valuable connection, and by the straightforward and honourable methods which characterise all their dealings, they are securing the permanent success and prosperity of their undertaking.

CHARLES COLTON & SONS, LAND AND ESTATE AGENTS, AUCTIONEERS AND VALUERS,
BENNETT’S BUILDINGS, WHITECHAPEL, LIVERPOOL.

THE house named at the head of this article was founded by Mr. John Bennett, in the year 1839, whose offices were in Lord Street Chambers. That gentleman died in 1855, and was succeeded by his son. Mr. Colton entered the office as clerk and collector in 1850 and in the year 1864 purchased the business of Mr. Robert Shorthouse (established in 1836), who was retiring, and carried it on (without a partner), under the firm of Shorthouse & Colton, in Mount Pleasant. Building societies were then in full sway, the former gentleman being the founder of the non-redemption or terminating, and the latter the promoter of the permanent principle. On the decease of the younger Mr. Bennett, the whole business of that firm was transferred to Mr. Colton, and the amalgamation of the two concerns, with the secretaryship of seven permanent and nine terminating building societies, necessitated further assistance being sought, when Mr. Fryer was introduced a partner, under the title of Colton & Fryer.

After several years Mr. Colton resigned the secretaryship of the societies in favour of Mr. Fryer, and the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Colton continuing the estate agency in conjunction with his eldest son, and in 1887 admitted his younger son into the firm, which is now conducted under the style of Charles Colton & Sons, the members of which are Mr. Colton, Mr. John Bennett Colton, and Mr. Joseph Bennett Colton, Estate and Insurance Agents, (Queen and State Offices), Auctioneers for the disposal of property, and Valuers, and the business is an extensive one. They are likewise agents to the Queen Insurance Company. The firm are well acquainted with the principal buyers, and possess large social and commercial influence, and in all their transactions every regard is paid to the interests and advantage of clients. The connection of the house extends for a circuit of one hundred miles around, and its importance and value are every day increasing. A staff of six clerks is kept in constant employment, and patrons of this noted house can always rely upon prompt and efficient attention. The partners are men of sound judgment and great executive ability, and all their transactions are personally conducted. They are well-known and highly respected in private and commercial circles for their many and sterling personal qualities, the active interest they take in all matters relative to the welfare of their fellow citizens, and their strict business integrity.

HARMOOD BANNER & SON, CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS,
24, NORTH JOHN STREET, LIVERPOOL.
Telephone No. 186.

THIS leading firm of chartered accountants, conducting the oldest and undoubtedly the most important business of the kind in Liverpool or the North of England, was founded as far back as the year 1821 by Mr. Harmood Banner. Subsequently the former was joined by his son, Mr. Harmood Walcot Banner, the title of Harmood Banner & Son being then assumed. This style has since been retained, but Mr. Harmood Walcot Banner died in 1878, and the business was then continued by Mr. John Sutherland Harmood Banner, who was then joined in partnership by Mr. William Alexander, Mr. George Nicholson, and Mr. Henry Douglas Eshelby. All these gentlemen had been connected with the business for many years in responsible capacities, are thoroughly acquainted with all its workings, besides being highly-qualified accountants of long practical experience, and are all Fellows of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales. The firm occupy a very fine suite of offices at the above address in North John Street, and employ a large clerical staff.

Messrs. Harmood Banner & Son transact every class of business associated with the profession of the chartered accountant, their “specialities” being auditing and liquidations, and they enjoy the support and confidence of a most valuable and influential connection amongst the leading public companies, the great banking houses, insurance companies and steamship companies, and the principal mercantile concerns, not only of Liverpool, but of many other important towns and districts in the north. The firm’s reputation for ability and integrity has been unfailingly maintained from the first, and even at this late day, after seventy years of continuous activity and prominent practice in the commercial and financial world, the number of their clients is constantly increasing from year to year. Carefully observing every rule of professional honour, and fulfilling all their engagements with punctuality and exactness, Messrs. Harmood Banner & Son have never lost patronage once bestowed, and by regarding their clients’ interests as if they were their own, they have fairly won the high position they now hold in their profession. The present co-partners are much respected by all who have intercourse with them in business affairs or in private life, and Mr. J. S. Harmood Banner, the senior partner, is a justice of the peace for the County of Cheshire, and a prominent member of the Liverpool Exchange.
The firm’s telegraphic address is “Harmood, Liverpool.”

THE INTERNATIONAL COTTON SEED CLEANING COMPANY,
VICTORIA MILLS, LIMEKILN LANE, LIVERPOOL.

THIS important concern, which is now the property of Mr. W. H. Boxwell, was founded about three years ago under its present title and management, and its operations consist entirely in the cleaning of cotton-seed, which is accomplished by the aid of the most improved modern machinery, all impurities, cotton dirt, dust, and foreign substances being effectually eliminated, and the seed made ready for the crushing mills. So well is this work performed that the company’s business has now assumed very large dimensions indeed, and hundreds of tons of cotton-seed are received every week at the Victoria Mills to go through the process of cleaning. The seed is then fit to be crushed forthwith, and the oil being extracted, the residue is cotton-seed cake for cattle feeding. With these subsequent processes the company under notice do not concern themselves; they merely undertake the complete and proper cleansing of the seed. The mills of the International Cotton Seed Cleaning Co. are very extensive and contain a most valuable and effective plant of new machinery.

The Brazilian cotton seed cleaned by this company is much bolder, and as will be seen from copy analyses, richer than ordinary Egyptian cotton-seed. This latter is the main supply for cotton-cake making, and although it does not contain sufficient cotton to be detrimental for feeding when crushed into cake, it is unsuitable for feeding purposed in any other shape. The cleaned Brazilian cotton-seed, on the other hand, can be, and is, used with very satisfactory results without further manipulation than what is necessary to reduce it into meal for feeding, in conjunction with low-classed feeds, such as light grains, brans, and similar stuffs. The cotton removed by the company from the seed is of considerable value, and is sold for the purpose of paper-making, and also for preparation for the manufacture of gun-cotton. The company is at present fitting up the necessary plant for rendering the cotton fit for spinning, which will open up a market hitherto closed for such classes of cotton. Every convenience and facility to ensure expedition, in the carrying out of orders and satisfaction in the work accomplished has been provided, and a large staff is employed on the premises. The whole concern is under the personal supervision of the manager, Mr. J. W. Hope, and as the company’s operations supply a very important want, there can be no doubt that their already large trade and influential connections will increase continuously in time to come.

WILLIAM ALLEN WATKINS, PROVISION MERCHANT,
10, STANLEY STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AN inquiry into the commercial annals of the country shows that this firm was founded in the year 1854 at Birmingham by the father of the present proprietor, who took over the business in 1876, and transferred its headquarters to Liverpool in 1887. Mr. Watkins operates extensively as an importer of Irish and American provisions of every description, making specialities of bacon, cheese, butter, and eggs. His premises in Stanley Street are very convenient and well suited to the business, comprising the basement of a high-class building, which is divided into a suite of offices and warehouses. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume, the headquarters at Liverpool being supplemented by a branch at 15, Hanging Ditch, Manchester, and the original warehouse at 9, Temple Street, Birmingham. The business takes effect in all parts of the kingdom, but principally in the Midland Counties, and entails the services of a large staff of travellers, clerks, and warehousemen; and nothing could be more commendable than the order and system which prevail in all parts of the premises. Personally Mr. Watkins is a gentleman possessing the advantage of a long and thoroughly practical experience of his business in all its branches, and his entire energies are unquestionably devoted to the maintenance and augmentation of the influential business which he so worthily conducts.

J. AND R. TENNENT, BREWERS AND EXPORT BOTTLERS,
17 WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL
(MR. E. MUNRO, LIVERPOOL REPRESENTATIVE).

THE notable firm of Messrs. J. and R. Tennent, Wellpark, Glasgow, whose branch house in Liverpool is situated at No. 17, Water Street, is under the able management of Mr. Robert Munro, was represented in Liverpool from 1820 to 1870 by agents, but in the latter year it was determined, from the continually increasing nature of the business, to open a branch establishment. Since then the trade, which has always been almost entirely of an export character, has been developed, and a connection formed which in extent and importance is not surpassed by that possessed by any similar establishment in the city. The original brewery at Wellpark, Glasgow, dates its origin from 1760 or thereabouts. A new brewery was recently erected, at a cost of £40,000, for the sole purpose of brewing Lager beer. The premises cover eleven acres of ground, and find employment for some 500 or 600 people. The brewery itself is a model of perfection in the convenience of its arrangements and the thorough character of its equipment. All the most modern apparatus, plant and machinery have been adopted, and all the latest scientific methods of brewing have been freely introduced.

The firm is one of the oldest and most important brewers in Scotland, and is among the largest exporters of bottled ale in the United Kingdom. They use annually no less than 17,000,000 of bottles, the cost of which alone may be roughly set down at £80,000 sterling. The proprietor, a generation ago, Hugh Tennent, was one of the best known and most highly respected citizens of Glasgow. He was an educationalist and a philanthropist, and built churches and schools, provided bursaries for students and aided the poor; but he was also a keen and successful man of business. He was succeeded by his son, Mr. Charles Stuart Parker Tennent, who raised the establishment to a point of prosperity it had never previously touched. This time-honoured establishment, since its initiation more than a century and a quarter ago, has been transmitted in a direct line from father to son until last year, when the last direct descendant of the Tennents (sole proprietor), the late Hugh T. Tennent, of Dunalaister, died. The present proprietors, however, are of the same family and name, and under their management the enviable reputation of the house is fully maintained.

The firm control an immense trade as brewers of malt liquors and Lager beer; the water used is specially suitable for the purpose and contains all those ingredients — happily combined — which are best calculated to make the purest and best beverages. The malt is chosen from the best growths only by experienced and responsible persons, and every process of preparation is conducted on the most approved principles. There could hardly be a higher or more competent proof than this, and it is thoroughly sustained by the analysis given by the late D. S. Muspratt, F.R.G.S., founder of the Department of Chemistry in Liverpool, who added, “A peculiar excellence of the ales of the Messrs. Tennent is their remarkable keeping quality and their retention of the delicate flavour of the hops.” The complete and effective nature of their resources, the orderly and systematic manner in which the business is controlled, the skill of the managers and the experience of the workpeople, together with the neatness and cleanliness observable in every department, all tend to produce results which cannot be surpassed by any similar establishment in the kingdom.

For brilliancy, flavour, palatableness and purity, the beverages produced by this firm have no superiors, and they are favourably known to consumers in every quarter of the globe. The large increase in the sales during the last few years is irrefragable testimony to the hold they have taken upon the public taste, and to their eminently satisfactory nature. The Lager beer brewed at this establishment is light, sparkling, exhilarating and nourishing, and has gained its reputation entirely upon its merits. The business at Liverpool has hitherto been mainly an export trade with all parts of the globe, and has been very extensively carried on for a period of over eighty years, Messrs. Tennent have now determined to cultivate a local and district trade, especially with their Lager beer, so highly appreciated abroad, which has been pronounced by competent judges to be equal to the best Continental productions.

THOMAS JONES, SLATER, PLAIN AND ORNAMENTAL PLASTERER, MANUFACTURER OF SCAGLIOLA, FIBROUS FLASTER, &C., &C.,
40, MOUNT PLEASANT, LIVERPOOL.

Among modern industries undoubtedly one of the most interesting and important is that of the worker in plain and ornamental plastering, whose resources and skill contribute so largely to the beauty of private and public buildings at the present day. In this line of artistic operations a house of especial prominence in Liverpool is that of Mr. Thomas Jones, of Mount Pleasant, who controls one of the largest businesses of its kind in the city. This notable concern has been in existence for upwards of half a century, and has always remained in the same family, having been founded by the father of the present proprietor. The latter gentleman succeeded to the control of the business in 1864, and has since then directed it with conspicuous success. The premises occupied have an extensive frontage to Mount Pleasant, and comprise a large and very handsome building of three lofty floors, well-lighted, and affording splendid accommodation for each department of the trade engaged in. The establishment is spacious, imposing in aspect, and thoroughly artistic in design, and is quite worthy in all respects of a business so old and so important as that carried on here by Mr. Jones. Behind the main building in Mount Pleasant stand the works, extending back as far as Renshaw Street. Here are employed many skilled workmen, whose labours are assisted by machinery and appliances of the most improved and effective character.

Mr. Jones carries on a system of operations so comprehensive as to embrace every department of the slaters’ and plasterers’ industry, and the character of his productions speaks volumes for his energy and enterprise as a pioneer of progress in this trade. He is famed for his scagliola, fibrous plaster, carton-pierre, papier-mache, and sgraffito work, in all of which he unquestionably attains a very high standard of excellence; and no house in the trade has gained a more eminent reputation for plaster and composition ornaments of the various orders of architecture now in vogue. The demand for these goods being on a par with the immense development of building operations in modern times, Mr. Jones’s business is commensurately large, and he is in receipt of a constant stream of orders from all parts of the country. Especially successful are his ceilings, cornices, and other decorations in fibrous plaster, a most useful compound, much lighter than ordinary plaster, yet capable of being applied in such a way as to secure the best possible results in strength and durability, as well as in beauty of design and finish. Fibrous plaster can be conveniently employed in many other advantageous ways — for instance, it can be effectively used to coat or incase, at a small cost, the iron pillars which are indispensable in modern buildings, but which are too frequently an architectural eyesore. Mr. Jones was awarded the only gold medal for fibrous plaster at the Liverpool International Exhibition of 1886.

Mr. Jones also specialises a most efficient hydraulic cement of his own invention, which is invaluable as a flooring material for basements, warehouses, cellars, stables, &c., being quite impervious to damp, and very durable. This cement is practically everlasting, and, being available at a moderate first cost, it ought to find widespread favour. In plaster work of an elaborate ornamental character Mr. Jones holds a leading position, and his statuary and plaster models of every kind are in all cases remarkable for perfection of finish and beauty of design. Scagliola and Marezza marble work are other specialities of the house under notice, and form very effective and serviceable imitations of polished marble for a variety of purposes. In shorty the products of this great concern are of the highest importance to builders, architects, and the public generally, and we strongly recommend a visit to Mr. Jones’s fine warehouse, where designs can be seen, samples inspected, and prices and other particulars ascertained. The business in its entirety is marked by steady and continuous increase, and is personally administered in all its departments by Mr. Jones, whose enterprise and practical skill are manifested in many ways to the large circle of customers from which he draws his valuable and extensive patronage.

THE HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING CO., LTD.,
19, OLDHALL STREET, LIVERPOOL
(L. HOLME LEWIS, AGENT).

SINCE the invention of the Brahma press, the application of hydraulic power to the needs and requirements of modern engineering has been simply stupendous, and no more striking demonstration of this statement could, perhaps, be afforded than a general resume of the important operations carried on by the above celebrated company, organised in the year 1871. Under the auspices of its present distinguished Board of Directors at Chester the Company hold vast and elaborately equipped works at that ancient Roman city, where they call into active requisition the services of a very large body of skilled workers in the production of hydraulic machinery of every description, for which they have gained a world-wide and unrivalled reputation. The company hold offices at Palace Chambers, 9, Bridge Street, Westminster, London, S. W.; Machell Street, Hull; 10, Rue Laffitte, Paris; and 19, Oldhall Street, Liverpool, the last-named quarters being under the able direction of Mr. L. Holme Lewis, a gentleman of recognised ability in connection with the important branch of commerce to which he has devoted the whole of his time, to the credit of the company; and there can be no matter of doubt that the high reputation secured and maintained by the company during the past twenty years, stands not only as evidence of a masterly policy of administration and honourable method in the conduct of its affairs, but as an earnest of enhanced reputation and augmented success in days to come.

GEORGE RODDICK, CATTLE SALESMAN,
16, WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IT IS now about forty years since Mr. George Roddick, whose name is widely known to-day on both sides of the Atlantic, commenced operations as a cattle salesman of Scotch stock in the Liverpool cattle market, and at Stanley for a good many years he carried on an extensive and prosperous business in that line of trade. In 1874 he went over to Canada, and bought there what was, we believe, the first cargo of Canadian cattle ever consigned to this country, he himself being both, consignor and consignee in the venture. We have said that this purchase was made in Canada, but as a matter of fact a portion of the consignment consisted of American Cattle, bought in Chicago, and by this original transaction Mr. Roddick succeeded in establishing a connection in both the United States and the Dominion, which has since developed enormously and become a source of great profit. Mr. Roddick personally superintended all the arrangements in connection with his first shipment, supervising the fitting up of the cattle stalls in the vessel —the “European,” of Liverpool, belonging to Messrs. H. Hughes & Nephew, a firm equally well known in the Bombay and Calcutta and in the North American trades. The voyage from Montreal lasted twenty-one days, but only three cattle were lost out of the total consignment of about 300. At this time there was great difficulty in chartering ships for the cattle trade, and no insurance was obtainable on cattle. After having several consignments from Canadian ports, Mr. Roddick went over to Boston in 1875 and hired the ship “San Marcus,” belonging to Messrs. Grimshaw & Co., of the Texas line of steamers. This vessel he had fitted up for cattle transport under his own direct supervision, and his first shipment on board the “San Marcus” was the first regular consignment from the United States, although there had previously been shipments of, say, 20 or 30 head of cattle sent over in stalls on the decks of passenger vessel at very great expense.

Altogether, Mr. George Roddick must be regarded as the real pioneer of the great Transatlantic cattle trade, and his enterprise and industry have been splendidly rewarded, for he now controls a large business, more especially from the United States. Personally, he has never shirked any of the hard work of the trade. This trade has, almost from its commencement, been conducted under considerable difficulties, arising from the fact that the lairages have been placed on several portions of the Dock Board Estate, this want of concentration being of great inconvenience and very great loss to the trade generally, and continues to be so up to the present time, notwithstanding the strenuous efforts which Mr. Roddick and other prominent members in the trade have made to get this matter rectified. A considerable amount of business is also occasionally done in Canadian and American sheep.

Mr. George Roddick is a quiet, unassuming, and thoroughly straightforward Scotchman, who is as well liked and as generally respected on the other side of “The Pond” as he is in the English markets; but for all his unostentatious ways he is one of the shrewdest business men in Liverpool, and very few others, in all probability, would have been so conspicuously successful as he has been in originating and continuing a trade, the development of which must have been attended by difficulties of no ordinary character.
The telegraphic addresses of this very notable house are:— “Roddick, Liverpool,” and “Roddick, Lairage, Birkenhead.”

INGRAM & CLARKE (A. J. PILKINGTON), MARBLE, CEMENT, AND LIME MERCHANTS,
13, PITT STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS notable institution was projected in the year 1834 by the association in business of Messrs. Ingram, Clarke, and Tonge. Five years later Mr. Tonge left the firm, which was thereafter carried on under the style of Ingram & Clarke. Mr. Ingram’s decease, in 1857, and Mr. Clarke’s death in 1886, left the concern in the hands of Mr. Clarke’s widow, who pursued the business until the year 1890, when she admitted Mr. A. J. Pilkington into partnership. The house thus constituted still retains its former style and title. The firm act as agents for Messrs. G. & B. Fabbricotti, marble quarry owners, of Carrara, Italy.; Brooks, Shoobridge & Co., Portland Cement manufacturers, London; and the Buxton Lime Firms Co., Limited, lime burners, Buxton, Derbyshire. Some notion of the magnitude and character of their operations may be gathered from the following list of leading lines, in each of which they deal on a large scale, viz.:— Marble, of every description in blocks, slabs, and strips, and cut to size; Caen stone, Yorkshire stone, masons’ polishing materials, Buxton lime for buildings plastering, and exportation; hydraulic lime (Blue Lias and Halkyn), limestone chippings, London Portland cement (the “Anchor” brand), which is supplied by them to the Liverpool Corporation, Mersey Docks and Harbour Board, Overhead Dock Railway, &c.; Roman, Mastic, Vulcan, Parian & Keene’s cements, plaster of Paris, plasterers’ hair, and white glazed bricks, blue bricks, fire bricks, fire clay, tiles, and drain pipes.

The premises occupied by the firm consist of four very extensive depots. At 13, Pitt Street there is a large and substantial three-storied building, covering an area of twenty feet by one hundred and twenty feet, where all kinds of cement, plaster, and enamelled bricks are kept. The works at 50, Caryl Street are splendidly equipped for sawing marble, a steam-engine of thirty horse-power being called into action; while at 86, Great Howard Street, and Tunnel Road, Edge Hill, are the stores for lime. A staff of about twenty hands is employed, and the entire business is conducted with spirited energy and enterprise upon principles which have won for the firm the esteem and confidence of all those who have entered into business transactions with them.
The telegraphic address is “Limbux, Liverpool,” and the telephone number is 354.

WILLIAM BURGESS, DISPENSING CHEMIST,
64, WHITECHAPEL, LIVERPOOL.

THE old-established and well-known business of Mr. William Burgess has become so thoroughly identified with the above neighbourhood that it is now looked upon locally as an indispensable institution. This business was originally established in the year 1813, and was most successfully carried on for forty-seven years by Mr. John Price, who retired in favour of Mr. W. Burgess, the present proprietor, in 1888. The premises consist of a very spacious handsome shop, exceedingly well fitted and lighted, extending fifty feet to the rear. The stock held is large and varied, comprising drugs, chemicals, and pharmaceutical preparations of the best and finest quality. A very considerable business is done in all kinds of patent medicines and proprietary articles by the most eminent makers, of which Mr. Burgess keeps a very large stock. Perfumery also forms a very important feature of the trade, and a very choice assortment of the best kinds is kept in stock. The firm also supplies all descriptions of toilet requisites — bath sponges, tooth brushes, hair brushes, fancy soaps, and fancy goods generally.

Particular attention is devoted to the dispensing department, the most judicious care being exercised in the preparation of medical prescriptions. This branch of the business is conducted under the personal management of Mr. Burgess, who has had long practical high-class experience in all branches of the business. A duly qualified assistant is employed. The firm has a splendid connection, which is influential and select, and is of very long standing, many of the customers having patronised the establishment for a great number of years. This speaks very highly for the management and the manner in which the business has been conducted. By enterprise and ability it has been placed in the foremost ranks of the trade, and is now one of the most thriving and successful in the district.

THE LIVERPOOL PRINTING AND STATIONERY CO., LIMITED,
38, CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS notable concern was founded in the year 1841, by Colonel George McCorquodale, D.L., J.P., of Newton-le-Willows, and was carried on under the style of George McCorquodale & Co. until the year 1863, when it was formed into a limited liability company, under the title which heads our sketch. The Directors are Messrs. George McCorquodale, George F. McCorquodale, Alexander C. McCorquodale, and Norman McCorquodale; and the secretary’s office is occupied by Mr. Hughes, the management being in the capable hands of Mr. Edward Totty. The company have spacious and commodious premises at the above address, comprising the sale-room, manager’s office, counting-house and ware-rooms, and the place is handsomely appointed throughout, every facility existing for the conduct of an extensive trade. Large and comprehensive stocks are held here, embracing every description of school, commercial, and general stationery, and in these goods the company do a trade of great magnitude and continuous increase.

The works of the concern are situated in Benn’s Gardens and Mercer’s Court, and comprise a five-storey brick building, which is admirably equipped for the execution of all kinds of printing. The machinery here in use is of the best modern type, and the company are in a position to turn out first-class work in any quantity with promptitude and at moderate prices. Steady development has characterized the trade in the printing department from the first, and considerable extensions of the works took place in 1890, to give the increased accommodation required. The company employ a total staff of about four hundred workpeople, in addition to numerous clerks and warehousemen, and their business grows continuously. A large and valuable connection is maintained among merchants, traders, and especially banks, throughout the kingdom, with an export that ex-tends to almost all parts of the world; and the entire concern is in a condition of substantial prosperity which speaks volumes for the ability and sound judgment with which its affairs are administered.

MUSSON & CO., OYSTER MERCHANTS AND PLANTERS,
HOOD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A RECORD of the rise and progress of the oyster industry in Liverpool of to-day, would indeed lack completeness without reference to the important part taken therein by the above-named firm. This representative house was organised under the auspices of its present proprietors, in the year 1870, and its subsequent doings have been marked by a continuous series of brilliant successes. Messrs. Musson & Co. possess the advantage of operating on an extensive scale as oyster planters, as well as importers and merchants. They own a splendidly- organised system of beds at Cleethorpes, in Lincolnshire, Brightlingsea, in Essex, Carlingford, in Ireland, and Sutton, Dublin Bay, from all of which native and re-laid molluscs of great delicacy and toothsomeness are sent in vast quantities to their headquarters in Liverpool daily. As importers they receive direct supplies of the famous American “blue- points,” which must not be confounded with the coarse bivalve of the same name usually vended on costermongers’ barrows, and of all the finest Irish, Dutch, and other varieties. As dealers; Messrs. Musson & Co.’s, trade connection extends amongst wholesale and retail fishmongers throughout the United Kingdom, in addition to a large export Continental trade, both departments necessitating the constant employment of a large staff of first-class travellers, clerks and warehousemen, at their large and well-appointed headquarters, which extend from Hood Street for a distance of 120 feet to the rear. The business is conducted in all its branches with marked ability, energy, and enterprise, upon a thoroughly sound basis of honourable mercantile principle; and reflects the highest credit upon all those who are in any way concerned with the administration of its affairs.

W. & T. JOLLIFFE, SCREW AND PADDLE TUG OWNERS,
22, TOWER BUILDINGS NORTH, WATER STREET, LÏVERPOOL.

ONE of the most notable and prominent firms of tug owners in the port of Liverpool is that of Messrs. W. & T. Jolliffe, whose very extensive and important business in this line was founded over forty-five years ago by Messrs. William and Thomas Jolliffe. The concern is now in the hands of executors, who continue its operations upon the same lines as heretofore. The firm’s fleet consists of twelve tugs, the oldest of which is the well-known “Commodore,” an iron paddle tug of 900 actual horse-power. The others are as follows:— “Iron Duke,” iron paddle tug, 700 actual horse-power; “Tiger,” iron paddle, 500 actual horse-power; “Great Emperor,” iron paddle, 1,200 actual horse-power; “Royal Saxon,” iron paddle, 700 actual horse-power; “Liverpool,” iron paddle, 600 actual horse-power; the “Great Britain” and the “Great Western” sister tugs, 1,200 actual horse-power each, both built by Messrs. W. Simon & Co., Renfrew. Besides the above there are four others of more recent date, completing the twelve, as follows:— “William Jolliffe,” iron screw tug, 1,200 actual horse-power; “Thomas Jolliffe,” iron screw tug, 1,000 actual horse-power; “Jane Jolliffe,” iron screw tug, 1,000 actual horse-power and “Sarah Jolliffe,” a magnificent iron screw tug of great strength, 1,100 actual horse-power. These last four screw tugs were all built for the firm by Messrs. J. Redhead & Co., of South Shields.

Messrs. Jolliffe’s tugs are among the most familiar features of the Mersey at Liverpool, and they are also widely known around the western and north-western coasts and continental ports, and in fact in all parts of the world, for the firm send them out to any part to tow disabled vessels of any description, or others requiring assistance into port. From the “Commodore,” down to the “Sarah Jolliffe” (that is from the oldest to the newest of this busy family of tugs) each and every one of the twelve is a staunch, powerful and trustworthy boat, manned by experienced men, and prepared to carry out every kind of towage contract in connection with modern shipping. So well do Messrs. Jolliffe fulfil all their engagements that their business has grown continuously from the first, and it is now one of largest undertakings of its kind in any British port. The firm are large employers of marine labour, inasmuch as each of their tugs has its crew of twelve men, and they stand very high in the esteem and confidence of the shipping community.

The telegraphic address of the firm is “Jolliffe, Liverpool,” the telephone number is 1425, and the offices are situated as above indicated—in Tower Buildings North, Water Street. We may add that after office hours applications should be made to Captain Grant, 176, Kingsley Road, Liverpool, or to Mr. Holme, Manager, 61, Erskine Street, Liverpool.

MACFIE & SONS, SUGAR REFINERS,
84, MOORFIELDS, LIVERPOOL.

THE well-known firm named above originated at Greenock as far back as the year 1788. The founder of the concern was Mr. Robert Macfie, who transferred the business to Temple Street, Liverpool, in 1838. On his demise the house was continued by his sons, Messrs. William Macfie and John Macfie, the sons who were successful in largely developing the trade, under the title of Macfie and Sons, the individual members of the firm now being Mr. John Macfie, Mr. William Macfie, Mr. J. W. Macfie, Mr. J. Graham, Mr. Easton, Mr. R. Marquis, and Mr. A. F. Macfie. For some time past the chief offices have been situated at 34, Moorfields, the premises there occupied comprising the general counting-house, sample-rooms, sale-rooms, and private offices. In Batchelor Street and Vernon Street are located the refineries — immense establishments fully equipped with the best modern “centrifugal” machinery for sugar refining upon a very large scale. The Vernon Street refinery is no less than eleven stories high, and is one of the loftiest buildings in the city.

Messrs. Macfie and Sons give employment to upwards of four hundred hands, and are one of the largest sugar refiners in Liverpool, their connection extending to every quarter of the United Kingdom; a vast number of retail grocers being supplied direct from the refinery. Messrs. Macfie’s warehouses, situated in close proximity to the refineries, contain an immense stock of sugar, which, having come in the raw state from Java, Brazil, Manilla, and other sources of supply, is put through the refining process upon the most perfect modern principles. This firm’s product is famous for its purity and fine quality. All the affairs of this gigantic business receive the personal attention of the principals, who are gentlemen of note and prominence in trade circles in Liverpool, well-known and much respected by all who have intercourse with them. Mr. William Macfie is a Justice of the Peace for the county of Argyleshire, and Alderman of the Lancashire County Council. Mr. J. W. Macfie is a Justice of the Peace for Midlothian; and Mr. Easton has recently been made a Justice of the Peace for the city of Liverpool.
We may add that the telegraphic address of the firm is “ Macfie, Liverpool.” Telephone No. 308.

DUNLOP, BELL & CO., ENGINEERS, IRONFOUNDERS, BOILER. MAKERS, &C.,
ALBERT ENGINE WORKS, 46, GREENLAND STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS eminent firm originated upwards of twenty years ago, under the title of Hodge, Hislop, Dunlop & Co., and for the past seventeen years has traded as Dunlop, Bell & Co. The business is one of great importance, and has its headquarters at the Albert Engine Works, which comprise a large two-storey block of buildings with an immense yard, boiler sheds, smithies, and engineers’ shops, the whole covering an area of about three thousand square yards. The firm also have their offices and designing- rooms, pattern and model-rooms, &c., at these spacious premises, which are admirably situated in Greenland Street and New Bird Street. At the works employment is found for about two hundred men and boys, and the firm also have a number of hands always out in various parts of the kingdom erecting cranes, hoists, and other machinery.

Messrs. Dunlop, Bell & Co. have developed a great speciality as makers of all classes of hand, steam, and hydraulic hoisting machinery, cranes, winches, and pumps of every description. In this class of work they are unsurpassed, and the very largest sizes of locomotive steam-cranes, &c., are being constantly constructed at the Albert Engine Works, for despatch to the Government and other dockyards and large industrial establishments. A great deal of work of this nature is done for the Mersey Docks and Harbour Board, and the firm have many other very notable and valued customers in all parts of the kingdom. Messrs. Dunlop, Bell & Co. enjoy an almost unrivalled reputation for the efficiency and sound workmanship of the colossal cranes, sheer legs, steam hoists and other apparatus of a like nature produced at their works. They are also famous for their steam coal whips, steam winches, and winding and hauling engines; and another notable speciality consists in a combined inverted cylinder engine and boiler, which is remarkably compact and highly serviceable. Messrs. Dunlop, Bell & Co. control a widespread and influential trade, and their entire business is conducted in a manner which has secured, and continues to retain, the favour and confidence of a most important and extensive connection, both at home and abroad.

H. MASSEY, MANUFACTURING CONFECTIONER,
28, CAMDEN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS very extensive and important business was founded in 1885 by its present sole proprietor, Mr. H. Massey, and inaugurated its successful career at the address which, still forms its headquarters. These premises have an excellent situation in Camden Street, and comprise a large and substantial brick building of four stories, with spacious offices and warehouses on the ground floor, work-rooms on the first floor, and packing rooms and stock-rooms on the upper flats, all of which are commodious and well lighted. The manufacturing facilities of the place are excellent, improved, modern machinery and appliances of the best description being in use for all the purposes of the trade, and the entire organization of the works and warehouse is such as one would expect to find in an establishment conducted under exceptional proprietary, ability, and experience. Mr. Massey has been associated with the confectionery trade for many years, and he is thus enabled to carry on this industry under conditions favourable to the attainment of the very best results in the goods produced.

He manufactures only two classes of confectionery, viz., “Russian Toffee” and “American Caramels,” and for these he enjoys a pre-eminent reputation. Indeed, so successful has he been in securing the favour of the public and the trade, that he now manufactures a greater quantity of these two specialities than all other English makers combined, and his goods are sold in an ever-increasing amount in almost every shop in the United Kingdom where confectionery is obtainable. Absolute purity and very superior quality are the characteristics of Mr. Massey’s productions, and the greatest care is taken to maintain this high standard of excellence. The business is rapidly growing, and between 150 and 200 hands are now employed. Few concerns in any line of industry can show such conspicuous progress as the result of six years’ operations, and still fewer in the confectionery trade have been enabled to build up in that time a connection which is widely influential in all the principal home and export markets. Mr. Massey is well represented by travellers, and he personally superintends all the workings of his rapidly-expanding trade. He is an energetic and straightforward man of business, well liked by all who have dealings with him, and his success is certainly as well-merited as it is remarkable.

ALFRED CARTER & CO., SLATE AND SLATE SLAB MERCHANTS, AND SLATE ENAMELLERS,
OFFICE, 2, SOUTH JOHN STREET; YARD, LIGHT-BODY STREET; MANUFACTORY, 31 TO 37, NORTON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS very extensive business was founded as far back as the year 1857 by Mr. William Orme Carter. That gentleman continued in the proprietorship until 1880, when the concern was taken over by the present principal, Mr. Alfred Carter, who trades under the title which heads this sketch. The firm’s Offices are well situated at 2, South John Street, and, besides these, they have large and admirably equipped works at 31, 35, and 37, Norton Street, and yards at Lightbody Street (Liverpool) and 89, Price Street, Birkenhead. Messrs. Alfred Carter & Co. are large merchants in slate and slate slabs, having under their sole control what is probably the best slate slab quarry in Wales; and they are also very extensive manufacturers of slate goods, their works being fully provided with sawing, grooving, planing, and polishing machines, and possessing every facility for the ornamental enamelling of slate upon a very large scale. The principal productions of this firm include slate water cisterns, slate working squares, barm squares, and stillages for brewers, slate baths, slate mangers for stables, slate cattle troughs, slate milk coolers, slate sinks, slate whey cisterns; slate shelving for larders and dairies, slate shelving for greenhouses, slate edging for garden walks, slate ridge roll and wall linings — in fact everything that can be advantageously produced in this handsome, serviceable, cleanly and highly sanitary material.

A great speciality is made of Welsh slate brewers’ tanks, barm squares, settling tanks, and other brewery fittings; and Messrs. Carter’s productions in these lines are in use in a great many of the largest breweries in the United Kingdom, where they have given entire satisfaction. The firm’s new type of slate tank for storing barm has been found singularly effective in breweries, as it gives a perfect circulation of water underneath the bottom and round the sides. The temperature is thus kept very low and under perfect control, and the barm is consequently preserved in good condition. These tanks can be had with or without slate capping, and all who have used them speak very highly of their merits. Slate cisterns are also largely made by Messrs. Carter for mineral water manufacturers, who now fully admit the superiority of slate cisterns over any other kind of vessels for the various processes of the trade, whether as water reserves, where the supply is unreliable, as mixing cisterns, as filter tanks and syrup tanks, or as tanks for the fermenting of barm ginger beer. Messrs. Carter are enabled to refer enquirers to some of the largest firms in England, who have used their manufactures with every satisfaction.

Another prominent speciality of this house consists in the production of enamelled slate mantelpieces, which are not only beautifully designed in themselves, but are made to imitate marble and other costly substances in a most effective manner. A large business is also done in roofing slates, some idea of the extent of which trade may be gathered from the fact that important contracts have been entered into for the supply of roofing slates to nearly all the leading railway companies requiring material of this class, as well as to the Liverpool Dock Board and numerous large industrial establishments. Plain slate slabs for various purposes are likewise in considerable request, and are sent out by this firm direct from their quarries in Wales, in quantities of not less than a truck-load, to any station in the kingdom.

In its entirety Messrs. Alfred Carter & Co.’s business is one oi the most extensive and important of its kind in Great Britain, and gives employment in its several departments to about one hundred and eighty hands. A widespread trade is controlled, the export to India, China, and the Colonies being a notable feature; and the whole concern is personally conducted by Mr. Alfred Carter, under whose able and enterprising: administration this old-established house continues to enjoy the confidence and support of a most valuable and influential connection.

ROBERT QUINN, EUROPEAN TRAFFIC AGENT FOR THE GRAND TRUNK HALLWAY OF CANADA,
25, WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE Grand Trunk Railway of Canada has been represented in Liverpool for some years, and is now in the hands of Mr. Quinn as European agent. Thanks to his able management and the attention he has devoted to the promotion of the company’s interests, a very considerable development of their business has resulted. The Grand Trunk Railway, which comprises about 4,000 miles of line, is a favourite route between the east and west of the American continent, not only as regards Canada, but also the United States. This is easy to understand considering the advantages offered. The shortest and best route across the Atlantic in summer is to Quebec and Montreal, and in the winter to Portland, Halifax, and Boston, the distance being 2,600 miles to Quebec, and to Portland 2,700. At both places the Grand Trunk trains start from the wharves, so that there is no delay in conveying passengers and their baggage when they land from the Transatlantic liners. At Halifax there are similar conveniences for passengers taking the trains of the Intercolonial Railway and other railways connecting with the Grand Trunk line. Passengers, therefore, who land at Halifax can avail themselves of an unbroken line of railway, on which Pullman palace cars are run continuously for about 1,700 miles. The western terminus of the Grand Trunk line is Chicago via Niagara Falls. There is no other route which offers such magnificent, picturesque attractions to tourists in Canada and the United States as the Grand Trunk, while to emigrants the fact that they can reach their destination with the least possible delay at the lowest cost, makes its special advantages obvious. The comfort and convenience of passengers are studied in every way, from the time they arrive at the port of debarkation till they reach their destinations, however remote.

For such as arrive at Boston and New York, proposing to avail themselves of the Grand Trunk route to the cities of Canada or to the west, excellent arrangements are made. At Boston they are accommodated via the Central Vermont and Grand Trunk systems, while from New York they can take trains on any of the following lines, which make direct connection with the fast expresses of the Grand Trunk line at Niagara Falls West Shore, New York, Lake Erie and Western (Erie); New York Central and Hudson River; Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western; Lehigh Valley and New York; Ontario and Western. Particular attention may be drawn to the Great St. Clair Tunnel route, connecting the Grand Trunk, and making a continuous run between Quebec, Montreal, and Portland, to Chicago, via the St. Clair Tunnel, without break or change for either passengers or goods. It is the only line in Canada having its own rail through from the Atlantic to Chicago. It is the greatest submarine tunnel in the world, extending from Port Huron, Michigan, under the St. Clair River to Savina, Ontario, and connecting the Grand Trunk Railway system of Canada with the Chicago and Grand Trunk Railway. It has just been completed at a cost of $2,700,000. The tunnel proper is a continuous iron tube, nineteen feet and ten inches in diam., and 6,025 feet or more than a mile long. The length of the approach, in addition to the tunnel proper, is 5,603 feet, making all told a little over two miles, and is truly a link that binds two great nations.

All information can be obtained from Mr. Quinn, who also arranges for the booking of passengers and freights, by all the steamship lines and inland tickets issued from the several ports to all parts of Canada and the United States, on the most favourable terms.

A. TAYLOR & SON, FRUIT AND POTATO MERCHANTS AND COMMISSION AGENTS,
8, QUEEN’S SQUARE, LIVERPOOL.
Telegraphic address, “Apricot;”
Telephone 987;
Codes— “Fruiterers,” “Scattergoods,” “A.B.C.” “Unicode,” and private id.

AMONG the leading industries of Liverpool a high position is occupied, by that branch of enterprise which is devoted to the supply of fruits, and a prominent and noteworthy house in this business is that of Messrs. A. Taylor & Son, fruit merchants and commission agents, 8, Queen’s Square. Operations were commenced in this direction forty years ago, and from its inception the progress of the business has been of the most satisfactory character, and the ability, energy, and honourable policy of the founders soon brought it into the ranks of the most important houses engaged in this special line. The business is conducted in premises that were built expressly for the trade, and in their perfect adaptability and completeness in every detail they are the outcome of the firm’s long experience and progressive tendency. They consist of a handsome and substantial brick structure, four stories high, and embrace a number of extensive and spacious warehouses, store-rooms, and a suite of offices, all thoroughly equipped with every appliance and convenience for the successful control of a business of great magnitude.

The principal warehouse on the ground floor is a magnificent room extending the whole length of the front and for some seventy feet to the rear; the walls of this room (as well as of most of the others) are faced with enamelled tiles. Every expedient has been adopted that experience could suggest for keeping the vast stores of fruit in the best possible condition; and we may remark while referring to this point, that the notable neatness and cleanliness pervading every department of this establishment reflect the highest credit on the worthy proprietors. The stocks held are heavy, and commensurate with the demands made upon them, and are extensive in their comprehensiveness, embracing every description of English and foreign fruit in season. There are always on hand at this establishment immense consignments of seasonable fruits, and the facilities the proprietors possess for disposing of them, and the prompt manner in which all returns and settlements are made, have given the firm a special prominence as extensive and reliable commission agents.

A wholesale business only is controlled here, and the connection extends to all the great centres of population in the United Kingdom. The firm do also a large export business to America, particularly in grapes, oranges, lemons and potatoes; they also import from America an immense quantity of apples, which for quality and price are great favourites in the markets. A staff of clerks and a number of warehousemen are employed, as well as agents and travellers throughout the country. The proprietors are able, enterprising and sagacious, and by their ability, energy and inflexible commercial probity they have built up one of the largest and most representative fruit and commission houses in the kingdom. They are much esteemed for their many good qualities and for the lively interest they take in all matters that affect the welfare of the produce trade of the country.

ENNITT, COONAN, & FOOL, GENERAL LIVE STOCK SALESMEN,
4, CHAPEL WALKS, LIVERPOOL.

THE importation and sale of live stock, principally in the way of carefully-selected prime-fed Canadian and American cattle, finds admirable exemplification at the hands of the notable house above named. This representative concern was organised in the year 1891 by the association of the three gentlemen named above, being really the amalgamation of three separate businesses which had been previously carried on with great success over twenty years, for the purpose of supplying live stock, both for beef and feeding purposes, of the most reliable description, and some notion of the extent and importance of their business transactions may be gathered from the fact that they hold sales of cattle almost daily at their Liverpool, Birkenhead, London, and Bristol premises, and in addition hold yards and offices at the Metropolitan Cattle Market, Islington, London, and Foreign Cattle Market, Deptford, at 23, Arundel Square, Barnsbury, London, N., and the Black Horse sale-yards, Bristol, and at Southampton, to all of which places they are constantly consigning cattle.

The Liverpool premises comprise two general and a private office, situated at 4, Chapel Walks, the Birkenhead office being at the Leavage, Woodside, and the sales are eagerly visited by cattle dealers and graziers of cattle from all parts of the country, amongst whom the trade is exclusively confined. A staff of efficient clerks is employed at headquarters, and the entire business is conducted with spirited energy and enterprise upon a thoroughly sound basis of honourable mercantile principle, all the principals devoting the whole of their time and attention to their rapidly extending trade.
The registered cable and telegraphic addresses of the firm are: “Ennitt, Liverpool and Bristol,” and “Shrinkage, London.”

WILLIAM ALEXANDER SMITH & CO., WINE MERCHANTS,
SCOTTISH PROVIDENT BUILDINGS, 23 & 25, CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ONE of the oldest and most highly reputed firms of wine merchants in Liverpool is that of Messrs. William Alexander Smith & Co., who have been considerably over half a century in Castle Street, whose extensive and important business was founded as far back as the year 1802. The founder continued alone until 1822, and was then succeeded by his son, Mr. William Alexander Smith, who carried on the business till his death in 1856. He was in turn succeeded by his son, William Alexander Smith, who was joined in 1861 by Mr. Henry Winder Smith. These two last-named gentlemen are now the individual partners in the concern, which they conduct with conspicuous ability under the old title of William Alexander Smith & Co. The premises of the firm are well situated in the Scottish Provident Buildings in Castle Street, and comprise a spacious and handsome suite of general and private offices, with a well-appointed sample-room and every convenience for a high-class wine merchant’s trade. The duty-paid cellars are Nos. 15, 17, and 19, Sweeting Street, and the bonded stores are at the New Quay, Princes Dock.

In its entirety this is one of the best and most select businesses of its kind in the city, and Messrs. William Alexander Smith & Co. hold an enormous stock, both in wines and spirits, their duty-paid and bonded stores containing a splendid selection of choice brands and vintages from all the great sources of supply at home and abroad. In wines the firm have their leading speciality, and these they import direct from the growers. The highest standard of quality is carefully maintained in each department, and the house has always a large number of select specialities worthy of the attention of connoisseurs. Messrs. William Alexander Smith & Co. have recently been appointed sole agents for the great Epernay house of Charles Gerard, whose “Grand Vins de Champagne” have won such a world-wide reputation, and to this valuable agency they are devoting a large share of their attention.

The firm under notice cultivate a high-class family trade only, and enjoy the patronage of a great many of the nobility and gentry. At the same time they have very successfully developed a large export business, and in both branches they are supported by a most influential connection at home and abroad. The entire business is personally administered by the experienced principals, and under their capable and judicious management its high standing in the trade as a thoroughly representative concern is adequately maintained. Six years since, on the retirement of Mr. William Henry Beckett through ill-health (the only surviving partner in the old-established firm of Lassell & Beckett, of Bold Street), they purchased the goodwill of their business, and continue to carry it on with the assistance of their salesman, Mr. Fred E. Beckett.

J. & J. TAYLOR, MANUFACTURERS OF PAINT, COLOUR AND VARNISH, AND OIL AND DRYSALTERY MERCHANTS,
5 & 7, SEDDON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE inception of this business dates back as far as 1820, when operations were commenced by Mr. John Taylor, who conducted the concern with considerable ability for about twenty years. He was followed by his two sons, Messrs. J. & J. Taylor, who administered affairs for another twenty years. On their retirement Mr. S. Taylor took possession and held the reins for twenty-five years, after which he was succeeded in 1885 by his nephew Mr. George H. Taylor, the present proprietor, who carries on the business under the ancient style and title of J. & J. Taylor & Co. Repeated enlargements of the premises have been required to keep pace with the demands, and at the present time, in the extent of its transactions, the house has few equals in Liverpool or the North. The premises are spacious and commodious, and comprise a substantial five-story warehouse, one of three stories fitted with hoists and about thirty feet square. The offices, which are compact and well appointed, are situate on the first floor, the other portions being occupied by warehouses, showrooms, stockrooms and factory. The works are equipped in the most modern and best style with first-class paint mills, mixers and grinding mills, operated by a fifteen horse-power engine. From thirty to forty skilled hands are kept constantly employed. The firm also possess additional accommodation in the shape of two warehouses in Argyle Street and one in Henry Street.

The firm are extensively occupied in the manufacture of their specialities, and with the facilities at their command, the goods they turn out are such as meet the appreciation of all first-class buyers. For general excellence and reliable quality, they have few or no successful rivals, and it is not too much to say that their merits have secured the permanent prosperity of this noted firm. The paints are made in every shade of colour, and the firm are specially known for their dry colours and varnishes. Messrs. Taylor are also oil and drysaltery merchants, and an extensive business is controlled in this direction. Prices here are such as cannot be beaten, regard being had to quality.

Large stocks are held comprising excellent selections of all the leading lines, and orders receive prompt and efficient attention. A good home connection has been developed by the firm, and travellers are kept out in almost every part of the United Kingdom. The great bulk of the trade, however, is export, consignments being made to many parts of the world, especially South America and the West Indies. The proprietor is a well-experienced man, and his able and energetic supervision is given to promote the success of the business. He is regarded as a leading and representative member of this important branch of industrial activity in which he is engaged, and his name is synonymous with honourable and straightforward methods in business.

G. HUGHES & CO., WOOD HOOP MANUFACTURERS,
62A, JORDAN STREET, QUEEN’S DOCK, LIVERPOOL.

DURING the past six years this firm has been making very steady progress, and now boasts a very considerable and valuable connection. As wood hoop manufacturers, the worthy proprietors are thoroughly conversant with their calling, and turn out their work in an unequalled manner, which is productive of the greatest satisfaction. Their convenient works are at 62A, Jordan Street, Queen’s Dock, and are well situated for the purposes of the trade. A competent staff of workmen is engaged in making all kinds of truss hoops, barrel hoops (straight and coiled), windsail hoops, mast hoops, cargo, tent hoops, oxbows, hanks, sett rods, hammer shafts, staves, coopers’ rushes, &c. The material used in every instance is of the best description and the workmanship has been before described as unequalled. The premises are of two-storey elevation, and are well fitted with all the necessary appliances of modern construction. There are boilers for bending the wood for the hoops, and many other machines, &c. The offices are on the first floor. The frontage is of thirty feet measurement, extending backwards about ninety feet. The trade is with coopers, brewers, chemical manufacturers, and all kinds of cask makers. Mr. Hughes lends his personal supervision to the undertaking. He has a pleasing manner of conducting all his transactions, and is a great favourite with all those having business relations with him. The concern is in a highly prosperous condition, and is daily growing in popularity and extent of its operations.

F. W. YOUNG & CO., CORN AND SEED MERCHANTS,
6 AND 7, GOREE PIAZZAS, LIVERPOOL.

THE ever increasing supply of American corn to this country is chiefly received through the port of Liverpool, which unquestionably is admirably adapted to the purpose, holding a decided advantage over any other port. The corn trade of Liverpool reaches colossal proportions, and engages the attention of many of the most shrewd and monied citizens. Among those who, of recent years, have come rapidly forward, honourable mention must be made of Messrs. F. W. Young & Co., who during the past four years have made giant strides. They have exhibited remarkable enterprise, knowledge of their calling, and commendable energy, and have secured for themselves a firm footing in the business arena. Prompt in action, and possessed of sound judgment, those gentlemen have about them all the elements conducing to success. Their large and substantial premises at Goree Piazzas, and Back Goree, are of six-storey elevation. They contain a handsome suite of offices, large store-rooms, and milling rooms. In the latter there are two of Crossley Bros, celebrated “Otto” gas engines, of nine-horse power, used for cleaning all kinds of seed. The other appliances required in the business are in no way wanting. Extensive operations are carried on in corn, flour, pulse, and seeds. These hold very high names on the markets, and have been purchased from the best sources. The business is home and export. Messrs. F. W. Young & Co. are well-known citizens, and highly respected ones. They are courteous to all with whom they come in contact, and bear a good name for the very straightforward nature of all their dealings. The concern is in a very flourishing condition.

T. WEBSTER & CO., INK MANUFACTURERS AND DRYSALTERS,
9 AND 11, HENRY STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established by Mr. T. Webster in 1868, at 13A, South Castle Street, under the style and title of T. Webster & Co. Subsequently he occupied premises in Duke Street, and after having been there for some ten years, removed to his present address, where year by year the value of the connection has gone on increasing. Operations are conducted in an extensive block of buildings, four storeys high with basement, covering, with yard, a large area, and having a frontage of sixty feet in Henry Street. The premises comprise offices, store rooms of various kinds, mixing and boiling sheds, grinding mills, &c., and are the outcome of the proprietor’s long experience. An extensive and valuable trade is done in the manufacture of inks of various kinds, duplex, furniture cream, and kid reviver, starch, enamel, borax, dubbing, pomades, marking ink, dry ink in tins, harness blacking and oils, liquid gums, &c. The house has achieved an enviable reputation for the superior and thoroughly reliable character of its productions. They are well-known and highly appreciated in every part of the country, and wherever they are introduced they become favourites. Their inks do not thicken or incrust, but always remain absolutely fluid and easy and pleasant to write with. They do not corrode the pen, and their permanency has been fully established by the severest tests.

The great speciality of the firm is their “Diamine” writing fluid, which has obtained an immense popularity. It is made from the finest blue galls by experienced and skilled workmen, and one uniform standard of excellence is always maintained. It is non-corrosive, works freely, writes a rich deep blue, and afterwards turns a lasting black, and from its perfect fluidity it is better than any other for the stylograph or fountain pens. It is put up to suit the requirements of the trade in bottles ranging from 1d. to 2s. 6d each. Large stocks are kept of the various goods manufactured by the firm, from which most orders for current kinds can be executed by return.

An extensive trade is controlled in almost every part of England, and a considerable export trade has been developed. A large staff of skilled hands is kept constantly employed in meeting the ever-increasing demands; and patrons can rely upon prompt and efficient attention. The merit of Mr. Webster’s celebrated inks were fully recognised at the first International Exhibition by the award of the Gold Medal. The proprietor is a man of large experience and undoubted ability in his business, and his success has been deservedly and honourably obtained, and he is much respected by all who know him, both in social and commercial circles.

J. ASHCROFT, MANUFACTURERS OF BILLIARD TABLES AND BILLIARD BOOM FITTINGS,
VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE history of this eminent house dates from the year 1869, when Mr. Ashcroft commenced his operations upon quite a small scale in Haughton Street. The sound workmanship and high-class character of all his productions soon became recognised, and such a demand for his billiard tables arose that he resolved to give his business larger scope for development by securing more appropriate and commodious premises. In 1872 he purchased on lease, from the Corporation, land in Victoria Street and Cumberland Street, and erected extensive works and show-rooms. These in turn were, however, in time found to be considerably inadequate for the growing business, and a further move was rendered necessary. To this end Mr. Ashcroft purchased on lease from the Earl of Derby a suitable site in Victoria Street, in the year 1883, and upon that site he erected the noble pile of buildings known as Ashcroft Buildings. This magnificent block, standing in a commanding corner situation, and rising to an altitude of six stories, is from the designs of the late Mr. Connell, upon whom it reflects the highest credit.

Throughout the interior of this palatial establishment the appointments are of the most superb character, and Mr. Ashcroft’s show-rooms contain a stock which we have never seen surpassed in variety, beauty, and interest. The display embraces a vast assortment of billiard tables and billiard-room furniture, fully representing all the elegant and unconventional designs for which this house has become world-famous; and in every article thus placed before the notice of the public there is manifested that perfection of finish and thoroughness of workmanship which stamp the goods as the products of a firm of the very first rank. These splendid results in the finished goods are obtained by the exercise of exceptional care in the selection of materials and in the processes of manufacture; and it is interesting to note the completeness of the resources of the house as shown in the splendid equipment of the workshops on the first, second, and third floors of the building. All these spacious and commodious rooms are fitted with the most perfect machinery and appliances known in the trade; and every process of this most interesting industry is carried out by skilful and experienced hands. Some of Mr. Ashcroft’s works in pollard oak, Italian walnut, rosewood, mahogany, and other high-class woods are veritable triumphs of the cabinet-makers’ art, both in design and in finish; and those who have had the privilege of closely inspecting his large and beautiful stock will not be in the least surprised to learn that he gained two Gold Medals at the Liverpool International Exhibition of 1886, one for selection of billiard tables, including one of a special design and construction, altogether a new feature in English manufacture, and called under the registered title of “The Gold Medal Table;” and one for artistic furniture and grand selection of home and foreign woods.

The roof of Ashcroft Buildings is so arranged that it will hold a stock of four hundred tons of the various hard woods required in the trade; and in the veneer-room there is an unrivalled store of high-class woods, the collection of many years, indeed a lifetime. Indeed, Mr. Ashcroft has gathered together by far one of the finest and most varied stocks of fancy woods in the kingdom. A few years ago he purchased the grand old oak tree which stood on the bank of the river Dee and in the grounds of Eaton Hall, Chester, which was blown down during a winter gale after resisting the storms of centuries. This giant tree was so skilfully cut up that it furnished the legs and most important parts of no less than 115 billiard tables, the wood being of a singularly beautiful figure. Mr. Ashcroft has purchased a good many historic oaks, among the number being the noble tree in Acton Park, under the shade of which the notorious Judge Jeffries is reputed to have sat and studied something like two and a half centuries ago. All these trees have been converted into billiard tables of the highest class.

Of Mr. James Ashcroft it may be truly said that he exemplifies to perfection every department of his interesting trade; and his productions command probably the best prices for such goods in the market. They are sent to every quarter of the globe; and in quality, design, and finish (as well as in all the best features of improved construction for the advantage of billiard players), they are unsurpassed and unsurpassable. The fact has been mentioned that Mr. Ashcroft gained a Gold Medal in 1886 for artistic furniture. The exhibit was a very beautiful one, being contained in a building erected by Mr. Ashcroft and fitted in the most superb manner. It was lighted throughout with electric light, which was generated by engine and dynamos connected with the building, the whole arranged by Mr. John Ashcroft, junr., who holds several patents for electrical fittings. This department has been very successfully developed during the last few years, and show-rooms are specially devoted to it, adjoining the billiard-table rooms. In this department we may mention that Mr. Ashcroft receives the assistance of his son, Mr. John. Mr. James Ashcroft, the sole proprietor, continues to personally superintend every operation of his extensive and constantly increasing trade. He is an able, enterprising, and courteous business man, eminently skilled, in every detail of the industry he pursues, and much esteemed in the commercial world of Liverpool for the energy and progressive spirit that have always been so strikingly manifested in the administration of his business.
Mr. Ashcroft is contractor to her Majesty’s forces, and his telegraphic address is “Billiards, Liverpool.”

THOMAS BRAKELL, LIMITED, PRINTER, STATIONER, LITHOGRAPHER, AND ACCOUNT BOOK MANUFACTURER,
58, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE modern printers’ and stationers’ craft and calling, as developed in Liverpool of to-day, receives admirable exemplification at the hands of this notable firm. An inquiry into the commercial annals of the city shows that the house was organised by Mr. Thomas Brakell, at 7, Cook Street, in the year 1845, was thereafter transferred to its present splendid quarters in 1870, and duly incorporated in 1890. The premises occupied are double fronted, and occupy a prominent position in one of the busiest and best quarters of the city. The interior is most handsomely appointed in every particular, and extends for a distance of fully fifty feet to the rear, with offices and works covering a considerable area beyond, and here an enormous stock is held of school and commercial stationery, the latter forming one of the most special features of the firm’s trade, the stock of account books kept being simply vast. In the executive department the splendidly equipped printing works are furnished with magnificent Wharfedale and other large machines, and all kinds of letterpress, job, and lithographic printing is beautifully and rapidly executed by a very numerous staff of skilled hands. The business is already one of considerable volume, being both wholesale and retail, and very largely export amongst merchants, shippers, manufacturers, tradesmen, and retail stationers; and under the vigorous and able regime of the present directorate promises speedily to develop into one of the most successful concerns of its kind in the country.

SINCLAIR & ELLWOOD, PROVISION AND SHIP STORE MERCHANTS, SHIP CHANDLERS, &C.,
41, SOUTH CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL. AND AT LONDON AND GLASGOW.

THIS widely-known and well-conducted business was established in 1868, by Messrs. Sinclair & Dawson, who continued in partnership until 1879, when Mr. Dawson retired. His place was taken by Mr. Ellwood, and, the death of the latter gentleman taking place in 1889, Mr. Sinclair is the sole present proprietor, who is ably assisted by his two sons, Mr. James Wallace Sinclair, who has had large experience abroad, and Mr. Charles E. Sinclair. The provision and ship’s stores warehouses are situated to Nos. 1, 3, & 5, King Street, and are on a very extensive scale, the most important feature being the complete fitting up of outward-bound ships. The position of Mr. Sinclair in the trade in this respect is unique. The departments may, perhaps, be roughly classed under the following heads, viz., salt provisions, free and bonded stores, sails and chandlery, engineers’ stores, oils, paints, and deck stores. Each are very fully represented, and great facilities are to hand for quickly supplying the most extensive orders. A large export trade is done with the Colonies, South America and various other parts of the world. The firm hold a high reputation for their sails. The large sail-making loft is always kept fully occupied. Sails of all kinds are turned out in the best possible manner. Mr. Sinclair is agent for Peacock & Buchan’s celebrated compositions for ship’s bottoms, which bear a universal reputation. He employs eight clerks and three warehousemen. He is a director of the Incorporated Trade Society, and is noted for his strict business integrity. His is a really sound and well-conducted establishment, worthy of the large measure of support accorded to it.

THE EMPLOYERS’ INSURANCE COMPANY OF GREAT BRITAIN, LIMITED,
7, VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL
(WILLIAM HEATH, DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT).

MERCHANTS, manufacturers, and all large employers of labour, ought to hail the establishment of this notable institution with unmistakable signs of satisfaction. The company was formed in 1887 at Glasgow, under the auspices of an unexceptionable board of directors, with a registered capital of £250,000, and is now very largely subscribed to and managed by employers, as may be gathered from the following names:— Board of Directors — Chairman, Ex-Bailie J. H. Dickson, J.P. (Chairman Vale of Clyde Tramways Co.), Granby Terrace, Hillhead, Glasgow; Vice-Chairman, W. D. Grillies, Esq., Iron Merchant (Director Burntisland Oil Co.), Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow; T. A. Boyd, Esq. (Messrs. J. & T. Boyd, Shettleston Iron Works), Glasgow; J. A. Maclellan, Esq. (Messrs. Alley & Maclellan, Engineers, Boiler-makers, and Ship-builders), Sentinel Works, Glasgow; Sir Andrew Maclean (Messrs. Barclay, Curie, & Co., Limited, Shipbuilders and Engineers), Glasgow; James Luke, Esq., J.P. (Messrs. Kinmond, Luke & Co., Spinners and Manufacturers), Dundee and Blairgowrie; George Macfarlane, Esq. (Messrs. George Gray, Macfarlane & Co., Glasgow, and Messrs. Macfarlane, McCrindell, & Co., Liverpool), 4, West Regent Street, Glasgow; James Fleming, Esq., J.P. (Messrs. Robert Cochrane & Co., Britannia Pottery), Glasgow.

Lancashire and Yorkshire Local Board of Directors — T. F. Mackison, Esq., J.P. (Messrs. Jas. Tattersall & Sons, Limited, Manufacturers), Heywood and Manchester; Samuel Osborn, Esq. (Clyde Iron and Steel Works), Sheffield; G. Hodgson, Esq. J.P. (Chairman Yorkshire Banking Company, Messrs. G. Hodgson & Sons, Engineers and Spinners), Bradford; Alderman Isaac Bowes (Director Mitchell & Co., Limited, Bury), Pendleton Iron Works, Salford; William Adams, Esq. (Messrs. Tomkinson & Adams, Carpet Manufacturers), Kidderminster; J. N. Sidebotham, Esq. (Hyde and Haughton Collieries), Hyde, near Manchester; Alderman William Noton (Chairman Palm Mill Spinning Co., Limited), Oldham; Manager, A. F. Maclure; Secretary, Walter Ireland.

In addition to this substantial directorate the Company are fast gaining ground in all parts of the Kingdom, their Liverpool branch being under the vigorous administration of Mr. William Heath, the acting district superintendent, who with a staff of agents, clerks, and canvassers, is making rapid headway in the city and throughout the portion of the country and North Wales allotted to his control. The Liverpool headquarters are located at No. 7, Victoria Street, and consist of an exceedingly handsome suite of general and private offices on the second floor of a grand block of stone edifice known as Fowler’s Buildings.

To come to the operations of the institution, however, its objects are:— 1. The insurance of employers against the risks imposed on them by the Employers’ Liability Act, and also at Common Law. 2. The defence of actions at law arising from unjust claims. 3. Joint insurance, protecting both employers and workpeople against all accidents incurred during Occupation, indemnity against drivers’ accidents, and vehicle insurance; also fidelity guarantees. The special features of the Company may likewise be briefly set forth as:— 1. The cultivation of direct business with insurers; and 2. The appropriation of the share capital among insurers with the Company. With such a splendid programme before them, employers of all classes would certainly consult their own interests by participating in the benefits so palpably held forth to them, and the best thing that they could possibly do would be to seek the advice and assistance of the courteous Liverpool superintendent.

We may also mention that the Company was admitted by the Tariff Fire Offices Committee as one of the associated companies for the transaction of fire guarantee business. Arrangements have accordingly been made for the conduct of this branch, which is being supervised with the greatest care. The results so far have been satisfactory, and the directors believe that by adopting a cautious and discriminating policy, a considerable profit may be anticipated from the fire department.

BERNHARD KAUFMANN, WHOLESALE MANUFACTURER OF DINING AND DRAWING BOOM SUITES, AND GENERAL UPHOLSTERER,
31 AND 33, EVERTON BROW, LIVERPOOL.

OPERATIONS were first commenced in this business about 1860, and a substantial and high-class business was rapidly developed by the founder. Mr. Kaufmann acquired the concern about six years ago, and under his able administration it has developed in a very noteworthy manner. The premises occupied are large and convenient. They comprise a suite of well-appointed offices, numerous warehouses, splendid show-rooms, and a range of fifteen workshops, thoroughly fitted up with apparatus, plant, and machinery of the best and most improved kind, all operated by a powerful Otto gas engine. The extensive yard is well stocked with all kinds of timber, and contains also several drying sheds and a row of stabling. The different departments have been exceedingly well arranged for the proper control of the business. Under such advantageous conditions an immense trade is conducted in the manufacture of dining and drawing room suites, in all materials and in all styles.

For thorough excellence of material, soundness of workmanship, and novelty and elegance of style, the firm has few, if any, rivals. The timber is selected from the very best growths, seasoned and dried on the premises, and well tested before being used, while all the other materials employed are the best and choicest that can be obtained. Only skilled workmen are employed, who conduct their operations under the superintendence of competent and responsible managers. Draughtsmen and designers are kept upon the premises, and many of the designs introduced by the firm are extremely artistic and elegant, and are counted among the most tasteful and popular in the trade. From the largeness of the transactions engaged in and the perfect nature of the productive resources, the house is able to quote prices which cannot be duplicated. For choice material, reliable workmanship, elegant designs, and amplitude of selection, Mr. Kaufmann’s establishment is unequalled in Liverpool or the district. Large and varied stocks are held which have been selected from an intimate acquaintance with the requirements of the trade, and have been arranged in a very convenient and effective manner. They include all kinds, from the cheapest to the most expensive, and will meet the requirements of the artisan no less than those of the wealthy and luxurious classes.

The trade done is exclusively wholesale, and an extensive connection has been developed by the house among furniture dealers and wholesale buyers generally in every part of the country, while the nucleus of a promising export trade has been formed. A force of from one hundred to one hundred and twenty skilled hands is employed, including draughtsmen, chair frame makers, cabinet makers, upholsterers, polishers, &c. The proprietor is eminently qualified to control a colossal establishment of this description. He is thoroughly experienced in the business, of sound, mature judgment, a keen buyer, and prompt and energetic in his administration. All his dealings are characterised by strict fairness and honesty, and he is much esteemed by the many that come into business connection with him. In private and commercial circles Mr. Kaufmann is well-known and respected for his ability, his well-merited success, and his inflexible integrity.

VERDON & CULLEN, CATTLE SALESMEN AND BROKERS,
23, SIR THOMAS BUILDINGS, LIVERPOOL.

THE very important nature of this business, which has now been successfully carried on for over sixty years, entitles it to rank among the foremost of its kind. It is impossible to overestimate the value of such a business, which helps to keep Lancashire, the Midlands, and the northern counties well supplied with live cattle for the butchers. The bulk of these are imported from Ireland, the aggregate import from that country exceeding the entire importation from all other sources. There is also a large trade done in Canadian cattle, of which this firm have a proportion, a former well-known feature of this business (i.e. the importation of Spanish and Portuguese cattle), having now practically ceased, owing to the cheaper productions of fresh meat and live cattle by America and other foreign countries.

This business was established as far back as the year 1824 under the above title, which is still retained by the successors. This firm took a prominent part in establishing by Act of Parliament, the Stanley Cattle Market, that has proved profitable and useful to this city. It is unique of its kind, being the only one established with parliamentary powers, the individual members’ names being retained in the Act. It can readily be imagined that so long a period devoted exclusively to this particular trade, has made this firm exceptionally conversant with every branch of it. Indeed, it is not too much to say that there is not a living authority who is now more recognised in the importation and management of stock from their birth to the butcher’s hands, than this concern. The weekly consignments reach large numbers, and these are disposed of in the public market. The intermediary connection among agriculturists, cattle dealers and producers, and wholesale butchers, is both far-reaching and valuable to all parties, and the name of the firm is thoroughly well known and trusted.

To mark a sense of the appreciation in which the citizens of Liverpool hold Mr. Cullen, he was appointed by Government to the honourable position of a Justice of the Peace for the city. A list of quotations and the number of cattle arriving, is regularly published by the firm, and is a useful and reliable market guide. The registered telegraphic address is “Vendor, Liverpool.” The premises comprise a very spacious and well-appointed suite of offices at the above address, suited in all ways to the business carried on. Every appliance for the lairage of large numbers of sheep and cattle at all times of the day or night is provided.

THOMAS DAVIS, MERCHANT TAILOR AND CLOTHING MANUFACTURER,
GREAT GEORGE PLACE, LIVERPOOL.

MR. Thomas Davis, a gentleman of recognised ability and long practical experience in the difficult craft to which he has devoted his best energies, entered upon his commercial career in 1863, occupying premises lower down the same thoroughfare, now known as 40, 42, & 44, James Street, and other places, and succeeded to the premises of the late Mr. Siddeley, Mill Street. He has now, however, concentrated his business into one focus, for the general contracting for the supply of public and other institutions. Naturally, under such favourable auspices his project flourished, and about a couple of years ago he transferred his quarters to the present more convenient and commodious premises, located directly opposite to St. James’s Market. Here his establishment consists of an exceedingly handsome three- storied edifice, excellently appointed throughout, and suited in every point of character and situation to the furtherance of a brisk first-class business of the kind. The large double-fronted shop, with its tastefully-dressed windows, extends back for a distance of thirty-five yards to the rear, and is very heavily stocked with a choice and carefully-selected series of all the most fashionable and seasonable fabrics, specimens of which are displayed to the best advantage.

Mr. Davis operates exclusively as a high-class tailor and clothier, making it a rule to permit nothing of a questionable character to enter or emanate from his premises. He has gained a widespread renown as a naval and military tailor, and enjoys contracts for the supply of clothing to the Liverpool constabulary, the ferry boats and corporation officials, &c., and recently he has been honoured with the appointment of Contractor of the Admiralty — the first of its kind that has ever been entrusted to a Liverpool house. He also supplies most of the large steamship companies, the Liverpool and other workhouses. His perfectly-equipped workshops on the first and second floors were visited recently by the Government inspector, and by him pronounced to be the best of their kind in the district. A large number of skilled hands is employed, under the personal supervision of Mr. Davis, and the large trade which he now enjoys is ample evidence that his efforts have not failed to meet with due appreciation and support.

THE LIVERPOOL INVESTMENT BUILDING SOCIETY,
INVESTMENT BUILDINGS, 67, LORD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE Liverpool Investment Building Society is located in a handsome and commanding building, which has been appropriately named Investment Buildings, and is itself one of the most important and satisfactory assets of the institution. Since its establishment in 1878, the Society has advanced on mortgage security upwards of £1,250,000, the amount outstanding at the close of the last financial year having been in round figures £482,350, and the paid-up capital over £250,000. During the last twelve months for which returns have been made up, although owing to the unsatisfactory state of business generally the transactions were not so large as in former years, the funds of the Society were kept fairly well employed. The number of guaranteed mortgages is being increased year by year, and the greatest care is exercised to ensure that the Society shall run no risk. The business of the Deposit and Current Account branches is well maintained, and the amount turned over in open accounts is larger than ever before. The directors have, wisely, steadily kept in view the desirability of accumulating a large reserve fund, and in doing this they have still continued to pay a regular dividend of four to four and a half per cent, per annum. The board of directors consists of gentlemen of tried experience and business capacity, and of substantial position in the commercial world, and the details of administration and organisation are cared for with great energy and signal capacity by the manager, Mr. W. P. Lockhart, to whose untiring endeavours is mainly to be attributed the fact that the Liverpool Investment Building Society is to-day one of the soundest and most flourishing institutions of the kind in the kingdom.

JOSEPH WALTON, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANT,
4, HATTON GARDEN, LIVERPOOL.

THE business carried on by Mr. Walton is a very old-established one, having been founded about a century ago. Mr. Walton became proprietor in 1854, and has since greatly extended a trade which was previously important. His premises comprise a spacious, well-appointed suite of general and private offices, duty-paid stores and cellars; also bonded stores. In connection with these a staff of clerks and warehousemen is employed, and throughout the north, south, and Midlands, and the north, south, and mid Wales, Mr. Walton is represented by travellers. The stock of wines and brandies comprises the finest vintages of France, Germany, Spain, and Portugal, imported direct from the best growers, and the whiskies comprise the best products of the most noted Scotch and Irish distilleries, thoroughly aged, mellow, and mature. Operating as he does on an extensive scale, Mr. Walton is able to supply the first of qualities in wines, spirits, and liqueurs, and he has therefore secured a large connection throughout both England, and Wales amongst retailers and hotel-keepers. In fact, this firm, old established as it is, is thoroughly worthy, on account of its stability and high class associations, to occupy a very prominent position in the present work.

THE COMPTON HOTEL,
CHURCH STREET, LIVERPOOL
(MR. WILLIAM RUSSELL, PROPRIETOR).

A VERY striking instance of well-directed and highly-successful hotel enterprise is presented by the well-known Compton Hotel at Liverpool, an establishment which has during the last sixteen or seventeen years gained a degree of popularity and general public favour no less remarkable than well-merited. This fine hotel, which, from the date of its first inauguration, has preserved its select and superior character in a most consistent manner, was formed in the year 1872-73 out of the fine building erected in 1866-67 by the late firm of Messrs. J. R. & W. Jeffrey & Co., known as Compton House all over the world. The noble building (a fine edifice in the style of the Italian Renaissance) lent itself especially to the purposes of a grand hotel, and the transformation was most successfully effected, as everyone will admit who has visited the “Compton.” The stranger in Liverpool cannot fail to be attracted by this stately pile of stone buildings, seven stories in height, the structure of which alone entailed an expenditure of over £150,000. The whole block is a most extensive and commanding one, and has a fine frontage to Church Street, being bounded in the rear by Leigh Street, and on the west and east by Tarleton Street and Basnett Street respectively. The spacious Mansard roof forms a delightful promenade, having been specially planned for this purpose, and the two towers, one at each end of the Church Street facade, are very conspicuous features in the vicinity.

Internally the Compton Hotel is fully in keeping with its promising external aspect. From the broad entrance hall we make our way successively into the restaurant and the luncheon rooms, and also, if inclination prompts us, into the billiard room, a noble salon containing no fewer than eighteen full-sized tables, by Mr. J. Ashcroft, of Liverpool, and reputed to be, without exception, the largest and finest billiard room in the provinces. The fine coffee-room on the first floor, with the ladies’ drawing-room adjoining, and the dining, reading, smoking, and all other public rooms situated in the most accessible parts of the building are all appointed in a manner consistent with the prevailing richness and elegance that characterise the whole establishment. Another most delightful feature of this hotel, although it occupies the finest and most central position in Liverpool, the windows on Church Street overlook the green and well-kept gardens of the Pro-Cathedral.

The bed-rooms have in many instances been so arranged that they can be used either singly or en suite, and the building in its entirety contains a total of about two hundred and fifty apartments, which are so perfectly equipped in all details that the most fastidious of guests would be at a loss to find fault with any of their arrangements. The hotel has yet to be built which can provide every one of its guests with a “corner room of the first floor,” but the Compton Hotel affords accommodation which is likely to satisfy all requirements, and the unquestionable excellence of its general organisation is quite fatal to the grumbling instinct and conducive to a keen appreciation of the perfect comfort and convenience that may be enjoyed beneath the hospitable roof of this splendid modern caravanserai.

All the domestic departments are in admirable working order, the kitchen being remarkably well equipped; and it is quite clear that the proprietor has spared neither effort nor expense in bringing every feature of the establishment up to the highest level of convenience. His enterprise in this direction, combined with his thorough knowledge of the requirements of a first-class hotel, has produced an ensemble embracing all the best qualities of the leading London and American hotels and ensuring the satisfaction of visitors by every possible means. The cuisine and attendance, as well as the residential accommodation, are equal to anything of the kind in England; and altogether the Compton Hotel commends itself in the strongest manner to all judicious travellers, its great and continued popularity proving beyond a doubt that those who have enjoyed its hospitality entertain agreeable recollections of the same, and do not fail to repeat their visits whenever opportunity offers.

Mr. William Russell, the proprietor (who has purchased the property comprising the hotel), is a gentleman well-known for his personal courtesy and administrative ability. He is quite the kind of host one always desires to see at such an establishment, careful of the dignity of his house, and equally watchful and considerate of his patrons’ interests and wishes, and under his proprietorship and supervision the Compton Hotel enjoys a class of patronage so large and so influential that, both in its commercial prosperity and its social reputation, have become firmly established and fully secured.

UNWIN & JACKSON, WINE AND SPIRIT BROKERS AND MERCHANTS,
9, ROMFORD PLACE, LIVERPOOL.

A LEADING house in its special line, and one deserving of particular mention, is that of Messrs. Unwin & Jackson, Wine and Spirit Brokers and Merchants, which firm is founded on the old firm of Unwin & Co., established at Rumford Place by Mr. John Unwin in 1832, who came from the island of Madeira, and it was for the sale of Madeira wines that the business was started, and for which class of wine the firm had a great reputation. The present proprietors commenced operations in 1870, and soon, by their experience and ability, succeeded in laying the foundation of what has now become such a prominent factor in this branch of commerce. The premises occupied are large and commodious, and conveniently situated near the Exchange. They comprise a suite of well-appointed offices, sample-rooms, stores, cellars, and spacious sale and auction room. An extensive and valuable business is here controlled in wines and spirits of the best and choicest character.

The proprietors are men thoroughly well acquainted with the business in all its ramifications, and of sound judgment and discernment. Everything they handle is procured from the best sources of supply, and is of guaranteed and reliable excellence. From the extent and value of their transactions, joined to their knowledge of when and where to buy, they are in a position to offer advantages in the way of prices which cannot readily be duplicated elsewhere. As exponents of the trade, their extensive stocks include the finest brandies, wines, gins, Scotch and Irish whiskeys, rums, cordials, and liqueurs, all of which are unsurpassed in excellence by those of any other similar first-class house in the country. The occasional sales held by this house are very popular, and attract wholesale buyers from all the principal commercial centres in the kingdom. The connection of the house is widespread and influential. A large staff of clerks and assistants is kept, and all orders, of whatever magnitude, receive prompt and careful attention. The proprietors give the business the full benefit of their constant and able personal supervision, and by their straightforward and honourable methods they retain the confidence and continued support of all who once come into business connection with them. They are of good standing in the commercial circles both of Liverpool and London, and in private life they are held in high respect by all who know them for their personal worth, active participation in the duties of citizenship, and Strict probity.

THE WATERFORD STEAMSHIP COMPANY, LIMITED,
20, WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS company ranks amongst the oldest established in the United Kingdom. It was established some time towards the commencement of the present century, and Mr. George K. Payne, who has been connected with it since the year 1838, is the able and energetic agent for Liverpool. In 1876 it became a limited liability company, but has always been known under the above title. They possess a fine fleet of powerful steamers, among which may be mentioned the “Dunbrody,” “Reginald,” “Comeragh,” “Lara,” “Creaden,” &c. They are commanded by officers of well-tried experience, fitted up in a superior manner for both passengers and cargo accommodation, and constitute an important factor in the carrying trade of the port of Liverpool. The business principally if not wholly consists in the carriage of passengers, cattle, butter, bacon, eggs, and every description of merchandise between Liverpool and Waterford.

Their steamers leave Liverpool four times a week, sailing every Saturday, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and from Waterford for Liverpool every Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, the average sea passage being fourteen to fifteen hours. They carry goods for a large number of stations, embracing the principal business centres throughout the South of Ireland, and goods are also carried at through rates from Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield, Bradford, Halifax, Huddersfield, Leeds, Burton-on-Trent, Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Stafford, Stockport, Oldham, &c., &c., to Waterford, Limerick Junction, Tipperary, Cahir, Ennis, Thurles, Gort, Tuam, Rathkeale, Newcastle, Foynes, Listowel, Tralee, &c., &c. An important feature of the conduct of the business is, that this company insure all goods shipped by their steamers at 2s. 4d. per cent. to traders having yearly accounts, and 5s. per cent. to occasional shippers; values to be declared at time of shipment. The head offices are situate in the Mall, Waterford. In Liverpool the firm occupy offices situate at 20, Water Street, and Clarence Dock.
The registered address for telegrams is “Steam,” at Waterford, Liverpool or Bristol.

RYLANCE, MEDD & CO., PATENT MACHINE OAKUM MANUFACTURERS, &C.,
MERSEY OAKUM WORKS, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21 & 23, NAYLOR STREET, VAUXHALL ROAD, LIVERPOOL.

THE well-known and useful, undertaking carried on by Messrs. Rylance, Medd & Co., was originally established by Messrs. Banister, Esdaile & Co., in the year 1868, and for the past four years has been conducted by the present proprietors, with marked success, energy and ability. The premises in the occupation of the firm have recently been considerably enlarged, Messrs. Rylance, Medd & Co. having purchased the adjoining property for extension. They are commodious and well-appointed offices, as also very extensive warehouses and works, the whole covering a large area of land in one of the best positions in the city. The latter are supplied with machinery of the latest and most approved pattern for the manufacture of patent oakum and various surgical dressings. Large transactions are carried through by this firm in the following varieties of oakum, both spun and unspun, viz., Navy Oakum, Merchant Navy Oakum, Best Navy Oakum and the finest white and golden-coloured Deck Oakums. The proprietors of this concern are conducting a business which is admittedly one of the best and most important of its kind in Liverpool. An enormous number of transactions are effected, both on export and home account.

The firm do business with all the leading houses throughout the United Kingdom, and employ a competent staff of thoroughly experienced workmen. This is an undertaking requiring, of necessity, the utmost care and energy in order to accomplish its satisfactory and successful completion. It is just in these matters, however, that Messrs. Rylance, Medd & Co. are especially distinguished. They possess a most exhaustive intimacy with every section of their business, devoting to all its concerns their personal and undivided attention. The results of such a policy are plainly visible in every feature of the work engaged in. It is at all times satisfactory to bear witness to a work conducted with exemplary care and on the most honourable principles, and this satisfaction becomes heightened very materially when, as in the present instance, the enterprise receives the full and well-merited support of the public — a recognition which will doubtless be long enjoyed and earnestly wrought for by Messrs. Rylance, Medd & Co. of Liverpool. We may add that the firm are putting down for the year 1892 double plant of the very latest type of improved machinery, together with new engine and boiler.

JAMES FRASER, LITHOGRAPHIC AND GENERAL PRINTER, BOOKBINDER, STATIONER, &C.,
5, CROSSHALL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS large and influential business, one of the oldest of its kind in the city, was established in 1844 by the father of the present proprietor, and was taken over by the latter gentleman in 1886. At the above address Mr. Fraser occupies very large and commodious premises located on the upper floors of a handsome block of buildings, and occupying an area of about 5,000 square feet, running from Crosshall Street to Preston Street, where there is a goods entrance, and all modern appliances for an extensive country trade. The various departments are replete with machinery and appliances of the most improved description, and Mr. Fraser gives employment to a large staff of skilled and experienced hands. He undertakes all kinds of lithographic and general printing, bookbinding, and the manufacture of general and Commercial stationery for the trade. A leading speciality is the manufacture of labels of all kinds. This branch has grown to be one of the largest in the provinces, and is replete with all the newest machinery for the saving of time and labour. The trade is widespread and is steadily growing. Mr. Fraser has a well-established connection in Liverpool, and throughout Lancashire, Cheshire, and North Wales, which is well founded on the eminent reputation so long enjoyed, and the thorough confidence established by the Superior quality and character of all the work turned out. Mr. James Fraser possesses the advantage of long and thorough practical experience, and gives his direct personal attention to the management of every department of the business.

D. W. PETRIE & SON, COMMISSION, INSURANCE, AND FORWARDING AGENTS,
FENWICK CHAMBERS, 8, FENWICK STREET, LIVERPOOL, AND D. W. PETRIE & CO., 46, GRESHAM STREET, LONDON, E.C.

THIS highly important business holds a position of great value in Liverpool, and is conducted in a most commendable manner. The valuable experience possessed by the firm, and the many facilities at hand, enables them to perform their functions with entire satisfaction to their clients. The business was established by Mr. D. W. Petrie in 1865. The founder some time ago took his sons into partnership, and by doing so greatly added to the already large connection. The firm combine the duties of commission, insurance, and forwarding agents, entering fully into each branch, and are employed in consigning goods to all parts of the world, which they do with great correctness. They are situated in a capital position for the purpose of their calling, and have a suite of offices in Fenwick Chambers, well adapted for the purposes of the business. Mr. Petrie, senior, who manages the London shipping business, assisted by his son, Mr. Frank Petrie, is a director of the Liverpool Apothecaries’ Hall. His other son, Mr. Charles J. Petrie, personally superintends the Liverpool concern. Mr. Petrie, senior, came from Australia, where he was engaged in business prior to commencing in Liverpool. The very important nature of the transactions in which Messrs. D. W. Petrie & Son are so constantly engaged proves how much they are held in respect by the merchants and shippers of the port and city. Both gentlemen are extremely courteous, and for their own personal merits are general favourites.

ROBERT MCGOWAN, PRINTER, STATIONER, &C.,
19 & 21, RYLEY'S GARDENS, HACKINS HEY, LIVERPOOL.

This representative concern was projected in the year 1810 by Mr. Robert McGowan, and has continued to be promoted in the same family, from uncle to nephew, down to the present time, the principal of to-day having succeeded to the thriving business in 1873. The premises occupied are in every way exactly adapted to the wants of a brisk business of the kind. They consist of a large and substantial three-storied building, the ground floor of which is elaborately equipped with splendid wharfdale and other machines and printing appliances, driven by two powerful gas engines. On the first floor are the offices and well-appointed show and sale rooms, the store-rooms being located on the top storey. Mr. McGowan operates on a very large scale in every branch of letterpress, commercial, and lithographic printing, the manufacture of all kinds of account books, and the sale of stationery and stationers’ requisites of every description. Among the special features of his business may be mentioned the printing of Stock Exchange price lists for members of the Liverpool Stock Exchange, and the production of choicely designed ball and concert programmes, menus, wedding and visiting cards, cricket and football fixtures, and the like. A very large staff of efficient hands is regularly employed, and nothing could be more commendable than the order and system which prevail in every part of the premises. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume amongst members of the Stock Exchange, merchants, and manufacturers, and the business in all its branches is conducted by Mr. McGowan in person, with keen judgment and energy, upon principles which have won for him the esteem and respect of all those who have had the privilege of his acquaintance.
[Note: The original spelling was “M’Gowan”]

R. SIMPSON, TEA AND COFFEE AGENT,
59, STANLEY STREET, LIVERPOOL.

DURING the century that has passed the development of the tea and coffee trade of Great Britain has been simply phenomenal; for, from being actual articles of luxury coming within the pockets of only the opulent, both commodities are now available amongst persons with but moderate means. It was in the year 1889 that Mr. R. Simpson commenced his career of activity in Liverpool as the accredited representative of the celebrated firm of tea and coffee dealers, Messrs. Game, Harrison, & Larner, Limited, of 2 and 4, Eastcheap, London, E.C. His premises are exactly adapted to the requirements of a very brisk business of the kind, being located in the heart of the city, and comprising a spacious well-appointed office and sample-room, where the various brands and blends of the finest teas and coffees that the world produces are at the disposal of expert tasters in the trade. The samples thus approved of by large wholesale and retail buyers in the grocery and allied trades are ordered at the Liverpool office, and the supplies are forwarded direct to the purchasers from the London house. Under Mr. Simpson’s vigorous control the Liverpool business has literally progressed by leaps and bounds, a gratifying condition of things, that is the outcome, first, of the high excellence in quality of all the commodities supplied, and second, to the sound policy of administration adopted and pursued under his able direction.

SIMON JUDE & WEST, CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS,
14, NORTH JOHN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE well-known firm of chartered accountants named above holds a prominent position in the commercial world of Liverpool, and originated in the year 1881, at 5, Cook Street, a move being subsequently made to the Queen’s Insurance Buildings, where Mr. Jude, continued the business alone for a while, but was presently joined by Mr. Miller, who, however, retired by effluxion of time in 1891. Mr. Joseph West, the manager of the firm, was then taken into partnership by Mr. Jude, and the title of the firm became as at present, the business being continued at the above address in North John Street. Here the firm have a fine suite of commodious general and private offices, and carry on one of the best accountants’ businesses in the city. They are also the secretaries of the Liverpool and District Incorporated Brewers’ and Spirit Merchants’ Association, the Liverpool and District Mineral Water Manufacturers’ Association, and also secretaries for the Alliance of the Mineral Water Manufacturers’ Associations of England, Limited, and secretaries to the Farmers’ Association in the Liverpool district.

A most valuable connection is maintained among shippers, merchants, manufacturers, and traders generally, and the firm hold the important position of managers for the Liverpool Trust Company, Limited. In various parts of England, including the metropolis, and also in colonial and continental parts, Messrs. Jude and West have many clients, and they enjoy in a very large measure the esteem and confidence of those who engage their professional services in any capacity. They have worthily earned the high reputation they maintain for practical skill, sound judgment, and trustworthiness, and all the affairs of their business come under the direct personal supervision of the principals, Mr. Simon Jude, A.C.A., and Mr. Joseph West, A.C.A. Both these gentlemen have had the most valuable and comprehensive experience, having both for many years held prominent positions in the service of the leading Liverpool firm of chartered accountants, and they have developed their own business upon a basis which is likely to prove the foundation of a permanent success.

KERR AND JUBB, BELTING AND HOSE MANUFACTURERS, MACHINERY MERCHANTS, AND GENERAL MILL FURNISHERS,
4 AND 6, DRURY LANE, LIVERPOOL
(telegraphic address, “Belting,” Liverpool).

THIS firm continues to maintain the leading position it has held so long in the leather and cotton belting industry, making also a speciality of ship and fire hose. Founded close upon a quarter of a century ago, it has steadily grown in favour with all classes using belting, and has succeeded in establishing a reputation for quality, unsurpassed by any similar concern in the United Kingdom. The founders of this spirited enterprise were Messrs. R. Kerr & Mr. T. Jubb, who were subsequently joined by W. T., J. R. & W. S. Kerr, sons of one of the founders. The head house is in Halifax, Yorkshire, and comprises extensive offices, warehouses, and manufactory. There are also large manufactories in Birmingham and Manchester, which are also fitted up with the best machinery and appliances, and where also the most skilled labour is employed.

As showing the highly useful and extensive nature of the business, the following list is given:— Oak tanned leather belting, raw hide leather belting, the Liverpool leather belting, now in use in many of the most important mills, factories, and works in the kingdom. Belt butts, pump and service leather, H X L cotton belting, camel hair, rubber, link, and dermatine belting, canvas, leather and rubber fire and ships’ hose and fittings, laces, engine packing, cotton waste and sponge cloths, rubber and dermatine goods, &c. The firm are very justly famed for their enamelled gauge glasses, plain gauge glasses and lubricators. They are special agents for Liverpool and district for patent wood split pulleys, which are rapidly claiming universal attention and adoption. It is, however, natural that in a work more particularly devoted to the century’s progress in Lancashire, it is to the Liverpool branch of this business that we wish to refer.

This branch was opened by Mr. Henry A. Cole, about ten years ago, and owes its importance and eminence to his enterprise and business ability, and to the splendid manner in which his efforts have been supported by the unequalled quality of the goods supplied by Messrs. Kerr & Jubb. Thoroughly conversant with every detail of the business, his advice on belting and other appliances has come to be considered of great value, which, coupled with his invariable courtesy, has made him exceedingly popular. It is an interesting fact, that the electric light installation at the German Exhibition, London, and for the House of Lords, as also the machinery in most of the principal mills, is driven by belts of Messrs. Kerr & Jubb’s manufacture.

Mr. R. Kerr, senior, has for sixteen years represented the south ward of Halifax. The firm are contractors to Her Majesty’s Government, and have a large connection in all parts of the country. The commercial standing is of the highest order, and the firm individually and collectively are most highly esteemed. In the splendid offices, warehouses, &c., occupied by Messrs. Kerr & Jubb in Drury Lane, Liverpool, may be seen a representative selection of the firm’s goods.

THOMAS ATKIN & CO., SUMAC IMPORTERS AND MERCHANTS IN TANNING MATERIALS, DYEWOODS, AND DRYSALTERY,
34, BEAUFORT STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AS FAR back as the year 1852 the well-known firm of Messrs. Thomas Atkin & Co. commenced their operations in Liverpool as Sumac Importers, Dyewood Merchants, and Drysalters, and in those branches of trade they have from the first maintained a prominent and distinguished position. Their premises in Beaufort Street are known as Toxteth Mills, and have a main frontage of a hundred and fifty feet, with a rearward extension of one hundred and twenty feet to Mann Street at the back, where there is a separate entrance for the receipt of goods. This extensive establishment affords the most complete and satisfactory accommodation for a large business of the kind in which Messrs. Atkins have been so long engaged. The show-rooms, ware-rooms, and general and private offices are all admirably arranged, and there is on extensive yard in which the firm keep great stocks of logwood, fustic, ebony, camwood, barwood, Brazil-wood, and various other woods used for dyeing purposes. From these extracts of superior quality are made, and the trade in this department of the business is very extensive and important. The dyewood-room is fitted with powerful machinery for grinding dye woods, steam being the motive power used, and the smoke from the works is carried off by a tall chimney, one hundred and fifty feet high.

As importers of sumac and of all the various kinds of drysalteries used by dyers and tanners, Messrs. Thomas Atkin & Co. have long enjoyed high repute, and continue to retain the support and confidence of a most valuable and widespread connection. They give employment to a numerous staff of hands in their works and warehouses, and control a substantial trade among dyers and woollen, cotton, and silk manufacturers. Despite the fact that this business has been in existence close upon forty years it still shows signs of continuous increase and development, a fact which is attributable to the capable and careful personal management it has always enjoyed. The house is to-day one of the most respectable and representative concerns in its special line of commercial operations.

JOHN C. PLIMPTON & CO., AMERICAN MERCHANTS AND FACTORS,
65 AND 67, VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS large and flourishing business was founded in South John Street in 1875, and was transferred in 1884 to the newly built and very commodious premises now occupied in Victoria Street. Here the firm have a fine warehouse, with splendidly appointed show-rooms and sale-rooms on the ground floor, and here they hold a stock which is one of the largest and most comprehensive of its kind in the British Isles. This stock consists entirely of American ware and novelties of every description, comprising the thousand and one articles of domestic utility for which we are indebted to the inventive genius of our American cousins. Messrs. Plimpton’s stock also takes in American organs and pianos, boots and shoes, agricultural implements, lawn-mowers, combination lamp-stoves for greenhouses, ice-cream freezers, express wagons, hand carts, “sulkies” for children, all kinds of chairs, folding tables, step ladders, coal stoves, celluloid collars and cuffs, in fact, this warehouse might almost be described as a permanent exposition of the resources of all the leading manufacturing industries of America. A leading speciality is found in the celebrated “Plimpton” and “Putnam” horse-shoe nails, which are unsurpassed for strength, toughness, ductility, and fine finish. These nails are not only highly efficient, but are also economical in use, and have met with great favour, having won the gold medal at the Liverpool International Exhibition of 1886. Another branch in which the firm are largely engaged deals with furniture of all kinds, including a “speciality,” i.e. roll-top office desks.

Messrs. Plimpton’ s business is one of the largest concerns of its particular kind in Great Britain, and it has had a very remarkable development, and has an extensive and valuable wholesale connection in all parts of the United Kingdom. An immense trade is carried on, and dealers should send at once for Messrs. Plimpton’s trade catalogue and price list, in which they will learn of many things to their advantage. The house is well represented “on the road” by travellers, and all its affairs are ably and energetically administered by Mr. John Calvin Plimpton, a pushing and enterprising business man of broad experience and progressive ideas, who has won widespread esteem by his unfailing courtesy and constant endeavours to meet the requirements of his many customers in all parts of the United Kingdom.

GEO. ROBERTSON & SONS, SHIP CHANDLERS, &C.,
31, STRAND STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS firm, so well known in the shipping world, has been established sixty years, having been founded in London twenty-seven years before opening the Liverpool premises, which event took place thirty-three years ago. As ship chandlers and sail-makers this firm especially excel, having the greatest experience, and employing the most skilful men in the latter-named department. Their sails are renowned for their durability, correctness, and strength. They possess fine facilities for attending to urgent orders, and make a point of fulfilling all promises made. Their premises at 31, Strand Street consist of five floors, and are well laid out. The first floor has a spacious office, with stores for shipping. The rest of the building is apportioned to sails, ropes, storage, &c.

In addition to a full and representative stock of all the usual articles to be-found in the chandlery department, there is a valuable stock of engineers' requirements, all of a serviceable and highly useful nature. Messrs. Robertson & Sons represent Coubro & Scrutton, of 18, Billiter Street, E.G., and 11, West India Dock Road, E., London, and are, besides, agents for the celebrated Whitecross Company, Limited, wire and wire-rope manufacturers. The firm employ no travellers, being too well known. The finely-managed business continues steadily to increase, and maintains the reputation it has so long held. As forwarding agents this firm do a considerable turnover, and despatch goods to all parts of the world. The whole business is conducted in a manner which reflects credit upon all concerned. The long experience possessed by the proprietors gives confidence to themselves and to their supporters. Messrs. Robertson & Sons are noted for their strict integrity and courtesy, and bear the good will of all their acquaintances, alike in business and private life. The London representatives are Messrs. Coubro & Scrutton, at addresses mentioned above.

GAVIN BROTHERS, WHOLESALE PROVISION MERCHANTS,
5, COOPERS ROW, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG the most active and enterprising wholesale houses dealing in provisions is that conducted by Messrs. Gavin Brothers, which was established by the present partners in 1876. The premises consist of a large, substantial brick building, four stories high with extensive basement. The spacious sale-room, well-appointed office and commodious warehouse on the ground floor, extending eighty feet to the rear. The basement and upper floors being used as store-rooms, the whole premises being admirably appointed and equipped for the advantageous prosecution of the business. The firm carry on a very extensive business as provision merchants, and hold an immense stock of provisions and ship stores, the principal features being canned goods of all kinds from all the best producing centres. They are the sole agents for the important firm of Messrs. John Gillon & Co., Leith, the extensive provision importers and preserved meat manufacturers, also for Messrs. P. C. Bunch & Sons, preserved butter packers and bacon curers, Copenhagen; and for Messrs. C. G. Landais & Co., butter packers, Chantenay, France. The business is entirely wholesale, principally shipping and export, an extensive business being done in supplying ships with stores for the outward-bound journeys. An efficient staff is constantly and permanently employed, a large trade being controlled amongst the principal shippers and export merchants of the city. The business is most ably conducted by the partners, who are both gentlemen of long and practical experience in the trade, and owes much of its success and pre-eminent position to the energy and enterprise displayed in the management which has resulted in placing it as one of the most substantial houses in this important trade.

H. T. ROPES & CO., ICE MERCHANTS,
34, NORTH JOHN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

TO MR. H. T. ROPES, the founder of this house in the year 1847, belongs the honour of having been the pioneer in this important branch of labour. Mr. Ropes continued to push his business with such success that he was quickly followed by others, until now the ice industry has grown into one of the most gigantic commercial institutions in the kingdom. In 1888 Messrs. F. H. and C. A. Ropes succeeded to their father’s splendid business, carrying on his operations on the same broad and liberal lines, and vastly increasing his resources, scope, and aims. It may, moreover, be mentioned that the talented founder of this house was also the first to introduce American manufactured goods into England. The premises occupied are very extensive, and consist of a spacious order and retail office at 34, North John Street, and elaborately fitted warehouses and store-rooms at 92, 94, 96, Norfolk Street, provided with refrigerators and the like, as well as offices and stores at 95, Chester Street, Birkenhead. The ice, which is entirely imported from Norway, is admitted to be purer and more generally useful than the much-vaunted artificial product, and is equally fitted for table use. The trade controlled, although principally local, is one of considerable volume amongst hotels, steamers, restaurants, butchers, fishmongers, and others, and a very substantial business, moreover, is done in the sale of carefully-constructed ice-boxes and refrigators of all sizes, for the use of refreshment caterers as well as private families. The entire business is conducted by Messrs. Ropes with spirited energy and enterprise, and no firm could have won by more honourable and legitimate means the high reputation and widespread patronage which this house has so long and so worthily enjoyed.

WM. MASON, PROVISION MERCHANT,
9, MATHEW STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IN reviewing the trades and industries connected with the vast provision-importing trade of Liverpool of to-day, it is particularly interesting to come across a house of such extensive business relations as that which was organised in the year 1879 by Mr. William Mason, at 18, Leigh Street, and pursued with such vigour that it became necessary, in 1890, to transfer the business to its present premises. These comprise a commodious basement and the three floors above, the offices being situated on the first floor, while the remaining ample accommodation is fully utilised for storeroom and warehousing purposes. The stock here embraces all kinds of provisions; but Mr. Mason's name is unquestionably identified with the development of the pickled meat trade, his choice produce being rapidly sold, and hence always of the highest excellence. The leading lines held comprise all the best brands of ribs, rootless tongues, Irish tongues, sausage meat, tender loins, sausage skins, feet, heads, jowls, and hocks. All these goods are sent out in their original packages, barrels, tierces, and kegs; and can thus be guaranteed to be genuine. Mr. Mason operates on a very extensive scale as a distributor of these commodities to wholesale and retail provision dealers and grocers throughout the north of England, Yorkshire, Lancashire, the Isle of Man, and Ireland, his business being actively pursued through the agency of a staff of first-class travellers, several clerks, and a force of efficient warehousemen. The business in all its branches receives the strictest personal supervision of the principal.

THOMAS MATHER, CORN MERCHANT,
12, DRURY LANE, LIVERPOOL.

THE firm that furnishes the theme of this brief historical review occupies the unique position of being one of, if not the oldest corn merchants in the city. The business has descended from father to son, and the original title of “Thomas Mather,” has remained unchanged. The present proprietor, Mr. Thos. Mather, has managed the concern for over a quarter of a century. Since the foundation of this concern, there have been many changes, and the import corn trade has developed to a marvellous extent. While keeping fully abreast of the times, the sound and honourable lines which have characterised the actions of the firm since its inception have been strictly adhered to, and the name of Thomas Mather stands high in the city, and has an unsullied reputation, the present proprietor fully upholding the traditions of his house. Entering with spirit and enterprise into his calling, the position of the firm has been exalted to a higher altitude than ever reached before. Important transactions are conducted in grain, and Mr. Mather, who is a well known and respected figure on the Exchange, on whose committee he was until recently, is also a member of the Corn Trade Association, and takes an active part in its operations. The offices occupied are well adapted and centrally situated for the purposes of the business, and assisted by an efficient staff, Mr. Mather conducts it in a decidedly superior manner, taking a pleasurable interest in his operations. We can safely say that no firm is more worthy of honourable mention in these pages than the one whose rise and progress enables us to mark the century’s progress in Lancashire.

C. TOWNSHEND, COMMISSION SALESMAN FOR FRUIT, FLOWERS, AND POTATOES,
QUEEN SQUARE, LIVERPOOL.

THE business carried on by this firm is one of the most extensive of its kind in Liverpool, and was established in 1879 by the present proprietor at the above address. The premises occupied consist of a handsome and well-appointed office and large and commodious warehouse admirably fitted up. The very large and varied stock held embraces green fruit of every description and continental produce generally. Mr. Townshend is a large importer from America, France, Spain, Portugal &c., and the best fruit-producing centres in the United Kingdom, where the firm is well known among the leading growers. The proprietor has a good and rapidly increasing connection as a commission salesman for fruit, flowers, and potatoes. He has every facility for the safe handling of all goods, employing six competent warehousemen. The business is entirely wholesale, and a large and increasing trade is controlled among wholesale and retail fruiterers, greengrocers, and general shopkeepers in Liverpool and the neighbouring district. It is most ably and efficiently conducted under the personal management of the proprietor, who is a gentleman possessing eighteen years' experience in the fruit trade, and is always on the alert to obtain for his patrons the very best benefits of the market, while purchasers can invariably depend upon receiving a strictly truthful representation as to consignments entrusted to him for disposal. The business is noted for the spirited enterprise of its management and is justly reckoned one of the most substantial houses in this important trade. It may also be stated that Mr. Townshend has been one of the principal factors in opening up and maintaining the large Jersey potato trade, which is now carried on with Liverpool, his firm being the first in that city to send a buyer there and open up a direct trade. During the past ten years the trade between the Channel Islands and Liverpool has increased enormously.
The firm’s telegraphic address is “Townshend,” Liverpool.

TOOTELL & CO., GENERAL PRODUCE MERCHANTS, FARINA, SAGO FLOUR, &C.,
8, ALEXANDRA BUILDINGS, ORMOND STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS well-known firm was founded in 1869 by Mr. G. H. L. Tootell, trading as Tootell & Co. The firm carry on a large business as general produce merchants, and hold a high reputation for Sizing flours, Farina, Sago flour, Rice flour, Sizing starch, &c. They are probably best known for their specialities used in the sizing of textile fabrics, chief amongst these being their T. & Co. Farina, perhaps more largely used in Lancashire for this purpose than any other make; and deservedly so, for as Mr. Tootell had an intimate knowledge of what was needed, he devoted his energies to the improving and perfecting its manufacture for this special use, the constantly-increasing consumption of which proves that he has succeeded in his efforts. This Farina is the pure starch made from a particular variety of potato, carefully and scientifically prepared without the aid of any chemicals whatever; it is of great strength and unvarying regularity. Besides its use for sizing it is greatly in request for British gum-making, Calico printing, Bleaching and finishing, also by Woollen, Flannel, and Felt manufacturers, Paper-makers, Indiarubber, Lace and thread manufacturers. Ground and sifted, it is coming largely into use for the preparation of special pastry and cake flours, and general confectionery purposes.

Messrs. Tootell & Co. also do a very extensive business as importers of sago flour, and control the entire output of certain favoured districts in the Straits Settlements where the Sago palm flourishes in the greatest perfection. Having thus the best possible raw material to work on, they have, by dint of long and careful attention to its manufacture, succeeded in producing a finished product (sold under the trade marks, “T. & Co.,” Bird, and Frog, as below), superior in strength, purity, cleanliness and uniform regularity to anything imported into this country; and from the fact that in 1891 they imported on their own account fully one-fifth of the total quantity shipped to Liverpool, some idea may be formed of the extent of their transactions in this one article alone; the firm also import largely under various brands the ordinary qualities of fine Sarawak. The recommendations of firms who have used these specialities here and have named them to their correspondents in various foreign countries, have resulted in a considerable export trade, which is constantly increasing. Tapiocas (flake, bullet, medium pearl, and seed pearl) form an important adjunct to this business, and are in increasing demand all over the country. They only import the best kinds, all second-class qualities being put on one side.

In addition to the above, the other articles which they import may be summed up as potato products—Glucose, Virine, and Caramel, ail of first-class manufacture. A limited business is also done by them in Oil, Tallow, Sizing-wax, and other articles of general produce. The trade-marks of the firm are:—

The connection extends all over the United Kingdom, the firm being well represented by commercial travellers, agents, &c. Mr. Tootell, by the liberal way in which he conducts his business, has long held the respect of those coming in contact with him. Messrs. Tootell & Co. act also as forwarding agents, and ship for various houses, large quantities of goods (grey and white cloth, gold thread, &c.) to the East Indies, Straits Settlements, China, and Japan.

JOHN ESSON, PRINTERS’ ENGINEER AND PRINTERS’ BROKER,
CABLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IN ALL the long category of printers, engineers and printers’ brokers, there are few better known names than that of Mr. John Esson, whose works, styled the “Elm” Engineering works, are situate at London. The depot in Liverpool was established in 1887 at the above address. The premises comprise a spacious handsomely-appointed showroom at the entrance, with large well-fitted office at the end, and extensive and commodious stores at the rear. The stock is vast, varied, and valuable, and embraces printers’ materials of every description, as everything that a stationer, bookbinder, or any one connected with the auxiliary trades can require in the way of appliances. It literally includes bodkins und bags of quoins, oil cans and threads, presses, platen machines, cutting machines, cutting presses, eyeletting machines, label machines, lithographic machines, rollers, ruling machines, rolling and glazing machines, stereo-apparatus, wood letter, Dawson & Sons Wharfedales, and Crossley’s “Otto” gas engines, &c., &c.

The business is conducted in a most capable manner by Mr. S. C. Timms, the appointed manager for Liverpool, who devotes the whole of his time and attention to the interests of his firm. A large and rapidly increasing business is controlled, under his energetic and able management, and to this fact, combined with his sterling integrity and sound business capacity, may be attributed the exceptional success that has already been achieved. The connection is influential and widespread, being particularly well established among the printers, stationers, bookbinders, &c., in Liverpool and the neighbouring manufacturing towns. Mr. John Esson, the proprietor, is a practical engineer of great ability; he has devoted himself for years past to the requirements of printers. Shrewd business capabilities, unceasing attention to the wants and wishes of his customers, and unfailing reliability, have brought him to the front of the calling to which he has devoted himself. His success has been thoroughly well deserved, and we congratulate him upon it.

GILCHRIST & CO., IRON AND WOOD SHIPBUILDERS, &C.,
SEFTON IRON WORKS, 3 AND 5, SEFTON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE extensive business carried on by Messrs. Gilchrist & Co., Iron and Wood Shipbuilders, Engineers, Boiler-makers, and Millwrights, at the Sefton Iron Works, was established over thirty years ago by the father of the late Mr. A. Gilchrist, who died a few months ago. [It] is now carried on under the above title by Mr. M. W. Hawson and Mr. W. R. Jones. The business was originally located at Queen’s Dock; but in consequence of its rapid development and the necessity for increased accommodation, the more extensive and commodious premises now occupied were acquired some four years since. The works are laid out on an extensive scale, covering nearly an acre of ground. They are eminently adapted to the business, having been specially fitted up and arranged in the most careful and complete manner, to ensure the effective and economical working of the various departments.

The machinery and appliances embody all the latest improvements and the most comprehensive utilities, and include several powerful steam-hammers, punching, shearing, and drilling machines, lathes for various purposes, screw-cutting and screwing machines, pattern makers’ lathes, a very powerful punching machine, working both horizontal and vertical punches. This is probably one of the heaviest machines of its kind in Liverpool. Travelling cranes for lifting and removing heavy weights, and a powerful plate-bending machine, which will easily bend a one-and-a-half-inch plate; several steam-engines of an aggregate of fifty horse-power, are located in various parts of the works. Messrs. Gilchrist & Co. undertake the repairing of iron and wooden ships of all sizes, marine and land boilers and engines, masts, yards, and tanks, and every description of millwrights’ work. Frequently the firm have upwards of three hundred hands employed, when the works present an animated scene of industrial activity. Both the partners possess the advantage of long and thorough experience. They conduct this large and influential business with marked ability, energy, and enterprise, sparing no effort to maintain and extend the high reputation the firm has so long enjoyed.
Telegrams should be addressed, “Energy, Liverpool.” Telephone No. 1,045.

FROST & FRASER, MANUFACTURING STATIONERS, GOLD BLOCKERS, CARD EDGE GILDERS, DESIGNERS OF ARTISTIC NOVELTIES IN ADVERTISING, &C.,
BECKWITH BUILDINGS, 42, SOUTH JOHN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AFTER long and thorough practical experience of a very high-class character, Messrs. Frost & Fraser commenced business as manufacturing stationers early in 1891. They have secured very commodious premises located on the top floor of that large block known as Beckwith Buildings, No. 42, South John Street. The various departments are replete with all the most improved machinery and appliances. Although but recently established, Messrs. Frost & Fraser have secured a first- class and rapidly developing connection as manufacturers throughout of artistic gold and silver blocked show-cards, book, and fancy bevelled edged card-gilders to the trade. Menu, wedding, and memorial cards, ball programmes, visiting, correspondence, and business cards, gold bevelled and blocked, folded and scored fancy work, being a class of trade which has had their special attention. Photo mounts in enamelled or Bristol boards, &c., made from own or any design to order. They have purchased the exclusive use of a bevelling arrangement which places them in a position to turn out all plain and fancy card-edge gilding much quicker and considerably cheaper than by the system now in vogue.

The firm are also publishers’ case binders, and are turning out some very good and artistic work in this branch. Advertisers will find they are the people to consult about the production of novelties; and their commercial photographic department enables them to photo the article advertised, and by this means a real photographic print is included in the blocked design chosen, at such a trifling extra cost that must commend itself to manufacturers and patentees seeking an effective showcard. Calendars, desk tablets, paper knives, pocket memorandum tablets, &c., made to any pattern and blocked or printed.

Upwards of a dozen skilled and experienced men are busily employed, and the work is carried out in the highest style of the art. Both the partners take an active part in the business, which is conducted throughout with marked ability. The firm make a speciality of trade work. Previous to commencing business Mr. Fraser was with Messrs. Dan. Harper & Co., and Messrs. Davies & Co., of London. Mr. Frost was also with Messrs. Moore & Son, Manchester, and afterwards held an important position with Mr. George McAllister, gold blocker, Liverpool. Messrs. Frost & Fraser are well employed in every department, and devote the whole of their attention to the business with that laudable enthusiasm and spirited enterprise which are so essential to complete and permanent success.

ROBERT P. KER & SONS, NURSERY AND SEEDMEN,
BASNETT STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A PROMINENT and representative firm occupying a leading position in the ranks of the well-known and important commercial houses in Liverpool is that of Messrs. Robert P. Ker & Sons, Nursery and Seedsmen, Basnett Street, Liverpool. This thriving business was originally founded by the father of the present proprietors in the year 1860, and was carried on by that gentleman until 1886, when it was taken over by the present principals, who continue to trade under the business style of Robert P. Ker & Sons. The large and commodious double-fronted premises are situated in a prominent position at the corner of Leigh Street, and the handsomely appointed interior extends to a depth of sixty-six feet, occupying two floors of equal extent above and having a conveniently-arranged office at the back. The stock is very extensive and varied, and embraces agricultural, garden, and flower seeds of all kinds, as well as garden requisites of every description. The roomy and spacious store-rooms on the first and second floors contain a large assortment of seeds of every kind, and the nurseries, which are situated within easy access of Liverpool, at Grassendale, near Cressington Station, are fitted with all the latest scientific improvements in heating apparatus and other modern appliances for the production of ornamental foliage and flowering plants, select bedding plants, strong vines, &c.

Already, in 1863, Mr. Robert P. Ker was awarded the first prize at the Manchester and Liverpool Agricultural Show, a distinction that has been followed by many other flattering marks of this firm’s unquestionable and widely recognised merit. They have received four very handsome and valuable gold medals, of which the most important is the one awarded them in the Jubilee year in 1887, at Manchester, for the finest general collection of plants. The other two are dated 1879 and 1881, and were awarded—one in Manchester and the other in Liverpool for twelve plants. The large, beautifully and artistically worked silver medals, three in number, are dated 1880, 1881, and 1884 respectively. At the Liverpool International Exhibition in 1886 Messrs. Robert P. Ker & Sons received the gold medal for groups of hardy trees, shrubs, rhododendrons, &c. But it would require more space than is at our disposal to mention the many other occasions at which their eminence in their line of business has been publicly recognised. They are supported by an extensive and high- class connection throughout Lancashire, Cheshire, and North Wales, and are large exporters of their “Reliable Seeds” to Canada, Newfoundland, Buenos Ayres, Chili, and Peru. A large staff of clerks, warehousemen, and assistants is employed. Messrs. Robert P. Ker & Sons are a firm of very high reputation, and hold a position of considerable consequence and influence in commercial circles.

H. & C. GRAYSON, LIMITED, SHIPBUILDERS, ENGINEERS, BOILERMAKERS, &C.;
WORKS: 179, REGENT ROAD; OFFICES: 21, DRURY BUILDINGS, WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

SPECIAL interest attaches to the above firm as being probably the oldest concern of the kind in Liverpool, operations having been commenced as far back as the close of the eighteenth century by Messrs. Grayson & Co. Subsequently the firm became Messrs. C. & H. Grayson, and the business extending with remarkable rapidity, it was afterwards formed into a limited company under the title of Messrs. H. & C. Grayson, Limited, the managing directors being the son and grandson of the founder, together with Mr. T. Downie and Mr. J. G. Thompson. The works occupied are near the Canada and Langton Docks, and are immense in their spaciousness, and are thoroughly equipped with appliances, plant, and machinery of the most improved and powerful description. As in repair-work despatch is often of the greatest importance, large numbers of skilled workmen and assistants are employed, amounting on some occasions to as many as three thousand. In the extent of their resources this firm are acknowledged to have no superiors.

Commencing originally as shipbuilders, a branch in which they obtained a high reputation, the firm have of late years devoted their attention mainly to the repairing of vessels and machinery, the building of sections of vessels, and the conversion of steamers into sailing-vessels. Their success has been commensurate with the ability and means they have employed, and their renown, as well as their efficiency, is increasing every year. Among the many important undertakings they have carried to a successful completion, was the conversion, some ten years ago, of the steamship “Great Britain” into a sailing-vessel. She was of about three thousand tons, and the operation amounted practically to rebuilding the vessel. The lengthening of the steamships “European” and “Agia Sofia,” too, was a no less creditable achievement of the firm, as well as the repairing of the steamship “Lennox,” which, after having been literally “stove in twain” on Formby beach, was floated into graving-dock in halves and was set right in a durable and perfectly satisfactory manner. That well-known “Leviathan of the Deep” — the unfortunate “Great Eastern” — was made over to Messrs. Grayson some two years ago for dismantling and breaking up. The vast undertaking has been successfully carried out.

Every kind of ship repairing is taken by the firm, from the topmast to the keel, their work principally lying amongst the Atlantic liners. Some idea of the extent of their transactions may be gathered from the fact that they dry dock upwards of three hundred vessels every year. The partners in this celebrated firm are gentlemen of large and valuable experience in every department of their important business. They are skilled engineers and marine architects of recognised fame, thoroughly enterprising, and fully in touch with the great strides that have been made in their profession. It is worthy of notice that this firm was one of the first to recognise the superiority of iron over wood in shipbuilding. They occupy a high position in commercial circles, and all their transactions are characterised by methods of equity and integrity. In private life they are held in high esteem for their personal worth, the warm interest they take in all public movements, and their strict commercial probity.
The city office is at 18A, Drury Buildings, 21, Water Street; telephone, No. 777; and telegraphic address, “Regulator, Liverpool.”

PELLING, STANLEY & CO., PROVISION MERCHANTS,
4 & 6, VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL.

The vast business controlled by this well-known firm was founded under the present proprietary in 1861, and has its headquarters in very extensive premises at the above address, comprising a commodious block of brick building five stories high. The basement of this block constitutes an additional floor eighty feet long by thirty feet broad, and is used for the storage of all kinds of heavy goods in their original packages, hams and bacon in vast quantities being especially conspicuous here. On the ground floor there is excellent office and warehouse accommodation, while the first floor contains a spacious suite of general and private offices, with sample-rooms adjoining. The three upper flats are devoted wholly to storage purposes, and contain an enormous stock of general provisions, brought from all the chief sources of supply, and carefully selected with a view to maintaining the high standard of quality that has always distinguished the supplies of this firm. In addition to the large premises in Victoria Street, the firm now occupy very extensive warehouses in Walter Street, at the Stanley dock in the north end of the city, specially constructed for the trade they carry on here, where immense stocks of goods of all descriptions are constantly stored. Here also are the stables of the firm.

Mesers. Pelling, Stanley & Co. have their leading speciality in canned meats, and salmon of all the best known and most approved brands, and they are the sole wholesale agents in Liverpool for the Armour Canning Company, of Chicago, whose celebrated products in corned beef, ox tongues, ham lunch tongues, brawn, soups, &c., they distribute very largely to the trade in all parts of the United Kingdom. These world-renowned “premier quality” goods, together with Armour’s pure lard and Armour’s extract, are imported direct from Chicago by Messrs. Pelling, Stanley & Co., and complete stocks of them are always on hand at the warehouses in Victoria Street and Walter Street, ready for the fulfilment of the largest orders at a moment’s notice. The firm are also agents for Atkinson’s patent hams, bacon, and lard, brands which are well known and highly esteemed all over the world. In its entirety, Messrs. Pelling, Stanley & Co.’s business is one of the largest concerns of its kind in existence, and the influential connection maintained extends among wholesale provision merchants, grocers, and exporters in every quarter of Great Britain and Ireland.

From the date of its foundation this great house has pursued a career of remarkable progress and development, and it stands to-day in the front rank of the trade, with a constantly-increasing clientele and an unsurpassed reputation. Employment is given to a very numerous staff of travellers, clerks, and warehouse assistants, aggregating about one hundred and forty hands in all; and the whole business receives the personal supervision of the several partners, Mr. Pelling, Mr. Stanley, and Mr. Litt, of whose ability, experience, and thorough command of the details of the provision trade it would be superfluous to speak. Their energetic efforts and straightforward methods have largely conduced to the establishment and maintenance of the high repute and prestige enjoyed by this typical house in the commercial world of Liverpool.
Telegrams for Messrs. Pelling, Stanley & Co. should be addressed “Pelling, Liverpool.”

H. C. RAMM & SONS, SHIP CHANDLERS, BONDED AND FREE STORE DEALERS, PROVISION MERCHANTS, AND SAIL-MAKERS,
6, 8, AND 10, GRAYSON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IT IS now just thirty years since Mr. H. C. Ramm initiated the firm named at the head of this article. Operations were commenced in Frederick Street, and the founder, by his perseverance and close attention to business, was soon rewarded with a substantial trade. Every year the house has increased in popularity and patronage. After his death the business was taken over by the present proprietors, his two sons, Mr. H. N. Ramm and Mr. E. C. Ramm. Under their control the business continued steadily to increase, and to meet the increased requirements of the business a removal was made in 1871 to the present address, 6, 8, and 10, Grayson Street. The premises now occupied are large and commodious, and in every respect well suited to the business on hand. They include four floors and a basement, with dimensions from forty to fifty feet. On the ground floor are the offices, a compact, well-appointed suite, and an extensive warehouse; the floors above are fitted up with ships' stores of a miscellaneous character. The whole of the premises are well fitted up with every requisite and convenience for the adequate discharge of the business.

A large and important trade is controlled by the firm as ship chandlers, bonded and free store dealers, provision merchants, and sail-makers. All the goods kept by Messrs. Ramm are of first-class quality, and are well known and appreciated by local buyers and dealers. The firm have an intimate acquaintance with the best sources of supply for all the diverse goods and articles they deal in, and all their selections are made with a good knowledge of, and careful regard for, the wants of their patrons. They buy largely and in the best markets, and they are consequently in a position to offer advantages in-price which cannot be easily duplicated. Extensive and varied stocks are held of prime hams, bacon, cheese and all kinds of provisions, tinned goods, preserves, pickles, candles, and all descriptions of ships’ stores. The firm are largely occupied as makers of sails of every description, and a valuable and constantly increasing trade is done in this direction. Large stocks of ropes, tackle, spars, &c., are kept. During its long and prosperous career the house has established a large and influential connection, mainly among shipowners and officers. Several assistants (as well as experienced sailmakers) are employed, and all orders entrusted to the firm are sure to be filled promptly and satisfactorily, with the best of goods at the most reasonable prices. The proprietors are men of wide experience in their calling, and are in a position to conduct any transaction in their line on the best possible terms. They are strictly fair and honourable in all their dealings, and are much respected both in business and in private life.

M. WOODWARD & SONS, TOXTETH CONFECTIONERY WORKS,
MILES STREET, DINGLE, LIVERPOOL.

THE enterprise and energy which are so eminently characteristic of the business men of Liverpool are, perhaps, nowhere more conspicuous than in the extensive establishment so well and widely known as the Toxteth Confectionery Works, of which Messrs. M. Woodward & Sons are the proprietors. This business, which is now the largest of its kind in Liverpool, was established in 1848 by Mr. Michael Woodward at No. 54, Mill Street. Subsequently he opened other branches in the city; these are now carried on by his sons. About fifteen years ago Messrs. Woodward & Sons purchased the premises now occupied in Miles Street, Dingle. These they have thoroughly rebuilt. They now comprise three distinct, large, and well-constructed buildings which have been specially fitted up and arranged in the most complete manner to ensure the effective and economical working of the various departments.

No. 1 warehouse consists of three floors and basement. The basement is used for storing timber, making cases for goods, and packing. No. 1 floor contains the pan-room and mixing-room; No. 2 floor, the lozenge room and drying-room; No 3, gummed goods, gelatine fondants, &c. No. 2 warehouse, three floors, ground floor, engine and boiler house and sugar mill. The two floors above are used as packing-rooms, warehouse, and manufactory for Jap goods. No. 3 warehouse, two floors; the ground floor is used for breaking up cocoanuts and the upper floor for bottling candies, sweets, &c., &c. The machinery and appliances embody all the latest improvements and the most comprehensive utilities; indeed, as regards structural arrangements, capacity for production and cleanliness the establishment may be justly considered a model of its class.

The firm turn out, in large and increasing quantities, all kinds of sweets, hard confectionery, and candies, lozenges, &c., &c. The ingredients are selected with the most scrupulous care; perfect purity is guaranteed, and with the superior facilities at command the firm are enabled to give their customers exceptional advantages both in quality and price. Some idea of the magnitude and importance of their operations may be gathered from the fact that Messrs. Woodward & Sons give regular employment to about two hundred hands. In addition to a considerable export trade the firm have a very extensive connection with travellers and agents in all parts of the United Kingdom. The business of the house is conducted with great energy and ability, and in that true spirit of commercial enterprise which makes the interests of customers a consideration of the very first importance; this praiseworthy policy has borne its inevitable fruit — well-merited prosperity.

HENRY DURANDU, IMPORTER OF CIGARS, &C.,
27 AND 29, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG the representative houses connected with the growth and development of the general cigar and tobacco wholesale trade in Liverpool of to-day, there are perhaps but few that can compare in point of magnitude and importance with the above house. Mr. Durandu entered upon his splendid business in the year 1854, bringing an intimate knowledge of the trade in all its branches to bear upon the transactions of his house, and so marked did his success prove to be that he found it expedient to transfer his premises from the corner of Exchange Street to its present splendid site. The offices and warehouse are very extensive, the interior of the building extending for some forty feet to the rear, while there are great stock rooms approached by an ornamental staircase, on the first-floor above. The stock held is perhaps one of the largest and best selected of its kind in Liverpool; and although it contains a very fine series of high-class cut tobacco, loose and in packets, the leading line consists of cigars from all the most celebrated sources in the world.

Mr. Durandu operates on a very extensive scale as a wholesale dealer, and has besides a very substantial hotel connection. He moreover runs three very capital retail shops, one at 3, Dale Street, one at Queen Insurance Buildings, and the other at 65, Church Street, on the site of the premises previously occupied by Mr. Durandu for about twenty years. This is a very beautifully fitted establishment, and all the resources of the cabinet maker’s art have been exercised in the showcases and fittings generally, and it is now without doubt one of the handsomest shops in Liverpool. The stock held is very complete, and the show of smokers’ requisites is unequalled, and from these effects very considerable business among ship captains and other officers. Altogether a staff of six clerks and assistants, and a numerous body of warehousemen is employed under the personal direction of the principal, who conducts the entire business in a most masterly manner, and has deservedly won the esteem and respect of all those who have come into commercial contact with him.

ANTHONY JONES, THEW & CO., WHOLESALE DEALERS IN SUGAR, FRUIT, RICE, PROVISIONS, &C.,
25, VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS eminent firm was founded about the year 1846 by the firm of Messrs, Woodall and Jones, and continued under that title for some years. Eventually Mr. Woodall retired, and the business was carried on by Mr. Jones, in conjunction with Mr. Thew, under the style of Anthony Jones and Co. On the death of Mr. Jones in 1872, Mr. Thew continued the business under the old style of Anthony Jones and Co., and in 1886 the son of Mr. Jones was admitted into partnership, as was also Mr. Powell. The latter gentleman retired in 1889, and the house then assumed its present title, Anthony Jones, Thew & Co. The premises occupied comprise a large and handsome stone building of four stories, with spacious and elegantly appointed offices on the ground floor at the main entrance. Facing Stanley Street, in the rear, we find the large sample and sale-rooms, while the extensive warehouses, in which the firm hold most comprehensive stocks, have their frontage on Vulcan Street. Messrs. Anthony Jones, Thew & Co., carry on a business which ranks among the largest concerns in its line in the city, and as wholesale dealers in sugar, fruit, rice, canned goods, and provisions generally, they hold a most influential position. No Liverpool house in this trade is more widely or more favourably known, and the connection maintained extends among wholesale and retail merchants in all parts of the United Kingdom.

The firm are represented by a large and capable staff of travellers, and all the affairs of their business are administered with conspicuous ability and enterprise. They are wholesale agents for a number of notable specialities, including Brooke's Soap (“Monkey Brand") and the “Titan'' (Patent) Soap, both of which enjoy an enormous sale. Telegrams should be addressed “Anthony Liverpool,” and the firm’s telephone is No. 458. The principals of this house are gentlemen of great experience in connection with the important trade they represent. They take an active personal part in the management of the business, and enjoy the esteem and confidence of the whole commercial community in Liverpool.

CLARKE & GOULDER, FLAT OWNERS AND FORWARDING AGENTS,
D CENTRAL CHAMBERS, SOUTH CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS firm commenced business in 1875, and have now upwards of twenty flats and barges carrying merchandise from Widnes, Warrington, Weston Point, and other places on the river, to Liverpool and Birkenhead, for transshipment. Seven of the barges are the private property of the firm, others being hired; their total carrying capacity exceeding 2,500 tons. Messrs. Clarke & Goulder also act as forwarding agents, securing the necessary freight, and passing the Customs’ entries, &c., for merchandise to all parts of the world. The firm have a first-class connection with the leading chemical manufacturers, iron-works, and other industrial establishments throughout Lancashire and Cheshire, as well as with the principal merchants and shippers in the city. Mr. Clarke, the sole proprietor, takes an active part in the business, and that commendable spirit of enterprise and energy which has always so strongly animated the members of this firm is conspicuous in the management of every department.
The firm is on the Telephone system No. 1435, and the Telegraphic address is “Forwarding Widnes” and “Liverpool.” Widnes office, West Bank Dock.

JOHN T. WARRINGTON, PROVISION MERCHANT,
8, BUTTON STREET, AND 8, RAINFORD GARDENS, LIVERPOOL.

MR. WARRINGTON may probably be credited with controlling the very largest and most important cheese factor's business in the kingdom. He is a native of Staffordshire, where he was born in 1826, and on the completion of his education he went to Hanley and became apprenticed to one of the most important grocery houses in the county. At the end of his term of apprenticeship, Mr. Warrington began business on his own account at Leek, which town was close to his birthplace, Chiddleton. This was in 1848, and Mr. Warrington was then twenty-two years old. He devoted his energies especially and almost exclusively to the development of a trade in English cheese, and so successful was he that he soon had a most flourishing business, with branch warehouses in Manchester, Birmingham, Macclesfield, and Hanley. Upon these lines matters progressed very favourably for twenty years, but in 1868 the disastrous effects of the rinderpest in various parts of the country compelled Mr. Warrington to abandon the English trade in cheese and turn his attention to the American product, which was then beginning to attract notice. It was, therefore, in 1868 that Mr. Warrington began those operations as an importer of American cheese which have developed to such immense importance as to gain for him the name, “King of the Cheese Trade.” His name has been more closely identified than any other with the growth of the trade in American and Canadian cheese. The extent of his undertakings now is something extraordinary, and it is no uncommon thing for this house to sell between 20,000 and 30,000 boxes of cheese in a single week.

Mr. Warrington’s London business is admittedly the largest in Tooley Street, the great metropolitan centre of the provision trade, and is under the able direction of Mr. Duncan Warrington, the principal’s son. There are also branches at New York, Montreal, and Chicago; and Mr. Warrington has two other sons in Canada (one at Belleville and one at Montreal), who do a large trade direct and also ship extensively to their father. Besides this the house has a host of agents in Canada and the States, and the New York buyer, Mr. Orpe, is a gentleman of exceptional experience and ability. The premises occupied in Liverpool are very extensive and afford excellent accommodation. Here the routine of a vast trade is conducted with consummate skill, and from these vast warerooms great quantities of goods are sent out daily, not only to all quarters of the United Kingdom, but also to South Africa, Malta, Gibraltar, and other parts of the world, particularly to those localities where British troops are stationed. This firm’s Red and White Rose brand of cheese is known throughout the civilized world, and is held in very high esteem for its sound quality and uniform merit.

The house maintains a most influential connection at home and abroad, and its importance in connection with the trade it represents is evidenced by the fact that cable messages sent by Mr. Warrington in the morning from Liverpool to his managers in New York and Canada will cause a rise or a fall in the cheese market in a very few hours, not only in America, but also in England. Mr. Warrington is associated as director with a number of important commercial companies, and is Deputy Chairman of the Adelphi Bank. He is not, however, at present able to take any active part in public life or politics, owing to the heavy and constant demands made upon his time by his immense business, which he has conducted from the first without the aid of partners. Mr. Warrington is held in the highest esteem by all who know him, and his position is undoubtedly among the most representative and distinguished merchants of modern Liverpool.

R. HOLMES & CO., WINE, SPIRIT, AND GENERAL MERCHANTS, COMMISSION AND FORWARDING AGENTS,
PEKIN BUILDINGS, 21, HARRINGTON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ALTHOUGH but recently established, this firm have secured a position in the very first rank among their contemporaries, and have acquired a first-class connection amongst the leading merchants, manufacturers, and warehousemen in Liverpool, Manchester, and the great industrial centres of the North of England. Messrs. Holmes & Co. secure freight, take out bills of lading, pass customs entries, and attend to the forwarding and despatch of goods to all parts of the world. They also undertake the superintendence of English and foreign travellers representing firms abroad. An immense amount of expense is thus saved, and a vast amount of irritation and loss through delay and other causes is obviated. The firm are also the sole agents for Branson & Co., manufacturers of the celebrated “Branson's Coffee Extract,” W. G. Barrett & Co., rectifying distillers, Dublin; the Dickson Beef Tea Co., London; Henly & Son, cider growers, London, Devon, Somerset, and Hereford; and V. Fournier & Co., Cognac. Messrs. R. Holmes & Co. occupy a well appointed suite of offices in Pekin Buildings, Harrington Street, with an efficient staff of clerks, correspondents, and travellers busily employed.

The business in every department receives the direct personal attention of Mr. R. Holmes (late of the Colonial Forces, South Africa, and mining overseer, Venezuela, South America), who is a member of an old and respected Liverpool family, being grand-nephew of John Holmes, one of the late mayors of the city, who some forty years ago was a prominent banker in Liverpool and Isle of Man. He is also a freeman of the city, and will, no doubt, in the near future, be an aspirant to municipal and parliamentary honours. In social and mercantile circles Mr. Holmes is well known and highly respected, and is widely recognised as a courteous and enterprising gentleman.

MOULTON & CO., ESTATE AGENTS, VALUERS, &C.,
11, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ORGANISED originally at No. 61, Lord Street, when Mr. T. A. Moulton joined Mr. F. H. Picton, and the firm became Francis H. Picton and Moulton, the rapid development of this business necessitated a transference, in 1890, to its present address. The premises now occupied are in point of character and situation exactly adapted to the wants of a brisk business of the kind. They comprise a handsomely-appointed and commodious suite of general and private offices, affording ample accommodation for a busy staff of clerks. Here a capital business is in operation, including every branch of estate agency work, the valuation of property, the purchase or disposal of land and houses for clients, and sales of property by auction. The connections of the firm extend to all parts of the kingdom, including many London clients, and are well founded upon the eminent reputation it has always enjoyed. Mr. T. A. Moulton, who is now the sole proprietor, since Mr. F. H. Picton’s retirement from business, is a gentleman possessing the advantage of a long, thorough, practical experience, and exercises that sound judgment and well-directed energy in the management of his business which has always characterised his professional career. It may be remarked that Mr. Moulton has the entire management of the trust estate of the late Sir James A. Picton, a gentleman of more than local celebrity.

HUGH BROWN & SONS, IMPORTERS OF AMERICAN LEATHER,
40, HANOVER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS splendid business was originally established in Edinburgh by the late Mr. Hugh Brown, and was transferred to this city in 1879. The nature of the operations carried on is exceedingly extensive, this business being a leading one in the leather trade, and there are few better known houses than that of Hugh Brown & Sons. As importers of American leather of all kinds they are well known in all sections of the trade, and as tanners, at their own famous Halstead yard, near London, they occupy a position of great importance. These fine tanneries are capital specimens of what a first-class concern should be, and the quality of the leather produced there is unrivalled. English hides alone are treated, and only English oak bark is used, and the long practical experience of the house enables them id obtain most gratifying results. The head offices and premises are at 40, Hanover Street, Liverpool, and are not only very commodious, but also admirably adapted to the requirements of the trade, being lofty and well-ventilated. They are six stories in height, and contain excellent offices, storerooms, &c. There are also extensive warehouses at Campbell Street, where capital facilities are to hand for storing leather in a suitably manner. The combined operations of the firm are now immense. They have most valuable connections with the leading manufacturers and merchants. The connection exists throughout England, Scotland, and Ireland. Several commercial travellers are engaged in covering the ground. The present firm is composed of Messrs. A. R. and J. R. Brown. These gentlemen are held in much respect by all who have the pleasure of their acquaintance. They are possessed of excellent commercial tact and ability, and by their courtesy and integrity are well maintaining the high reputation of their house.

WHITE & WRIGHT, DEALERS IN SURGICAL AND ORTHOPAEDIC INSTRUMENTS,
93, RENSHAW STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE above proprietors established their business at its present site in 1881, and by their intimate acquaintance with all its ramifications, and the energy and tact they displayed in its administration, the foundation of an important concern was soon securely laid. The premises occupied are attractive in appearance and ample in accommodation. They comprise a large showroom well fitted up, and spacious and convenient warehouses. An extensive and high-class trade is conducted in the sale of surgical and orthopaedic instruments of every make and for every purpose. The proprietors are men of thorough knowledge of their business and the most implicit reliance can be placed upon the perfect excellence of the articles emanating from their establishment, while every article is perfectly reliable in material and of the most modern and improved design and make. From the great extent of their transactions, the firm have large influence among manufacturers, and prices at this establishment are of the most satisfactory kind, regard being had to the eminently superior nature of the commodities offered.

The stocks kept are almost endless in their variety; every surgical instrument, apparatus, appliance and requisite is to be found in their collections, including metrotomes, lithotrites, urethra dilators, aspirators, ecraseurs, thermographs, illuminated lamps, galvanic apparatus, thermocauteries, surface thermometers, transfusion apparatus extension appliances, antiseptic dressings, sphymographs, midwifery pouches, pocket and hospital cases and cabinets, amputating cases, hypodermic syringes, opthalmoscopes, laryngoscopes, microscopes, auriscopes, inhalers, respirators, self-acting enemas and stomach pumps, every kind of eye and dental fittings, trusses, air and water beds and pillows, splints, lint, and every requisite for hospital use. The firm have acquired a considerable reputation for their skill in repairing all kinds of surgical instruments, &c., and a large staff of competent workmen is kept in constant employ in this department, and excellent work, prompt attention and moderate charges are guaranteed. The proprietors' active personal supervision is given to the business, which derives unmistakable benefit therefrom. Their business transactions are conducted-in a straightforward and honourable manner, and in private life they are much respected.

HENRY THOMPSON AND SONS, PROVISION MERCHANTS,
CLAYTON SQUARE, LIVERPOOL.

OPERATIONS in the above line were commenced in 1850, at which time the house was established by the senior partner, Mr. Henry Thompson. He brought to bear upon his new undertaking great ability, energy and foresight, and it rapidly grew in public favour and patronage. The extensive and handsome buildings occupied have been built expressly for the trade, and are thoroughly equipped with every appliance and expedient that long experience could suggest. The interior arrangements are well-nigh perfect in their completeness and organisation, and the immense transactions in which the house engages are conducted in the most practical and systematic manner, manifestly evincing that the administration of affairs is in the hands of an experienced and capable chief. The goods issuing from this establishment are well-known and highly reputed in all the western counties, both for their general superiority and for their uniform excellence.

The establishment is noteworthy for the extensive and valuable business it controls in cheeses, particularly Stilton and Cheshire cheeses, of which they make a speciality, and for which they have obtained an enviable reputation throughout the country. Another leading line with this noted house is that of Cumberland and Wiltshire hams and bacon, in which they probably do the largest trade in Liverpool. Heavy stocks are held of all the principal items, and large and important orders can be filled with completeness and promptitude. The connection belonging to this long-established and responsible house is of an extensive and highly influential character, and the spirited, able and honourable policy of the proprietors is every day increasing it in magnitude and importance.

In the control of this exceptionally large business, branch houses form a marked feature, the following being the chief centres of operations:— 9, Elliot Street, Clayton Square, 41, Leece Street, St. John’s Market, New Front, and 6, St. James’ Place. The proprietors are gentlemen of wide Experience and thorough practical knowledge in their special lines, of rigidly honourable business principles, and of high commercial and financial standing. Mr. Henry Thompson is justly considered one of {he leading and representative men in this branch of commerce, and for many years he has been acknowledged the finest judge of English and foreign produce in the country.

JOHN LYON & CO., MINERAL WATER MANUFACTURERS,
VICTORIA WORKS, LORD NELSON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IT APPEARS from the commercial annals of this city that this notable concern was projected in the year 1877 by its present able proprietor, Mr. John Lyon, a gentleman of recognised ability and extended experience in connection with the important branch of industry to which he has so vigorously and successfully devoted his best energies; and doubtless the best way in which to indicate the character, scope, and aims of his undertaking would be to give a general description of his premises as they at present obtain, and to supplement this with a few observations concerning the nature of the operations there being carried on. The factory, with its well-appointed suite of offices attached, is a self-contained one; that is to say, all the processes involved, from the concoction of the syrups, the purification and aeration of the water, the bottling, stoppering, packing, and delivery of the goods, is carried out in its entirety upon the spot by a staff of skilled hands. The plant of machinery, most of it the invention of the firm, is about one of the best of its kind in the city, and the firm have gained quite an unsurpassed reputation for the high excellence of all their beverages, having won no less than ten of the highest awards made at recent exhibitions in London, York, Newcastle, Cardiff, and elsewhere. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume, and, besides a very large local and district connection, the firm do a heavy export trade, sending their famous drinks to all quarters of the globe. The entire business is conducted with marked ability, energy, and enterprise under the strict personal supervision of Mr. Lyon, upon principles which have won for him the confidence and esteem of all those who have come into commercial contact with him.

WM. HEAPY & SONS, PROVISION MERCHANTS,
18, MATHEW STREET, TEMPLE COURT, LIVERPOOL.

DATING back in its foundation to the year 1867, this well-known house was established by Mr. William Heapy, the senior partner, since deceased, who was joined by his sons in 1880, when the firm assumed the present title. At the above address Messrs. William Heapy & Sons occupy large and commodious premises, which comprise an extensive warehouse on the ground floor, with well-appointed offices above, and stock-rooms in the upper portion. The premises are eminently suited to the business, having been specially fitted up and arranged in the most careful and complete manner. Messrs. W. Heapy & Sons hold a very large and thoroughly representative stock of Irish and American provisions, hams, and bacon of fine quality, cheese from the best Canadian and American dairies, the whole selected in the best markets with great care and sound judgment. The trade is of a widespread, influential, and steadily-growing character. A very brisk business is done in every department, several experienced travellers representing the firm in all parts of the United Kingdom. Both in commercial estimation and in the confidence of the trade the house stands in the very first rank. Mr. G. H. Heapy, the sole and partner, takes an active part in the business, and that commendable spirit of enterprise and energy which has always so strongly animated the members of this firm is conspicuous in the management of every department.

ALEXANDER M. SMITH & CO., SEED CRUSHERS AND MANUFACTURERS OF PALM AND COCOANUT MEAL AND CAKE,
KENT STREET OIL MILLS, LIVERPOOL.

THE immense business carried on by this notable firm was founded nearly thirty-five years ago, and has had a highly successful career under the personal management of the experienced principals. The Kent Street Oil Mills form a large and commodious building equipped with the best modern machinery and appliances for all the processes of the industry, and upwards of one hundred hands are here regularly employed in the different departments of this busy and interesting establishment. Messrs. Alexander M. Smith & Co. have their specialities in Palm nut meal and Cocoanut cake. They were the first to introduce Palm nut meal to English stock feeders, and this article is now very largely used, being held in the highest esteem by dairy farmers, on account of its great value as a milk producer, in which respect it has been proved by actual experience to be far superior to the best linseed cake. The Cocoanut cake is readily eaten by all kinds of stock, and besides being particularly valuable for all animals in milk, it is also used for fattening animals as a mixture with other ingredients. This combination is recommended:— twenty-eight pounds of silage made in a stack from second crop clover, cut into chop with about sixteen pounds of oat straw, fifteen pounds of pulped turnips, and about six pounds of mixed meal, consisting of decorticated cotton cake, cocoanut meal, barley meal, and locust bean meal, with a flavouring of fenugreek. Upon this mixture animals are found to thrive extremely well.

“The Field,” of January 22nd, 1887 (p. 115), speaks very highly of Messrs. Alexander M. Smith & Co.’s Cocoanut cake, and says: “We should think it would be an excellent food for cows eating silage, as it is not at all aperient in its action.” The oils obtained by Messrs. Smith in the processes by which this valuable feeding stuff is prepared are in great demand for soap-making, on account of their purity and uniform quality. In all their specialities this old and well-known firm carry on a very extensive home trade, and vast quantities of their productions are exported to America and all parts of the Continent. Both the Palm nut meal and the Cocoanut cake are put up in bags of two cwt., and each bag is branded with the firm’s registered trade mark, the letters “A.M.S.L.,” enclosed in a diamond.

J. W. ALLISON, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANT, TEA AND COFFEE SALESMAN, GROCER AND ITALIAN WAREHOUSEMAN,
OXFORD HOUSE, 17, WEST DERBY ROAD, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG the businesses in this line in Liverpool, there are few that present greater promise of obtaining popular prominence, or more deserving of honourable mention, than that of Mr. Allison. The premises occupied, which cover an area of over two thousand square feet, admirably situated at the corner of West Derby Road and Ogwen Street, are strikingly handsomely adorned and are a credit to the good taste of the proprietor. Although, comparatively, this is but a recently established business, tracing its origin back to only a few years’ perseverance, energy, ability, and a long experience gained in one of the leading houses in Yorkshire in this line, have combined in crowning the founder’s efforts with well-merited commercial prosperity and daily augmenting success. The long line of handsome plate-glass windows, seven in number, in which are tastefully displayed a choice selection (too numerous to mention) of the best products of the most eminent manufacturers in the various lines, are an irresistible attraction when coupled with the honourable reputation of the proprietor, well supported by the fact that he is Messrs. Kennaway & Co.’s agent in Liverpool, who rank amongst the oldest, largest and most highly respected firms in the United Kingdom, tracing back their origin to 1682. A large portion of Mr. Allison’s comprehensive stock is stored in the basement and at the back of his premises, which are both used as warehouses; and his prosperity we consider is mainly attributable to an invariable supply of the best articles obtainable, on the correct principle that “quality is the test of cheapness!” He has fully sustained his “renom,” daily increasing, as a tea and coffee specialist, by his judgment and discriminative ability in blending, and has special and valuable appliances for grinding and roasting coffee, which is always done under his personal supervision. It is quite natural, therefore, that the number of his customers should continue to augment. Held in high esteem by all those who know him in his commercial and social world, Mr. J. W. Allison, who is still but a young man, has the brightest prospect of one day reaching a high and enviable position, both as a private individual and an honourable and enterprising member of our commercial world.

G. T. SOLEY & CO., SHIPOWNERS, SHIP BROKERS, AND COMMISSION MERCHANTS,
DOMINION BUILDINGS, 28, BRUNSWICK STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS is a firm which has been well known in Liverpool for a number of years, and which has held a leading position in shipping circles since its foundation, which took place in 1861, the founder being Mr. G T. Soley. This respected gentleman died seven years ago. The present partners are Messrs. Robert K. Kelley (son-in-law to the late Mr. Soley) and Mr. Richardson Bell. Both these gentlemen were members of the firm during Mr. Soley’s lifetime. The firm has extensive operations in ship-brokerage and commission business, and are owners of several sailing vessels, wood, iron, and steel built, trading to all parts of the world. In addition to their own vessels Messrs. Soley & Co. are the agents for a large number of vessels engaged in the Canadian trade, and in other quarters. The offices are fine examples of mercantile neatness and comfort, and are of considerable extent.
The telegraphic address is “Soley, Liverpool.” Telephone No. 1626.

GEORGE HADFIELD & CO., CHEMICAL MANURE AND BONE WORKS,
LIGHTBODY STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS establishment has been in existence for well-nigh three-quarters of a century. Operations were first commenced by Mr. George Hadfield, who developed the concern with marked energy and ability, and soon raised it to a recognised position in the trade. Ample and convenient premises are occupied as general and private offices, and at the rear of these is a spacious yard containing a number of covered sheds of various sizes, in which the different processes of manufacture are carried on. The premises, regarded as a whole, have been exceedingly well arranged, for the successful control of the business on hand; and the equipment, which comprises some of the best and most modern plant and machinery, is the manifest outcome of the firm’s long experience and liberal and progressive policy. Under conditions of the most favourable kind, an extensive trade is conducted by the firm in the manufacture of artificial manures of every description.

The products of this noted house are well-known to dealers and consumers throughout the three kingdoms, and are universally regarded among the most competent judges as the standards of excellence in this line. All the resources of science have been employed to produce the best and most fertilising manures, and to concentrate their virtue into the smallest possible compass. In their endeavours in this direction the firm have been conspicuously successful, and their specialities, consequently, have few, if any, superiors before the public. The complete nature of their productive capabilities and the extent of their transactions enable them to manufacture at the minimum of cost; and patrons will find that, in addition to uniform and superior excellence in goods, they will obtain here prices that will bear more than favourable comparison with those of any other high-class house. The connection extends throughout the whole of the country, among farmers, corn merchants, nurserymen, market gardeners, &c., and a large staff is constantly employed in filling the ever-increasing orders. Travellers are kept upon the road, and all orders, of whatever size, receive ready and careful attention. The proprietors are men of large experience and of acknowledged ability in their vocation. They give their personal superintendence to the concern, and are anxious, in every way, to maintain the high reputation their house so deservedly enjoys. Their commercial dealings are conducted with strict fairness and honesty, and in private circles they command the respect of all who know them.

JOHN EVANS, PAINTER, PLUMBER, GLAZIER, &C,
186, FALKNER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ABOUT the year 1830 there was formed in Liverpool city an institute for the proper equipment of the house and home in all matters pertaining to the decoration, plumbing, gas-fitting, and the like. Mr. George Holliwell founded this business, and he, after many years of successful trading, was joined by a Mr. Boumphrey, and traded as Holliwell & Boumphrey; it then became George Holliwell & Co., and on the retirement of Mr. Boumphrey the business became (in 1879) Mr. Evans’ (who had had his early training with the firm and had been in business for himself); and he to-day carries on a trade which, by keeping well in advance of the times, is generally recognised to be one of the best of its kind in the city. The premises occupied consist of a large and exceedingly well-appointed show room, in which a display is made of all kinds of wallpapers, paperhangings of recherche designs, and sanitary appliances. The elaborately equipped workshops are located to the rear, are splendidly lighted, and in every essential well appointed; and here a large staff of skilled hands is kept in readiness to execute all kinds of high-class painting, decorating, plumbing, glazing, paper-hanging, gilding, and other work, under the personal and practised superintendence of the principal, and no firm could have won by more honourable and legitimate means the high reputation and extensive local patronage which this house has so long and so worthily enjoyed.

BAILEY & NEEP, AUCTIONEERS, AND HOUSE AND LAND AGENTS,
11, CAMBRIDGE CHAMBERS, 77, LORD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS high-class business was established by Messrs. Bailey and Neep in the year 1856, and has become recognised as one of the principal house and land agencies in the city and district. The gentlemen who on the foundation of the business constituted the firm were allowed to be singularly gifted in their profession, and speedily won the confidence of a number of wealthy and distinguished clients. On the decease of Mr. Bailey the business passed into the hands of Mr. Neep as sole proprietor. In all the various branches connected with the important duties pursued the firm are noted for the marked ability displayed on all occasions. They are entrusted with the management of some valuable estates in the neighbourhood, and number among their clients some of the largest property owners. They conduct all kinds of land sales, also property sales, by auction, and prepare valuations of all kinds. Their terms for selling property are — £200 and under £650, 2-and-a-half per cent.; £650 and under £1,300, 2 per cent.; £1,300 and under £2,000, 1-and-a-half per cent.; £2,000 and upwards, 1 per cent.; for selling land, 2-and-a-half per cent.; and for obtaining mortgages, 1 per cent. The offices are handsomely fitted and furnished, and occupy a very central position. For the last eleven years Mr. Neep has been a magistrate and alderman for Bootle, for eleven and four years respectively. In both these important positions he has displayed great wisdom and ability, and has won the hearty respect of all around him.

W. C. F. O’DOWD, ACCOUNTANT, &C.,
21, HARRINGTON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

MR. O’DOWD entered upon his professional career in Liverpool some sixteen years ago, and an inquiry concerning the progress of his business shows that its development has been both rapid and continuous from the very commencement. The premises occupied are in every point of character and situation exactly adapted to the wants of a first-class concern of the kind. They consist of an exceedingly well-appointed suite of general and private offices, located on the ground floor of the large block of buildings known as Pekin Buildings, 21, Harrington Street, and here, with the assistance of a full staff of well-trained clerks, Mr. O’Dowd operates on a large scale as an accountant, land agent and valuer, estate and mortgage broker, and insurance agent, and in each branch has gained a well-merited renown. Mr. O’Dowd personally attends to every department of the business. He purchases and disposes of property to the best advantage for clients and on his own account; manages house property and collects rents, and enjoys a splendid and rapidly growing connection among financiers in negotiating mortgages, and among merchants and trades of all classes in accountancy business. His influence, indeed, is powerfully felt throughout England and Wales, and in all his varied appointments he has deservedly won a great reputation for the energy he displays and the systematic method he adopts in carrying out the business incidental to his position. Mr. O’Dowd has recently secured the appointment (for which there was very severe competition) as agent and manager, for Liverpool and surrounding districts, for the old-established firm of Graham & Graham, of London, patent agents and civil and consulting engineers, who hold a special certificate from H. M. Board of Trade. The business done during the time Mr. O’Dowd has held the appointment has exceeded the most sanguine expectations of his firm in London and bids fair under his successful management to be still further increased.

MATTHEW FRADSHAM, CORK MANUFACTURER,
35, EVERTON CRESCENT, LIVERPOOL.

THIS firm was founded in 1844 by the father of the present proprietor, and was successfully carried on by him until the year 1879, since which time his son (Mr. Matthew Fradsham) has had possession. The manufacture of corks is prosecuted on a most extensive scale, those made being chiefly for barrels, wines, jars, bottled ales, bottled porters, spirits, aerated waters, &c. The speciality of this business is the making of bungs for barrels, in which great proficiency has been attained. The premises are of very considerable extent, and consist of compact workshops, and large stores for cork in its raw and rough state, and also for the storing of manufactured goods. The corks are made by hand, and also by machinery. There are several machines worked by hand, by the aid of which the process of manufacture is considerably expedited. The stock of cork is very large, and comprises different qualities. There is a large number of superior workmen constantly employed in the factory, and the output is an exceedingly heavy one. The connection extends throughout Liverpool and surrounding districts, and into Ireland, North Wales, &c. The connection is principally amongst brewers, wine and spirit merchants, manufacturers of mineral waters, chemists; &c. The trade in bungs is the best in Liverpool, as Mr. Fradsham can count among his patrons the chief brewers in the district, and for this class of goods he is certainly the largest manufacturer in the city. Mr. Fradsham manages the business in an energetic and enterprising manner, and is thoroughly conversant with all the details of it. He is much respected in the neighbourhood, and worthy of the hearty support accorded to him.

GEORGE DALTON & SONS, AUCTIONEERS, SURVEYORS, AND ESTATE AGENTS,
52, CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IN the circles of business connected with dealings in landed and house property of all kinds, a very high reputation is enjoyed by this well-known firm, who have for close upon a quarter of a century held a prominent place in the commercial world of Liverpool. This flourishing concern dates from the year 1876, when the business was founded by Mr. George Dalton, who very rapidly established on a sound footing operations of an extensive character as an auctioneer, surveyor, and estate agent, the scope of his transactions also embracing such matters as the collection of rents, and the careful management of property, the negotiation of the sale and purchase of houses, land, and the arrangement of all matters connected with the conclusion of mortgages, valuations for the same and similar business.

Messrs. George Dalton & Sons bear a very excellent name for the capacity, tact, and experienced judgment which they at all times devote to the varied interests of their numerous clients, and they have the advantage of a high class and extensive connection of very old standing, not only in the city of Liverpool, but throughout a wide area of the surrounding district. In fact, it may be said to extend all over the United Kingdom, besides having several Colonial clients, where their business relations are continuously and progressively extending and developing. Mr. George Dalton, who possesses an intimate and valuable knowledge of every branch of his profession, himself devotes close attention and active supervision to the details of the affairs of the firm, which he has for so many years conducted with conspicuous success, and he is alike esteemed and respected in the commercial world, and in the more intimate relations of a very large circle of private and personal acquaintance.

THE NORTH OF ENGLAND CARPET SHAKING AND CLEANING CO.,
22, UPPER DUKE STREET, LIVERPOOL.
Telephone 2,486.

HOUSEHOLDERS in the city and suburbs of Liverpool are indeed fortunate in the possession amongst them of an institution of the calibre of the above; for by taking advantage of the services of this company many a pound can be saved, and the home rendered bright as well as wholesome. This company was projected in the year 1875, under the auspices of its present proprietor — Mr. R. Thornton — whose premises consist of a compactly built three-storied edifice, with capitally appointed offices at the entrance and works at the rear, elaborately equipped with special patent machinery; the whole of the arrangements being under cover. The machinery is driven by steam power, and effectually cleanses the carpet or rug of every particle of dust, by shaking without in any way injuring the article. All this is done expeditiously and at strictly economic rates, the carpets being called for and delivered by the company’s servants free of any further charge. In addition to this the company operate on an extensive scale as cleaners and finishers of lace curtains, blankets, and counterpanes; and also undertake the cleaning and dyeing of Madras, guipure, Swiss, and other delicate fabrics. Since its foundation the business has literally developed by leaps and bounds, and is now under the control of an able manager, who employs a large staff of experienced workers. The company is manifestly thus in a most prosperous condition, and this must be directly attributed to the highly creditable manner in which every detail of the undertaking has always been carried out.

MCDONALD & RICHMOND, MANTLE AND COSTUME MANUFACTURERS, AND FURRIERS,
49 & 51, LONDON ROAD, LIVERPOOL.

ESTABLISHED originally by Messrs. Evans Richard & Co., over half a century ago, the business was taken over in 1887 by the present proprietors, Messrs. McDonald & Richmond. The establishment occupies an excellent position. The spacious and handsome shop has a very imposing plate-glass frontage of fully 50 feet, the two massive and lofty plate-glass windows are well and tastefully dressed, and display to great advantage a choice selection of mantles, costumes, furs, &c. On the same floor is an elegantly appointed show-room, also another larger one above; on the second floor are four spacious and well-equipped work-rooms. The establishment throughout is fitted up in a very superior style, the fixtures are at once elegant and substantial, and the decorations and appointments are in excellent keeping with the high tone of the business.

Messrs. McDonald & Richmond hold a very large and thoroughly representative stock of costumes, mantles, jackets, dolmans, ulsters, capes, furs and fur-lined cloaks, muffs, tippets, boas, &c., &c., elegant in style, correct in taste. Indeed, the house stands unrivalled in the city for the select style, endless variety, and beauty and novelty of its goods, quite equal in style, quality and price to any of the great metropolitan establishments. In the work-rooms Messrs. McDonald & Richmond give regular employment to twenty, and in the busy season to double the number, of skilled and experienced hands, and the extensive work-room accommodation, with every improved appliance, affords unusual facilities for supplying the largest orders on the shortest notice. The executive staff, in addition to those already mentioned, includes a large number of salesmen and lady assistants, whose ready and polite attention at once sets the visitor at ease and renders an inspection of this large and valuable stock a source of real pleasure and enjoyment. The firm have a splendid business connection, the establishment being well patronised by the elite of society. Both the partners take an active part in the business, and that commendable spirit of enterprise and energy which has always so strongly animated the members of this firm is conspicuous in the management of every department.

HENRY MAGGS, CARPETS, MATTINGS, MATS, FLOOR-CLOTHS, &C., ANTIQUE FURNITURE;
OFFICE AND WAREHOUSE, SCHOOL LANE AND BROOKS ALLEY, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was commenced many years ago by the present proprietor, who by energy, application, and ability rapidly developed the concern, so that repeated enlargements of the premises have been necessary until at the present time the house may justly claim to be ranked among the leading and representative houses occupied in this branch of industry. The business premises comprise a suite of handsomely-appointed offices, numerous and extensive warehouses, well fitted up. All the goods handled by the firm are thoroughly reliable in their character. They are well known throughout the trade, and are recognised everywhere as standards of excellence. The proprietor is thoroughly well acquainted with all the sources of supply, and his selections are made with every regard to the requirements of the trade. From the extent of his transactions, he obtains considerable advantages in buying, and his patrons can fully rely upon receiving quotations such as will bear favourable comparison with those of any first-class house.

Extensive and high-class stocks are held, which have been selected with knowledge and judgment, and have been arranged with skill and taste. They include splendid supplies of Brussels, Axminster, and other carpets, in all the newest textures and patterns, tapestry, pile and Turkey carpets; gorgeous specimens of the productions of the most celebrated Oriental looms; health and carriage rugs; matting and mats of every kind and make; stair-carpets, linoleums, oil-cloths for stair, passage, and table, &c. &c.

The proprietor is also well known as a large and reputable dealer in antique furniture. In these valuable stores are also some curious, old-fashioned clocks with elaborately carved cases, and fitted with marvellous mechanism for the movement of quaint figures that indicate the solar and lunar changes, &c.; Queen Anne bedroom furniture; Louis Quatorze and Pompadour drawing and saloon furniture; curious pieces of block-oak ecclesiastical furniture, and other articles, “rich and rare,” which can be warmly recommended to the notice of the virtuoso. The house has acquired an exceedingly large connection for carpets, &c., among shipowners, and many of the largest and most luxurious liners have been fitted up with these goods by the house under notice. An efficient staff is kept, and all orders of whatever magnitude receive prompt and efficient attention. The proprietor is a thorough master of his carpet business in every detail, and he is a recognised authority in all matters relative to the history and classification of ancient and antique furniture and curios. His constant and able endeavours are used to give entire satisfaction to his numerous patrons, and in all his transactions he is straightforward and strictly honest.

DAVIES BROTHERS & CO., TEA MERCHANTS,
CHICAGO BUILDINGS, 64, STANLEY STREET, AND 15, RUMFORD GARDENS, LIVERPOOL.

IT IS gratifying to turn to a firm who, during the long period they have been connected with the tea trade, have steadfastly continued to supply tea of the richest flavour and greatest purity. This well known business was established in 1835 by Mr. David Davies, and successfully conducted by him until 1865, when his sons were taken into partnership. The firm then became known as Messrs. Davies, Sons & Company. Mr. Davies, the founder, died in 1875. In 1886, Mr. John Davies, the senior partner, and Mr. Ed. Windsor Davies retired from the firm, and resumed business as Davies Brothers & Company, the title of the firm as it now stands. There is an immense and superior connection attached to this concern, substantial and widespread; in fact, the house is a leading one in the trade. The premises occupied are spacious, and comprise handsomely appointed offices and warehouse. The latter is heavily stocked with a choice assortment of well chosen teas, for which the house is so justly famous. There are competent commercial travellers, representing the house in several parts, and on the premises there is an efficient staff of clerks, warehousemen, &c. The proprietors are much liked for their courteous demeanour, and for their integrity are universally respected.

MERCHANTS’ RESTAURANT,
25, LORD STREET, LIVERPOOL,
(MISS MACKELVIE, MANAGERESS).

THIS capitally-ordered restaurant, which was organized some ten years ago, is now under the able and experienced control of Miss Mackelvie, to whose vigorous and well-directed policy of administration much of the success of the concern is directly due. The restaurant is grandly situated in one of the most busy and central quarters of the city, extending, as it does, through the magnificent pile of buildings known as Stephenson’s Chambers, from Lord Street, right through to Harrington Street in the rear, and constituted by a grand and elegantly furnished dining saloon with grill attached; coffee and smoke rooms, lavatories, and all the accessories of a modern first-class resort of the kind, the whole being decorated in the best taste and style, and equipped with everything new and useful in the way of bar fitments, and the like. One glance at the clearly-printed daily bill of fare, with each item priced, will serve to convince the most hypercritical gourmet that here at least he can have his choice, and make up quite a perfect little “dinner of six,” even without going to the trouble to order it specially. The dishes are well chosen, a good variety is given, the cooking unexceptionable, the wines excellent, the service and general attendance admirable, and the management perfect. No wonder, then, that the “Merchants’” enjoys its full share of patronage, and it is manifestly the intention of the proprietor, that not only shall its popularity be consistently maintained but steadily augmented in days to come.

J. J. MARR & CO., ELECTRIC-LIGHT ENGINEERS, &C.,
18, MOORFIELDS, LIVERPOOL.

THE introduction of electricity to meet everyday needs and requirements is nowhere more strikingly demonstrated than in the domain of domestic lighting and the utilisation of the telephone for business purposes, and there has thus arisen quite a new and distinct branch of industry; and in this connection, in Liverpool, it would, indeed, be extremely difficult to indicate a more thoroughly representative house than the one above mentioned. This notable institution was organised at 61, Dale Street, as long ago as the year 1864, by its present able proprietor, who, during the development of his business, and the constant necessity for innovations, to enable him to keep well in advance of the times, found it expedient to transfer his quarters, first of all, to 31, Moorfields, and finally, in 1889, to its present address. The premises occupied are in every point of character and situation exactly adapted to the requirements of a brisk, thriving business. They comprise a very grandly-appointed show-room, in which a splendid display is made of all kinds of electric appliances, special prominence being given to electric lights, bells, telephones, and the like, and an elaborately-equipped factory at the rear, provided with dynamos, apparatus for the deposition of metals, turning lathes, and appliances driven by a powerful gas-motor, for the efficient production of the goods for which the firm has become so justly famous.

The trade controlled is one of very considerable volume, extending even to London, work being done for some of the most eminent firms in the great metropolis. Among other contracts carried out under the superintendence of Mr. Marr may be mentioned the lighting of the following steamers: Steamers fitted under the superintendence of Mr. Marr (2,500 lamps), “City of Richmond,” “City of Berlin,” Inman Line; “Servia,” “Pavonia,” “Cephalonia,” Cunard Line; “Arabic,” “Coptic” (two lanterns), “Doric,” White Star Line; “Manapouri,” “Wairarapa,” Union Company of New Zealand; “Goorkha,” “Rewa,” “Nerbudda,” British India Co.; “Hammonia,” North German Co.; “Clan MacPherson,” “Clan Matheson” (four lanterns each), Cayzer Irvine & Co.; “Lonsdale,” James Deane, Esq., New Zealand. Wallasey Perry steamers “Daisy,” “Violet,” “Primrose,” “Sunflower,” “Heatherbell,” “Snowdrop,” “Thistle.” Several gunpowder mills, &c. In fact, Mr. Marr was the first to light steamers with the incandescent light, and these were placed on board the “City of Richmond.” Altogether a staff of from ten to fifteen hands is regularly employed; and nothing could be more commendable than the order and system which prevail in every part of the premises, under the judicious and vigorous management of Mr. J. J. Marr, the original founder and sole proprietor of the concern. We may add that this gentleman was superintendent electrical engineer, for the space of three years, to the well-known Swan Company.

R. FODEN, IMPORTER AND MANUFACTURER OF OILS,
VERNON STREET OIL WORKS, LIVERPOOL.

THE importation and widespread distribution of the best grades of lubricating and burning oils necessarily plays a most important part in the every-day economy of all manufacturing centres, and in this connection, in Liverpool, it would be difficult to indicate a better known or more noteworthy house than the one above named, which was organised by Mr. R. Foden in the year 1888. The premises comprise a large warehouse, sale and sample rooms on the ground floor, and great store rooms on the first floor, in which a splendid series of the very best grades of lubricating and burning oils is kept, one clerk and several warehousemen are regularly employed, all the travelling being done by the young and energetic principal. The trade controlled is one of very considerable volume, both local and district, amongst engineers, cotton and other mills, collieries, steam and tug owners, and coasting steamship owners; an especially brisk trade being done with tug steamers and coasting vessels. The entire business is most capably and enterprisingly conducted under Mr. Foden’s personal superintendence, upon principles which have won for him the esteem and liberal support of a very large, influential, and rapidly-growing connection.

SUTHERLAND & WILLIAMS, PROVISION MERCHANTS AND SHIP STORE DEALERS,
14, ATHERTON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

MESSRS. Sutherland & Williams have for many years taken a leading part in the ship store trade of the Mersey. This busy and prosperous house was founded at 24, Strand Street, in the year 1858, by Mr. George Sutherland, whose extensive operations met with continuous and progressive success and development until, in 1878, he was joined by Mr. Williams, and the present trading style was adopted, the business being carried on by them until 1879, when Mr. Sutherland died, leaving Mr. Williams as sole proprietor, who carried it on with renewed vigour and energetic expansion, necessitating, in the year 1891, a removal to larger and more commodious premises. The warehouse is a substantial and commanding building, of the dimensions of eighty by sixty feet, containing offices, sample rooms, and warehouse conveniently arranged on the ground floor, and the other floors affording ample storage accommodation. The varied and comprehensive transactions of the firm embrace general provisions and groceries of every description, tinned meats and vegetables of all kinds, and similar stores required by outward bound vessels. The business is conducted under the direct personal supervision of the principal, who possesses a wide and valuable practical experience of the trade. Messrs. Sutherland & Williams have a large and widespread connection in shipping circles, and they bear an enviable reputation as an energetic and honourable firm, whilst they are personally very popular and highly respected by all with whom they have dealings.

JAMES AUSTIN, CARDBOARD BOX MANUFACTURER,
24, WHITE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THERE are few older or more important representative industrial undertakings in Liverpool than that of Mr. James Austin, who carries on the business of cardboard box-making, at the above address, upon a very extensive scale. Mr. Austin’s earliest associations are with the box-making trade, his father having been one of the first manufacturers of pill boxes in London, and he himself the originator of the round and square box-making business in the city of Liverpool, where he first established himself as far back as the year 1850. The steam works and offices at 24, White Street are very extensive, having a depth of a hundred and twenty feet to Great George’s Square, where Mr. Austin occupies the two houses No. 31 and 32, the former of which is his private residence, and the latter used for storage purposes. The works are very well fitted and the scoring and other machines, &c., are driven by an Otto & Crossley gas-engine. About a hundred hands are employed, of whom a large proportion are girls, and boxes of every kind are turned out in large quantities for the use of drapers, drysalters, wholesale druggists, tobacco manufacturers, &c. In addition to a very considerable and flourishing home trade, Mr. Austin makes some exceedingly large lines for the principal shipping and export houses. His connection is widespread and valuable, and his reputation is so well known that he has no need to seek the assistance of travellers and does not employ any. Personally, Mr. James Austin is a familiar figure in commercial circle, and he is alike esteemed and respected by all with whom he comes in contact, either in the way of business or the relations of private acquaintance and friendship. An interesting item in connection with this business is the fact that Mr. Austin holds the only medal awarded (a bronze one} for paper boxes at the Great Exhibition of 1851.

BROWN & RAWCLIFFE, CHROMO-LITHOGRAPHERS, FINE ART AND GENERAL PRINTERS,
33, WAPPING, LIVERPOOL.

The house in question was founded in the year 1877, and has developed a remarkably extensive business, which is carried on at 33, Wapping. The establishment forms a fine isolated block of four stories, bounded by Runcorn Street, Hurst Street, and Wapping, and here the firm have a splendid plant of the best modern machinery in operation, affording the most complete facilities for the execution of high-class work in all departments of chromo-lithography, fine art printing, and general colour work. A very notable feature in the equipment of the place is Rawcliffe’s Patent Varnishing Machine. We believe this firm are the largest colour printers in Liverpool, and the work they produce is of the most excellent description in every respect. Special attention is paid to designing and drawing of show cards, labels, &c., and a staff of talented artists is retained on the premises for this important work. At the Liverpool Exhibition of 1886, Messrs. Brown and Rawcliffe gained the gold medal (highest award) for a selection of beautiful work in the several branches of their art; and they have won a wide reputation for productions of the highest order of merit at strictly moderate and reasonable prices. The principals of this firm are gentlemen of very comprehensive and thoroughly practical experience in the trade they so creditably represent, and they display conspicuous ability and enterprise in the administration of their extensive and valuably connected business.
The telegraphic address of the house is “Lithos,” Liverpool. Telephone number 1590.

COPPLESTONE, UNSWORTH & CO., FURNITURE REMOVERS AND WAREHOUSEMEN,
69, SEEL STREET, AND 44, GREAT GEORGE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS old-established and widely-known firm has a history dating from the year 1835, when the business originated under the auspices of the late Mr. William Copplestone. On the death of the founder the concern came into the hands of his son-in-law, Mr. Unsworth, who is the present sole proprietor. The firm’s head offices are at 69, Seel Street, where there is not only excellent business accommodation, but also a residence occupied by Mr. Unsworth. Here he or his representatives can be seen daily on all matters of business, and to this address all business communications should be sent. The warehouses of Messrs. Copplestone, Unsworth & Co. are situated at 41, Great George Street, 8 to 14 Back Colquitt Street, 1, 3, and 5, Rathbone Place, and 70, Fleet Street, and form an immense hollow square of buildings, with two lofty structures annexed. Some idea of the magnitude of this establishment may be gathered from the fact that the buildings have a capacity of
650,000 cubic feet. They have been specially designed for their purpose, and being fitted with hot-water pipes and other conveniences throughout, are eminently suitable for the storage of furniture, paintings, pianofortes, articles of vertu, &c. The firm undertakes removals by road, rail, or sea, having the best facilities in each case. A large and thoroughly experienced staff is employed for removals, and Mr. Unsworth holds many testimonials from former patrons, expressing their complete satisfactioon with the manner in which all work has been performed, and also their approval, of the firm’s very moderate charges. Everything is done under ML Unsworth’s personal supervision, and a very extensive and constantly increasing trade is carried on. Estimates are furnished free, on application, and customers will find in Mr. Unsworth a highly experienced and courteous business man, who is both able and willing to carefully consider and promote their interests in any dealings they may have with him.
This firm’s telegraphic address is “Copplestone,Liverpool,” and their telephone No. 1,487.

ARTHUR H. BUNNEY, GENERAL HARDWARE MERCHANT, AND IMPORTER OF PARIS, BERLIN, AND VIENNA GOODS,
THE PANTHEON, 3 AND 5, CHURCH STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG all the principal establishments in Liverpool none are more attractive or more popular than the famous emporium of Mr. Arthur H. Bunney. Seventeen years ago he was a young man employed as buyer of fancy goods for Compton House, with but little of this world’s wealth; but largely endowed with business ability and push, he commenced business for himself some ten years back. His success has been of an exceptionally noticeable character, until at the present time the colossal establishment over which he presides finds constant employment for a hundred and fifty hands, and for as many as two hundred in the busy season. The premises are of magnificent proportions, five storeys high, and extending about fifty-five feet to the rear, and lit up throughout with electric light. The windows are of large capacity and are filled to repletion with vast collections of charming fancy goods and wonderful foreign novelties. The whole establishment is handsomely and elaborately fitted up throughout, and possesses every convenience for the display of the immense variety of goods on view, and for the comfort and accommodation of customers.

The business is most comprehensive, and includes everything that can possibly be brought under the designation of fancy goods. The departments into which this extensive establishment is divided are numerous, and include cutlery and electro-plate, clocks and bronzes, brushes and combs, perfumery and soaps, plain and fancy stationery, purses, bags, leather goods, jewellery, Japanese goods, ironmongery, household brushes, glass and china toys, &c., &c., each department containing an assortment of the latest and best productions in its special line, sufficient to stock an ordinary first-class shop. Mr. Bunney is a born buyer, and by intuition seems to know what will take with the public. He knows how to cultivate the public taste, too, and he has discovered the secret of making fancy goods sell, at all periods of the year. He buys only in the best markets and at advantageous prices; cheapness is, consequently, a leading feature at this establishment, and no rival house is able, generally speaking, to approach him in lowness of price. There are, entre les autres, some five thousand splendidly got-up volumes of standard works, with photograph of Liverpool on cover, which are offered at 1s. 6d. each, and the favourite 2s. yellow-back bookstall novels can be bought here at 10 and-three-quarter d. [10 pennies and three farthings.]

Novelty, singularity, and originality in goods, combined with lowest prices, are the leading characteristics at this establishment. It is not surprising then to find that an immense business is done in Japanese and Chinese goods, of every conceivable and inconceivable description. They are imported direct, and every consignment contains some bizarre novelty which is sure to be the rage of Liverpool. They are offered at fabulously low prices — small profits and quick returns being the proprietor’s, motto. Of Christmas cards he has always made a splendid show, including some of great artistic merit and striking originality - many of local interest, and as many as sixty or seventy thousand grosses have been disposed of in one season. There are few if any retail houses in the United Kingdom having such an extensive trade; in this one article alone the display is enormous and exceptionally fine.

Amid the various admirable fancy goods supplied here the lead is taken by toys. They abound in thousands of styles, sizes, qualities, and prices. Many of them are made to order, and the art of doll-making is here represented to perfection. Mr. Bunney has a warehouse in Williamson Street, and an extensive branch has been opened in the Queen’s Building, Mostyn Street, Llandudno, which has leading specialities in the shape of books of views, photographs, and presentation articles with local views on. Mr. Bunney controls a wholesale as well as a retail trade, and a speciality is made of supplying shippers. The proprietor means business; sell he will, and his stocks are the largest and most attractive in the city, and his prices such as cannot fail to induce custom. He occupies a high position in trade circles, and is respected by the many that know him, whether in public or private life, for his personal worth, remarkable and well-deserved prosperity and uprightness.

WM. GALLAGHER & SON, FORWARDING AGENTS,
28, BRUNSWICK STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS fine old firm was established half a century ago, and has made for itself a name second to none in the city for integrity and trustworthiness. The present sole proprietor is the son of the founder. This gentleman is known to most of the leading mercantile and shipping houses, with whom he has immense transactions. His natural aptitude for the important calling he pursues stands him in good stead, and to this he combines almost unlimited energy and sound common sense. These qualities make him looked up to in no slight degree, and the utmost confidence is reposed in him. Long and practical experience has made him perfectly familiar with all the many details of his trade. He despatches valuable merchandise to all parts of the world for the leading commercial firms in the city, and is connected with various foreign agencies at all important centres. More than a merely pecuniary interest is taken in the undertaking, and the reputation so long enjoyed is being constantly added to. Thanks to his well directed efforts, and the well- founded reputation his firm possesses, the business is in a very flourishing condition.

JAMES SMITH & SON, PIANOFORTE, HARMONIUM, AND GENERAL MUSIC AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENT SELLERS,
76, 74 AND 72, LORD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE past half-century has seen a vast improvement in the taste for music in this country, and the demand for instruments has grown in proportion. To meet this requirement, innumerable music establishments have sprung up in every part of the kingdom, and Liverpool has kept well to the front in this direction. Among the houses so occupied, the oldest and most responsible is that named at the head of this article. Established as far back as 1825, by Mr. James Smith, it soon became recognised as a worthy pioneer in every improvement in this branch of commercial activity. The present proprietors of this concern are the two sons of the founder, Mr. Thomas Sands Johnson Smith, and Mr. Francis Egerton Smith. Under their vigorous and well-directed control the business has developed with notable rapidity, both in the extent of its connection and the value and worth of its transactions.

The premises at 76 and 74, Lord Street are extensive in size and attractive in appearance, having large and capacious plate-glass windows, in which is displayed an unique selection of high-class musical instruments, and charmingly lithographed new music. The ground floor is mainly used as a shop, and is elaborately and handsomely fitted up with every convenience for the discharge of the business and the comfort of visitors. The first floor contains three spacious show-rooms, and other show-rooms are also on the second and third floors. The arrangement and equipment of these show-rooms have been carried out in a superior style, and reflect great credit upon the taste and ability of the proprietors. An immense business is controlled in the sale of pianofortes, harmoniums, and musical instruments in general.

Messrs. Smith are well acquainted with the best sources of supply for every article they handle, and their selections have been made with sound judgment and a thorough knowledge of the requirements of a critical public. No instrument is offered by them that has not been well tested as to its soundness, and everything they turn out is fully guaranteed. The pianos are perfect in tone, of good durable workmanship, fitted with every modern improvement, and of attractive appearance. From the extent of their transactions, and the special facilities they possess, the firm can offer many inducements in prices which cannot be duplicated elsewhere. The organs and harmoniums offered, too, are very superior, and comprise the best instruments from the most famous makers. A special feature is made of bound and loose music. New pieces are received every day from London, and the house offers an immense selection. Large and comprehensive Stocks of instruments are held, which have been carefully selected, and are bound to give every satisfaction. They include pianos by Bechstein, Collard & Collard, Broad wood, Erard, Brinsmead, and others; organs, harmoniums, harps, violins, guitars, banjos, and every description of brass, reed, and string instruments.

A widespread and influential connection has been established, and its constantly increasing character is eminently satisfactory. They are musical instrument providers, by special appointment, to the Queen. As many as thirty skilled hands are employed, and every kind of repairing is undertaken and executed with promptness, and at moderate prices. The proprietors are men of large, experience in every department of their important business, and they give their personal attention to the concern in its entirety. In all their transactions they are straightforward and honourable, and they retain the confidence of all who come into business connection with them. They are well known in commercial and social circles, and are everywhere respected for their courtesy, reliability, an& personal rectitude.

J. WILLAN, ART CABINET MAKER, &C.,
28, HARDMAN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS highly prosperous and important business was established by the present proprietor in 1885, and has by the ability displayed by Mr. Willan as a designer of art furniture, and his skill as a cabinet maker, made a name for itself in the foremost ranks of the business. Mr. Willan is a thoroughly practical cabinet maker, having had years of experience in some of the best houses in Liverpool and Manchester. His premises have a ground floor of over one hundred feet from front to back, and are very conveniently arranged. They contain many choice and massive pieces of furniture and art cabinets, designed and manufactured by the proprietor, which are highly creditable to him. They are all made of well seasoned woods, and are of the very best class of goods. As a designer Mr. Willan has acquired more than local celebrity. Many of his designs are both striking and original, and undoubtedly stamp him as a man of unusual ability. His special triumphs in this line are parqueterie flooring, ornamental wainscoting, fireplaces, and panel work. He has also on view many handsome suites of dining room and drawing-room furniture, upholstered in the best modern styles, in various leathers and materials, including embossed calf skin, &c.

Throughout this establishment nothing but the highest class goods is to be seen. The very best workmen are employed, many of them specialists in their various branches. All orders are carried out under the personal supervision of Mr. Willan. Ships’ cabins are handsomely furnished and fitted up in the most approved styles. All repairs receive the best attention. Mr. Willan is also a contractor for the removal of furniture, and in this department has men of experience and thorough reliance employed, and the work is carried out with care and despatch. The superiority of the work is undoubted, and the proprietor, by his courtesy and desire to give satisfaction to his patrons, is building up a reputation which can only result in prosperity.

EDWARDS BROTHERS, GENERAL MERCHANTS,
ALEXANDRA BUILDINGS, ORMOND STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS famous business was founded in 1870, since when, by its spirited policy, it has developed into a concern of uncommon magnitude and importance. The partnership consists of Mr. W. C. Taylor, Mr. A. Edwards, and Mr. A. S. Bacon. Under the able management of these gentlemen the affairs of the firm have increased in volume with the most satisfactory results. Operations are carried on in a commodious and imposing block of building, known as Alexandra Buildings, where the offices are situated. Messrs. Edwards may claim to be cosmopolitan merchants. Their commodities include well-nigh all classes of goods, and their markets are found all over the globe; the greater bulk of their business, however, lying in the East and West Coasts of Africa, Australasia, South America, West Indies, and on the continent of Europe. The principal items of merchandize dealt in by the firm are cotton fabrics, silks, hardware, earthenware, firearms, provisions, &c., &c. Their transactions in these goods are on an extensive and important scale.

The firm have an intimate knowledge of the best sources of supply for all and every kind of the goods they deal in, and they possess immense facilities in the foreign markets for disposing of their consignments. With the enterprising policy which characterises their business methods, they are always on the alert to secure anything in their special lines which is novel, improved, or advantageous in the matter of price. The house has acquired a splendid reputation for the promptness with which it completes orders and contracts, and for the uniform and reliable excellence of everything it supplies. In a business of this extent branch houses are an imperative necessity, and the following have been established to facilitate the control of this ever-increasing business:- Manchester, 14, Jackson’s Row; Lisbon, 30, Rua dos Fanqueiros; and at Hamburg and Grand Canary, The proprietors are men of large and special knowledge in the various departments of commerce and industry in which they are concerned; they are energetic and thoroughly capable, and all their transactions are marked by a straightforward and inflexibly honourable policy; and in everything they are careful to maintain their high standard of excellence in their commodities, and to deserve and retain the confidence and esteem of their wide circle of patrons. They are much respected in private life for their ability, public spirit and integrity.

QUEEN & ATKINSON, ACCOUNTANTS, ESTATE BROKERS, &C.,
2, SOUTH JOHN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

MESSRS. Queen & Atkinson commenced business in 1877, and since the demise of the last-named gentleman in the year following, Mr. Queen has continued the business himself, the original title, however, still being retained. The firm are doing a splendid business as accountants, estate brokers, insurance and mortgage agents. Property is bought, sold or let, rents are collected, and estates carefully managed. Building society advances and private mortgages are quickly arranged. Mr. Joseph Queen, F.S.A.A., is an incorporated accountant and licensed valuer. He is also the secretary to the Rainford Permanent Building Society, the Liverpool and County Permanent Building Society, the Lancashire Freeholders’ Permanent Building Society, and the Liverpool Investment of Property Company, Limited. He likewise does a very extensive business as an insurance agent, representing the Royal Fire and Life Insurance Company, the Liverpool and London and Globe Fire and Life Insurance Company, State Fire Insurance Company, and the British Equitable Life Assurance Company. At the above address Mr. Queen occupies a spacious suite of well-appointed offices, located on the second floor of a handsome block of stone buildings. In business and social circles Mr. Joseph Queen is well known and highly esteemed. He gives his direct personal attention to every-branch of the business, and by a strict and conscientious consideration of the interests of his clients, he has secured the confidence and support of a very extensive and influential connection.

ERNEST MELLY & CO., WHOLESALE GROCERS AND PROVISION MERCHANTS,
3, HOOD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established in 1869 by Mr. W. Hayes, who carried it on very successfully until 1889, when it passed into the hands of the present proprietor. The premises comprise an excellently fitted office, sale room and commodious warehouse on the ground floor and spacious store rooms on the first and second floors. On the second floor there is a well built room for tea. On the top floor is a roomy smoke-house, smoking bacon and hams being one of the principal parts of the trade. The stock, which is very large and extensive, comprises tea, coffee, sugar, and general groceries, a large quantity of cheese of American, Canadian and home production, and the much libelled substance, margarine, hams and bacon in immense quantities from all the best sources, and American, Irish, and continental provisions of every description. The business, which is entirely wholesale, used to be confined to the home trade, but the shipping trade was added by Mr. Melly, and there is now a good and extensive connection amongst ship owners. The home trade extends throughout Lancashire, the North of England, and the Isle of Man, the firm being represented by travellers. The business is conducted under the personal management of Mr. Melly, trading under the above title, and a staff of two clerks and six warehousemen are busily and constantly employed. Mr. Melly possesses the advantage of thorough experience, occupies an influential position in business circles, and is well known and highly esteemed by his colleagues for his intimate business knowledge and high principles of commercial integrity.

THOMAS KNEEN, PROVISION MERCHANT AND MARGARINE IMPORTER,
47, WHITECHAPEL, LIVERPOOL.

MR. KNEEN commenced his busy and flourishing operations in the year 1889, and having by his energy and enterprising ability rapidly secured a recognised place in the list of the principal provision importers in the city, he has since steadily and progressively developed and increased the scope and extent of his transactions. The principal department of this thriving concern is occupied in the importing of margarine, and Mr. Kneen is agent for Messrs. J. Laming & Sons, of Rotterdam, who are one of the foremost and most considerable margarine manufacturers on the Continent. Messrs. Laming’s factory has the advantage of the finest situation for an export business in Holland. Being situated on an island in the River Maas, it has most unexceptionally favourable facilities for shipping produce to all parts of the world. Mr. Kneen is also agent for Messrs. W. C. Laming & Co., London, and receives extensive shipments of Dutch cheese; also, in addition to a very large home trade in this favourite product, they send away very considerable quantities for export to Africa and other distant markets, viz. the United States and Canada, the West Indies and Brazil, South American markets; also throughout Spain and Portugal, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Egypt, the East; Indies, China, Japan, and Australasia. The premises, which are centrally and conveniently situated in an excellent business position, are roomy and commodious, consisting of a capital suite of offices on the ground floor with a capacious warehouse extending eighty feet to the rear. The connection is large and influential, and rapidly growing in importance, extending not only throughout Liverpool and the district, but also all over Lancashire, Cheshire, Dublin, and the Isle of Man, where Mr. Kneen’s brands are well known, and in excellent repute among the leading wholesale and retail provision merchants, grocers, ship-store dealers, &c. Mr. Thomas Kneen is a smart and active business man, who enjoys a highly favourable reputation among all with whom he has dealings, and he is personally very popular, and greatly esteemed and respected.

THOMAS CHESHIRE, SCALE MAKER,
146, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE ancient and honourable profession of Scale Maker has few older or more eminently noteworthy representatives in Liverpool than the above well-known and leading firm. So early in the century as the year 1808, Mr. William Clarke carried on the business of a Scale Maker in Paradise Street, and with much success until about 1840, when he was succeeded by the late Mr. Thomas Cheshire, who continued the business with the same gratifying results until his death in 1871, when the firm was taken over by his two sons, who continued the business under the style of Thomas Cheshire and Company until 1890, when the subject of our notice withdrew from the firm, and established himself at the central and commodious premises 146, Dale Street, where the well-appointed show-room contains a large and effectively displayed stock of scales and weights, suitable for all home trades and also for exportation, together with weighing machines of every description.

Perhaps, however, the most interesting feature in connection with this establishment, is the large and constantly increasing connection which the subject of this notice has obtained amongst Local Authorities, for the supply of Standard Scales, Weights, Measures, and the accessories required by Inspectors of weights and measures, and this class of work, being necessarily of the most superior nature, it is gratifying to find that one of our local manufacturers is well to the front. There are workshops on the premises where several men are engaged, but the principal portion of the manufacture is carried on at Mr. Cheshire’s workshops in Exmouth Street. A large trade is also done in the repairing and adjusting of weighing machines, &c., which receives the most careful and efficient attention. Contracts for this class of work are entered into in all parts of the country, the business being conducted under the close personal supervision of the principal. The firm of Thomas Cheshire enjoys a very high reputation in the commercial world, and the name is very favourably known in business circles over a wide area of the surrounding country as a synonym for superior quality and absolutely trustworthy workmanship.

P. CONNOLLY & SON, SACK AND BAG MAKERS, PAPER STOCK MERCHANTS, &C.,
35, 37, 39, 41, 32, AND 50, NAYLOR STREET, LIVERPOOL,
Telephone No. 1440.

THE large and important business of this firm was established some forty years ago by the present proprietors. The spacious premises face into Naylor Street, and have a measurement of upwards of sixty-three yards. They are very complete and well appointed, having convenient offices, extensive warehouses, and. workrooms, &c. The firm score heavily with their bags, which are largely shipped to every part of the world. Bags suitable for almost every purpose are made here in a manner which redounds to the credit of the house. The chief business lies with manufacturers, merchants, and shippers in all branches of the trade. As paper stock merchants they probably have the largest business in the city. Their connection in this branch is wide reaching and is constantly increasing. A very extensive staff of clerks and workpeople are employed, and the books are always full of orders from all parts of the world. Messrs. Connolly & Son have long been to the front as sack and bag makers, and the popularity they enjoy, and the support accorded to them, is the direct result of sterling merit. Customers placing a first order are very ready to place a second, and continue their connection with the firm.

FORREST & CO., MERCHANT TAILORS AND OUTFITTERS,
13 AND 14, ST. GEORGE’S CRESCENT, LIVERPOOL.

THE origin of this representative establishment dates back to 1858, when operations were commenced by Mr. Fred. Forrest, who was joined a little later on by his brother, Mr. James Forrest, the firm being known as Messrs. F. & J. Forrest. After about twenty-five years successful trading, the concern was taken over by Mr. W. H. Brown (for some years previously managing partner of the concern), who changed the style and title of the firm into the one it now bears. During his administration the character of the house has been fully maintained, and the extent and value of its connection materially augmented. Business is carried on in spacious and commodious premises, occupying a commanding position in the St. George’s Crescent at the corner of Cable Street, and possessing a noble frontage of sixty feet in extent. Architecturally the building is very attractive, and the fine main entrance, with its massive pillars, is worthy of special notice. The establishment has not less than seven splendid show windows, all filled to repletion with a large and varied selection of cloths of every kind. The premises extend fifty feet to the rear, and comprise extensive sale-rooms, fitting-rooms, offices, and cutting rooms on the first floor, and work-rooms on the upper floor, the whole being handsomely and thoroughly fitted up with every requisite for the furtherance of the business. The cutting rooms and workroom are lofty and well-lighted, and have been arranged with a considerate regard to the comfort of the occupants.

An immense trade is controlled by the firm as merchant tailors and outfitters. The house has achieved a high name among all classes of customers for the reliable character of everything it turns out. The material used is of the best and latest kind, the workmanship is sound and finished, and the style and cut cannot be surpassed. The cutting department is the object of attention. The cutters are all men of large and sound experience, selected from the best London houses. The proprietor gives this part of his business his close and particular supervision. The house makes a special feature of clerical costumes, and the extensive and extending patronage accorded to this department is a sure sign that every satisfaction is being given. A perfect fit is always assured, and cloths of the most suitable quality and special texture have been expressly provided. Among clergymen and ministers of religion in Liverpool and the vicinity these admirable garments are well known and highly appreciated, and few houses enjoy a larger or more influential patronage of this description. Prices, too, will be found here of the most satisfactory nature, and, indeed, the patrons of this noteworthy house can be sure of receiving the best of everything, both in fit, fabric, and price.

As typical exponents of this department of industry, the firm hold extensive and varied stocks of all the best and newest goods. These have been selected with great judgment and knowledge, and have been arranged in the most effective manner and with due regard to convenience of inspection. They include splendid assortments of cheviots, homespuns, friezes, beavers, West of England cloths, tweeds, stripes, meltons, black broads, checks, worsteds, and serges, &c., &c. During its honourable career the house has acquired an extensive and valuable connection among the best class of customers in Liverpool and the surrounding country. To meet the ever-increasing demands, a force of no less than twenty clerks and assistants, and sixty workpeople is employed. Mr. Brown, the proprietor, of this famous establishment, is a man of large experience in his business, and his able and energetic supervision is bestowed upon every department. He is enterprising, energetic, and courteous, and all his transactions are marked by fairness and honesty; while he is ever watchful to maintain the high reputation his house has so deservedly gained. A visit to this typical establishment would well repay intending purchasers and others.

NAYLOR WILSON & CO., FRUIT AND PRODUCE IMPORTERS,
12, STANLEY STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IT IS only within comparatively recent times that the fresh fruit and vegetable produce industry has been developed to meet the demands of our modern cosmopolitan mode of living; that a continuous succession of oranges from Valencia, Brazils, Jaffa, and Florida; of lemons from Naples, Messina, Malaga, and Palermo; of potatoes from the Grand Canary and Malta; of onions from Portugal, Spain, Malta, and Egypt; tomatoes from Valencia and the Canaries; bananas from the Canaries; apples from the United States and Canada, and the gardens of Australia, Portugal, and so on, have become generally available at prices to suit the pockets of all classes of the community. Messrs. Naylor Wilson & Co. organised their splendid undertaking in the year 1875, operating extensively as importers of green fruit and kindred produce from all the leading sources in the world. Their premises in Stanley Street consist of a handsomely appointed suite of offices, augmented at the rear by great store-rooms and warehouses; and from here they distribute their commodities exclusively amongst wholesale dealers in fresh fruit and grocers in all parts of the United Kingdom, calling into requisition the services of a staff of clerks and warehousemen at their headquarters. The entire business is conducted with marked ability, energy and enterprise, under the personal direction of the joint proprietors, both of whom are gentlemen possessing the advantage of a long and thorough experience, and are everywhere esteemed and respected, as much in virtue of the influential position they occupy in business circles as for their earnest endeavours in promoting the best interest of trade and commerce in the city of Liverpool.

M. WATKINSON & CO., BRUSH MANUFACTURERS, SPONGE AND TWINE DEALERS,
28, WHITECHAPEL, LIVERPOOL.

DATING back in its foundation previous to the year 1777, this fine old business was established by a Mr. Richard Watkinson, and has been continuously in the hands of members of the same family. This Mr. Richard Watkinson lived, with his family, in Williamson Square in the year 1790. This spot was then in the midst of green fields, and considered quite a rural locality. In the year 1800 the business was in the hands of Messrs. Samuel and Benjamin Watkinson, in 1828 Mr. William Watkinson was in possession, and in 1878 it came under the control of Messrs. M. Watkinson & Co., the present proprietors. The original premises were situated near St. Georges Church. These have, however, long since been pulled down, and the business was removed to Whitechapel in 1800. The spacious and commodious shop extends back a distance of thirty feet, and is admirably appointed and well-arranged for the display and storage of the large and varied stock. The factory at the rear is conveniently-situated for the effective and economical working of the business. Experienced workmen are busily employed in the manufacture of brushes of various kinds suitable for household and industrial purposes.

All the work is done by hand, and to meet the requirements of the trade, the firm have always on hand a large and thoroughly representative stock ready for immediate delivery, the representation of these goods is so well and firmly established that it is scarcely necessary to emphasize the fact; they exhibit in every detail of their construction that excellence of material and workmanship which has made the productions of this firm famous throughout the world. The trade is both home and export, and it is interesting to note that in spite of the severe competition of the times, the goods not only maintain their high reputation but are making good headway in the market. The firm also do a substantial and steady trade in sponges, twines, door-mats and stable goods. The business relations of the firm are well-founded on the reputation so long enjoyed, while the superior quality of the goods well maintains the honourable position which Messrs. M. Watkinson & Co. have achieved when brought into competition with the manufactures of this and other countries. The business is under direct and careful supervision, and by economical manufacture and the exercise of that keen and prudent buying which comes of mature experience, the firm are enabled to compete on favourable terms, both as regards quality and price, with any house in the trade.

THOMAS S. DOWLING, MASTER STEVEDORE, MASTER PORTER, AND SHIP BROKER,
31, BACK GOREE, LIVERPOOL.

IN A gigantic seaport centre of the significance of Liverpool of to-day, an historical record of its trades and industries would indeed lack completeness without ample reference to the important part played by the modern master stevedore, master porter and ship broker; and in this connection, it would be extremely difficult to indicate a better-known or more thoroughly sound organization than the one which was founded two decades ago at Goree Piazzas, and is to-day still under the able and vigorous control of Mr. Thomas S. Dowling, under whose regime the business was developed with such marked success that he found it necessary some four years ago to move into the present commodious suite of offices on the first floor of No. 31, Back Goree. Mr. Dowling has long shown himself to be one of the leading organisers of labour in Liverpool; he operates with a carefully picked staff of from four hundred to five hundred hands, in weekly clearing and unloading and loading vessels of all grades; and also employs a large permanent staff of hands in doing the work of his special contracts, principally with the Spanish transatlantic lines trading to the West Indian Islands. His business in all its branches is conducted with marked ability, energy, and enterprise, and there are perhaps few men that are as well known and highly esteemed, both amongst shippers and owners, and his employes, as the worthy proprietor of this valuable undertaking, whose telegraphic address is “Dovela, Liverpool.” Mr. Dowling is, and has been for many years, a member of the Liverpool Exchange.

RD. LANCASTER, ACCOUNTANT, ESTATE AGENT AND VALUER, &C.,
33, HATTON GARDEN, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was founded by the present proprietor, Mr. Richard Lancaster, in 1880. The premises at the present address were acquired in 1885. Mr. Lancaster is a gentleman of long and varied experience in his profession, having, previous to commencing on his own account, been in partnership with his father. The premises occupied comprise a suite of offices, private and general, on the first floor of No. 33, Hatton Garden. These are well and conveniently furnished. From his long connection with Liverpool and his acknowledged ability as an accountant, estate agent, and valuer, Mr. Lancaster has steadily built up a large and valuable connection, and this is still increasing. He is entrusted with the buying and selling of various kinds of property for clients, and has, up to the present time, invariably succeeded in giving satisfaction. He also takes charge of and manages house property, collects rents, &c. As an accountant he has a special reputation among merchants and tradesmen generally, and undertakes to audit books and accounts. He also values property, hotels, and various kinds of businesses, and here, again his knowledge of the city and district is of great assistance to him. All kinds of mortgages are arranged on easy terms, &c. The business is conducted under the personal supervision of the proprietor, who employs the services of two clerks. Mr. Lancaster is respected as a gentleman who does his utmost in the interests of his clients, and he is esteemed for his courteous bearing.

HENRY WILSON & CO., LIMITED, ENGINEERS, IRON AND BRASS FOUNDERS, COPPERSMITHS, AND HARDWARE MERCHANTS,
CORNHILL, LIVERPOOL.

THE extensive business carried on by this old-established and eminent firm was founded upwards of half a century ago by Messrs. Bathgate & Wilson, and upon the death of Mr. Bathgate was afterwards continued by Mr. John H. Wilson, H. A. Wilson and E. W. West, under the style of John H. Wilson & Co. This business was, upon the death of Mr. John H. Wilson and Mr. H. A. Wilson, converted into a private limited liability company, under the above title, the surviving partner, Mr. E. W. West, a gentleman of extensive experience in the trade, being sole manager, the other members mainly consisting of the chief employes. The firm’s headquarters in Cornhill form a handsome building of three stories and basement. The latter contains in one part fitting-up shops for all kinds of cooking ranges; and in another part of the basement, running at the back and side of the main building, there is an immense shed, lighted from the roof, and having galleries all round. Here we find a large and effective plant of modern steam-power machinery in full operation, and here also are the well-equipped iron and brass foundries, with forges, anvils, and other necessary appliances. The ground floor contains the offices of the company and a very fine suite of show-rooms, displaying an exceptionally large and varied stock of manufactured hardware. On the upper floors there are fitting shops, brass-finishing shops, tin and copper-smiths’ shops, plumbers’ shops, and other working departments, all of which are admirably appointed for their several purposes. The premises in their entirety cover a ground area of about 3,000 square yards, and form an unique establishment.

Messrs. Henry Wilson & Co., Limited, have their leading speciality in cooking apparatus, galley appliances and pantry fittings for ships, and in this important department they do an immense trade with the transatlantic and other great lines of steamers. The two great “White Star” liners, “Majestic” and “Teutonic” (which they fitted up with all galley and pantry requisites), present splendid examples of this firm’s practical skill and complete resources. Other vessels recently fitted by Messrs. Wilson include the “Empress of India,” “Empress of China” Empress of Japan,” belonging to the New Canadian Pacific Line, which is making such a reputation for the new route from Vancouver to the East. Messrs. Wilson also manufacture all kinds of iron, brass, and copper work for every part of a ship. The firm are famous for first-class work of the most reliable character. An immense trade is controlled, supported by a wide and influential connection. Mr. West, the general manager, personally superintends all the affairs of the business, which is constantly increasing under his able administration.
Telegrams should be addressed “Wilson, Cornhill, Liverpool”; the telephone number is 1,096.

PORTER, LEIGH & CO., IRON, TIN PLATE, AND METAL MERCHANTS,
4, COOK STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THOUGH only established within the last year, at the above address, Messrs. Porter, Leigh & Co., are carrying on business on an extensive scale as iron and tin plate merchants, &c. They do an extensive trade in galvanised iron, hoop iron, &c., for export, as well as in bar iron for ironmongers, farriers, blacksmiths, &c., and in tin plates and metal of all kinds generally. They have a valuable and growing export connection, and send shipments to all parts of the world whilst they have also a considerable business in the home market. Messrs. Porter, Leigh & Co. have already succeeded in making for themselves a definite and recognised position in the trade by the exercise of energy, capacity and experienced knowledge of a high order. Messrs. James Porter and R. J. Leigh devote close supervision to all the many and varied details of their business, and they are assisted by an active and efficient staff, the offices they occupy being central and conveniently arranged. The business which they have launched with such conspicuous success gives every promise of gratifying and progressive future expansion.

W. G. KILLICK & CO., WHOLESALE MERCHANTS,
26, CHAPEL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business is one of very considerable importance in Liverpool, and for a great number of years has continued to steadily progress. It has been established for close upon twenty years, during which time the proprietors have succeeded in gaining the confidence and patronage of some of the largest consumers of coal in the city. Messrs. Killick & Co. are agents for Messrs. Cory Brothers & Co., Limited, of Cardiff, who have depots for the supply of coal at all the important seaports at home and abroad, drawn for the most part from their valuable and extensive coal mines in South Wales, and the quality, for all purposes, is of the very highest description. Messrs. Killick & Co. besides represent other important firms, among others Messrs. Max Bazin & Co., Suez Canal. In addition they do a considerable amount of business on their own account as coal merchants, &c. The offices occupied are extensive, and very handsomely furnished. A large staff, consisting of eight clerks, &c., is employed, and the concern is in a most flourishing condition.
The telephone number is 448, and the telegraphic address “ Killick, Liverpool.” The members of the firm are held as much in esteem for their courtesy as for their honourable method of doing business.

GRAY HILL, THE LIVERPOOL AND LONDON STEAMSHIP PROTECTION ASSOCIATION, LIMITED,
10, WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

MR. GRAY HILL is an authority on all maritime matters, and enjoys the confidence of the shipping interests, as secretary of various important organisations connected therewith. He is a solicitor of local standing, being head of the firm of Hill, Dickinson & Co. He was formerly a Justice of the Peace for Birkenhead, but has resigned his commission owing to the demands upon his time. Although the important business he carries on has greatly developed since he succeeded to it twenty-eight years ago, it had previously been long established. Mr. Hill is secretary of the Liverpool Steamship Owners’ Association, which was formed in 1858. From tables annually published in the reports of the Association it appears that while, in 1868, the gross steamship tonnage of the members of the Association was 310,669, it had increased, in 1891, to 1,369,000. When the Liverpool Sailing-ship Owners’ Mutual Protection and Indemnity Association was formed in 1874, Mr. Gray Hill’s experience as a maritime expert singled him out for the secretaryship, and, for the same reason, he was appointed secretary of the still more important Liverpool and London Steamship Association, Limited, established in 1882. In addition to the British interests he has charge of, Mr. Gray Hill is the Liverpool secretary of the American Chamber of Commerce, founded early in the present century. Although so greatly absorbed in matters relating to shipping and commerce, Mr. Gray Hill has travelled far afield and has displayed literary ability in narrating his experiences. These, by the way, have been somewhat romantic, for in 1890 he and his wife were captured by marauding Bedouins in Syria. An account of this awkward adventure is graphically given in his recently published book, “With the Bedouins,” which has attracted a good deal of interest.

CORNELIUS & G. L. DESOER, BUILDERS AND CONTRACTORS,
118 AND 120, EVERTON ROAD, AND 29, CHEAPSIDE, LIVERPOOL.

THIS flourishing business was established by the present proprietors about the year 1861. The head offices and premises, No. 118 and 120, Everton Road, are in every way well adapted to the requirements of the business, and where Mr. George L. Desoer, a son of the senior, also conducts a business in connection with his father’s, in the same lines. There is also a branch place at 29, Cheapside, which is specially under Mr. George L. Desoer’s supervision. There are miscellaneous stores of building materials, &c., of a useful and valuable nature at each place. Messrs. Desoer (father and son) are bricklayers, plasterers, plumbers, gasfitters, joiners, painters, and general building contractors. They also undertake all kinds of decorating, paperhanging, tiling, flagging, sewering, the fitting-up of boilers, kitchen' ranges, grates, &c. Their worth in connection with all the above has been fully recognised, as they have been entrusted with some very large and important undertakings in various parts of the district. Among the works they have at present on hand may be mentioned works in connection with all the Government buildings in Liverpool and district, Walton Gaol, Kirkdale Prison, Orford Barracks at Warrington, &c., all of which are of considerable extent and importance. They are contractors to H.M. Home and War Departments, and give regular employment to a very large number of men. The connection is a substantial one, and is of a widespread character. Messrs. Desoer are thorough men of business, taking a keen interest in the same, and are genial and considerate. Mr. Desoer senior is a useful member of the West Derby Board of Guardians.

W. H. HODGES & SILVER, LAW STATIONERS, PRINTERS, &C.,
5, COOK STREET, LIVERPOOL.

PREVIOUS to commencing business in 1887, Messrs. W. H. Hodges & Silver, law stationers, printers &c., had a long practical experience, having had the management of every department of the business of the late James Hodges. At No. 5, Cook Street, the firm occupy very suitable premises, which have been fitted up in the most careful and complete manner, Messrs. W. H. Hodges & Silver are well employed in every branch of the business as law stationers, printers, lithographers, dealers in parchment, &c., and ornamental writers. They hold a very large and comprehensive stock of stationery, vellums, parchments. For the latter goods they have probably the largest sale of any firm in the provinces, being the only firm in the city who carry on the business in its entirety, as practised in London. They have many splendid examples of lithographic work and ornamental-writing, which well display in every detail of execution the superior skill and talent employed in the establishment. The firm make a speciality of law writing, and in respect to the conveyance, mortgage, and transfer of property they have a connection second to none in the city. The work turned out by them is executed in excellent style, with accuracy, and in every case in the recognised form adopted by the profession. In every department the effects of tact and organisation are evident. Every article sold is of the best quality and all work done by the house is a sure guarantee of excellence and finish, while the scale of regulated charges is such that they invariably give entire satisfaction. The gentlemen constituting the firm are of the highest commercial status, and for their practical acquaintance with all the details of their business are held in great respect by a large and influential circle of legal patrons, as well as by the public generally.

J. & H. KEYWORTH & CO., MANUFACTURERS AND AGENTS,
35, TARLETON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A PROMINENT position among the manufacturers and agents of Liverpool is occupied by the eminently reputable firm of Messrs. J. & H. Keyworth & Co., of 35 and 36, Tarleton Street, makers of wringing, mangling and washing machines, and agents for Messrs. Adriance, Platt & Co., the celebrated agricultural machine manufacturers, and for other well-known firms. Messrs. Keyworth’s business was originally established in 1854, and is conducted in extensive and convenient premises, comprising a handsomely fitted-up showroom of magnificent proportion, having a length of eighty feet on the ground floor, and office, warehouse and other necessary accommodation on the remaining floors. The works are situated on the opposite side of the street, and consist of a number of shops, conveniently arranged and thoroughly well equipped. To meet constantly increasing demands, another factory has been occupied in White Street.

The firm conduct an important business in the manufacture of labour- saving machines for domestic purposes, as wringing and mangling machines, washing machines, laundry stoves, &c., &c. A line for which this house has obtained a great reputation is their improved “Top Spring” wringing and mangling machine. This is the cheapest machine ever offered to the public, but is of such excellent workmanship, that in efficiency and durability it is quite equal to many high-priced productions. Another notable machine is known as the “Under Spring” wringing and mangling machine. The firm’s chef d’oeuvre in this line is the lever self-adjusting machine, which is constructed on the most correct lever and weight principle, is self-regulating, and is, undoubtedly, the largest and best machine to be obtained for the money.

Washing machines form a prominent feature at this manufactory, and no articles of this kind are better or more favourably known in the market, either in the matter of workmanship, durability, or price. The firm also manufacture a very serviceable laundry stove, and various other articles of domestic use. The large business controlled by the firm and their extensive productive facilities enable them to manufacture their goods in the most expeditious and economical way. To suit all classes of customers prices at this establishment are arranged at net cash, and on the hire system by monthly payments. Ample supplies of these excellent machines are kept in stock, in all quantities and at all prices.

The Acme Ventilating and Heating Company is a branch of this notable business, devoted to the manufacture and fitting-up of appliances made according to the “Acme” patent system. This system is one of the newest, simplest, and cheapest, and is applicable to all purposes and conditions. The system has been largely adopted by leading architects, municipal and sanitary authorities, railway and dock companies, &c.; and valuable testimonials are in the possession of the company from the following, among many other firms and companies:— Town Hall, Liverpool; Town Hall, Hull; St. Saviour’s Church, Liverpool; Florence Institute, Liverpool; Deutsche Bank, Lombard Street, London; North Eastern, Mersey, and London and North-Western Railways (for carriages); New Customs Building, Hull; Earle’s Shipbuilding Co., Limited, Hull; Pasteur Institute, Paris, &c., &c.

Immense stocks are held by the firm of the goods manufactured by the responsible house for which they are agents; they include all kinds of agricultural implements, portable and stationary engines, grinding mills, garden seats, &c. They exhibit some of the most recent and improved productions of the famous house of Adriance, Platt & Co., of New York, for whom Messrs. Keyworth are the sole agents in England, Scotland and Wales. This establishment is, probably, the best known in the world for its specialities in mowing and harvesting machines, and no firm has done more in developing and perfecting this exceedingly useful class of machinery. Their productions combine all the best qualities, possess numerous special improvements, are constructed with mathematical accuracy, and made upon the interchangeable principle, so that repairs, when necessary, can be readily done, while every machine they turn out is warranted. Messrs. Keyworth’s stocks include fine specimens of the “Adriance Buck-eye” mower, the “Adriance” self-raking reaper, the “Adriance Rear-discharge Binder,” and other machines from this renowned firm.

Messrs. Keyworth are, also agents for Clayton & Shuttleworth, Lincoln, the extensive agricultural engineers. Messrs. J. and H. Keyworth & Co.’s connection is a widespread and valuable one, extending throughout all parts of Great Britain, and including some of the largest buyers and most influential users. The proprietors are energetic, sagacious and pre-eminently practical men, and administer their affairs in a spirited and thoroughly able manner. They are much esteemed in social and commercial circles, for their many sterling qualities and high standard of business integrity.

THOMAS SNELL, TAILOR, NAVAL AND MILITARY UNIFORMS, SERVANTS’ LIVERIES, &C,
28A, NORTH JOHN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

OPERATIONS were commenced by Mr. Snell in 1890. Large and commodious premises are occupied, comprising single-fronted shop with fine window admirably “dressed,” and an extensive show-room running forty feet to the rear, and thoroughly fitted up with every accessory to the effective display of the stock, together with fitting-rooms and cutting-rooms at the rear. The premises are well adapted to the nature of the business carried on; the work-rooms are large and well lighted and ventilated, and fully equipped, while every attention has been paid to the comfort of the workpeople and the convenience of patrons. A large and increasing business is here controlled by the proprietor. By the uniform excellence of every garment he turns out, and by force of energy and perseverance, Mr. Snell has already brought his establishment into prominent notice, and every day sees it growing in public favour and patronage. His workpeople have been carefully selected, and his cutters are among the most experienced in the locality; while he himself is a thorough master of the art of cutting, having graduated in the best houses in London, and his personal supervision is given to all work in this branch.

In the choice of material this house is very fortunate, and customers can rely upon having all the latest and most fashionable suitings and trouserings submitted to their inspection when ordering. In short, for range of selection, excellence of material, superiority of workmanship, style and comfort, the house is second to no other in the trade. Uniforms and liveries are special features at this establishment, and the proprietor is well known for the high-class character of his achievements in this department. Extensive stocks are held, which have been selected with great judgment and with an intimate acquaintance with the requirements of the trade. This responsible establishment has already acquired an influential connection among the better and middle class customers in Liverpool and the surrounding districts, and, by means of old clients who have gone to reside abroad, a considerable foreign connection is being rapidly developed. Already the requirements of the business necessitate the employment of from twenty to thirty skilled workpeople, and the constantly increasing demands upon the resources of the establishment testify in the most gratifying manner to the high appreciation in which the productions of this house are held. Mr. Snell is pre-eminently a practical man, thoroughly proficient in every department of his speciality. His constant personal attention is given to the business, and he is watchful that nothing shall ever issue from his establishment that is in any way derogatory to the high standard of excellence he has set up. He is young and enterprising, and all his business transactions are conducted on just and honourable principles, and he is highly esteemed for his courtesy, public spirit, and commercial integrity.

MEDRINGTONS’, LIMITED, PHOTOGRAPHERS,
29, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A LEADING house in connection with photography in Liverpool, and one fully abreast with all the latest requirements, is that of Medringtons’, Limited, whose grand studios are at 29, Bold Street. Mr. Arthur S. Medrington established this business some twelve years ago, and during the interim has developed it with such perseverance and ability as to place it in the foremost ranks of the best houses in the country. For the better control of its affairs it was converted into a limited company a short time ago. The premises occupied are large and commodious. The first floor is occupied by a spacious and elegantly appointed reception-room, about sixty feet long, and filled at every available nook and corner with exquisite specimens, of the firm’s work, richly mounted in beautiful frames.

The studios are on the second and third floors. These are exceedingly fine, and rank in size and completeness among the best in the north of England. There are at least twenty different backgrounds fitted up, and accessories enough to produce a hundred different effects. A variety of new studio appointments have been recently purchased at a cost of something like £500, which assist the firm to turn out their pictures in every conceivable style, and we understand that a large sum is spent annually so that their clients may always have the latest inventions and improvements. There are here suites of waiting-rooms, dressing-rooms, and everything that can contribute to the comfort and convenience of visitors, while a glance round at the charming photographs will fully convince the observer that the high reputation of the house has been well earned. A staff of about forty experienced artists and assistants is engaged, and photography in all its different branches is executed on the premises.

Over 63,000 sitters have been photographed at this celebrated establishment during the past few years, and the popularity and patronage of the house are still on the increase. It is, indeed, hard to imagine how one can be anything but satisfied — or, rather, delighted with the work produced by Medrington’s, Limited. Their productions possess every merit, beauty of design, fidelity, and delicacy of finish. Single pictures are taken with exquisite effects, and in the most fashionable styles, and a special feature is made of large family groups, which are taken with “artistic” drawing-room surroundings. Their enlarged portraits are unsurpassed for faithful likeness, and general excellence, and are quoted at exceptionally low prices. Portrait painting, too, is done by eminent artists retained by the firm. Children receive particular attention, and outdoor photography in all its branches is executed in the perfection of art. Among the pleasing novelties this enterprising house has introduced we may notice “the opera-box” photograph, for ladies and gentlemen in evening dress; the “Silhouette,” the “Yacht” scene, and the “Sea Shell” for children; the “Statuette” and other artistic specialities.

Enlargements from small photographs are produced by a method which renders them absolutely permanent and unfading; they are produced either on porcelain or paper, and finished in watercolour and monochrome. The firm were awarded the silver medal at Liverpool Exhibition, 1886, and the Diploma of Honour at the Industrial Polytechnic Exhibition, 1890. The connection of the house is by no means a local one, or confined to Great Britain, for their photographs are found in albums all over the world. The originals of numerous flattering testimonials from some of the best known personages and leading families in the district can be seen at the studios, Messrs. Medrington are men of unquestionable skill in their pursuit and of great artistic taste. They give their immediate personal supervision to the business, and spare no pains to keep up the enviable reputation their house enjoys. They are strictly fair and honourable in their dealings, and much respected by all who know them for their personal worth, ability and courtesy.

SMITH & TOWERS, MANUFACTURERS AND DEALERS IN FINE CONFECTIONS,
23, LORD STREET, 15, ELLIOT STREET, AND 133, NETHERFIELD ROAD NORTH, LIVERPOOL.

OPERATIONS were originally commenced about twelve years ago, when the above concern was developed with noteworthy rapidity. The founders were men of considerable practical experience, and the energy and tact brought to bear soon resulted in a good business and in the initiation of that connection which at the present day is not surpassed by that possessed by any other house in the same line in Liverpool. The retail shops are ample in size and replete with every accommodation and convenience for patrons. The extensive plate-glass windows in Lord Street have been utilised with good taste and judgment, and an exceedingly attractive display is made of the choice articles manufactured by the firm. The works at Netherfield Road are spacious in size, and have been constructed with special regard to the requirements of the business. The different departments are equipped with apparatus, plant, and machinery of the most modern and suitable description, and the visitor to these works is struck with the remarkable neatness and order with which all the processes of manufacture are conducted.

The utmost confidence can be reposed upon the perfect purity of everything produced by this responsible house. The system of organisation maintained among the hands employed is of an exceptionally rare kind, and too much praise cannot be given to the proprietors for their very capable and efficient management. With every advantage in their favour the firm carry on a large and valuable trade in the manufacture of fine confections, and the articles they produce hold a high position in the market, and are immense favourites with all classes of buyers. The ingredients employed are perfectly pure and the best that can possibly be obtained, and every process is conducted with great care and scrupulous cleanliness and constantly watched by competent workpeople. Among the many popular specialities for which the house is noted, one of the most widely-known is their celebrated fine caramels, sold under their registered trade-mark, “The Anvil” brand. In delicacy and lusciousness these confections are unsurpassed, and the demand for them is continually on the increase. Various kinds are made to suit the requirements of the trade, and they are flavoured with chocolate, strawberry, walnut, vanilla, cocoanut, honey, maple, and almond. All the leading lines are fully represented by superior selections, such as Russian toffee, caramel walnuts, nougat pistache, fruit farcis, marzipan, creme goods, and high-class chocolates, &c., &c., all under the registered “Anvil” brand.

A wholesale and retail business of a high-class and valuable character is conducted, the principal connection lying among the larger shopkeepers and wholesale dealers throughout the United Kingdom. So great and increasing are the demands that a large and very efficient force of hands is constantly employed in filling them, than which nothing can speak more satisfactorily for the superior quality of the goods the house produces. The proprietors are men of practical experience and special ability in their business, to which they devote their constant personal attention.

PRINCES TOBACCO CO.
(MR. W. GRIMSHAW, MANAGER),
68, BOLD STREEP LIVERPOOL.

THIS establishment was opened some five years ago, and has secured a position in public favour and commercial estimation second to no other in the city. The premises occupy an excellent position in Bold Street (No. 63). The spacious and handsome shop is fitted up in a very superior style. The large plate-glass window is well and tastefully dressed with a variety of goods beloved of smokers. The cigars include the very choicest brands of Havannahs (up to £6 and £7 per hundred), many of the notable 1885 crop. Rich-flavoured Indian cigars, Burmahs, Mexican cigars, Manilla cigars and cheroots, and several special brands of home and foreign manufacture. The latest speciality introduced by Mr. Grimshaw is a brand of cigars from the Canary Islands, called Republicanos Federales. The cigarette trade is quite a distinct feature. They sell only brands which have been favoured by the elite of Great Britain for the last twenty years. It may be noted that though high in standard, these cigarettes are very moderate in price.

In tobaccos, the firm make a leading speciality of the “Carlton Flake Honey Dew.” By careful selection and judicious blending this beautiful bright flake tobacco has a character more widely appreciated daily by lawyers, doctors, clergymen and students. It is sold at 7s. 2d. per pound, 4-and-a-half d. extra by post. Other brands are Princes’ Honey dew, 7s. per pound, specially recommended by the medical faculty. Cable Brand Honeydew, Red Rough Cut, full of flavour and very cool smoking, 6s. 2d. per pound. Grimshaw’s special mixtures and blends, 6s., 6s. 2d., and 7s. 2d. per pound. Turkish tobaccos from 7s. 6d. to 21s. 6d. per pound. “Perique,” imported from New Orleans in half-pound foil packages, 14s. 6d. per pound, or 1s. per oz. Also the famous brands of Keretchiler, Mursal, and Egyptian blend.

In fancy goods the firm display a large assortment of briar pipes, meerschaums, cigar and cigarette cases, cigarette tubes, cigar cabinets, pouches, cigarette papers, &c. Pipes are mounted in silver, and repairs of all kinds are executed on moderate terms, and with the least possible delay consistent with perfect and reliable workmanship. This establishment has the monopoly, not only in Liverpool, but in the North of England, for the sale of the “ Kylindron,” which is an ivory cigarette holder, and is the latest London novelty. It is the cleanest and most luxurious holder known. It is very easily cleaned, and preserves the natural flavour of the tobacco smoked.

Mr. Grimshaw brings to bear upon the management and selection of his stock the valuable experience of many years, and a spirited enterprise and well-directed energy in the conduct of the business. Connoisseurs of every taste are agreed upon the excellent judgment he has displayed. Courtesy and careful attention to customers’ requirements are unbroken rules in all the dealings of the firm, and well-merited in every respect is the success which has attended the career of the establishment, liberally supported as it is by the many lovers of the “fragrant weed,” who thoroughly appreciate a good article offered at a moderate price.

W. LITHERLAND & CO., CHINA, GLASS, AND EARTHENWARE DEALERS,
23 AND 25, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established in 1833 by the late Wm. Litherland, and is now carried on by his nephew, Mr. John Nicklinson. The premises, which are large, comprise three storeys and a basement, and they have a frontage of about thirty-five feet. In the windows there is an attractive display of art, pottery, and earthenware of the most high-class description, for the trade carried on is a superior one, though popular prices are a feature of the establishment. The offices are on the ground floor. The show-rooms are each about a hundred feet in length, and they are compactly stocked with pottery, china, glass, and earthenware. Some of this ware is exceedingly elegant. It includes numerous articles of utility and ornament, such as breakfast, dinner and tea services, dessert sets, toilet sets, vases, &c. The selection offered is, therefore, as varied as it is extensive. Indeed, the establishment under, notice is a most interesting feature of the most select thoroughfare in Liverpool. All the latest novelties, whether of English or foreign manufacture, are promptly introduced, and the public can rely on having all requirements met here.

SHAW BROTHERS, FURNISHING AND GENERAL IRONMONGERS,
81, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS splendid business owns the distinction of being the oldest of its kind in the city, having been founded in 1811 by the late Mr. John Braithwaite. After successfully conducting it for a great number of years, the founder was succeeded by Messrs. Shaw Brothers in 1858. The original address was 18, Ranelagh Street, on the site of the Central Railway Station, and was established later for twenty-one years at 67 Lord Street. The premises in Bold Street are striking and handsome, the display of goods in the large windows being of a particularly pleasing nature. The shop presents all the appearance of a first-class establishment of its kind, and is heavily stocked with a varied stock of superior and useful articles. A vast showroom occupies the first floor, and the second and third floors are used as stock-rooms. In speaking of a business of this magnitude, and one which embraces such a quantity of useful branches, it is somewhat difficult to determine the special lines. All the latest productions in art metal work, cutlery, electroplated goods are, however, seemingly specialities here, for there is a splendid selection; and it may here be noted that their nickel-silver spoons and forks, &c., are warranted the same metal right through, and may be tested with file by the purchaser, and all their goods are from the best manufacturers. Articles of general ironmongery also figure largely and in furnishing ironmongery the selection is even more extensive. There are many singularly handsome and serviceable fenders and fireirons in brass, bronze, and cast iron, steel, &c., paper mache and iron trays, baths of every size and description, copper and brass and japanned coal vases of newest design and artistic finish, afternoon tea kettles and stands, table and other gongs, vases, fire-screens, &c., &c., in fancy brass and copper, and general ironmongery of every kind, combining to make an excellent and pretty show.

Reverting to the electro-plated goods, which are on view in such variety, the noticeable feature about them is the reasonable nature of the prices asked for them, more especially when their quality is undeniable. The remark as to cheapness can be applied to the whole stock, the principals evidently looking to an extended sale for their profits. In the wording sections the house is well to the fore. All lands of whitesmiths’, locksmiths’, braziers’, and tinplate workers’ departments are fully entered into, and work in any of the named branches may be thoroughly relied upon, workmen of experience only being employed. The firm are well known in connection with their skill in hanging all kinds of bells, also for their art metal work. It can readily be imagined that a fine old business of this kind commands a large amount of patronage and support. Since Messrs. Shaw Brothers first took over the concern they have never ceased to hold the respect and esteem of their customers, for they have consistently supplied the best goods on the most reasonable terms, and have extended to all the utmost courtesy and attention.

H. G. TUNSTALL, HIGH-CLASS BEDSTEAD AND BEDDING MANUFACTURER,
128, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business, although only founded four years ago, has taken a very prominent position by reason of the very superior nature of its productions. The extensive premises in Bold Street lend themselves admirably to the requirements of the business. The shop has a spacious double plate-glass front, the windows of which are utilised for making an effective show of the goods manufactured by the firm. In all there are thirteen workrooms, in which a great number of skilful hands are employed. The most improved, hair-dressing and sewing-machines, and all the most modern appliances, are used in the manufacture of bedding of every description. The hair mattresses, which are guaranteed to contain pure curled hair only, at once commend themselves for the beauty of their appearance and for their real comfort. The success attained by the proprietor in the manufacture of these mattresses is almost unprecedented, and he is kept busy in supplying orders. He is sole agent for Liverpool and district for the celebrated Woods’ patent galvanized double-woven spring steel wire mattresses which neither stretch nor rust. In proof of their not stretching, a three-feet mattress may always be seen carrying one ton, viz. eighty 28-lb. weights, and when these are removed the mattress resumes its original position. A single strand of the wire from which these mattresses are made is also on view carrying 1-and-a-half cwt. These mattresses have been largely supplied to more than 150 of the leading hospitals, infirmaries, asylums, colleges, and institutions, in England alone. This is also the depot for the Longford Wire, Iron and Steel Co., Ld.

Mr. Tunstall is largely engaged in cleaning and dressing hair mattresses and all classes of feather goods by special machinery and treatment. He holds a valuable stock of curled horsehair, also feathers, purified grey down, and purified washed white, down. Owing to the large turnover, all these superior commodities are supplied at most reasonable rates. A number of Persian bedsteads most tastefully draped, add to the appearance of the superior stock, and the newest designs of brocades, tapestries and cretonnes may be seen a few days after they first leave the manufacturers’ looms. The whole of this large establishment is under the personal supervision of the proprietor, who by his energy and enterprise has made himself entitled to rank among Liverpool’s most prominent and respected manufacturers and tradesmen.

G. THIERRY, LADIES’ AND GENTLEMEN’S BOOT MANUFACTURER,
5, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business has been established over fifty years, and may be justly regarded as one of the oldest, as it is undoubtedly one of the most fashionable and popular, establishments in the city. Admirably situated, the spacious and handsome double shop, with its exceptionally fine display in the plate-glass windows, forms one of the most attractive features of this fashionable thoroughfare. The fixtures in the interior are of a very superior character, and the appointments and decorations are in excellent keeping with the high tone of the establishment. The stock of boots and shoes is in every way commensurate with the demands of the extensive trade, and includes boots and shoes suitable for all seasons, purposes, and climates. Patent dress shoes and boots, the Lorne and Moliere shoe, lawn tennis and boating shoes, leggings, gaiters, spurs, hunting and shooting boots. In the ladies’ department a large selection of elastic and button boots, the special Exhibition boot, Oxford shoes in morocco, glace or glove, Watteau glace, Louis XV., also a very choice and select stock of satin goods, shoes and sandals. These elegant and fashionable goods are unsurpassed for comfort, style and durability, beauty of finish, and hard wearing qualities. The bulk of the goods are the product of Mr. N. Thierry, who has large factories at Paris, Boulogne, and St. Omer, with depots in London at No. 70, Regent Street, W., No. 48, Gresham Street, E.C., and in Manchester at No. 2, St. Anne’s Square. The establishment is well patronised by both visitors and residents, and the firm number among their patrons many of the local aristocracy, the leading merchants and members of the highest circles of society in city and district.

THOMPSON AND AUTRAND, COMMERCIAL EDUCATORS,
9, SLATER STREET, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

SINCE this business was founded, in 1827, it has been instrumental in enabling thousands to undertake positions of trust and importance in the great world of commerce. It was established by Mr. Thompson, in the year just named. Mr. Autrand has been the proprietor of the undertaking since 1870. This gentleman is the senior master of foreign languages at the Merchant Taylors’ School, and to him belongs the honour of enabling students to obtain the highest results in the Oxford and Cambridge local examinations. He has very considerable and exceptional experience as a teacher, and employs several competent masters, turning out over six hundred pupils every year. The subjects taught are writing, shorthand, type-writing, book-keeping, arithmetic, letter-writing, grammar, French, Spanish, Italian, German, and Latin.

There is no place in Liverpool where shorthand is more thoroughly taught, and where pupils advance more rapidly. By the system introduced type-writing, with determined practice, is mastered with a quarter’s tuition. Careful instruction in the manipulation and regulation of the type-writer is imparted, and unlimited hours of practice, are allowed on the machines. Rapid writing for business correspondence and civil service, famous for its beauty and plainness is guaranteed in a very short time, by the admirable system introduced. The academy provides opportunities for both ladies and gentlemen to improve themselves in one or more of the subjects taught, and there are private and comfortable rooms for ladies.

Mr. Autrand has been eminently successful with commercial arithmetic, his pupils having been enabled to secure posts of the highest importance. He is well versed in mathematics, and his system for acquiring proficiency in a short time has proved well nigh invaluable. Book-keeping is thoroughly taught, as well as grammar and. letter-writing. In all his many duties, Mr. Autrand exhibits a patience and an interest which renders him respected by all who claim his services. Thoroughly conscientious and courteous, he invariably does his best to impart the soundest principles of each branch in the minds of the students, and exhibits real pleasure in his useful and honourable calling.

BARRAUDS, LIMITED, ART PHOTOGRAPHERS,
92, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS renowned firm of artists and photographers have been established in Liverpool since 1887, although they are a very old firm, and possess a fine place at No. 263, Oxford Street, London. The premises in Bold Street vie with any other of a similar character in the city, for convenience of position, superiority of workmanship, also for the elegant manner in which they are fitted and furnished. The studio is specially planned to secure the most satisfactory light. It contains apparatus of the very latest description, and all the improvements up to date in the photographic world are here in use. The studio is situated on the second floor, and is easy of access. The dressing-rooms are charmingly furnished, and are specially adapted for ladies who may wish to change their costumes. The reception-rooms, too, are fitted in the same lavish manner, and the entire suite of rooms is heated throughout with steam. Mr. Philip Barraud, a member of the firm, personally superintends. He is a gentleman of acknowledged ability as an artist, and has been associated with the firm since its commencement. One of the principal features of their business is the series of group pictures of all descriptions, the most prominent lately executed being those of the Royal Liverpool Golf Club at Hoylake, and the Canterbury Cricket Week Jubilee Meeting, both masterpieces in the art of photography.

The oil paintings, too, form a special branch, and all being the work of Mr. Francis Barraud, bear the stamp of true artistic merit. These, together with finely executed chalk drawings enlarged from all sorts and conditions of photographs, faded or otherwise, of people who have perhaps long since passed away, show what marvellous results may be accomplished with skill and care, likenesses being faithfully represented when perhaps all that the artist has to guide him is some faint image taken in the earliest infancy of photography. A very fine example of this gentleman's work is to be found in the permanent collection of the Liverpool Walker Art Gallery. Another process in which the firm display wonderful effects is enlargements in crayons, some beautiful examples being on exhibition, a notable one being the life- size portrait of the celebrated Miss Macintyre. The portraits on porcelain produced by this firm are of the highest tone of merit, and have gained a wide reputation. They are prized for their beauty of tone, permanent character, and faithful likeness. They form graceful and pleasing subjects for presentation. There are a number of skilled artists employed. The whole tone of this business is one of a decidedly superior nature, and it is meeting with that large measure of aristocratic support which it so richly deserves.

RUMNEY & CO., ART DECORATORS, CABINETMAKERS, UPHOLSTERERS, &C.,
9 AND 11, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE inception of this noted house dates back for some three-quarters of a century. The founder was Mr. George Woods, who successfully established the concern, and was succeeded about twenty-five years ago by Mr. John B. Rumney and Mr. T. H. Love. On the unfortunate demise of the latter gentleman some four years ago, Mr. Rumney took into partnership Mr. Walter L. Brothers, and both these principals are gentlemen who have special qualifications for conducting their business properly. The premises in Bold Street are spacious in extent and attractive in appearance. The establishment possesses magnificent windows which are filled with a unique display of the goods the house deals in, arranged with great skill and taste. The interior of this emporium is fitted up in a refined and elegant style. Some idea of the extent of the establishment and of the business may be gathered from the fact that there are spacious show-rooms on the different floors, all filled to repletion with drawing, dining and bed room suites of the best and most artistic designs, bedding of every description, iron and brass bedsteads, curtains and Oriental produce. A large staff of attendants is kept, and courteous and prompt attention can always be relied upon.

The manufactory belonging to the house is situate at the corner of Fleet Street and Concert Street, and is equipped with all the latest appliances used in the trade, while employment is found for a large number of skilled workmen under experienced managers. Here is carried on an extensive and influential trade in the manufacture of artistic furniture of every kind and character. Their productions have no equal in this part of the country for soundness of material, excellence of workmanship, and elegance and originality of design. The bedroom suites range in price from ten pounds to one hundred and fifty pounds, and command extensive sales among the best class of buyers. The firm are widely known as manufacturers of bedding, and the completeness of their resources enable them to turn out the best of work at the most favourable prices. To show the bona-fide character of their work, customers are invited to inspect their goods in process of manufacture.

An important feature is made of wallpapers and decorative fabrics, of which the house shows all the latest and most attractive English and foreign novelties. For painting and decorating of every description, in the most artistic style, the house has acquired a special fame. This department is under the personal superintendence of one of the firm, Mr. Walter L. Brothers, who, by his early training as an architect under Mr. Charles Barry, F.R.I.B.A., and as manager in some of the best West-End of London decorating firms, is fully qualified to execute work in the most approved and recherche style. Designs and estimates are prepared for all kinds of plain and ornamental painting. Both partners are gentlemen of large experience; they are assiduous in the endeavours to oblige their customers, and by their fair and liberal methods of transacting business they retain the confidence and continued support of their widespread and valuable connection.

SYMES & CO., PHARMACEUTICAL CHEMISTS,
THE CENTRAL PHARMACY, 58, BOLD STREET, AND 14, HARDMAN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE “Central Pharmacy” has been established considerably over thirty years, and was taken over in 1877 by the present proprietors, Messrs. Symes & Co., by whom the business in all its branches has been greatly developed, forming a valuable adjunct to their original establishment in Hardman Street. The establishment occupies an excellent position, and is also the Post and Telegraph Office. The spacious and handsome double shop has a very imposing frontage, the two large and lofty plate-glass windows are well and tastefully arranged, and present all the interesting and attractive characteristics of a high-class pharmaceutical establishment. The interior is fitted up in a very superior style with elegant appointments. The premises also contain store-rooms, packing department, office, and all the accessories of a large and thoroughly organised establishment. At No. 46, Pilgrim Street, the firm have a well-appointed laboratory, in which a large staff of duly qualified assistants is employed in the preparation of their numerous specialities. The export warehouse is located at No. 63, Wood Street.

A vast stock of drugs and chemicals of well-attested purity is held, as well as all the best-known patent medicines, pharmaceutical preparations and proprietary articles, surgical appliances of all kinds, hospital and sick room requirements, deodorizers, disinfectants, and sanitary preparations; a very choice and sound stock of perfumes, fancy soaps, and toilet requisites, amongst which may be mentioned the Court Bouquet, Lancashire Witches, Old English Lavender Water, perfumes by Atkinson, Piesse and Lubin, Rimmel, and all celebrated makers. The Royal Lavender Water, as supplied to Her Majesty, genuine Eau de Cologne, Hingston’s Nutritive Pomade for strengthening and beautifying the hair, Petrolium Pomade for use when the hair is falling off. Saunder’s Bloom of Ninon, Blanc de Perle, Rouge de Theatre, and many excellent preparations for the teeth and the complexion. The house has also long enjoyed an eminent reputation for a number of special domestic remedies, notably Hingston’s Marshmallow Troches for coughs, colds, hoarseness, &c., the indigestive essence, quinine-wine, tasteless castor oil, stomachic and digestive or Long Life candy, diarrhoea mixture, &c. In the dispensing department physicians’ prescriptions are accurately compounded and family receipts carefully prepared, the best and purest drugs and chemicals only being used. The entire stock is selected from the best sources with great care and sound judgment, and with a special view to the requirements of a high-class trade. The firm are extensive importers of Brazilian drugs, and make a leading speciality of their celebrated Iceland Moss Lozenges. The trade is of a widespread, influential, and steadily-growing character. The business in every department is under direct and careful supervision, and is conducted throughout with energy and enterprise.

HERR GROSSE & SON, FASHIONABLE HAIRDRESSERS, &C.,
53, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS is without doubt one of the largest and most complete establishments of its kind in Liverpool, and is owned and presided over by Herr Grosse & Son, who have been founded over half a century, and who possess experience and knowledge of the widest nature. There magnificently fitted and furnished premises are the resort of the elite of the ladies and gentlemen of the city, and throughout the entire district a high reputation is held. The shop has a singularly handsome appearance, and an appropriate display is made in the plate-glass windows. There are eight or nine apartments devoted to hairdressing, chiropody, manicure, shampooing, reception and work rooms. Every branch of this great business is carried out with a completeness unequalled elsewhere and in all departments reliable artistes from the best houses in London and Paris are engaged. An immense selection of high class wigs of all periods, colours, designs, &c., is on hand, and a department is exclusively set aside for private theatricals, an artiste specially versed in “making up,” being employed. There are also wigs for ordinary wear, all colours and shades, and any speciality is made to Order, as well as scalps, fronts, scalpettes, fringes, toupees, plaits, coils, tails, frizzets, &c.

Herr Grosse is the author of a very valuable and comprehensive treatise on the human hair, which is well worthy of careful perusal. He is also the discoverer of the fact that hair has no roots. His numerous preparations for restoring hair to its natural colour, strengthening and keeping the hair in condition, as well as his washes, face powders, &c., are now too well known to need description. Numerous testimonials from the highest personages, speak in glowing terms of the marked benefit derived from their use. Much attention is given to manicure and chiropody, Herr Grosse having gained the highest and most satisfactory results in these important branches. The firm are inventors of the famous Marigold Skin soap for fine and delicate skin, pimples, and hard water. The substance is of absolute guaranteed purity. They are also the proprietors of “Dunatos,” which is a splendid cure for dropsy, lumbago, rheumatism, neuralgia, sore throats, boils, toothache, and a host of other complaints. There are two distinct preparations, one for external, and the other for internal application. Many very complicated cases have been completely cured by these invaluable remedies.

Consultations on hair and skin are held gratis from eleven to five. It only remains to be remarked that in the conduction of this business the greatest courtesy is exercised, and that nothing is considered a trouble. The respect in which the firm are held prove that their efforts to give satisfaction are thoroughly appreciated.

FISHLOCK BROTHERS, FLORAL DECORATORS AND ARTISTS IN FLOWERS,
GRAND NEW FLORAL HALL, ELLIOT STREET & ST. JOHN’S MARKET, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG the notable houses closely identified with the growth and development of the florists’ trade in Liverpool, a place of distinction must be accorded to the above house, which was organized in St. John’s Market in the year 1856 by the father of the present proprietors, and was by him developed with marked success until 1881, when he retired in favour of his two sons, who thereupon assumed the style and title above designated, and entered upon their duties with such energy and enterprise, that by 1890 they found it expedient to erect their present handsome and commodious premises, which have been appropriately termed the Grand New Floral Hall. The elegantly-appointed interior of this structure is conveniently divided into two parts, one for the display of wreaths and crosses in fresh flowers, everlastings, and artificial flowers fashioned out of metal, porcelain, and other materials, and the other for a daily exhibition of fresh-cut flowers, button-holes, sprays, bouquets, and posies for presentation, balls, weddings, birthdays, and other festive functions.

Cut flowers form the leading speciality of the firm, and of these they send immense quantities to all parts of the United Kingdom, and even to Covent Garden, in London. They, moreover, do a fair trade with patrons abroad, in various parts of the world, with everlastings and artificial flowers, and enjoy the major portion of the patronage of the elite of Liverpool and its surroundings. Their designs for floral arrangements and the decoration of rooms and tables, and the like, with graceful evergreens and beautiful flowers, are among the most charming conceptions of the kind extant, and all their work is executed with efficiency and despatch by skilled and experienced men of good taste and ability. The entire business is conducted with marked judgment and enterprise under the personal direction of the principals, and no firm could have won by more honourable and] legitimate means the eminent position and widespread reputation which this noted house has so long and so worthily enjoyed.

BICKERSTETH, BAKER & CO., IRON, TINPLATE, HARDWARE, MACHINERY AND COMMISSION MERCHANTS,
17, WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG the well-equipped houses for successful and satisfactory service, none deserve more honourable mention in these pages than that of Messrs. Bickersteth, Baker, & Co., of 17, Water street, Liverpool, the well-known iron, tinplate, hardware, machinery and commission merchants. Operations were commenced in this direction about eight years ago by Messrs. Bickersteth & Baker, under whose joint experienced and capable management it was developed with noteworthy rapidity and success, and a valuable connection was soon formed. An extensive business is transacted in iron, machinery, and hardware. The firm are the sole manufacturers of the celebrated “Gordon” trunk and “Stanley” box, which are so well known in the African markets, and the continually increasing demand for them testifies in an eminent degree to their high-class make and suitability. They are the agents for some of the most famous engineers and iron manufacturers in the kingdom, and are prepared to fill the largest orders with satisfaction and despatch. The articles dealt in are principally iron and steel plates, bars, hoops, sheets, tinplates, anchors and cables, cast-iron pipes, edge tools, hardware, zinc, and machinery of all kinds.

The extensive connection and the ample facilities and resources the firm possess enable them to dispose of vast quantities of goods to the best class of buyers and consumers, and patrons of this representative house will find their interests thoroughly consulted in every respect. As the representatives of the manufacturers, Messrs. Bickersteth, Baker, & Co. are prepared to offer every advantage to buyers. The firm are the sole agents for the following well-known leading firms: R. Hornsby & Sons, Limited, Grantham, engineers, boilermakers, &c.; H. P. Skidmore, Atlas Works, Netherton, wrought iron, gas, water, steam, hydraulic and galvanized tubes; H. and R. Waterfall & Barber, Sheffield, cast steel, cast steel files, hand tools, &c.; Scott Brothers, Halifax, lathes, drilling, punching, and shearing machines, and all kinds of engineers’ tools; Carntyne Iron Co., Parkhead, Glasgow, iron and steel plates and sheets; George Cooper & Sons, Sheffield, nuts, bolts, washers, rivets, &c.; Lee, Howl & Co., Limited, Tipton, lift and force, duplex, steam and other pumps, pulley blocks, &c.; Henry P. Skidmore & Co., Birkenhead, galvanized iron manufacturers; and William Wilkinson & Co., Mirfield, cotton waste, sponge cloths, &c.

DICKINSON & CO., WHOLESALE MANUFACTURING STATIONERS,
11 TO 15, CABLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A LARGE and important business has been developed at the above address in Cable Street by the firm of Messrs. Dickinson & Co., founded in the year 1878 by the present sole principal, Mr. Charles Dickinson. The premises occupied are well adapted to the requirements of a large stationery trade, and comprise all requisite office and warehouse accommodation, together with a large and well-appointed sale-room on the ground floor. A stock of great magnitude and variety is held in this extensive establishment, and the firm have always a number of novelties to show in envelopes, note-paper, labels, &c., keeping sufficiently large quantities of these goods to meet almost any demand Their latest speciality is the “Telephone” note-paper, a perfectly new production of excellent quality, put up in a highly-attractive wrapper, to sell at one shilling the packet. This speciality is going to be very extensively advertised in the leading papers, and retail dealers will do well to take it in hand. The wrapper is printed on tinted enamel in bright and attractive colours, and stationers will certainly find this paper a saleable article. They can have their own name or telephone number printed on wrappers for orders of ten reams and upwards. The new “Telephonic Envelopes” are made to match the paper, and are put up with most attractive bands and labels.

Messrs. Dickinson & Co. exemplify every branch of the wholesale and manufacturing stationery trade, and have spacious and admirably-appointed workshops on the two upper floors of their premises, where relief-stamping, die-sinking, label and envelope making, and other operations of a like nature are extensively carried on with the aid of hand and steam-power machinery. Upwards of sixty workpeople are employed here, besides a numerous staff of clerks and salesmen; and the house is well represented by several travellers, who visit all the principal trade centres. The business is entirely wholesale, and is conducted under the personal direction of Mr. Dickinson, who is a gentleman of sound practical experience in the trade. This house has been highly successful from the first, and is held in great esteem and confidence by a widespread connection extending throughout Lancashire and the north.

THE EAU DE SELTZ COMPANY,
23 & 25, BAKER STREET, WEST DERBY ROAD, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business, known as The Eau de Seitz Company, has justly acquired a very high reputation, and is at present in the enjoyment of a most liberal patronage, which extends not only throughout the length and breadth of Liverpool, but throughout Lancashire, into Cheshire, &c. The undeniable superiority of the mineral and aerated waters manufactured has caused for them a firm commercial position, and the rapid extension of the business proves how highly the company’s productions are prized. The business is the property of Madame E. Warnet, and was established twenty years ago (1871). The original site was in Richmond Row, and was subsequently removed to Pembroke Place, and afterwards — in 1888 — to the present address. These consist of a compact and fairly spacious block of buildings, with capital yard and covered entry. They comprise within them well-appointed office and fine manufactory. The latter is very complete, and supplied with all the modern appliances required by the trade. The syphon tops are all made on the premises, and these tops are fitted to all bottles sent out. There are also box-making departments, &c. The plant and apparatus used in manufacturing the waters is by a French firm, and is of improved type, the inventor being Mr. Gazaubon, of Paris. The following list embraces the most popular beverages, eau de seltz, soda water, potash water, lithia water, chalybeated water, lemonade, raspberry, and orangeade. These are only supplied in syphons; they are of the most agreeable and superior quality, and are manufactured as in Paris. There are well-arranged stables and cart house, &c., on the premises. The connection, through the districts named above, is among the chemists, hotel proprietors, and private families. There is a large number of workmen regularly employed. The business is conducted in a manner which reflects the greatest credit on those responsible for its management, and is well worthy of the support accorded to it.

S. M. FREEMAN & CO., SUGAR, RICE, AND FRUIT MERCHANTS,
7, VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IT WAS in the year 1877 that Mr. S. M. Freeman, trading under the style and title above designated, commenced operations on an extended scale as an importer and distributor of sugar, rice, and dried fruit. The refined sugar in all its varieties is derived from the leading English, Scotch, and Continental refineries; while the rice, raw sugar and fruit, come direct from the countries of their growth, from Demerara, West Indian Islands, Egypt, &c. The premises occupied in Victoria Street are in every way exactly adapted to the requirements of the extensive trade carried on, and consist of well-appointed offices, sample-room, and great warehouses in Temple Lane, the bulk of the stock of fruit being kept in bond. From these immense supplies Mr. Freeman does a very flourishing trade amongst wholesale and retail grocers throughout the United Kingdom, which calls into active requisition the services of first-class travellers and a large number of clerks, and a full staff of efficient warehousemen. The business in all its branches is conducted under the personal direction of Mr. Freeman, who, it may be mentioned, is a churchwarden of St. Mary’s, Waterloo, and also a patron of that living. He is everywhere respected, as much for his many estimable personal qualities as for the thoroughly sound and straightforward lines upon which he administers the affairs of his great and representative undertaking.

F. & A. FOWNES, GLOVERS, HOSIERS, SHIRT-MAKERS, AND LADIES’ OUTFITTERS, &C.,
10, LORD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IT IS particularly interesting in any notice of the trade and industries of Liverpool to meet with a firm of such old standing and extensive connections as that of Messrs. F. & A. Fownes, and to accord to this eminent house that special prominence which its influential position in the trade so justly demands. Reverting to its early history we find that the business was founded by the grandfather of the present proprietors in 1800, Messrs. F. & A. Fownes succeeding about ten years ago. Although the establishment is not in any way connected with the celebrated London house of Fownes having their manufactory at Worcester, the proprietors are members of the same family. The establishment occupies an excellent position in Lord Street (No. 10). The spacious and handsome shop has a very imposing plate-glass frontage, the massive and lofty windows are well and tastefully dressed, and form an interesting and attractive feature of this fashionable thoroughfare. The interior is fitted up in a very superior style with elegant yet substantial counters, showcases, large and handsome mirrors, and other appropriate and tasteful appointments.

In THE GENTLEMEN’S DEPARTMENT the following comprise some of the principal features in the varied stock. Hosiery and underwear by the best makers, gloves in every variety by the best English and Continental manufacturers; collars, scarfs, ties, cuffs, and fronts, long-cloth shirts, manufactured from the best long-cloths and linens, made to measure and fit guaranteed at 6s. 6d., 7s. 6d., 8s. 6d., 9s. 6d., 10s. 6d., 11s. 6d., 12s. 6d., and 13s..6d. each; French cambric shirts at 6s. 6d. and 7s. 6d.; Oxford gauze shirts, 8s. 6d.long-cloth drawers, 4s. 6d. and 5s. 6d.; coloured flannel shirts, 8s. 6d. to 15s. 6d.; nightshirts ready for use or made to measure from plain or twilled long-cloth, 5s. 6d. to 9s. 6d.; sleeping suits in Oxford gauze, 13s. 6d.; flannel, 8s. 6d. to 25s.; Ceylon, 8s. 6d, 18s. 6d.; tennis shirts, white gauze, 8s. 6d.; Ceylon, 8s. 6d. to 11s. 6d.; Saxony, 8s. 6d., 10s. 6d, 14s. 6d.; trousers, white, 8s. 6d., 10s. 6d., 18s. 6d., striped, 21s.

THE LADIES’ DEPARTMENT, which occupies the entire first floor, is approached by a handsome staircase, and comprises an extensive and well-lighted showroom, comfortable trying-on room and counting-house. To meet the requirements of their numerous and fashionable patrons the firm hold a very choice and superior stock in this department, special attention being paid to the following: Ladies’ natural wool hosiery, of which a large number of makes are kept to suit the various seasons of the year. Ladies’ gloves for walking, driving, and evening wear. Cutting department, where Messrs. Fownes execute their special orders for ladies’ shirts, blouses, dressing gowns, dressing jackets, night-gowns and under garments, &c. Messrs. F. & A. Fownes have the honour of holding a royal warrant appointing them hosiers and glovers to Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen, and as recently as last winter received a similar token of distinction from Her Royal Highness the Princess Mary of Teck, in which Messrs. Fownes were specially appointed glovers to Her Royal Highness.

Messrs. F. & A. Fownes have always aimed at the attainment and maintenance of a high standard of excellence as a characteristic of all their productions; correct style, perfect fit, reliable materials, and sound workmanship are studiously insured in every item of their manufacture; and nothing more than this is necessary to amply warrant a steady continuance of the high reputation in which their establishment has always been held. Messrs. F. & A. Fownes enjoy the distinction of having been specially visited by Her Royal Highness Princess Mary of Teck on her visit to Liverpool about two years ago. The firm are also honoured by a special appointment as hosiers and shirtmakers to the Most Noble the Marquis of Anglesey, and they also number among their clients many of the local aristocracy and members of the highest circles of society in Liverpool and the northern district. Both the partners (Frederick and Arthur) take an active part in the business, and that commendable spirit of enterprise and energy which has always so strongly animated the members of this firm is conspicuous in the management of every department.

THE LIVERPOOL IMPERIAL TYPEWRITING AND COPYING OFFICES,
OSBORNE HOUSE, 30A, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE Liverpool Imperial School of Typewriting and Shorthand and Copying Offices was established, some eighteen months ago£ by the present proprietress, Miss Guibal, and considering the short time it has been in existence it may be justly said to have proved a marked success. The establishment, which is well and widely known as “Osborne House,” is eminently suited to the purpose, and conveniently divided into departments for the purpose of teaching and studying. Numerous typewriting machines, by the best makers, are provided: a separate apartment is devoted to the numerous staff of experienced copyists, &c. Miss Guibal, who it is almost needless to say is an accomplished artist, and thoroughly proficient in every branch of her undertaking, gives instruction and training in typewriting and shorthand — a thorough knowledge of the latter, it should be noted, is essential to proficiency in typewriting. Miss Guibal has now a large and increasing number of pupils under her care, and it is interesting to note that all the four pupils submitted at the local Lancashire and Cheshire Union Examinations were successful, and gained great credit, and was the only establishment that passed all the submitted pupils.

In the other departments translations are undertaken, and copying of every description is neatly and promptly done. Appointments are sought for students when proficient. The terms for typewriting are £5 5s. for six months’ thorough training; £3 3s. for three months’ ditto, and £2 2s. for single course of seventy-two hours’ practical study, at appointed times most convenient to the student. For teaching shorthand, ten lessons of one hour each are given for 10s. 6d., and private lessons per arrangement. Miss Guibal is painstaking and persevering, and her well-known ability and unvarying courtesy have won the confidence and esteem of a very liberal and steadily increasing patronage.

THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF COOKERY
(MRS. THWAITES),
71A, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE excellent institution over which Mrs. Thwaites, formerly of the Liverpool School of Cookery, so ably presides, has been established over ten years, and has met with that great amount of success which its merit deserves. The spacious premises at 7la, Bold Street are well fitted and furnished, and have a large kitchen for demonstrating. Every kind of plain and high-class cookery is taught, as well as preparing dishes for invalids, &c. A large number of ladies, cooks, and others have attained to great proficiency under the tuition given here, and both the private and general classes are immensely popular. Mrs. Thwaites is a member of the Ladies’ Sanitary Association, London, authoress of “Fish Cookery,” &c., and was late lecturer in all the large towns in the kingdom. She holds many high honours in diplomas, certificates, &c. Two very useful and practical courses of lessons are given, one the economical course, and the other the high-class course. For the former the fee is twenty-one shillings, and for the latter forty-two shillings, in both cases including all materials. These courses embrace the most useful subjects, and are thoroughly appreciated. The principal gives lessons to ladies, in or out of Liverpool, at their own homes, and also arranges a series of holiday demonstration lessons for girls of twelve to sixteen years. Dinner parties, wedding breakfasts, &c., are undertaken on moderate terms, and lessons are given in ladies’ schools, &c. Public lectures are given every Monday afternoon and evening, and are of a most instructive and interesting nature. It is almost impossible to overestimate the benefit which this splendidly conducted school is conferring- on Liverpool and district, and a general and marked improvement may be confidently looked for through the exertions of this, talented and courteous lady.

CHARLES SUNDERLAND, TAILOR AND WOOLLEN DRAPER,
18, NORTH JOHN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IT IS more than twenty years since the proprietor founded the above business, and during the whole of the interim he has successfully and prosperously administered it with credit to himself and satisfaction to his clients, and at the present day the establishment has reached a position among kindred houses which has few, if any, compeers. Spacious and commodious premises are occupied in a handsome block of buildings, admirably located, and possessing a commanding frontage of fifty feet in extent. They consist of extensive double-fronted sales-room on the ground floor, of large proportions, stretching forty feet to the rear. The windows are filled with a choice selection of the latest styles and patterns of cloth, and the sales-room is thoroughly and substantially fitted up with every convenience for the accommodation and display of the stock and the comfort of visitors. The cutting-rooms are situate in that part of the premises facing Cook Street, and are furnished completely with all appliances and means necessary to the adequate discharge of a private tailoring business; the work-rooms are contiguous. Both cutting-rooms and work-rooms are large, roomy, and well lighted and ventilated and convenient.

An extensive and valuable high-class tailoring trade is here controlled, which for cut, fit, and fabric can nowhere be surpassed. The house makes a leading feature of the amplitude and comprehensiveness of the selection of materials it offers to its customers. All the newest styles of cloths and all the latest and most fashionable patterns and designs are to be found here as soon as they are issued to the trade. Mr. Sunderland is intimately acquainted with his business, and is in close connection with all the great centres of fashion — London, Paris, and Berlin — and no effort is spared by him in keeping his establishment fully abreast with the times. The cutters are men of extensive and high-class experience. In workmanship, shape, and general finish, the garments made here have few equals. None but skilled workmen are employed, and the utmost vigilance of superintendence is exercised that no article that is not perfect ever leaves the premises. With the complete resources at his command, and the efficient discipline among his work-people, Mr. Sunderland is prepared to guarantee strict punctuality in delivery, and wedding or mourning suits are supplied in the shortest possible space of time.

The house has achieved a notable success in the making of clerical outfits which, from the nature of the special material provided, the work and cut, have found large appreciation among the clergy and ministers in Liverpool and the surrounding districts. A special feature of this business is the large selection of guaranted pure Scotch Cheviot suitings and trouserings at sixty-five shillings the suit and sixteen shillings the trousers, unequalled for business and ordinary wear. There is no better value to be had, and therefore a very large connection is enjoyed amongst the gentry in Liverpool and its vicinity, and officers and residents in almost every part of the globe.

SCHOFIELD BROTHERS, MINERAL WATER MANUFACTURERS,
5, LEYCESTER STREET, WILBRAHAM STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS notable house was organised in the year 1879, under the auspices of Messrs. Thomas, John, and Samuel Schofield, trading under the style and title above designated, and the commercial development of their business became so rapid that about two years ago they found it necessary to take over the business of Mr. Thomas Stokes, at 198, Phythian Street; and it may be added that they are now on the eve of erecting a new factory on an enlarged scale. The works in Leycester Street are very extensive; while the Phythian Street factory, although smaller, assists the firm very considerably. Both works are elaborately equipped with steam-driven machinery, principally by “Galloways,” and are in all respects self-contained i.e., having ample accommodation, apart from a complete producing plant, for storage, stabling, and the prompt delivery of goods. These comprise all the popular non-intoxicating beverages of the day, such as soda, seltzer, potass, and lithia water; lemonade, ginger ale, and champagne cider, ginger beer and barm beer, apple wine and lime juice, &c., in syphon, or corked or stoppered bottles. All these drinks are of absolute purity, and essentially palatable and refreshing; but special mention must be made of the firm’s lemonade, for which they have gained an unsurpassed reputation, and in which alone they do one of the largest and best trades in the city.

Altogether a staff of about fifty hands, and fourteen vans, are called into active requisition, and nothing could be more commendable than the order and system which prevail in and are characteristic of the premises. The trade controlled extends almost entirely throughout Liverpool and Birkenhead, amongst hotel-keepers, refreshment caterers, shops, and private families, and the entire business comes under the strict personal supervision of the proprietors, who are everywhere respected, as much for their many estimable personal qualities as for the thoroughly sound and straightforward lines upon which they conduct every detail of their difficult undertaking.

THOMAS P. BETHELL, MANUFACTURER OF PLAIN, FANCY, AND POSTAL CARDBOARD BOXES, &C.
OFFICE: CHICAGO BUILDINGS, 64, STANLEY STREET; WAREHOUSE AND FACTORY: 15, RAINFORD GARDENS, LIVERPOOL.

THIS large and important industry was founded by its present proprietor in the year 1883, and has been very successfully developed upon a scale of more than ordinary magnitude. The premises occupied in Stanley Street comprise offices and a large warehouse on the ground, floor of Chicago Buildings, extending back to Rainford Gardens in the rear. On the first floor are the workshops, comprising the box-making room, cutting room, printing room for labels, &c., &c., and each of these departments is fully equipped with the most effective and ingenious modern machinery for the several purposes of the industry engaged in. The box-cutting and scoring machinery here in use is capable of turning out 6,000 boxes per hour, and is driven by an “Otto” gas engine. Mr. Bethell employs over one hundred hands on the premises, and does a splendid business in the manufacture of plain, fancy, and postal cardboard boxes, which he turns out in vast quantities. As a letterpress and lithographic printer, designer, and engraver he also carries on an important trade in the production of address labels, waterproof plant and tree labels, and sample packets for tea, coffee, rice, sugar, and. general merchandise.

A leading speciality consists in the “Unique” folding-box, of which Mr. Bethell is the inventor, patentee, and sole manufacturer. This excellent contrivance is specially designed for postal, packing, and storing purposes, and it has achieved a success which is quite commensurate with its exceptional merit. An immense number of these boxes was made for the Inventions Exhibition, London, 1885, where they received the highest award. They are light, cheap, and secure. Each box is complete in itself. It can be made up in a few seconds, folds flat to stowing, and secures carriage at the cheapest rates. Other notable specialities of this house are seed and sample packets, self-fastening sample packets, chemical paper for the destruction of flies, moths, mosquitoes, &c., and damp-proof postal boxes for cut flowers, game, fruit, bottles, and fragile articles generally.

Mr. Bethell has gained numerous other awards besides the one above mentioned (Inventions Exhibition), and the success thus achieved by his various specialities is the best possible evidence of their genuine merit. He holds immense stocks of boxes, labels, &c., &c., in his warehouse, and is prepared to execute the largest orders on the shortest notice. Few businesses in Liverpool have developed more rapidly than this one, the trade now carried on extending all over the United Kingdom, and also to various parts of the outer world; and Mr. Bethell is entitled to the greatest credit, not only for his practical skill and ingenuity, but also for the energetic and enterprising manner in which he has applied himself to the building up of an industry which is of the greatest usefulness to the commercial community.
The telegraphic address of this house is “Unique Boxes, Liverpool.”

REGINALD R. CROSS, DEALER IN ANTIQUES, WORKS OF ART, &C.,
25, CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A CONNOISSEUR of no mean ability, as well as a thoroughly sound and safe man of business, is Mr. Reginald R. Cross, whose thriving concern was founded by the present proprietor, in 1878, though, perhaps, it would be more correct to say that he continued this portion of a business founded by his father over twenty-five years previously, and it is interesting to know that this gentleman came to Liverpool with the intention of emigrating to America, but missing the vessel and, as was the ease in those days, there not being another for a month, he determined to do some business in the meantime, and with such success were his efforts attended he remained here and founded the nucleus of what is now the largest business of the kind in the world.

Mr. Cross operates on a very extensive scale as a dealer in all kinds of works of art, pictures, rare books, bric-a-brac, carved oak and Chippendale furniture, grandfather’s clocks, antique gold and silver, china, and the like, distributing his wares amongst customers in all parts of the world. He purchases all kinds of old gold and silver ware, and devotes the most careful and competent attention to the repairing of valuable china, and the restoration of paintings. His premises in Castle Street are in every point of character and situation exactly adapted to the requirements of a very brisk high-class business of the kind. They consist of a spacious basement shop, elegantly appointed throughout, to hold and display a stock of goods that is remarkable for volume, variety, and value alike, and altogether constitute perhaps the finest aggregation of similar goods to be found in Liverpool of to-day.

In extension of this business, moreover, Mr. Cross has a branch establishment, conducted upon precisely similar lines, at 25 and 27, Berry Street, and finds full employment for a staff of six assistants and about fifty skilled artizans. Here, besides a very large and well-lighted showroom, are extensive workshops, where all the processes of renovating and beautifying the various pieces of furniture are carried on. A very large and important trade is done with America, immense quantities of artistic furniture and bric-a-brac are constantly being packed and despatched by the steamers plying across the “herring pond,” our American cousins showing themselves fully alive to the advantages offered them by this celebrated house. (This branch is under the direct supervision of Mr. Henry Cross, brother of the proprietor.) 3 The business is personally conducted by the principal with conspicuous energy and ability; and the large and liberal patronage he has always enjoyed is ample evidence of the fact that his efforts have not failed to meet with deserved appreciation and support.

PRICE’S PATENT CANDLE COMPANY, LIMITED,
RIVER STREET WHARF, LIVERPOOL.

THE great and world-famous industry controlled by the above Company is old-established as well as important. The principal works are at Battersea, London; but in 1853, six years after the concern became a limited company, it was found necessary to erect additional works in the neighbourhood of Liverpool, where a great deal of the raw material used in the Company’s manufactures, viz., palm oil, is discharged by vessels from the West Coast of Africa. These works are situated at Bromborough Pool. They are of vast size, occupying a ground area of about twelve acres, and a considerable extent of land has, in addition, been reserved for the erection of workmen’s cottages. When it is stated that about six hundred operatives are employed, it will be perceived that the factory is the nucleus of a thriving industrial community.

The works are admirably built and equipped, as well as conveniently situated. They are roofed with iron, in order to reduce the risk of fire. Not only is the manufacture of stearine candles and glycerine and the refining of paraffin extensively carried on, but the Company make all the requisites necessary to their trade, including packing-cases and candle-machines. They have, therefore, large sawmills and machine-shops, and their staff of employes comprises carpenters, engineers, boiler-makers, fitters, and coppersmiths. The processes of manufacture, too, are much more diversified than might be supposed, for the Company’s stock of candles alone includes about four hundred different kinds and sizes. The Bromborough machines turn out a prodigious number of candles, something like three millions per week. This is equivalent to one hundred miles of candles per day.

The superiority of the Company’s products is universally acknowledged. At the Paris Exhibition of 1889 they received the Grand Prix for general goods, the highest award ever given to any British candle manufacturer, and at various exhibitions throughout the world they have gained over fifty diplomas. Amongst the Company’s specialities are Gold Medal Palmitine candles, spiral candles, hand-painted candles, perfumed candles, improved self-fitting candles, and a patent perforated carrying candle. The Company’s toilet preparations include Price’s glycerine (the first pure glycerine manufactured), petroleum jelly, scented with otto of roses, glycerine jelly similarly scented, glycerine and rose water, solidified glycerine, shaving cream, perfumed soaps, and wax tapers. Amongst the leading products of the Company should also be mentioned their justly celebrated night lights, viz., “New Patent,” “Royal Castle,” and “Child’s.” The toilet articles are exceedingly elegant, especially the well-known “Regina” soap, and in use they give perfect satisfaction.

Another feature of the Company’s trade is the manufacture of oils for use in factories. The situation of the Bromborough Pool works is exceedingly convenient for the receipt or despatch of cargoes, for the conveyance of which between the works and their depot at River Street Wharf, Liverpool, the Company have steam flats of their own constantly plying. The River street depot, it should be explained, is close to the Coburg Dock, where all the Elder-Dempster boats from the West Coast of Africa are docked. This depot occupies a large, area, and is merely used for the storage of raw materials coming in, or manufactured products going out.

The health, comforts, and social welfare of the Company’s employes has always been a paramount consideration. Bromborough Pool is a model village in all respects. Good houses and gardens are provided for the workpeople, the co-operative system has been adopted, education fostered, and healthful recreation encouraged. There is, for example, a volunteer company composed of employes. There is a reading-room and library, classes and lectures are organised, and every facility offered for mental as well as physical improvement. There is not a single public-house or pawnshop in the place, which is one of the most prosperous and best-administered communities to be found anywhere. From the foregoing brief description it will be obvious that the enterprise of the Price’s Patent Candle Company is unique, that it is very exceptional as regards magnitude, interesting in its details, and beneficent in its effects.

THOMAS GAVED & CO., CIGAR MANUFACTURERS AND IMPORTERS,
18 AND 20, SOHO STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A CONSIDERABLE and extensive industrial undertaking, which has for many years been flourishing with marked success, is the important cigar manufacturing business carried on by Mr. Thomas Gaved, at the above address. This thriving and prosperous concern was founded about twenty years ago by the present principal, who has developed and increased the scope and extent of his operations from year to year, with much energy and the most highly satisfactory results. The factory buildings are roomy and commodious, consisting of a substantial building of four storeys in height, having a frontage to Soho Street of fifty-five feet, and extending to a considerable depth. There are spacious storerooms for tobacco in the leaf, of which a very considerable stock is kept on hand, and there are also large stripping, filling, moulding, cigar-mating, drying, and other rooms. About one hundred and fifty female hands are constantly and regularly employed, turning out considerably over fifteen thousand cigars per day.

The trade is entirely of a wholesale character, and exclusively with the principal buyers for home consumption. The firm have a very widespread and valuable connection, and a number of the best firms in the district have been on their books for many years. They bear an excellent name for the reliable quality and superior manufacture of their goods, and their trade is continually growing and expanding. Close and watchful supervision is devoted to all the details of the work by the principal, Mr. Thomas Gaved, a clever and capable man of business, who is well known in the city, and universally liked and respected for his estimable personal qualifications.

MICHAEL MANNION, GENERAL AND EXPORT COOPER,
89 AND 91, JORDAN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A VERY considerable and important industry is conducted at the above address by Mr. Michael Mannion, who is one of the largest export coopers in the trade. Mr. Mannion, who was originally, and still carries on, at Vauxhall Road, has also very extensive and important works at Tranmere, in premises opposite the landing stage. The business was first established in 1829, in Manchester, and is therefore one of the oldest cooperage establishments in the country. Mr. Mannion has still an important branch house at Manchester, in Gorton Street, and took over the well-known business of Messrs. H. Tyrer & Co., when he acquired their premises in Jordan Street. The works have a frontage of a hundred feet to the street, and extend to a depth of sixty feet. There are also conveniently arranged offices, a roomy building of three floors and spacious yards. All the work is done by hand, and about seventy or eighty skilled workmen are employed. The casks made are chiefly for palm oil, petroleum, and other oils, and a very large export trade to Holland and Belgium especially is done, principally in the shipment of wood hoops, and of barrels to the west coast of Africa. Mr. Mannion also makes a quantity of rum puncheons, and deals extensively in Dutch wood and iron hoops, rushes, rivets tenter hooks, and similar goods. He has a very valuable and influential connection of old standing, and does a very sound and substantial trade. He is assisted in the works by his three sons, and his firm has a very high reputation in the commercial world, while he is personally widely known in the city and universally respected as a business man of marked ability and high character.

THOMAS HENDERSON, ENGINEER AND PATENTEE, MAKER OF HENDERSON’S PATENT MECHANICAL STOKER, AND SELF-CLEANING FURNACES,
6 AND 8, TRUEMAN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS large and important business was founded by its present proprietor, Mr. Thomas Henderson, in the year 1872, and started originally at 37, Hanover Street. After a time a move was made to Seel Street, and eventually the concern was transferred to its present address in 1886. The premises here occupied comprise offices and spacious works, and the entire establishment is admirably organised and equipped for the purposes of the industry carried on, all the working resources having been greatly increased to meet the demands of a constantly-growing trade. Mr. Henderson conducts a very extensive system of operations as a mechanical engineer, and he is widely and favourably known as the inventor and patentee of Henderson’s Patent Mechanical Stoker, which is claimed to be the only apparatus of its kind which positively increases the power of the boiler over hand-firing. This mechanical stoker is adapted for land boilers of all descriptions, and some thousands are now in use, a fact which affords convincing testimony as to its merit. The great advantages secured by the invention are a notable saving of coal and labour, and an increased production of steam, and it is calculated that the stokers now in use (of Mr. Henderson’s make) are saving considerably over £150,000 per annum in value of fuel. Moreover, the wear and tear of the boilers is very greatly reduced, and perfect combustion being insured, the smoke nuisance is prevented where these stokers are in used.

A careful examination of the principles upon which Mr. Henderson’s Mechanical Stoker is constructed has convinced us that they are thoroughly sound; in fact, they are none other than the principles that have been most highly approved of by our leading scientists, and they effectually solve a number of very important engineering and sanitary problems, perhaps the chief among these being the vital question of smoke prevention. For facts and figures concerning the splendid results that have been achieved by the use of these Mechanical Stokers attention is directed to the report of evaporative tests made with this apparatus versus hand-firing, at Wingate Grange Colliery (Co. Durham). The report in question, prepared with great care and completeness by Mr. Armstrong, mining engineer and manager of the colliery, has been issued in the form of a small pamphlet, and may be obtained on application to Mr. Henderson.

Another notable speciality of the house under notice is found in Henderson’s Patent Improved Self-cleaning Furnaces, which have gained several Prize Medals. These furnaces are specially adapted for marine boilers, and their advantages include greatly increased boiler power, no cleaning of fires (thus reducing wear and tear on boilers and preventing priming), and economy in fuel. They have been adopted by a great many of the most prominent steamship companies, including the Inman and International Company’s magnificent twin-screw steam ship, “City of New York,” which is fitted throughout with fifty-four Self-cleaning Furnaces. Testimonials from the highest sources in the shipping world speak in terms of unqualified praise concerning the unsurpassed furnaces, and Mr. Henderson is to be congratulated upon the great favour that has been extended to his valuable invention. The Mechanical Stoker, as already mentioned, has been no less successful, and its patrons include most of the great steam users in the kingdom. In the production of his two leading specialities Mr. Henderson employs an expert staff of skilled workmen, and the whole of his extensive business is superintended by himself in person. Mr. Henderson’s name is one which is closely identified with many important improvements in engines and machinery, and he stands high in the confidence of a most extensive and influential connection.
Telegrams should be addressed, “Mechanical, Liverpool.”

T. R. GOLDING & SONS, FLOUR, MEAL, AND FOOD STUFF MERCHANTS AND MILLERS,
GOLDING’S BUILDINGS, 11,VICTORIA STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IN connection with our food supply and its efficient distribution throughout the land, it is particularly interesting to come across a firm of such old standing and extensive business relations as this one, which doubtless is familiar as household words to every family of any consequence in Liverpool, and indeed throughout the country, as that of Messrs. T. R. Golding & Sons, the celebrated firm of millers, dealers in meals, seeds, and foodstuffs generally for domestic animals. An inquiry into the commercial annals of the city shows that this notable house was organised about a century ago, and has passed through a continuously brilliant series of successes, being handed down from father to son to the present able and energetic proprietors whose names head this notice. The premises occupied, moreover, are remarkable in their way, being reckoned, from an architectural view-point, to be the handsomest of the handsome series of substantial buildings forming Victoria Street. The entrance to this noble edifice reveals a great sample-room, which is followed by a splendid suite of general and private offices, and brought up at the rear by vast store-rooms, with mills and seed-cleaning works in Wood Street.

Here an enormous stock is held, the nature of which may be correctly estimated from the following list of leading lines abridged from the firm’s price current, but as prices fluctuate, they are not admissible in this record. The housewife or baker will find eight samples of superior flours to select from, in addition to six kinds of oatmeal, coarse or fine bran, pearl barley, rye flour and meal, haricot beans, hops and malt, lentils, maize, pea and lentil flour, bird-seeds, rice, peas, wheat, et hoc genus omne. For dogs there are eight varieties of biscuits; for horses, barley, English and foreign beans, bran, Indian corn, oats, peas, and linseed are always available; for poultry, there is barley, buck-wheat, dari, groats, Indian corn, about eight kinds of poultry mixtures, three kinds of rices, six varieties of wheat, and ovifer; for pigeons come three sorts of pigeon corn, beans, peas, and tares; and lastly, for cattle, there are four sorts of feeding cakes, two kinds of Indian corn, and twelve varieties of meals. The exhaustive stock thus barely indicated in outline is held in quantity to meet the demands of wholesale dealers, and is usually put up in 100-pound bags and 250-pound sacks ready for delivery at the shortest possible notice.

For the convenience and information of their numerous clients a price-list of all goods is forwarded every fortnight, and is supplied to any one who applies in writing. The business in all its branches is conducted personally by the principals in the most masterly manner, and is of such a widespread and rapidly-growing character as to entail the employment of a very large staff of clerks and warehousemen, and no firm could have won by more honourable and legitimate means the eminent position and splendid reputation which this house has so long and so Worthily enjoyed.

SUMMERFIELD & CO., TEA MERCHANTS,
34, STANLEY STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IN connection with the development of the tea trade during the past quarter of a century or so in Liverpool, there are perhaps few houses that can be placed on a level, in point of importance and magnitude, with the above firm, which originated under the auspices of the present proprietors in the year 1861. The premises occupied are in every respect exactly adapted to the requirements of a very brisk business of the kind. They consist of a splendidly-appointed sample room, spacious general and private offices (their commodious warehouses are in Mathew Street), on the first floor of a substantial five-storyed brick building in the best and busiest part of Stanley Street. The firm, moreover, is represented in London by branch offices and sample rooms at St. Dunstan’s House, Idol Lane, E.C.; and in Manchester by premises at 3, Old Corn Exchange. They operate on a very extensive scale, exclusively as tea merchants, importing the favourite leaf from all the tea-producing districts in the world, and always holding an enormous supply in bond. The trade connections of the house are not confined to the city and district, but extend throughout North Wales, Ireland, &c., entailing the constant employment of many travellers, clerks, and an efficient staff of warehousemen. The entire business is conducted upon the soundest commercial principles, with conspicuous ability, and reflects the highest credit upon all those who are in any way concerned with its administration.

HOPKINS & CO., SOFT SOAP MANUFACTURERS,
79 AND 81, NAYLOR STREET, LIVERPOOL.

MESSRS. Hopkins & Co. are the latest candidates in Liverpool for support in that great industry, soft soap making; and, judging by the results they have achieved in the few months they have been in operation, are likely to advance to the front rank in this special line of manufacture. In the first place, they appear to have spared no expense in putting down a really serviceable plant, and are capable of turning out large quantities of the commodity to which they turn their more particular attention. All the accessories and appliances are also of the highest order, and so arranged as to facilitate operations. The men, too, are a thoroughly competent staff, and each department is under a skilled foreman. The premises are all through specially well adapted to the requirements of the calling pursued, and there is plenty of room for future development. There are spacious and well-appointed private and general offices, and the works are of considerable extent. Among the latest improvements used in the making of soft soap is a fine engine, the steam required for the process being generated in a twenty-pan bower boiler. A speciality in this firm’s goods is the convenient form in which they are packed, being done up in air-tight tins weighing from one to fourteen pounds, and sold under the title of Superfine “Crown Soft Soap.” Larger packages are, of course, made up, such as barrels, half- barrels, firkins and half-firkins, and for the export markets wood and iron kegs are supplied. The principals are gentlemen of experience and energy, and there can be no doubt whatever that, under their able guidance, and with the facilities they possess, a large and most valuable business will speedily be built up.

PETER MACMULDROW & CO., THE “CITY” TIMBER AND STEAM SAW-MILLS, AND PACKING-CASE MANUFACTORY,
168, LONDON ROAD, LIVERPOOL.

THIS old-established and eminent firm originated over half a century ago, and the first authentic records show that in 1825 the proprietor was Mr. Wm. Baxendale, who was succeeded by Messrs. Holme & Langsdale, and Messrs. Richard Busby & Co., who again in their turn were followed in 1869 by the present proprietor, who trades as Messrs. Peter Macmuldrow & Co. The establishment in London Road is known as the “City” Timber and Saw Mills, and Packing-case Manufactory, and forms the headquarters of one of the most notable industries of this kind in Liverpool. A very large area of ground is occupied by these premises, which comprise general and private offices, timber-yards, and saw-mills, the latter being equipped with band and circular saws, planing and other patented machinery, and varied plant of the most powerful and effective character, driven by two large steam-engines.

Over the saw-mill there is an extensive factory for packing-case and box making, which work is carried out with the aid of the most improved modern appliances. The box-making machines here in use (of which there is a large number) are of the American type, and cost over £200 each. They are of remarkable ingenuity, and execute the most perfect work with extraordinary facility and rapidity. This department is a leading speciality of the business, and the firm make all sorts of packing- cases and small boxes on the shortest notice. Their superior working resources enable them to quote the lowest prices for these goods, and also for export and home use, cases for wine, spirit, and beer bottles, soda-water manufacturers, fish and poultry merchants, wholesale druggists, tin-plate and metal merchants, drysalters, confectioners, and others requiring any kind of boxes for packing and shipping goods. Not only do Messrs. Peter Macmuldrow & Co. do a very large trade in supplying these different kinds of boxes to customers in all parts of England (notably in the potteries district), but they also export boxes and packing-cases in great quantities even to Turkey, South Africa, and the Canary Islands.

In their general trade as timber merchants and saw-mill proprietors, they hold themselves in readiness to supply any quantity of pine and hardwood logs, deals of all kinds, battens, scantlings, pickets and sawn laths, boards, planks, &c., well seasoned, in pine, spruce, birch, American ash, rock-elm, mahogany, and other furniture woods; also Venetian blind laths, picture-frame boards, flooring boards, slating battens, and plastering laths, &c., &c. Timber deals, &c., are cut to any required dimensions, and all the operations of an extensive timber and saw-mill business are largely engaged in. The firm’s trade is of great magnitude, and is continuously developing in all directions under the very able and energetic administration it receives. Employment is given to upwards of ninety workmen, besides a large staff of clerks, and every department of the business presents an example of the most thorough commercial and industrial organisation.

Peter Macmuldrow, Esq., the present head of the house, has been for some years a very active member of the Toxteth Park Local Board, is the present chairman of Lime Street Ward Conservative Association, and is a gentleman equally esteemed in commercial and private life. He devotes his personal attention to the affairs of this great business, which has enjoyed its highest prosperity under his capable control. It should be added that Messrs. Macmuldrow & Co. are agents for the Caledonian Fire and Life Insurance Company, Edinburgh; the Manchester Fire Office, Manchester; the Boiler Insurance and Steam-power Company, Limited, Manchester; the Employers’ Liability Assurance Corporation, Limited, London; and the Edinburgh Horse & Vehicle Indemnity Assurance Company, Edinburgh. They are also sole proprietors of Myer’s patent box-nailing machinery for Liverpool and district, and this undoubtedly gives them a great advantage in their box-making department.
Their telegraphic address is “ Macmuldrow, London Road, Liverpool,” and their telephone number is 483,

THE YORKSHIRE FIRE AND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY,
16, TITHEBARN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS is an old-established, high-class, and popular corporation. It was founded in 1824, with its head offices in York, but it is by no means a merely local institution, for, in addition to its offices in Yorkshire, it has offices in London, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and Glasgow, Hull, and Leeds. The Liverpool office was opened in 1883, and is under the charge of Mr. J. White Williamson as resident secretary. An important district business is being done in Liverpool and district. The Company’s Liverpool offices are commodious and handsomely fitted up, and, in connection with them, an adequate staff is employed, under Mr. White Williamson’s superintendence. In this district, as elsewhere, the Company enjoys the confidence of the public, both on account of its stability and the special advantages it offers.

The capital of the Company is £500,000, subscribed under a deed of settlement by a numerous and wealthy proprietory. The invested funds, according to the last report before us, amounted to £921,469, and consisted of capital paid up, £50,000, life insurance funds, £614,108, and fire insurance funds, £257,361. The LIFE department is distinguished by the facts that its scale of charges is moderate, that its funds are large in proportion to its liabilities, that its bonuses are based upon a sound and liberal scale, that its surrender values are fixed and liberal, and that its general conditions are free from all vexatious and unnecessary restrictions. Eighty per cent. of the profits on the participating policies are divided amongst the policyholders every five years, the effect of which is that, in some instances, from 45 to 80 per cent. of the premiums paid has been returned to the assured. A feature of the life department in this office is the arrangement of annuities and endowments for children on easy terms. The premium tables are exceedingly comprehensive, and include whole life assurance, with or without profits, endowment insurances, limited payments, insurances on joint lives, short period insurances, and half-premium insurance.

In the FIRE department, all classes of house risks are undertaken, including common, hazardous, doubly hazardous, and special insurances. No charges are made for surveys, policies, or stamps. In this department the Company occupies an almost unique position, the reserve fund of £245,000 being more than three times the annual premiums. The business done in both departments is steadily increasing year by year. As the Company does not do any business out of the United Kingdom, the value of the property to the shareholders does not undergo the violent fluctuations common to most other companies, and enables the Yorkshire not only to pay handsome dividends (the last being at the rate of 45 per cent.) to the shareholders, but to continue to increase the already large reserves.

HUTCHIN’S BISCUIT MANUFACTORY,
CUNLIFFE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

DATING back in its foundation to the year 1844, this business was then established by Mr. Hutchin, who carried on a large and continually developing trade for many years, and was succeeded by his son, Mr. George Hutchin. In 1881 the business was taken over by Mr. T. Huntingdon, jun., and on his decease came into the hands of Mr. W. E. Humphreys. The manufactory, which is one of the largest and most complete of the kind in the kingdom, comprises several large and well- constructed buildings of three storeys, with detached offices and counting-house. The various departments are replete with all the most improved machinery, ovens, and appliances that skill, experience, and mechanical science have devised to effect economy in working and to secure perfect and uniform production. Indeed, the firm have invariably occupied the van of mechanical progress as regards production, and there has been no proposed change or improvement in connection with this industry which, seeming to them worthy of consideration, they have not tested, and adopted when experience has approved the change. This has resulted in a plant of highly perfected machinery, that for efficiency, economy in production, and general utility is surpassed by none, and equalled by very few contemporary establishments.

The firm turn out in large and increasing quantities upwards of two hundred varieties of plain and fancy biscuits; also Madeira, pound, Genoa and plum cakes, cocoa-nut cakes, sponge loaves, Bath Oliver biscuits, semolina for infants’ food, puddings, &c.; prepared biscuit powder, highly recommended for infants’ food. The proprietor is keenly alive to the fact that the best goods can only be made from the best materials; the greatest care therefore is exercised in the selection of ingredients only of the very first quality, and quality is never sacrificed to price.

The trade is of a wide-spread, influential, and steadily growing character, and in addition to the extensive home connection the firm do a very large and continually increasing export business, and have recently completed a very extensive order, which has been dispatched two thousand miles up the Amazon River. Several experienced travellers represent the firm in various parts of the United Kingdom, three being continually employed, and upwards of seventy hands are employed in the manufactory and warehouse. The proprietor is a gentleman thoroughly conversant with every detail of the business which he conducts with marked ability, energy and enterprise. It is only possible within the limits of the present article to glance at a few of the more salient features of interest in a large concern like the above, but a more studied inspection of its arrangements, commercial, economical, and industrial, would not only vindicate the above remarks, but fully justify the firm in their position as one of the largest and most enterprising manufacturers in the United Kingdom.

GEORGE ATKIN & CO., ASPHALTE MANUFACTURERS, PORTLAND AND ROMAN CEMENT MERCHANTS,
40, SEEL STREET AND ECCLES STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE large and important business carried on as above by Messrs. George Atkin & Co. was founded in the year 1838 by a company called the Liverpool Asphalte Company, who erected extensive works, and equipped them with a special plant of machinery for preparing coal tar and bringing it to a condition suitable for asphalting purposes, under Polonceau’s patent. A successful trade was rapidly developed on these lines, and was conducted by the original company until 1849, when the business, plant, patent rights, &c., came into the possession of the present proprietors, Messrs. George Atkin & Co. As further valuable applications of the material have since then been discovered the trade has been considerably extended in new departments. About the year 1872 the discovery of “anthracene” brought to light the possibility of extracting the brilliant aniline dyes now so largely used, and this process necessitating the distillation of tar to be carried to a point producing pitch unsuitable for asphalting purposes, the firm were obliged to move from their old quarters to more extensive premises in Eccles Street. Here they have erected new and commodious works, fitted with machinery of a special character and tar stills for the production of a tough class of pitch that will resist wear, the coal tar pitch of commerce being too friable for asphalting.

Messrs. Atkin’s product is very largely used for paving and cellar floors, and is also highly esteemed for roofing work, especially the flat roofs of warehouses, cotton mills, &c., &c. It is a well-known and striking fact that roofs covered by the Liverpool Asphalte Company (Messrs. Atkin’s predecessors) over forty years ago have not needed repairing since they were first laid. Some of these roofs are remarkably extensive, attaining in many cases an area of not less than an acre, and they have remained sound and unimpaired despite the fact that rapidly vibrating machinery has in many cases been constantly at work beneath them. The other applications of this specially prepared pitch are varied, and show it to be a material of very comprehensive utility.

Besides their extensive operations as tar distillers, Messrs. George Atkin & Co. deal very largely in all descriptions of building materials, supplying Portland and Roman cement, drain pipes, and all kinds of fire-clay goods. Messrs. Atkin’s chief offices and warehouses are at 40, Seel Street, where they hold large stocks, and where samples of their various goods may be seen. The trade controlled is one of great magnitude, an influential connection being maintained in all parts of the United Kingdom, and many large and important contracts are entrusted to this house for fulfilment. There is also a considerable export to the Colonies, the West Indies, and the East. Employment is given to about one hundred and twenty hands, and the business is directed with marked ability and enterprise. Mr. G. Atkin is the sole proprietor of the firm, being assisted by his son, Mr. H. T. Atkin and Mr. James Smyth. The last-named gentleman assumes the duties of active management, and supervises the routine of the business at the works and the warehouses. Mr. George Atkin is a gentleman esteemed for his public services as well as for his sterling business qualities. He is a Justice of the Peace for tlie borough of Birkenhead.
Telegrams for Messrs. George Atkin & Co. should be addressed, “Asphalte, Liverpool.”

HENRY L. STERN, IMPORTER AND MANUFACTURER OF CIGARS, &C.,
37, SOUTH CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG its almost countless industries Liverpool possesses no inconsiderable reputation for its tobacco and cigar manufactories. These for their size and importance add in no small manner to the commercial prosperity of the city, and which are, with but few exceptions, a credit to it. Among the most prominent of those industries is the fine business of Mr. Henry L. Stern, whose fame as a British cigar manufacturer extends throughout the United Kingdom. These goods, for their universal excellence, are much prized by connoisseurs, who can always depend upon a uniform standard of finish and flavour. Nor is this enterprising gentleman less favourably known as an extensive importer of real Havana cigars. Immense quantities of the most fragrant and favourite brands are imported by Mr. Stem direct from the best sources. He holds at all times a splendid stock, carefully matured and in matchless condition. These in “Clubland” are accounted of the finest possible quality, and have a most valuable sale. Mr. Stern also imports fine Turkish cigarettes, which are well known throughout the country for their delicious aroma.

This most prosperous business was established in 1872, by the present proprietor. The premises comprise a well-regulated office and warehouse, on the first floor of a handsome block of buildings, four storeys high. The factory is at the rear, and is liberally fitted throughout with hand machines for making the celebrated cigars and cigarettes. The arrangements for carrying on the extensive operations are perfecy. There are between thirty and forty hands employed, principally females, who are most skilled in their various occupations. In the warehouse is stocked a splendid selection of the foreign and British cigars and cigarettes. These are purchased in great quantities by the wholesale and retail cigar merchants and tobacconists throughout the country, there being a most valuable connection attached to this business. The proprietor himself takes the journeys, and is highly respected on the road. The courteous bearing of Mr. Stern increases his popularity, and, in or out of business, he is universally esteemed., As a sound judge of cigars and cigarettes he is an acknowledged authority.

THE GERMAN CONFECTIONERY COMPANY,
CHAPEL GARDENS, GREAT HOMER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE German Confectionery Company, of Chapel Gardens, Great Homer Street, occupies a position of prominence not only among houses in Liverpool occupied with this branch of industrial activity, but also among similar establishments throughout the kingdom. In the extent of its transactions and the enviable reputation it bears it has no local superiors. The inception of the business dates back as far as 1879, at which period operations were commenced by the present proprietors, Messrs. Dunkel and Franz, trading under the above title. The founders were men of large experience and acknowledged skill in their speciality, and the foundation was soon laid broad and deep. Every year has helped to increase the facilities and importance of the house, until it has now assumed a decidedly leading position. Extensive and commodious premises are occupied, consisting of three large four-storey buildings, having a frontage of about one hundred yards, and a considerable depth, and is without doubt the largest manufactory of the kind for fancy goods in the United Kingdom. They comprise general and private offices, thoroughly well-appointed show and sample-rooms, and several capacious warehouses, together with numerous work-rooms, boiling-rooms, &c. There is also a large yard in which are the stables and sheds for the horses and vehicles belonging to the company.

The show-room and warehouses are well fitted up with every requisite and convenience for the dispatch of business and the display of the goods, and the works are equipped with apparatus and plant, the most improved that experience could suggest or money procure. The motive-power is supplied by an eight-horse power steam-engine with one boiler, and a gas-engine of four-horse power. To meet the demands made upon this notable establishment as many as two hundred hands are kept constantly employed. A good system of discipline and control is displayed, and the scrupulous neatness and cleanliness which pervade every department are eminently creditable to the management. Under circumstances most favourable for the production of the best results, an immense trade is here controlled. All the goods turned out by this firm are well known and appreciated in the markets. They are great favourites with all classes of buyers, and when once introduced are sure to hold possession. Only the choicest and best materials are employed, and the utmost care is taken in every process of manufacture to maintain their perfect purity and the high superiority of the articles by which their reputation has been gained.

The proprietors are thorough masters of the latest and most scientific methods of making confectionery, and aided by their practically unlimited resources, they are able to produce goods which really have no superiors. As artistic fancy goods manufacturers and makers of high-class confectionery — a great speciality being the manufacture of finest fondants, fruit jellies, mazapan goods and high-class mixtures, a branch lately added, and one in which an immense trade has already been developed, they hold a good position, and the steady increase of their connection in this direction is proof positive of the high excellence of their goods. Large and varied stocks are kept, which have been selected with a thorough knowledge of the trade and the requirements of the public. The business done is exclusively wholesale. It extends to every part of the United Kingdom and the Colonies, among confectioners, grocers, and restaurant keepers, and an export trade of no inconsiderable proportion has been developed. The proprietors are expert and practical confectioners of many years’ experience in the exercise of their art. They are energetic and business-like in their habits, and by their just and honourable dealings they have secured the confidence and esteem of all their connection.

THE CIVIL SERVICE ACADEMY,
CONDUCTED BY MR. JOHN KEEFE, F.R.G.S., &C. (PRINCIPAL), J. LYNAM, F.S.SC, (LONDON), AND MR. F. BRUNSKILL, B.A., B.SC.,
63, BOLD [STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A VALUABLE and successful institution, which has for many years been held in high esteem in connection with the work of educational development, and notably in its bearing upon the welfare of those destined for employment in the Civil Service or Government appointments, maybe instanced in a brief appreciative account of the Civil Service Academy, conducted at 63, Bold Street, under the direction of Mr. John Keefe, F.R.G.S., as principal, assisted by Mr. Lynam, Mr. F. Brunskill, B.A., B.Sc., and other tutors of eminence.

The good work of the Academy had its first foundation in the year 1879, and since then its scope and extent have been steadily and continuously widened and developed with the most highly satisfactory results. As long ago as the year 1880, Mr. Keefe’s exertions were rewarded by the selection of Liverpool as one of the centres for holding examinations for clerkships in the Civil Service, whereas candidates had previously been compelled to go either to Dublin or Leeds to attend both the Preliminary and competitive examinations, and since then he has at all times taken an active and prominent part in this department of educational work. Special day, evening and postal classes are held for all Government examinations, as well as for the University local examinations, and Medical and Legal Preliminary examinations, and all Professional examinations.

Mr. Keefe publishes a long list of the names of successful candidates who owe their good fortune to his skilled and experienced guidance, and his name is well known and held in high esteem throughout all parts of Lancashire, Cheshire, North Wales, and even far away in Ireland and Scotland. There is also a branch of the Academy at Wellington Chambers, 2, Victoria Street, Manchester. Mr. Keefe has compiled a valuable series of Civil Service textbooks, such as “Hints on Composition, Civil Service Arithmetic, Book-keeping, Penmanship,” as well as other works of considerable utility. He is a member of the Royal University of Ireland, is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, and examiner to the Society of Science, London. He is well known and greatly respected throughout the city and district, and enjoys the high regard and esteem of his many former pupils and all those who have the privilege of his personal acquaintance.

MICHAEL HUTCHINSON & CO., LIMITED, ROPE MANUFACTURERS,
13 AND 14, STRAND STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business has played a highly important part among the commercial industries of Liverpool, and is one of the best known of its kind in the entire district. As rope manufacturers, the fame of Michael Hutchinson & Co. is renowned the world over. Both material and workmanship are known to be thoroughly reliable, and no matter to what purposes the ropes are put they fully answer all their requirements. This fine old concern was established in 1814, and has all along, by reason of its merits, enjoyed a large measure of success. Its commercial standing is of the highest order, and never since it became a firm has its integrity in any way been questioned. It is one of those undertakings fortunate in possessing in its proprietors gentlemen of enterprise, experience, and honourable dispositions.

The Liverpool warehouse is situated in Strand Street, and is a commodious and well-ordered place. It is of six floors, with basement, and is heavily stocked with the ropes, &c., made at the works, and also the products of several eminent firms, for which Messrs. Michael Hutchinson & Co. are agents. These are A. Lowson, sail cloth manufacturer, Arbroath, Woodberry and Ontario Mills, American cotton duck manufacturers; and W. Barbour & Son, prepared sail-twine makers. All these firms, in their several ways, are justly celebrated for the superior quality of their goods, and, having the good fortune to be represented in Liverpool by such an accredited firm as Messrs. Michael Hutchinson & Co., their productions are very much in request.

The firm under notice became a limited liability concern three years ago. The works are at Wavertree, and are of a most extensive character. They contain all the most modern appliances for manufacturing ropes for a great many different purposes, chiefly, however, for use in shipping, this being the speciality of the business. There is a very important home and export trade, and the position of the firm is a most flourishing one. It is conducted in a superior manner, leaving nothing whatever to be desired, either in the quality of goods, or in the mode of conducting transactions. At the works there are over one hundred hands employed.

RICHARD BULMAN & CO., STEAMSHIP BROKERS, FORWARDING AGENTS, AND COMMISSION MERCHANTS,
18, CHAPEL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE firm was founded about fifty years ago by the late Mr. Samuel Baker; subsequently Mr. Bulman was admitted partner, and eventually became sole proprietor. They are loading brokers for the Harrison Line of steamers, trading to the West Indies, Venezuela, Columbia, Honduras, and Mexico, also of sailers to said countries; and have an extensive business in forwarding merchandise to all parts of the world. Mr. Bulman is an ex-colonel of Volunteers, and consul for Costa Rica.

MORISON, POLLEXFEN & BLAIR, LATE HEAD, MORISON & BLAIR, FREIGHT AND TRANSPORT CONTRACTORS, SHIPPING AND FORWARDING AGENTS, SHIP AND INSURANCE BROKERS,
34, LEADENHALL STREET, LONDON, AND 1, RUMFORD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS firm is an offshoot of the firm of Henry Head & Co., of London, which was established in the year 1860, the Liverpool office being managed by Mr. J. Mc. R. Blair. This gentleman died some three years and a half ago, and Mr. G. W. Pollexfen took his place. Upon the retirement of the Messrs. Head, the firm, in January, 1892, became as now. Mr. William Blair, who had charge of I the Manchester office for fifteen years, was brother to the late J. Mc. R. Blair, and was also taken into partnership. At the London and Liverpool offices, which are large and well appointed, a considerable staff is employed. In addition to the London and Liverpool offices, the firm have also branches in Manchester, Birmingham, and Dundee, and are represented in Glasgow and Belfast by agents. With their very extensive connections as shipping agents and insurance brokers, the firm have a very considerable trade. Their monthly list of sailings from Liverpool, London, and Southampton indicates how comprehensive is that trade, for Messrs. Morison, Pollexfen, & Blair undertake the shipment of goods to or from the principal ports on the Continent, Asia, Africa, America, North, Central, and South, all the Colonies of the Australian mainland, New Zealand and Tasmania. In fact, their arrangements with the best lines of steamships and sailing-vessels include all parts of the globe. They are able, therefore, to offer exceptional facilities, and are prepared to furnish rates of freight and insurance, also any other information, to clients who may wish to avail themselves of these facilities. Another advantage offered by this firm is the arrangement of through rates from the place of manufacture to destination by any route, including all charges, if desired. Under the able management of Mr. Pollexfen the Liverpool branch of the firm’s enterprise has become an exceeding important one, and here, as in London for so long a period, Messrs. Morison, Pollexfen, & Blair enjoy the confidence of both mercantile and shipping interests.

JOHN BYRNE, LYCEUM WATCH AND JEWEL STORES,
10, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

FOR the past nineteen years one of the most successful and highly esteemed watch and jewellery establishments in Liverpool has been conducted at the above address by Mr. John Byrne who had previously, for upwards of twelve years, carried on the establishment of the late Mr. Adam Liddell. So great has been the development of Mr. Byrne’s trade during the last ten years, that the fine three-storey premises in Bold Street, widely known as the “Lyceum Watch and Jewel Stores,” and extending right through to Wood Street in the rear, are beginning to prove somewhat too limited in space. The display in the tastefully-arranged windows is a rich and varied one, embracing superb specimens of precious stones as well as exquisite productions in fine gold and other jewellery of the most artistic design and workmanship. These goods irresistibly attract the passer-by, who, should he be tempted to enter the shop, will certainly find that the promise held forth by the display in the windows is more than fulfilled by the elegance of the internal fittings, and the beauty and variety of the articles profusely exhibited on every hand.

In diamonds and precious stones Mr. Byrne has a leading speciality — in fact, he was the first jeweller in Liverpool who succeeded in doing a large enough business in precious stones to give himself the title of diamond merchant, and in the mounting of these and various other kinds of gems now chiefly in vogue, he certainly excels. His extensive workshops accommodate a very numerous staff of highly-skilled workmen, who are prepared to execute all kinds of mounting and re-mounting in the highest style of the art; and he also retains the services of a talented artist for the production of special designs. Other special features consist in the repairing of watches, clocks, and musical boxes, the re-plating, re-gilding, re-colouring, and re-enamelling of jewellery, plate, &c. In all these lines, only the best and most accurate work is allowed to leave the establishment, and the utmost care is taken to ensure complete satisfaction.

Mr. Byrne’s stock of watches is one of the best in Liverpool, and it is very noteworthy that nearly all his watches are passed through the testing department at Kew Observatory. In many cases Mr. Byrne has received from the Observatory certificates with very high marks, denoting the satisfactory qualities of his watches. Altogether this business is a most notable one. Mr. Byrne is in a position to offer his patrons exceptional values in the high-class and thoroughly reliable goods in which he deals. Inflexible integrity, personal courtesy, and the careful maintenance of good faith in all his relations with the public have won for Mr. Byrne general esteem, and have made his establishment in Bold Street the resort of a very numerous and distinguished clientele.

RICHARD JEFFREYS, CARVER, GILDER, AND FRAME MAKER,
88, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS superior business was founded by the present proprietor in the year 1838, and occupies a very foremost position among the art establishments of the city. Notwithstanding his advanced age, Mr. Jeffreys is still actively engaged in the business, and has the distinction of being among the oldest tradesmen of Liverpool. The well-known premises in Bold Street consist of a double-fronted shop, the windows of which, with their artistic and valuable display of goods, are among the most prominent of the interesting attractions in the street. The interior is singularly well-fitted and furnished throughout. This business has been noted for a great many years’ connection with his enterprise and talent in collecting all kinds of art gems, and many collectors of such have for years had dealings with him. A more recent department, and one which has proved to be an unqualified success, is that devoted to photographic specimens of the pictures and works of art in the National and Continental Galleries. As carvers, gilders, and frame makers this house holds a reputation second to none. The gilding done twenty or thirty years ago by Mr. Jeffreys is as good as ever to-day, and has the appearance of having been quite recently finished. As they do all the work on the premises, and nothing is received from the factories, the cost is materially reduced, and the quality of the work assured. A large staff of very skilled hands is employed, including specialists in carving and gilding. Pictures are mounted and framed at the lowest possible rate consistent with good material. Mr. Jeffreys is ably assisted by his daughter, and is at the head of a business which ever keeps increasing in importance and respect.

PETER LAYCOCK, ESTATE BROKER AND ACCOUNTANT,
OXFORD CHAMBERS, 71, LORD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AS AN old resident, Mr. Peter Laycock holds the respect and esteem of Liverpudlians. His ability and integrity is unquestionable, and it may not be out of place to mention that, by his many acts of kindness, he has endeared himself to those surrounding him. This gentleman, for the long period of twenty-one years, laboured hard and conscientiously as head master of the St. Saviour’s Schools, Canning Street, in which no fewer than five thousand boys were admitted during his time, until he retired in 1879. In 1880 he established his present flourishing business, which is marked by the same care and ability as was bestowed upon his former occupation. The ability he displays as an estate broker and accountant has brought him a very considerable and valuable connection. Mr. Laycock undertakes to successfully negotiate private mortgages, and is situate in a peculiarly advantageous position for so doing. He is also agent to the Liverpool and London and Globe Insurance Company. In addition, he combines the duty of secretary to several of the most prominent building societies in the city. In this capacity he serves the Edge Hill district, the City Charter, the Castle Street ward, and the Coburg Investment Building Societies. These are all of a well-known and sterling nature, having become well established and supported throughout the entire neighbourhood. In discharging his various duties Mr. Laycock acts with the strictest impartiality, and has the full confidence of all the societies named. His knowledge of the people and of the district stands him in good stead, and it would be difficult to single out a gentleman more suited to these important callings than Mr. Laycock. His offices are large, central, and handsomely furnished, and he employs several competent clerks.

THE LIVERPOOL STEAM FISHING COMPANY, LTD.,
CANNING DOCK, LIVERPOOL.

A NEW departure which is likely to have a considerable influence for good upon the trade of Liverpool was made about eighteen months ago, when the Liverpool Steam Fishing Company, Limited, commenced operations at the above address. It has long been deplored by competent authorities that the fishing-grounds round the north coast of Ireland and the Isle of Man, &c., which are capable of yielding enormous harvests of good and wholesome food at a comparatively small expense, should be so poorly and inefficiently worked, and it was this fact that prompted Mr. R. Harley, the senior partner of a well-known firm of fish salesmen, and a few other influential gentlemen, to form the above Company for the purpose of developing the resources of the fisheries most easy of access to the Mersey. During the time that the Company has been at work the results obtained have been very considerable, and the business shows every promise of continuous and highly satisfactory progressive increase.

The Company’s fleet at present consists of four well-appointed vessels, and their takings are principally cod, hake and rough fish. On arrival at the quay the fish is transferred to the wholesale fish market, where it is sold by auction by the eminent firm of Messrs. Harley & Miller, who never fail to obtain the best market prices for the consignments. The senior partner of this important firm, Mr. R. Harley, is the managing director of the Company, and the good results already obtained have been largely attributable to his spirited initiative and energetic business capacity. Altogether the Liverpool Steam Fishing Company is an undertaking the career of which will be followed with considerable and widespread interest. A very encouraging commencement has been made, and under the present judicious and experienced management it is not to be wondered at that shareholders are confidently anticipating an unusually prosperous future.

JAMES K. DODGSON & SON, SHIRT AND COLLAR MAKERS,
2, LORD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS superior and well-managed concern dates its establishment back to the year 1827. During its long and honourable career it has remained in the same family, and came into the possession of the present proprietor about thirty-five years ago. It is among the best known, best patronised, and best respected outfitting depots in the city, and has connected with it a high-class trade. It seems to be the universal resort of the Americans visiting Europe, and who flock in large numbers for their various requirements on their arrival, and seldom fail to pay a supplementary visit previous to their return. The shop occupies a commanding corner position, and has a very handsome double front, having a spacious entrance in Lord Street, and one on the other side, which is called St. George’s Crescent. The area of the shop is close upon five hundred square feet. Every available inch is used to advantage, and the whole establishment presents a prosperous and superior appearance. The goods are well arranged in a most effective manner, and the place is well furnished. There are in all departments the leading and most recent novelties, and a wide range is always on hand. A condensed list of some of the principal lines will appear with advantage. There are long cloth shirts, French, cambric, and Ceylon, lawn tennis and cricketing shirts, Scotch lambs’ wool hosiery; Cartwright and Warner’s merino hosiery, Smedley’s merino hosiery, silk and linen handkerchiefs, ready for use; scarfs, ties, mufflers, gloves, gentlemen’s braces, belts, purses, umbrellas, rugs, shawls, Cardigan jackets, studs, pins, scarf rings, &c. All these are purchased from the best manufacturers only, and cannot be excelled. The proprietor still lends his valuable presence to the business, and is assisted by several obliging hands. Messrs. Dodgson enjoy the full respect of their fellow citizens, among whom they have so long been conspicuous and successful tradesmen.

LEEMAN & MOSS, FRUIT, FLOWER, AND VEGETABLE SALESMEN, AND COMMISSION AGENTS,
QUEEN SQUARE AND GREAT CHARLOTTE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ESTABLISHED by the two partners named in 1890, the firm occupy premises at the junction of Queen Square and Great Charlotte Street, a bold and prominent corner position in a central part of the city, and the spacious sale-room is on the ground-floor, having conveniently-arranged offices at the rear. Although so recently started, Messrs. Leeman & Moss have already gathered round them a large, influential, and rapidly increasing connection, being well known in the trade for many years, as they have both held leading positions for a long period in a similar business, as extensive importers and merchants. Messrs. Leeman & Moss are doing a very considerable trade, entirely wholesale in character, in fruits, flowers, and vegetables, chiefly consigned to them for sale on commission, and are the agents in Liverpool of the notable Paris firm of Messrs. Ed. & L. Chamagne Freres, who are unquestionably the largest fruit merchants in the world, doing an immense export business, unrivalled by any other house. Messrs. Leeman & Moss export to the United States, &c., and are extensive importers of American apples, whilst consignments of produce arrive daily to their care from all the principal fruit and vegetable growing districts of the United Kingdom. Two clerks and six warehousemen are employed in carrying through the many large transactions of the firm, and the business is conducted under the personal management of the two principals, who are young, courteous, and enterprising business men. In private life Messrs. Leeman & Moss are looked up to and esteemed by a wide circle of friends and acquaintances.

EDWARD PARRY, FORWARDING AGENT,
28, BRUNSWICK STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IN ALL large commercial communities considerable and vital importance is assumed by those useful firms who undertake the functions which fall within the scope of a forwarding agent’s business, one of the most prominent of whom in the city of Liverpool is Mr. Edward Parry, who had been in the business for over twenty years, when he sold out in the early part of the year 1890. He recommenced, however, in the following October, and has since been doing a highly satisfactory and increasing trade. Mr. Parry is a forwarding agent and also a team owner. He employs a number of hands, and he has about a dozen waggons and horses of various descriptions. He is also agent for, and does the cartage work of, the well-known firm of Messrs. Carr & Co., millers and biscuit manufacturers, whose Liverpool business is very extensive. Mr. Parry occupies premises in a central and convenient position in the midst of the commercial world, and his offices are well-appointed and nicely furnished. His connection is very valuable and of many years’ standing, and he does a sound and substantial trade of the best class. Mr. Edward Parry is favourably known in commercial circles as a thoroughly capable and reliable business man of long and varied experience, and he is respected by all with whom he comes in contact.

CRIPPS & HARROP, WHOLESALE, EXPORT, AND MANUFACTURING STATIONERS, BOOKSELLERS, AND IMPORTERS OF FANCY GOODS,
36 AND 39, CABLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

OPERATIONS were commenced in the above direction in 1876 by Messrs. Cripps Brothers & Gilling. In the year 1882 one of the Messrs. Cripps died, and Mr. Gilling retiring in the following year, the business was carried on from that time forth till 1886 under the management of Mr. James Harrop, who had represented the firm since 1878. The style of the firm during this time was Cripps Brothers, but in the year 1886 the title became Cripps & Harrop, and has so continued down to the present time. Mr. Jas. Harrop was formerly the Liverpool representative, in the wholesale trade, of Messrs. W. H. Smith & Son. The present members of the firm have brought to bear experience, ability, energy, and tact in the conduct of the business, and its progress has been of an uninterruptedly progressive nature. The premises are extensive, and are thoroughly fitted up with every appliance and convenience to facilitate the transaction of business. They comprise a spacious warehouse on the ground floor, extending 70 feet to the rear, and convenient printing offices above, fully equipped with Arab machinery and every requisite, all the work in this department being done by hand.

In 1890, the firm added to their premises an extensive fancy goods department, on the ground floor of a handsome block of buildings called Melville Chambers. A large and valuable business, exclusively of a wholesale nature, is carried on by the firm as wholesale, export, and manufacturing stationers, booksellers, and importers of fancy goods. All the leading makers at home and abroad are thoroughly well-known to the firm, and no house in the trade is prepared to offer a wider or more comprehensive selection of high-class goods, while in the matter of prices, the extent of their transactions gives them advantages which cannot be surpassed. All orders receive prompt attention. In the printing department their productions are recognised as being of a superior kind, and the continually increasing nature of the business in this direction is ample proof that entire satisfaction is given. Books are supplied with the usual discount, and magazines are furnished on the day of publication on the best trade terms. Special features are made of account books and ledgers, in which branch the house has acquired no inconsiderable reputation. In excellence and durability of paper, soundness of workmanship, high-class finish and general superiority, their productions take high rank in the trade, and are general favourites among merchants, manufacturers, bankers, and other consumers.

A large and well-selected collection is held of purses, pocket-books, cigar and cigarette cases, writing-cases, blotting-cases, inkstands, in all the newest and best designs, and at all prices, photo frames, boxed stationery, memo, books, account books, stationers’ sundries in endless- varieties, Etruria, Cable and Melville note envelopes, their own admirable special lines, juvenile books, birthday books, Bibles and prayer books, and playing cards in unique and artistic styles. The excellence of all the articles supplied by this representative house, and the honourable manner in which all its transactions are conducted, have resulted in the acquisition of a large and influential connection not only in Liverpool and the locality, but extending over the north of England, and through North Wales and Isle of Man.

An efficient staff of salesmen and workpeople is employed to meet the demands of the rapidly developing business, and several travellers represent the interests of the house on the road. The proprietors bestow their personal supervision on the business, and no trouble is spared, by them to give entire satisfaction to all their clients. In commercial circles these gentlemen are very much respected for their straightforwardness and integrity, and in private life they are esteemed for their ability, public spirit, and many good qualities.

HODGSON BROTHERS, PROVISION MERCHANTS,
27 AND 29, STANLEY STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE immense business conducted at the above address by this well-reputed house dates its history from the year 1856, when it was established by the father of the present principals. In 1875 the founder was joined by his three sons, and these gentlemen are now the sole proprietors of a concern that has had a highly successful career from the first. The premises occupied in Stanley Street are of very commodious dimensions, comprising a stone building of five storeys, handsome in appearance, and well adapted to the requirements of an exceptionally large trade. Here the firm have a fine suite of offices, together with spacious sale-rooms, warehouses, and cellars; and the stocks held on the premises are of great magnitude. They comprise hams, bacon, canned goods, and all manner of provisions in general, with a vast quantity of cheese, in which the firm have developed an important speciality.

Messrs. Hodgson Brothers’ brands of bacon, cheese, and butter are so well and widely known that they are not under the necessity of employing travellers to maintain an influx of orders. Business comes to them without solicitation, and their connection extends over a great area, both at home and abroad. They are represented by establishments of great importance at Montreal, Belleville, and Brockville, Canada, and also at New York; and the amount of trade done in America and Canada is enormous. The house is, in short, one of the leaders of the trade with which its name has been so long identified, and stands high in the estimation and confidence of all with whom it maintains commercial intercourse Messrs. John H., Joseph U., and James Hodgson, the present co-partners, are gentlemen well-known for their courtesy, ability, and bread mercantile experience; and each of them is actively engaged in the administration of the important business over which they jointly preside.

B. J. WARD & SONS, MILITARY MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MANUFACTURERS,
10, ST. ANNE STREET, AND 67, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.
BRANCHES: PARIS AND BIRKENHEAD.

THE founder of this firm, Mr. R. J. Ward, the father of the present proprietors, was the apprentice of the well-known and celebrated military musical instrument manufacturer, Mr. J. C. Roe, whose extensive works were in Sir Thomas’s Buildings and South John Street, Liverpool. Mr. Roe was the leading man in the trade. His firm it was who made most of the instruments sold by the London and Manchester firms, and for which instruments these firms gained and held a world-wide reputation. At that time manufacturing was confined to very few in England. After young Ward completed his term of apprenticeship, he still worked on as a journeyman for two years, during which time he showed such superior mechanical skill in the intricacies of the working of the several departments that he was made leading foreman, which responsible position he held for over ten years, until the death of his employer. Shortly after this sad event Mr. Ward became the sole proprietor, and so launched, over fifty years ago, into the manufacturing world, the old firm, under the new title of R. J. Ward & Sons, and the present proprietors pride themselves on keeping up the splendid reputation that the old firm held.

The present one stands pre-eminent, and it affords local satisfaction that this old-established Liverpool firm has obtained the highest awards at all exhibitions, including the Paris Exhibition of 1889, and still later at the Royal Military, London, 1890, and Leeds (International), 1890, for the superiority of their goods, again proving the truth, as shown by the firm’s trade-mark, to be literally true. The effect of this becomes more clear when the instruments are used and heard. A curious instance of this is given by one of R. J. Ward & Sons’ customers, Mr. Thomas Rimner, bandmaster of the 13th R.V. He says:— “You will be amused when I tell you about a trial of cornets or a cornet contest. I got one of yours, and one of Higham’s, and one of Besson’s, all first class. We shut up a cornet-player in a room with three instruments to play as he chose, while about six of our band went into another room. After playing alternately a few times on each, instrument, the decision was given to the first, which turned out to be yours. We had heard so much said as to whose were the best instruments that we decided on this mode of testing them. As it is a difficult matter to test two instruments when you know whose they are, you may laugh at the idea; but I tell you this is as we did it.”

This incident proves that something more than good materials is necessary to produce the effects which are observable in Messrs. Ward’s instruments, and that, besides the possession of constructive ability, scientific and practical knowledge is absolutely necessary — not less than care and perseverance — in carrying out such an important undertaking as we are now describing. They are contractors to the army and navy, and have large shipments of instruments to India, Africa, and many places abroad, every week. Their reputation as military instrument makers is really world-wide. Locally they supply our magnificent police band, the training-ships, schools, and various large works, Hudson’s, Hignett’s, &c., while the volunteer bands, almost without exception, are served by them. They are famous for every kind of wind, reed, brass, and string instrument, violins, banjos, accordions, concertinas, mandolines, guitars, musical boxes, the harp, &c., &c., and hold, without doubt, the largest stock in all these goods.

As actual manufacturers of upwards of fifty years’ standing, repairs are naturally their particular province, and the work is actually done by their own skilled employes, at their own works, St. Anne Street. It stands to reason that Messrs. Ward’s customers secure the treble advantage of practical experience, a large stock, and the guarantee for quality based on a long and honourable reputation. A department is set aside for shipping, military bugles and drums for export being a speciality; shippers and the trade being liberally dealt with. This firm also put forward a splendid and complete illustrated catalogue of all kinds of musical instruments and their fittings and parts.
The firm’s telegraphic address is “Drummer, Liverpool,” Telephone 1142.

THOMAS HATFIELD, FURNITURE REMOVAL CONTRACTOR,
1A, LODGE LANE, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG the principal and most representative firms engaged in the very considerable furniture removing trade of Liverpool, a leading and prominent position is occupied by Mr. Thomas Hatfield, the headquarters of whose extensive operations are situated at the above address. This sound and flourishing concern was originally established in the year 1876, and having from the first been carried on with conspicuous success, has since been steadily and progressively developed and expanded. The premises are very large and conveniently arranged to adequately meet the requirements of an important and busy trade consisting of well-placed offices, a spacious yard, a substantially built depository of considerable size, and ample stable accommodation. The depository is well adapted for the suitable and efficient storage of valuable furniture, is damp-proof, and fitted with a powerful lift, and all necessary accessories and appliances in the way of covering, &c., for the proper protection and storage of heavy quantities of goods.

Mr. Hatfield has an excellent plant, well-built vans and pantechnicons of the latest and best construction, as well as carts and lorries, &c., and his stud is well supplied with valuable and serviceable animals of powerful build. He has a numerous staff of skilled and experienced workmen, and contracts for removals to or from any distance by road, rail, or sea, undertaking unfitting of fixtures of all kinds, and putting them up again after removal; the whole of the work being performed with the utmost despatch and the greatest and most systematic care and orderly method, Mr. Thomas Hatfield has gained the favour and substantial support of a valuable and widespread connection, and he devotes close and watchful supervision to all the details of the work, being himself possessed of extensive practical knowledge of the trade. He is universally popular and respected, and has the fullest esteem and confidence of all who know him.

HENRY INGRAM THOMPSON, ROCK AND WHITE SALT DISTRIBUTOR AND MERCHANT,
1, RUMFORD PLACE, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was founded in 1842 by the grandfather of the present head of the firm, at which time it was known as John Thompson & Son. This style was maintained until eight years ago, when it was changed into its present form. The father of Mr. Henry Ingram Thompson retired from the business several years ago, leaving the son full control over the establishment. The son’s graduation in the business and his general knowledge of the trade, combined with high intellectual qualities, served him in good stead when he became entrusted with the welfare of the business. Mr. Thompson is a well-known gentleman in shipping circles in Liverpool, and achieved great reputation for being instrumental in breaking up the salt ring formed in that city. He issues weekly and monthly a list of the salt shipments to the East Indies, which is highly prized in the trade, and is also much sought after by the press. It contains a great deal of valuable information to shippers and salt merchants, and the circular is recognised by all who peruse it as being absolutely reliable in every particular. The office staff are very courteous and thoroughly understand their duties.

The premises are situated in convenient proximity to the Exchange, which is of great advantage to the firm, seeing that they are large shippers. Besides a telephonic communication with the Exchange and principal business houses, Mr. Thompson has also a registered telegraphic and cable address, “Saltcastle, Liverpool,” which materially assists him in attending to orders from abroad. There are in Liverpool many similar businesses to that which Mr. Thompson carries on, but that gentleman’s reputation as a rock and white salt distributor and merchant has been firmly established. He is looked upon as a most competent authority on all matters connected with the salt trade, and very few indeed could speak from better experience. All his life has been spent in the trade, and he has also inherited from his father and grandfather the business tact and energy which have done so much to bring the name of Thompson into repute in the salt trade, and also in shipping circles. On the Exchange he is a prominent figure, and is constantly referred to on questions affecting the salt industry.

R. R. GRAY, ENGINEER, &C.,
QUEEN’S DOCK WORKS, 89, SEFTON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS old-established and well-known firm was founded in 1868 by Mr. R. R. Gray, who was subsequently joined by Mr. Read. The firm then became Messrs. Gray & Read. Subsequently Mr. R. R. Gray became the sole proprietor, and since the death of that gentleman in 1888 operations have been continued by his sons. The works were formerly located on the east side of Queen’s Dock, but that property having been bought by the Mersey Docks and Harbour Board for alterations, and the construction of the overhead railway, the business was transferred, early in 1890, to the present premises, which have a fine frontage to the Coburg Dock. On their removal to the new works opportunity was taken of parting with any machinery which was considered at all behind the times, and replacing it with that of the most approved and modern type, and specially adapted to the requirements of the various branches of the industry. Many of these machines were Mr. Gray’s own invention, and made by his own skilled workmen under his direct personal supervision. The works, in fact, have been fitted up in the most careful and complete manner to ensure the effective and economical working of the various departments.

The firm are well employed in every branch of the business as ship, copper, and tin smiths, sheet-iron workers, engineers, boiler-makers, and tank manufacturers, lifeboat buoyancy tanks and ventilators in brass, copper, and iron. They are also patentees and manufacturers of metallic casks, kegs, drums, tapers, painters’ pots, varnish tins, oil-boiling apparatus, varnish pans, lard-refining apparatus, and lard tins, tanks for bread, water, and oil, and pumps of all kinds, cooking ranges and lamps of every description. They are also the makers of Gray & Hughes’s patent life-raft deck seat and Gray’s patent boat-detaching gear. The above apparatus: and machinery are manufactured on the most approved principles, and display in every detail of their construction that marvellous excellence of material and workmanship which has made the productions of this firm famous throughout the world. The trade controlled is of a widespread, influential, and steadily-growing character, and with the exceptional facilities at command, the firm are in a position to execute contracts and work of any magnitude on the shortest notice. The business in every department receives the direct personal attention of the proprietors, who possess the advantage of thorough practical experience, and spare no effort to maintain and extend the high reputation the firm has so long enjoyed.

WYCKOFF, SEAMANS & BENEDICT, STANDARD TYPEWRITING OFFICE,
2C, QUEEN AVENUE, 15, CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE personnel of the above firm, as at present constituted, comprises Messrs. W. O. Wyckoff, C. W. Seamans, and H. H. Benedict, trading under the style and title here designated, and holding depots for the sale of their typewriters and fine linen papers and typewriter supplies of every kind in all the principal cities of the world. The Liverpool branch was opened in the year 1889 under the managerial control of Mr. Albert M. Ross, in the Central Building, North John Street. The development of the business, however, became so rapid, that having quite outgrown their original premises, Mr. Ross found it necessary to transfer the undertaking to its present address in 1891. The premises occupy the basement of 2c, Queen Avenue, 13, Castle Street, and are appropriately divided into departments for copying, instruction, shorthand, and typewriting; the copying department being furnished with specimens of the new model Remington Standard Typewriters, which are acknowledged to be by far the most perfect instruments of the kind yet invented. The trade controlled from the Liverpool office covers parts of Lancashire, Cheshire, North Wales, and the Isle of Man; and, in addition to the sale of machines, the firm retains a staff of expert operators, and make a speciality of typing codes, legal documents, specifications, &c., in addition to ordinary MSS., guaranteeing absolute secrecy and accuracy, and ensuring the safety of all papers entrusted to their care, by depositing them every evening in a fire-proof room. They, moreover, provide expert shorthand writers and operators, who can be engaged by customers for private work by time or contract, their tariff of charges being strictly moderate, and decidedly worthy of the consideration of large business houses.

CHARLES BELL & SON, COURT, NAVAL AND MILITARY HIGHER-CLASS TAILORS AND HABIT MAKERS,
39, CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS time-honoured business was established as far back as 1828, by Messrs. Bell & Vicary, in Castle Street, and by them was developed with no inconsiderable enterprise and skill. After some years Mr. Vicary died, when the business was carried on by Mr. Charles Bell alone. In 1871 this latter gentleman took into partnership his son, Mr. James Crosfield Bell, at which date the title of the firm was changed to Charles Bell & Son. The present proprietor of this noted house is Mr. Hedge, a thoroughly able and courteous gentleman. The progress of this establishment, from its initiation, has been of the most satisfactory character. Operations are conducted in extensive and attractive premises, capitally situated in one of the principal business thoroughfares in the city. The premises, which extend fifty feet to the rear, comprise a handsome single-fronted sales-room, splendidly appointed. The cutting-rooms and work-rooms are at the rear of the premises, and are models in their line. This department is thoroughly equipped with apparatus and appliances, and is in every respect fitted for the efficient discharge of the important business in hand.

A special and distinguishing feature of this establishment is that every bit of work is done on the premises under the immediate superintendance of experienced and responsible heads. Under such favourable conditions, an extensive and influential trade is controlled by the firm as high-class tailors. The reputation this house enjoys for its productions is second to none in the trade. For style, fit, and fashion, the house has no superior in Liverpool. The proprietor prides himself upon the superior manner in which he turns out every garment he undertakes to make. The extent of their connection enables the firm to obtain all the new patterns and fabrics as soon as they are issued, and all the latest fashions of London, Paris, and Berlin are to be found here. A special feature is made of court, naval, and military uniforms, and the productions of the firm in this line are greatly in demand among a very superior class of customers, and in this direction Messrs. Bell have achieved a noteworthy position.

Large and superior stocks of cloths are held; they include the last things in fashionable suitings and trouserings, meltons, tweeds, woollens, West of England cloth, beavers, serges, cheviots, homespuns, worsteds, vicunas, &c. The trade is exclusively bespoke, and the connection extends to every part of the United Kingdom, and a very considerable foreign trade is controlled, principally with South America, and the colonies. From twenty to thirty skilled workmen are employed and a staff of travellers is kept constantly on the road. Mr. Hedge, the proprietor, is a man of extensive and sound experience, and is practically acquainted with every department of his business, to which he gives the benefit of his able, energetic and courteous supervision. All his transactions are marked by straightforwardness and honesty, and he obtains, as he merits, the esteem and confidence of all who have business connections with him.

THE STAR AND GARTER HOTEL
(PROPRIETOR, MR. J. P. EVANS),
ST. JOHN’S LANE AND QUEEN’S SQUARE, LIVERPOOL.

THIS well-known and popular hotel was established, as it now stands, in 1853, by Mr. Charles Chalk, who was upon his decease, succeeded by his widow. Mr. and Mrs. Green afterwards controlled the establishment, and during their reign of some ten years the hotel was practically remodelled, the St. John’s Lane premises being raised two storeys higher, and additional bedroom accommodation was obtained by building over the adjoining fruit stores; it was at this period that the famous eighteen-penny ordinary was established, which at the present time finds no rival in the city of Liverpool. In the year 1882, Mr. Charles Buchanan, who married Mr. Green’s (the previous landlord) daughter, became proprietor, and so remained until the latter end of the year 1890, when the hotel came into the hands of Mr. J. P. Evans, the present (and let us hope for a long future] landlord.

The internal arrangement of the hotel strikes one at once as being a marvellous combination oi solidity and comfort, and entering either from Queen’s Square or St. John’s Lane, we find on the ground-floor a spacious dining-room, where the well-known ordinary is held at a quarter past one o’clock on Sundays, and at one and two o’clock on all week-days. Further along the corridor we come to the comfortable and well-ventilated bar, divided into three compartments, and beyond are the kitchen and usual domestic offices. The other apartments, including a well-lighted and extensive billiard-room, are all exceedingly comfortable; the bedrooms being neat, scrupulously clean, and wonderfully cheerful in their equipments; in fact, as we have before intimated, there is from top to bottom of the “Star and Garter” a perfect “at-homeness,” to which no doubt is attributable a great deal of the popularity which clings to it, many commercial men and visitors from abroad preferring to stay at such a place rather than at the overgrown and carelessly served caravansaries which modern enterprise has called into existence.

All wines, spirits, and malt liquors, cigars, &c., &c., are of the best kinds and brands, Mr. Evans’s customers being of that class which will put up with nothing save of the best; and in the matter of eatables and cooking, the hotel is too well known to need one single word of comment from us. In the bar, we may mention, is an electric instrument connecting the establishment with the theatre hard by, whereby guests are informed of the precise time at which various portions of the performance are commencing. A more genial and courteous host than Mr. Evans it would, we think, be hard indeed to find, and the hearty salt-water character of his greeting and manner springs, in a measure, no doubt, from his twelve years’ service in the ocean trade, he having been for that period commodore purser in the White Star Line. But that he has not given up all connection with matters maritime is proved by the host of old sea friends, who from time to time gather round him, and also from the frequent contracts he enters into in the matter of catering for ships, launches, and trial trips. But as “good wine needs no bush,” so this old-fashioned hostelry requires no word of recommendation from us. Suffice it to say that the host is a real host, the liquors are liquors, and all other matters concerning the house may be summed up in one word, and that word is comfort.

WILLIAM MCGAULEY, WHOLESALE SHIPPING BUTCHER AND PROVISION MERCHANT,
80, OLD HALL STREET, LIVERPOOL.
Telephone No. 1366.

ALMOST everybody in Liverpool knows Mr. McGauley, certainly one of the largest shipping butchers of the port. His enormous business, taking into consideration the quickness of despatch required in all dealings, is a model of judicious management. To supply his demand Mr. McGauley has commissions here, there, and everywhere, and he is one of the largest buyers in Liverpool. He is well known on the leading markets, and is possessed of rare judgment in all his transactions. He purchases immense quantities of beef, mutton, pork, &c., and will have nothing but the top quality. The business was established over fifty years ago, and from the commencement has been exceedingly prosperous, the result of his knowledge of the trade and his great commercial ability. His premises consist of a large well-appointed shop, with suitable offices, counting-house, &c. Cool and commodious store-houses, specially adapted for a large provision trade, have been constructed.

The bulk of the business is with the large steamship companies, the names of all the leading firms being on the books. The huge Atlantic liners are the chief consumers, and when a thought is paid to the wonderful number of passengers carried by these floating cities, some idea of the magnitude of the business of Mr. McGauley may be imagined. He has made arrangements for supplying everything without the slightest hitch, and when we consider the carrying powers of these huge liners, and the number he has to provision, we must really wonder how all is carried out so well. A perfect system has long ago been ordained, and a large and thoroughly efficient staff engaged in each department.

In addition to the shop in Old Hall Street, Mr. McGauley does a large business in St. John’s Market, where he has a large double shop, Nos. 4 and 5. In shop in 5 Avenue, he caters for the hotels and restaurants and private families, and a very large volume of trade has been developed. This establishment has been in the family from the first day the market was opened, and has from the commencement been noted for the supply of first quality meat. Mr. McGauley is held in high esteem by the steamship companies, who repose perfect confidence in him, knowing how well he serves them in all respects. In spite of the mountain of business on his shoulders, he always spares time to exchange a cheery word of greeting, and there are few business gentlemen in Liverpool more respected than he is.

CHARLES KINO, COURT, NAVAL AND MILITARY TAILOR AND HABIT MAKER,
22, CHURCH STREET, LIVERPOOL.

MR. KINO’S principal establishment is at Birmingham, but the Liverpool establishment, though only a branch, is one of the leading concerns in the city. The showroom, offices, and cutting-rooms are on the ground floor, which has a rear extension of about one hundred feet, and the four floors above where the workrooms are situated are equally spacious. The premises have a commanding exterior, and the elegant display of goods in the handsome plate-glass windows is an attractive one. Mr. Kino is a court, naval and military tailor and habit maker of wide repute. At his establishment in Church Street, Liverpool, there is a superb stock of goods, comprising all the best fabrics obtainable from the most noted cloth manufacturers throughout the kingdom. Civilian dress for all occasions is made in the most fashionable styles, and perfection of fit is guaranteed. Uniforms, ladies’ habits and liveries are a special feature of this establishment, and for these it is not excelled. The cutting is done by the most skilful experts to be found in the trade, and the tailoring is executed by thoroughly competent, carefully selected men on the premises, in spacious well-ventilated and well-lighted rooms. In order that the most perfect results may be ensured great attention is paid to accurate measurement and to trying on, and no garment is sent out which is not calculated to maintain the high reputation of the house. This establishment is managed for Mr. Kino by Mr. Richards, a gentleman thoroughly versed in all the details of a fashionable trade, and under his capable direction complete satisfaction has been given to the influential clientele, the business is steadily growing, and the principles upon which it is conducted are commanding increased appreciation in Liverpool and throughout the surrounding district.

C. PAPPA, IMPORTER OF CIGARETTES, &C.,
BRUNSWICK BUILDINGS, BRUNSWICK STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS superior business is increasing with giant strides, and bids fair in a very short time to attain to collossal proportions. Until Mr. Pappa became a resident in Liverpool its inhabitants were unacquainted with the real flavour of cigarettes and coffee, as actually made and used by the Oriental and Eastern nations. This enterprising gentleman supplies the very best productions of these countries, famous for the two delicious articles named. His pure Oriental coffee is prepared by himself in a manner exactly the same as it is used by these great coffee-drinking nations. He is also an importer of choice cigarettes, his most famous brands being “Triumph,” “Medicus,” “Magnificent” “Sublime,” “Delicious,” in all sizes. Mr. Pappa imports from fifty to seventy thousand of these splendid cigarettes monthly, all of them direct from Cairo. He also imports large quantities of the finest Turkish tobaccos, cut and blended by the most experienced manufacturers in those countries. He is also an extensive manufacturer of cigarettes made with the best French Caporal tobacco. Mr. Pappa is of Greek nationality. He first established himself in Manchester in 1844, and removed to Liverpool in 1855. This gentleman does not keep a shop, but occupies extensive and handsome premises in this fine building, where he has work-rooms and offices. He employs a number of skilful hands in cigarette making. Although the connection is now so large it Is still increasing so rapidly that a further extension of premises is becoming absolutely necessary. Mr. Pappa still lends his valuable personal attention to his fine establishment, in which he is held in much respect.

W. RAMSBOTTOM, FISHING ROD AND TACKLE MANUFACTURER, &C.,
14 B., NORTH JOHN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ALL lovers of the “gentle art” in Liverpool will find it to their decided advantage to make themselves personally acquainted with this notable institution, inasmuch as in its founder they will discover a gentleman both able and willing to impart valuable information upon every question relating to fishing and pisciculture in particular, and to sports and athletics in general. Mr. Ramsbottom commenced business on his own account at Liverpool in the year 1864 under exceptionally favourable auspices, having been “born and bred” so to speak, to the business, for he received his training under the able tuition of his father, who, from 1839 to 1884, operated as the leading manufacturer of rods and tackle at Clitheroe. The premises occupied consist of a commodious well-ordered shop, extending some thirty feet to the rear, with every fitment for holding and displaying, both in the window and in show-cases within, a most carefully selected stock of guns and sporting rifles, bats and balls, lawn tennis and golf requisites, and all kinds of athletic and sporting appliances by the leading makers.

The special feature of the establishment, however, is centred in the piscatorial department, the goods on sale being practically unrivalled for excellence of workmanship, and these are made in the finely-equipped workshops in the basement by a staff of six skilled workmen, under the personal supervision of the principal. All kinds of rods and tackle are here produced, and flies are dressed on the English, Irish, and Scotch systems, or to any specified pattern. It is worthy of mention that Mr. Ramsbottom was the first to introduce salmon, trout, and sea trout into our Australasian colonies, he having stocked Australian, New Zealand, and Tasmanian waters with these fishes. The trade controlled is one of considerable volume, and extends to all parts of the United Kingdom, and it is manifestly Mr. Ramsbottom’s resolution that the high reputation he has gained shall not merely be well sustained, but steadily developed in days to come.

E. HARRIS & CO., WATCH MANUFACTURERS AND WHOLESALE JEWELLERS,
57, WHITECHAPEL, LIVERPOOL.

THIS prominent business was initiated by Mr. E. Harris in 1881, and under his experienced administration it soon gave evidence of unusual success. Operations are carried on in an imposing and commodious block of buildings, comprising a suite of well-appointed offices, and extensive warehouses on the first floor, and handsome private offices on the second floor, together with further warehouse and store-room accommodation on the third floor. The warehouses attached to this establishment are admirably equipped with every convenience for the effective accommodation and display of the immense and valuable stocks they contain. An extensive, high-class wholesale business is controlled here. The intrinsic superiority of the goods produced by this house, their suitableness and elegance of design, their exquisite workmanship and uniform and reliable quality are universally known and appreciated throughout the entire jewellery trade, while the amplitude and richness of the selection the firm offer are unsurpassed.

A speciality is made of watches, of which the house possesses a stock almost inexhaustible in bulk and endless in variety. Quality is made the first consideration by the proprietors, and no watch is allowed to leave the establishment unless it is in good going order and keeping perfect time, while a printed warranty is invariably supplied with each watch. The stock of watches comprises some hundred different sorts, of which the leading lines are solid silver “combination” watches, which have obtained six gold medals, ladies’ silver watches, solid silver keyless watches, keyless English levers, capped and fully jewelled, hunting levers, chronograph stop watches, ladies’ and gentlemen’s gold watches, gold keyless lever watches, and gold chronograph repeaters, the prices of these watches ranging from 30s. to £150 each. The firm shows a large and magnificent stock of gent’s gold and silver albert chains, ladies’ gold and silver albert chains, gold and silver seals, lockets, compasses, gold wedding and keeper rings, brooches of every description, scarf pins, scarf slides, bangles, bracelets, marble clocks, and bronzes.

A large force of assistants is employed at Whitechapel, and a number of travellers and collectors are kept continually on the road. The firm, too, have appointed agents in all the principal towns in the United Kingdom, and watches and other goods can be procured from them at exactly the same prices as from the warehouse, as the firm makes no deduction whatever from the fixed wholesale prices. The proprietors are men of ample experience, and great commercial ability. Their methods of doing business are marked by straightforwardness and strict integrity. They are much esteemed in private life for their ability, public usefulness, and high reputation in financial quarters.

J. F. KING, WHOLESALE DEALER IN POTATOES, VEGETABLES, POULTRY, &C.,
7, WAPPING, LIVERPOOL.

IN CONNECTION with the shipping trade of Liverpool there are few more vitally important matters than the supply of fresh vegetables, poultry, &c., and, especially in the case of vessels employed in the passenger trade, and of the firms engaged in this branch of business, a prominent and representative one is that of Mr. J. F. King, whose operations are carried on at the above address. He was established originally in Hood Street, and there built up a good sound business, making himself a substantial reputation, which has at all times been carefully maintained, and it is only quite recently that he removed the business to the present premises, which are advantageously situated in the immediate neighbourhood of the docks and are in every way well placed for the convenient supply of the shipping in the Mersey. The premises are roomy and commodious, and a thriving trade is done in potatoes, vegetables, poultry, &c. Shipping orders for all kinds of fresh provisions are executed on the shortest notice, and contracts are made up to any quantity. A special feature is made of the packing of potatoes and eggs for export, and a considerable stock of compressed hay is always kept on hand ready for immediate shipment. Mr. King has an influential connection in shipping circles, and bears a very good name as a capable business man, who may be thoroughly relied upon to carry out in a straightforward manner all orders entrusted to him.

THOMAS NEWTON, CARVER, GILDER, AND DECORATOR, &C.,
131, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS high standing and extensive business was organised, in the year 1880, by Mr. Thomas Newton, and has, under his fostering care, been developed into one of the leading institutions of its kind in Liverpool. The premises comprise a sale shop in Dale Street, in which a splendid show is always made of specimens of picture-frames and show cards of every conceivable kind, paintings, prints, and engravings of value, and kindred commodities. The works and warehouse are situated in 52, Great Crosshall Street, and occupy the building formerly known as the Old League Hall. Here may be seen all the operations of sawing, planing, and moulding by machinery, the power used being derived from a fine “Otto” gas engine. Mr. Newton is noted far and wide for the beauty and artistic designs of his framing, as well as for his practical skill as a carver, gilder, and decorator; he has also gained fame as an adept at picture restoring, to which he has for many years devoted most careful attention. An efficient staff of hands find constant employment under the strict personal superintendence of the able proprietor. The establishment has always enjoyed a good share of public patronage while the continually increasing business is an ample guarantee of the confidence of the public in the abilities, artistic taste and high-class workmanship of this popular establishment.

RICHARD WHITTY, LIVERPOOL ATHLETIC WAREHOUSE AND SPORTSMAN’S DEPOT,
14, TITHEBARN STREET, DIRECTLY OPPOSITE THE LANCASHIRE AND YORKSHIRE RAILWAY STATION, LIVERPOOL.

THIS is a well-established as well as a leading business. It has been in existence for many years, and was founded by the present proprietor. The premises in Tithebarn Street are large, attractive, and well arranged. On the ground floor there is a large showroom, thirty feet by twenty, while the upper floors are wholly occupied by an admirably fitted-up gymnasium and by the workshops; for Mr. Whitty is not only a practical dealer in athletic requisites, but a manufacturer, and has a number of hands in his employ. The showroom is heavily stocked with all kinds of gymnastic and calisthenic apparatus, also everything connected with football, hockey, lacrosse, skating, fishing, cricket, tennis, lawn tennis, chess, draughts, and dominoes. Everything, therefore, needful for indoor or outdoor games may be procured at this noted emporium. The prices charged are exceedingly moderate, and compare favourably with those of any other house in the trade.

Mr. Whitty publishes a very comprehensive catalogue of all in and outdoor requirements, including several special articles of his own invention and manufacture. A speciality of his also, is a superior make and style of games, suitable and adapted for steamers’ use; complete outfits for private yachts can always be obtained, with the fullest information as to price, &c. — in fact, the novelties for this particular department are both numerous and interesting. Mr. Whitty’s stock of gymnastic and calisthenic apparatus for use in schools, gymnasia, or elsewhere is exceedingly interesting and complete. It includes horizontal and parallel bars, Indian clubs, dumb-bells, calisthenic poles, bar-bells, chest expanders, boxing gloves, singlesticks, headguards, and all material for fencing. For such goods Mr. Whitty offers special terms to Board schools and public institutions, and is prepared to furnish estimates free of charge. Another feature of Mr. Whitty’s enterprise is the supply of portable home gymnasia, comprising hand rings, trapeze bars, swings, and stirrups, suitable for indoor or outdoor use. This valuable equipment, which comprises everything necessary for physical development, is sold very cheaply.

Mr. Whitty is well known, highly popular, and respected in Liverpool and district. He is regarded as an authority on all matters relating to sport, while as a universal provider of requisites he occupies a unique position. As an exhibitor at the Sports and Pastimes Exhibition held at the Liverpool Exhibition, he carried all before him, and newspaper testimony stated that his was the finest show of athletic and gymnastic apparatus ever seen at any exhibition. Mr. Whitty has always endeavoured to justify the high opinion in which he is held, and his efforts are being rewarded with ever-increasing support.

HARRY SAUNDERS, CYCLE AGENT,
33, LEECE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS well-known cycle depot is a favourite resort of local wheelmen. Mr. Saunders, who is quite a young man, has only recently established himself in Liverpool, having been previously in London, but he has been an ardent cyclist for more than seven years, and has an excellent record in athletic circles as a thorough-going pacemaker, having assisted well-known riders in many a brilliant record-breaking performance, whilst his own achievements as a principal have been of no mean importance. Mr. Saunders is sole agent in Liverpool and district for the popular machines of Messrs. Marriott and Cooper, of London and Coventry, and for Messrs. Begbie and Twentyman’s “Hadley” Cycles (London), as well as for the “Mohawk” and the famous “New Howe” cycles. He keeps a first-class stock of the various patterns of these machines, and all new improvements are shown as quickly as they are brought out. An excellent assortment of cycles by other well-known makers is also shown, as well as cycling requisites and sundries of every description. A busy and active repairing department is also in operation, in which work of all kinds is executed by skilled hands at moderate rates and with every possible despatch. Mr. Harry Saunders is a thoroughly representative man among the younger generation of cyclists, and his business undertaking is looked upon very favourably by local cyclists and commercial men generally. He is a gentlemen of considerable enterprise and capacity, and his unfailing courtesy and pleasant manners render him a great favourite with all with whom he has dealings.

WM. POTTER, PRINTER, STATIONER, AND LIBRARIAN,
80, EXCHANGE STREET EAST, LIVERPOOL.

MR. William Potter organised his present flourishing business about twenty years ago, and its subsequent progress has been marked by a continuous series of decided successes. His premises are located in one of the most prominent commercial thoroughfares of the city, and are in every respect exactly adapted to the requirements of a first-class institution of the kind. They consist of the front basement of a splendid block of stone buildings, and are admirably appointed and arranged throughout in each department. In the mercantile section the stock held is remarkable for its volume and comprehensiveness, and includes all kinds of mercantile stationery, account books, plain and fancy stationery to meet the wants of all classes of the community, stationers’ sundries, and all kinds of office requisites, a special feature being made of the sale of the Ordnance and other maps. All kinds of letterpress and job printing work, lithography, engraving, relief work and the like are executed, for which Mr. Potter has gained a high reputation, in virtue of the artistic neatness, clearness, and correctness of his productions, and special attention has been given to the printing of telegraph codes, a number of these having been printed for the merchants and manufacturers of Liverpool and district.

The great speciality of the house, however, is the manufacture of all kinds of mercantile account books, and a considerable amount of attention is devoted to this department, the work turned out being all of a first-class character and well known for accuracy, quality, and durability. In connection with his library department, he holds a large stock of remainders of new and second-hand books, of which he publishes a complete catalogue and price list, so carefully and intelligently arranged that one can pick out without any difficulty any particular work desired from the list by the most cursory glance through its pages. In this department he does a trade which extends to all parts of the world.

To conclude: By the constant practice of honourable and. straightforward methods, and an equally constant consideration of his patrons’ best interests, Mr. Potter has built up and maintained a widespread and well-connected trade, that is not less creditable to the judgment of its supporters among the public than it is to the admirable energy and enterprise he has shown throughout his long and useful career.

J. ALLEN, FURNITURE REMOVER AND CONTRACTOR,
201, WESTMINSTER ROAD, KIRKDALE, LIVERPOOL.

THIS flourishing concern was originally established a number of years ago by Mr. Leary, who carried it on with considerable success until about two years ago, when the concern was acquired by Mr. Allen, who continues to conduct the operations of the business with very satisfactory results. The premises are excellently situated, and in every way adapted for carrying on a very considerable trade. There are conveniently arranged general and private offices, extensive yard accommodation and stabling, and a roomy and commodious depository for warehousing furniture. There are a large number of vans constructed on the latest and most approved principles for the removing of furniture by road or rail, and there are also numerous spring carts. The stables are well filled with powerful and well-selected animals. A number of experienced packers, &c., are employed, the requirements of a very large and widespread connection keeping a large staff constantly and busily occupied. In addition to important contracts for removing furniture to all parts of the world, and to the large warehousing business, Mr. Allen does a good trade in letting out spring carts, &c., on hire for general cartage work, and he has also a considerable business in coals, which he has excellent facilities for supplying. Mr. J. Allen gives his own personal superintendence to all the details of his extensive affairs, and he is known in commercial circles as a smart and capable business man, while he is personally very popular in the district.

THOMAS MAKIN, COAL MERCHANT,
77 AND 79, VAUXHALL ROAD, LIVERPOOL.

This thriving business was originally established nearly fifty years ago by Mr. T. Savage, who conducted it with excellent results until the present proprietor, who had previously served his predecessor as manager, acquired the business about six years ago. The roomy premises comprise a conveniently arranged office, with an extensive yard adjoining a commodious coal wharf on the Leeds and Liverpool canal. The business, which is very considerable, is both wholesale and retail, and enjoys the effective support of a widespread and influential connection, including from time to time extensive contracts for large consumers. The house enjoys a very favourable reputation in every respect, and is one of the most prominent and considerable in this important trade, a numerous staff being employed. Mr. Thomas Makin is well known and widely esteemed in commercial circles as a rising man, possessing energy and business capacity of a very first-class order, whilst in private life he is looked up to and respected by a large circle of personal friends and acquaintances.

EDWARD CATTRALL & SON, WHOLESALE PAPER-HANGINGS MERCHANTS,
13 AND 15, BRECK ROAD, AND 15 AND 17, WHITECHAPEL, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was founded by the present proprietor in 1878. The city premises in Whitechapel consist of a large and commodious double-fronted warehouse, having a street frontage extending fifty feet, with handsomely appointed show-rooms on the ground and first floors. The stock is very extensive, embracing imported and domestic wall-papers and paper-hangings in all the rich and elegant modern styles, including the marble, tile and decorative varieties, also foreign borders, dados, &c., and fine art recherche descriptions. These are all very nicely and tastefully arranged on the numerous shelves that surround the show-rooms, for the inspection of customers. In the show-room on the first floor, a heavy stock of every description is always on hand. The warehouses are situated at Nos. 13 and 15, Breck Road. It is a handsome, substantial edifice, where an enormous stock of paper-hangings in all the newest designs and patterns and of every quality are held, suitable either for the mansion or cottage. Their connection is very widespread, extending over a circuit of fifty miles, and is entirely amongst house decorators. The business is conducted under the personal management of the principal, ably assisted by his two sons and a staff of two clerks and sixteen warehousemen, who are constantly and busily engaged. Mr. Cattrall is a gentleman possessing the advantage of a thorough knowledge of the business in every detail, combined with great mercantile experience, and exercises in the management of his business that sound judgment and well-directed energy which have always so eminently characterised his transactions.

A. GIVANOVICH, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL OILSKIN MANUFACTURER,
116, ST. JAMES’ STREET, LIVERPOOL.

MR. GIVANOVICH, who is very well-known as a leading oilskin manufacturer has been established for over thirty years. He was originally at 54, St. James’ Street, and it was not until six years ago that he removed to his present excellent premises. The position is excellent, being situated very centrally in the midst of the shipping houses, and the place is in every way adapted for carrying on the manufacture upon a very extensive scale. There is a large and well-stocked double-fronted shop and a large factory at the back, of the dimensions of thirty by sixty feet, while the machine room is above the shop. Large quantities of oilskin coats, leggings, &c., are manufactured, and the number of hands employed is considerable. Mr. Givanovich bears a very high reputation for the excellent quality of the goods he supplies. All goods supplied to retail customers are re-oiled free of charge. He also undertakes the furnishing of complete seamen’s outfits, &c., and does an exceedingly large and important trade in all departments. He has an excellent and widespread connection of old standing, and is well known in shipping circles as an experienced and capable man of business, who may be in every respect fully relied upon, while he is personally much liked and respected by all with whom he comes in contact, either in the way of business or in private life.

THE QUEEN’S HOTEL
(MR. E. G. MASON, PROPRIETOR),
BIRKENHEAD.

AMONG the hotels of Birkenhead a leading position is held by the “Queen’s,” an extensive and high-class establishment, with a successful and creditable record, dating from the year 1862, when the house was founded by Mr. George Mason, father of the present proprietor. The Queen’s Hotel occupies a large and handsome three-storyed building, facing the fine Birkenhead Park, and thus has a delightful situation and a pleasing outlook. Internally the hotel is very conveniently planned and splendidly appointed. The ground floor contains the bar, spacious coffee-room, billiard-room with two first-class tables, a reading-room, commercial room, with every accommodation, and refreshment rooms for visitors. On the first floor there are several sitting-rooms, numerous bedrooms, bath-room, lavatories, &c., while the second floor is devoted to bedrooms chiefly. On both these floors the appointments are excellent in every respect, and the arrangements made for the comfort and convenience of visitors are highly commendable.

Not only is the general equipment of the Queen’s Hotel deserving of high praise for the manner in which it combines elegance with comfort, but the domestic arrangements of the house are also singularly good. The “Queen’s” has always been noted for its excellent cuisine, and for a wine list that is irreproachable in selection and quality. The attendance in all respects is of the most efficient and intelligent character, and the tariff of charges is moderate. At the bars of the hotel refreshments of a very high order of excellence are served, and the house has long borne a good name for choice spirits and cigars of the best brands, as well as for the fine quality of its wines. A large amount of catering is done for masonic banquets, wedding breakfasts, public dinners, picnics, &c.; and among the travelling public generally the Queen’s Hotel enjoys a reputation which has for many years past endowed it with the continued patronage of a most valuable connection.

Mr. E. G. Mason is quite an ideal host, experienced, alert, and ever watchful to promote the satisfaction of his guests. His unfailing courtesy and personal popularity have contributed very largely to the success of the Queen’s Hotel, and still continue to be among the chief factors in the maintenance of its prosperity. In proof of the statement as to his popularity, it may be mentioned that Mr. Mason is a member of the Birkenhead Town Council.

SMYTH’S, THE NOTED DEPOT,
40 AND 42, RENSHAW STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established by the present proprietor in 1872, and the establishment has secured a position in public favour and commercial estimation second to no other in the city. The premises comprise two large and handsome shops with separate entrances, and a total street frontage of about fifty feet. The interior is fitted up in a very superior style; the premises also contain extensive warehouse accommodation, well-equipped workrooms and every convenience. A large number of skilled and experienced hands are busily employed in picture framing, mount-cutting, &c.; the work is carried out in the very best style, and on the most reasonable terms. The stock in the various departments is thoroughly representative of the business in all its branches, embracing as it does a most extensive assortment of general and fancy stationery. A large collection of new books, embracing a wide range of literature, bibles, prayer and hymn books, and many handsomely bound volumes suitable for presentation, school prizes, &c., also a choice and varied selection of fancy articles of a useful and ornamental character, framed and unframed illuminated texts (which have a showroom specially devoted to them), papier mache goods, &c., &c. Mr. Smyth exercises in the selection of his stock that great care and sound judgment which is acquired only by long practical experience. Buying in large lines direct from the manufacturers, he is enabled to give his customers exceptional advantages, both in quality and price. The trade is both wholesale and retail, and a very brisk business is done in every department. In addition to those employed in the workrooms experienced assistants are busily engaged in the shop and warehouse, and no effort is spared to meet the convenience of customers in the punctual execution of orders.

THE HONEY COMPANY,
BANK CHAMBERS, 3, COOK STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ALTHOUGH honey does not find such universal favour in this country as it does upon the tables of our American cousins, there are yet thousands of families who know how to appreciate this wholesome form of natural diet; and, accordingly, the apiaries of the world are not quite so neglected as might, upon first thoughts, be supposed. The tendency of the trade of late years has been to concentrate, and amongst the most successful organisations in this direction special prominence must be accorded to the above thriving concern. Projected in the year 1886 this noteworthy institution is now under the managerial control of Mr. M. C. Buck, a gentleman of recognised ability and extended experience in connection with the useful industry to the development of which lie has so vigorously and successfully directed his best energies. The premises occupied are exactly adapted to the requirements of a brisk thriving business. They consist of spacious well-arranged offices at Bank Chambers, augmented by large warehouses, in which a stock of pure honey is always held in readiness to meet demands, however large they may be, at the shortest possible notice. The trade connection of the company is one of considerable volume, and takes effect in all parts of the United Kingdom among first-class retail distributors and dealers.

HENRY HEAZELL, BOOKSELLER, STATIONER, PRINTER, AND BOOKBINDER,
66, LONDON ROAD, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established in 1877 by the present proprietor, and at once took a leading position in this busy neighbourhood, which has been well maintained by an unremitting attention to the requirements of a very extensive and high-class connection. The establishment occupies an excellent position in London Road. The large and handsome double shop has a very fine plate-glass frontage of fully thirty feet. The windows display to great advantage a choice selection of high-class stationery, books, and fancy articles. The interior is fitted up in a very superior style with elegant yet substantial counters, show-cases, stands, and other appropriate appointments. The premises also contain extensive storage accommodation, and all the accessories of a thoroughly organized establishment. The large and comprehensive stock is replete with all the best features of the various lines engaged in, and thoroughly representative of the business in all its branches, embracing a most extensive assortment of general mercantile stationery, account books, ledgers, cash books, day books, copying books, parcel books, &c., all the latest and most fashionable novelties in note and letter paper, envelopes, and correspondence cards. A very large collection of books, embracing almost every department of literature, suitable for presentations, wedding, birthday or parting gifts; also a choice and varied selection of photographic albums and frames, writing-desks in leather and wood, work-boxes and baskets, inkstands, fancy leather articles and glass and china ornaments.

The entire stock is selected from the best sources with great care and sound judgment; buying in large lines direct from the manufacturers, Mr. Heazell is enabled to give his customers exceptional advantages, both in quality and price. In the printing and bookbinding branches all the work is produced in the very highest style of the art, and at prices that will bear favourable comparison with any house in the trade. A very brisk business is done in every department, which receives the strict personal attention of the proprietor. A large staff of quick and obliging salesmen and assistants are busily employed, and no effort is spared to meet the convenience of customers in the prompt and accurate execution of orders.

THOMAS WALKER, PORK BUTCHER,
78, SOHO STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS important business was established by Mr. Thomas J. Walker, the present proprietor, in 1854, at St. James’ Market. It was transferred to the present premises about thirty years ago. These are most extensive, compact, and in every way a model of an establishment of this description. They comprise shop and office, with slaughter-house, sausage factory, ice house, smoke house, ham and bacon curing cellars, stables, &c. The shop is spacious and lofty, and fitted in the very best style, with respect to ventilation and sanitation. The walls are tastefully tiled by one of our most eminent artists, the well-known Mr. Swift, of the Temple, Dale Street, and we can say that perfect success has crowned his efforts. The internal appointments and fittings are all stamped with unmistakable signs that cleanliness to the utmost degree is studied in the conduct of the establishment. The slaughter-house and sausage factory are also very roomy, and here again, and especially in the former, the sanitary arrangements are of the most complete nature.

The great feature of the establishment is the sausage factory, to which magnificent additions are being made in the way of extensions, which will take up the greater portion of this handsome block of buildings, nearly doubling the extent of the premises. The “Liverpool Mercury” of December 22nd, 1888, in devoting considerable space to a description of it, goes on to say, “his customers” (speaking of Mr. Walker), “may, if they choose, trace the career of a pig, from the moment it enters Mr. Walker’s slaughter-house, until the time when it is retailed over the counter in the shape of pork or of sausages, as the premises are always open for public inspection, which is cordially invited.” The great feature of the establishment, however, is undoubtedly the extensive sausage factory, in which there is a Royal Agricultural Society’s prize machine, worked by a four-horse power engine, which is capable of turning out sausages at a speed of three hundred and fifty pounds per hour in the most expeditious manner, and to which, as already mentioned, large additions are being made. The same paper further describes it, as it really is, a “model sausage factory.”

The trade done is both wholesale and retail, home and foreign, and the connection is among the shipping firms, hotels, institutions and the trade generally. Hams and bacon are produced in very large quantities, both for home and foreign consumption. There is a wide and well founded connection, and the quality of the pork and sausages much appreciated throughout the United Kingdom and abroad. The highly respected proprietor is a well-known personage. He has extensive dealings with the pig raisers, and is much esteemed for his honourable way of conducting all his dealings. There is every prospect that this business will ere long become one of the biggest concerns of its kind in the north of England.

JOHN RELF, WHOLESALE HOME AND EXPORT BOTTLER,
40 AND 42, DUKE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IN connection with the bottling and wholesale distribution of bottled ales, stouts, and other malt liquors from all the leading breweries of the kingdom, it is particularly interesting to meet with a house of such old standing. Inquiry into the mercantile annals of Liverpool shows that this notable house was formed as long ago a-s the year 1850, by a Mr. Grant; that it passed thereafter in 1870 into the possession of Mr. Hands, from whom ten years later on it was acquired, and has ever since been carried on with characteristic vigour and success, by its present able proprietor, Mr. John Relf. The premises occupied comprise the entire basement accommodation of Nos. 40 and 42, Duke Street, and are constituted by a well-appointed office at the entrance, with perfectly equipped, beer stores and bottling cellars at the rear. T

he bottling department is admirably fitted with the best and latest patent corking machines, for careful hand work only, and calls into active requisition the services of a staff of twenty skilled hands under the personal practical supervision of the talented principal, who operates on an extensive scale as an exporter of sound bottled liquors to all parts of the world, and as a large local, and district distributor amongst retail dealers, hotel keepers, restaurateurs, and licensed victuallers of all grades; delivering goods in Liverpool and its suburbs through the agency of a number of floats and other conveyances. Personally, it would be difficult to find a more popular merchant in the city than Mr, Relf, under whose able direction the characteristic prosperity of the house over whose fortunes he presides, will doubtless find a future continuance befitting its long attendance upon the career of a businees so thoroughly deserving the good fortune it has achieved.

HENRY T. COLLIN, JOINER, OFFICE AND SHOP FITTER, &C.,
7, THOMAS STREET, SOUTH CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL

IN THIS notable and extensive business are embodied all the characteristic features of a thoroughly representative and first-class shop and office-fitting industry, the outcome of long experience and an intelligent application of every improvement that has been introduced during the past century. The well-known house of Mr. Henry T. Collin dates its history, under its present name, back to the year 1862. The premises, which are situated in the very heart of the city, comprise a large and substantial building four storeys in height, spacious, commodious, and in every way adapted to the requirements of a brisk first-class business. The special feature of Mr. Collin’s business consists in the fact that all work done is manufactured by the best machinery and in a great measure by hand labour by skilled artisans. The class of work turned out under this system is of splendid quality, and combines all the strength, solidity and durability of fifty years ago, with the graceful form and artistic beauty of the best modern designs.

Mr. Collin operates almost exclusively as an office and shop fitter, his superior workmanship standing him in good stead in this difficult branch of his industry. His premises are specially adapted to this department of his craft, the whole of the work being produced in the finely equipped workshops located on the second and third floors of the building, and giving full and regular employment to a large staff of skilled and experienced hands. Competent workmen are also sent to all parts of the country to execute special orders, and the entire business is conducted with marked ability and judgment, under the personal supervision of the principal, who is thoroughly familiar with every detail of a trade in which he has won for his house a widespread high reputation, which extends throughout the Northern Counties of the Kingdom.

H. MCGRANAHAN & CO., MERCHANT TAILORS AND OUT-FITTERS,
16, WILLIAMSON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS thriving concern was organised in the year 1876, by the association in business of Messrs. Porterfield & McGranahan. Upon the retiral of the former in 1880, the sole proprietary control devolved upon the hands of Mr. McGranahan, under whose fostering care the business has since been mainly developed to its present eminent position among the leading tailoring institutions of the city. The premises are in every point of character and situation exactly adapted to the requirements of a brisk first-class and exclusively bespoke business of the kind. They consist of a spacious elegantly-appointed shop holding a very large stock of all the latest, best, and most fashionable fabrics of the day with a fine cutting room to the rear, and a perfectly equipped workshop on the first floor, where a staff of from ten to twenty skilled and experienced workers are employed, according to the season and the orders in hand. All the garments are cut under the personal supervision of the principal, who is an expert scientific cutter himself, of recognised ability in the trade, and everything produced is guaranteed to be of unexceptionable quality, and perfect in style, fit, and finish. A very large trade among the better classes of the community, and especially among American visitors, is in operation, and no firm could have won by more honourable and legitimate means the eminent reputation which this house has so long and so worthily enjoyed.

EDWIN REEVE, FRUIT SALESMAN AND COMMISSION AGENT,
23, GREAT CHARLOTTE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE collection and distribution of fruit has, during the past few years, literally been revolutionized, principally through the intelligent enterprise of our great salesmen. Not only are fruits to be had in their seasons, but many of the most important varieties are now available all the year round, at prices quite within the pockets of even the poorer classes. In like manner a continuous succession of tomatoes from France, Jersey, Spain, Italy, England, and the Canaries keeps the succulent health-giving pomme d’amour constantly upon our tables, and the same applies in a lesser degree to oranges, lemons, grapes, and the like. This representative concern was organised in the year 1830 by the grandfather of the present proprietor, Mr. Edwin Reeve, a young gentleman of recognised ability and extended experience in connection with the important branch of commerce to which his attention is now so vigorously and successfully directed.

The premises occupied consist of a spacious, well-appointed sale-room, covering a space of some thirty feet by eighty feet, and terminating in a capitally-ordered office at the rear. The stock held comprises every kind of fruit, from all the fruit-growing districts of the world that are available, daily consignments being received from growers both at home and abroad. The house, indeed, is as well known in all parts of the Kingdom and the Continent as it is in the city of Liverpool, and an enormous and rapidly growing trade is effected, which testifies far better than any mere, words can do to the masterly manner in which every detail of the business, is conducted under the direction of the courteous proprietor.

WHITELEY HILL WARD, SADDLER AND HARNESS MAKER,
71, PADDINGTON, LIVERPOOL.

THIS thriving business was originally established by Mr. Ward in the year 1870, and has since been very successful. Mr. Ward is advantageously located in a well-placed, and commanding double-fronted shop, containing an excellent stock of general saddlery and harness, whips, brushes, and stable requisites of all kinds, the goods beings of first-class quality and attractively displayed. The business done is chiefly in the manufacture of goods to order, and both heavy and light harness and saddlery are made on the premises, the best quality of materials being used. The finished and sound workmanship displayed in the productions of the firm is unexceptionable. A speciality which has brought Mr. Ward considerable fame is his registered “Safe Leather” for buckles, a novel and ingenious contrivance which effectually protects any backband, trace, or other strap from the wear of the buckle to which it is attached. The “Safe Leather” is elegant in appearance and can be worn on the very best harness, it is extremely simple, easily adjusted, and can only be displaced at will. It is made in various shapes and sizes to suit any buckle, and being a most valuable invention, it has found the greatest and most appreciative approval from all owners of horses wherever it has been tried. Mr. Ward is himself thoroughly and practically acquainted with every branch of the saddlery and harness making trade, and he takes an active part in all the details of his business. He is well known and is highly esteemed and respected.

STANLEY BALDWIN, SEED AND BULB MERCHANT,
12, CLAYTON SQUARE, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established as far back as the year 1817 by Mr. James Cuthbert, who shortly found his trade increase so greatly as to necessitate much larger premises, and accordingly built the handsome block of buildings now known as Cuthbert’s Buildings. After a long and prosperous career this gentleman died in 1882, and was succeeded by his son, Mr. Donald Cuthbert, who continued the business up to 1891, when it was taken over by the present proprietor, son of the late Mr. Mathias Baldwin, formerly of Park Style Farm, West Derby, and Juvenal Street, Liverpool. Mr. Stanley Baldwin, it may be mentioned, served his apprenticeship with one of the leading firms of nurserymen and seedsmen in England, and has subsequently had experience both in England and the Colonies, and he is consequently well qualified for the business.

The premises occupy an excellent position in Clayton Square (No. 12), opposite the Prince of Wales’s Theatre. They comprise a large and commodious double shop, together with extensive warehouse accommodation, and every convenience for the successful working of the business. The interior is admirably appointed and well arranged for the display and storage of the large and varied stock, which comprises one of the largest assortments in Liverpool of flower and vegetable seeds, including every variety known to the florist and horticulturist. Farm seeds, mixtures for permanent pastures, and laying down lawns, bowling greens, &c., are a special feature. The whole of the stock is selected from the very best sources with great care and sound judgment, and every precaution is taken to ensure the highest percentage of germination, no seeds being sent out without being reliably tested, thus securing to the purchaser that uniform and superior vegetation which is so essential to success in these days of competition, and it is perhaps not too much to say that Mr. Baldwin stands almost alone in the trade in Liverpool, as one who in all cases practically tests the seeds he offers to his customers. They are all guaranteed pure, genuine, and true to name, and farm seeds are sold subject to the analysis of the Consulting Botanist of the Royal Agricultural Society of England, or of any other well-known botanical authority. Although grass seeds generally have been improved in quality within the past few years, there is still evidence to show that large quantities of worthless seeds find their way into the hands of farmers, and we feel fully justified in calling the attention of our readers to those who carefully cater for the wants of agriculturists.

Manures, fertilizers, insect destroyers, garden tools, requisites, and other sundries. are also well represented. The trade is of a widespread, influential and growing character, and in addition to the extensive home connection a large and increasing export business is done, especially to the Continent and the Colonies. These extensive business relations are well founded on the eminent reputation so long enjoyed of all the goods supplied. Mr. Baldwin devotes the whole of his attention to the business, and spares no effort to maintain the ancient prestige of the house and to merit a continuance of that support and patronage which was so liberally accorded to his predecessors. Three handsome lists are published yearly, and sent free to intending customers. These are, a forty-page illustrated and descriptive catalogue of garden seeds, tools, and sundries, in January; a list of flowering roots and bulbs in August; and a shorter list of farm and field seeds in March.

J. KEARNEY & CO., WHOLESALE STATIONERS, &C.,
47, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was founded in the year 1845 by Mr. P. Kearney, and very successfully carried on by him until his decease, which took place in 1866. It was in that year taken over by the present proprietor, Mr. J. Kearney, trading as Messrs. J. Kearney & Co. The premises comprise a sale-room and office, on the ground floor of the building. The office is very substantially and neatly fitted. The business is of a very important character, and plays a large part in the stationery and scholastic worlds. The stock held is exceedingly large, and is selected with great care and judgment from the leading makers only. Attention is directed to the wonderfully cheap copying books, these being those containing two hundred and fifty leaves for one shilling, and one thousand leaves for three-and-six. Capital lines are seen in good business envelopes, ranging from two shillings per thousand. Account books are equally cheap. Coming to notepaper, a useful quality commences at two shillings per ream, and there are superior qualities at proportionately low prices. There are also some really wonderful lines in blotting paper, a serviceable quality (thirty-eight pounds) being listed at twenty shillings per ream.

There are large stocks of Rowney’s, Faber’s, and other pencil makers’ goods, Stephens’ inks, in all sizes; Blackwood’s ink, eighteen shillings per dozen quarts, black or blue black; Kearney’s, Gillott’s, and Brandauer’s pens, and a fine miscellaneous stock of general stationery. The firm are agents for Macniven & Cameron’s pens; they are sold in £5 lots at half price. A special feature is made of school stationery, all kinds of the latest being on hand. In the large basement attached to the premises ten thousand school slates have been stored. The business is almost entirely of a wholesale nature, and the connection extends throughout the United Kingdom, among retail stationers, schools, &c. They import largely from America; and have carried on an extensive import business from Germany for the past thirty years, and so rapid has been the increase that it has become necessary to see about enlarging the present premises. All the arrangements are carried out under the personal supervision of the principal, who employs a number of assistants.

LAURENCE’S COMMERCIAL AND FAMILY TEMPERANCE HOTEL,
CLAYTON SQUARE, LIVERPOOL.

COMMERCIAL travellers nowadays are not necessarily compelled to join in wine at table as in the olden days; still, for men that are abstainers, the temperance house is par excellence the best “home away from home,” but the great difficulty in this connection is to find a suitable stopping-place, and in a great city like Liverpool it is of the greatest importance for “knights on the road” to be able to indicate such an institution as Laurence’s Hotel to their brethren, where excellent cooking and perfect attendance, combined with economic charges, are the order of the day. The situation of the house is all that can be desired, and one of its advantages is its proximity to the railway station and leading business quarters of the city. In tracing the rise and progress of the house, one must go back to about the year 1835, when it was organised upon a comparatively small scale by a Mr. Brown, who continued to develop its interests for a period of twenty years, when the concern passed into the hands of the father of the present proprietor, under whose vigorous control the business increased literally by leaps and bounds. Mr. Laurence succeeded his father in the ordinary course of events in 1874, and, continuing on the same sound lines, has still further augmented the business and enhanced the reputation of his house, until it now stands second to none of its kind in the city.

Some notion of the progress made may be gathered from the fact that the hotel was originally projected with but twelve bedrooms, whereas it to-day boasts of no less than eighty. The premises, as they at present stand, consist of an exceedingly handsome four-storeyed brick building, with a bold frontage of seventy feet, and having an ornamental balcony running the whole length of the first storey. On the ground floor there is a capital billiard saloon, perfectly equipped, and provided with a first-class full-sized table; a large and exceedingly comfortable dining-room, and a capitally appointed commercial-room, besides ten well-lighted stock-rooms, several of them of a very large size. Ascending to the first floor, one comes upon a cosy coffee-room, private sitting-rooms, and apartments en suite. Here again we find several new stock-rooms. The upper floors are fully utilised for the bedroom accommodation, each chamber embodying all the latest hygienic improvements in the way of lighting, ventilation, &c.

To sum up, the accommodation afforded is of the most perfect and superior order, every rule and detail recognised as governing the arrangement and conduct of a strictly first-class modern temperance hotel being here observed with the utmost exactitude; indeed, the hotel holds a reputation of many years’ standing, won and preserved by long and conscientious catering to all the needs and requirements of a large and valuable patronage, and it is manifestly the resolution of Mr. Laurence that this reputation shall not only be well sustained, but steadily enhanced in days to come.

W. W. TOWNSON,
PEMBROKE MEWS, 34, PEMBROKE PLACE, LIVERPOOL.

THE large and influential business now so successfully carried on by Mr. W. W. Townson, at the Pembroke Mews Coaching Establishment, was founded as far back as the year 1850, and was for many years carried on by Messrs. Scott & Shaw, from whom it was purchased by the present proprietor. The spacious and handsome premises have a very pleasing appearance. To the right of the entrance is a well-appointed order office, and to the left a large and commodious show-room displaying several equipages suitable for weddings, &c. The stabling, loose boxes and coachhouses are situated round the yard at the rear. The sanitary and other arrangements are in every way perfect. The establishment may be justly regarded as a model of its class. Mr. Townson owns a large stud of good sound and reliable horses. They include several well matched pairs, brougham horses, ladies’ and gentlemen’s hacks and ponies. The “rolling stock” includes open and close carriages, broughams, waggonettes, dog carts, wedding equipages, &c. Both horses and carriages are turned out in first-class style, and would do credit to the private establishment of any gentleman. The coachmen, it is worthy of note, are men of reliable character. Mr. W. W. Townson (who is a member of the Royal Veterinary College of Surgeons, England) is well known and highly respected in Liverpool, and by his spirited enterprise, sound judgment and genial courtesy has secured the confidence and support of a very extensive and high-class connection.

E. ROBERTS & SON, JOINERS,
49A, HARDMAN STREET, AND 4, SOUTH HUNTER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

This business was originally established in 1876 by Mr. E. Roberts, who subsequently admitted his son, Mr. G. D. Roberts, into partnership, and the latter gentleman has conducted the firm alone since the retirement of his senior in 1885. The firm is well known in the trade, and although the scope of their operations is limited to certain classes of work, a very considerable business of a sound and healthy character has been built up. The trade lies chiefly in the manufacture of shop fronts and fittings and similar work, as well as general carpentry, repairs, and alterations, which are carried out upon a large scale. The premises are large and well-arranged, and contain a convenient and roomy range of workshops, with drying room and ample yard accommodation for the storage of timber. The stock is well selected, and comprises good supplies of pine, sycamore, and mahogany. Mr. Roberts is a smart and energetic business man, who has personally worked very hard to ensure that success that has been achieved in the business of his firm. He is thoroughly and practically acquainted with every branch of the trade, and is personally popular and much esteemed by all with whom he has dealings.

J. FULLERTON SHANLEY, REGIMENTAL AND CIVIL TAILOR,
22, ST. ANNE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

MR. SHANLEY, the well-known regimental and civil tailor, established his business in 1875. The lofty building is of three storeys, and is about ton yards square. Mr. Shanley occupies the whole of the building, also the top floor of the next house. The handsome and commodious shop is on the ground floor, and it is always gay with various bright-coloured uniforms, swords, helmets, belts, and military accoutrements. A business of this kind, when well conducted, can be made to appear exceedingly attractive, and this is the case with Mr. Shanley’s handsome establishment, there being invariably plenty to please the eye. Mr. Shanley is well known as an enterprising contractor to the regular and volunteer forces. His business in these exceedingly important branches is immense. His workmanship is far above reproach, and he has long been celebrated for his promptitude and the vast resources of his establishment, employing a large staff of skilled workmen. This essential qualification, together with the superior finish of the uniforms, &c., has made him a widely-known and much sought-for man. He is always courteous to clients and to those around him, managing affairs with keen judgment and ability. Added to his business qualities is an exceedingly pleasant and obliging manner, which never fails to attract. His general civil tailoring trade is very large, and is entirely of a bespoke nature. He employs clever assistants, who fully keep pace with the latest fashionable styles. Mr. Shanley holds royal appointment. He ranks among the most respected of the citizens of Liverpool.

T. C. JONES & CO., HOSIERS, GLOVERS, AND GENERAL OUTFITTERS,
16, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IT WAS in the year 1887 that Mr. T. C. Jones entered the commercial arena, determined to win for himself the eminent reputation he now so deservedly enjoys. His premises are situated but two doors from the well-known Angel Hotel, in perhaps the best and busiest quarter of the city. They consist of an exceedingly handsome double-fronted shop, the commodious interior of which, extending for a distance of forty feet to the rear, is most elegantly appointed throughout, and in every way exactly adapted to the wants of a brisk first-class business of the kind. The ample accommodation afforded is utilised to the utmost to hold and display a stock, of which a tolerably accurate notion may be gathered from the following list of leading lines represented. These comprise all kinds of superior hosiery and gloves, and home, foreign, and athletic outfits, including shirts and collars of every description in linen, fancy prints, flannels, wool, and silk, both ready made and made to measure by expert hands; all kinds of outfits for tennis, cricket, football, boating, hockey, lacrosse, and athletic sports in general; superb and comfortable dressing gowns, pyjama sleeping suits, gentlemen’s and ladies’ travelling rugs and shawls, superior umbrellas, portmanteaus and travelling bags of all kinds, gentlemen’s underwear, gymnasium jerseys and knickers, club outfits, house, office, and sea-side jackets, summer, dust, and covert coats, and in short everything incidental to the business of a modern outfitter of the highest grade. Mr. Jones operates very largely as a contractor for ships, foreign and athletic outfits, and is especially noted for his beautifully made shirts. He undertakes repairs of every description at strictly economic charges, and employs in his workrooms a staff of ten skilled and experienced workers, besides six active shop assistants. Mr. Jones’s spirited policy has resulted in a large, influential, and rapidly growing trade connection of the very best class.

DUNCAN GILMOUR & CO., BREWERS OF HOP BITTER BEER,
SOHO STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IT has long been a subject of regret that no temperance beverage has yet been discovered that is in any appreciable way a substitute for ale, and that it was impossible to procure a pleasant, palatable, and exhilarating, non-intoxicating drink. This has always been a great impediment to the spread of temperance among all classes of people, and the discoverer of such a desirable and long-sought-for beverage should be regarded as a public benefactor. This reproach to the progress of the nineteenth century has been removed by the Hop Bitter Beer introduced by Messrs. Duncan Gilmour & Co., of Soho Street, Liverpool. The firm is an old-established one, and has long been known for the superior excellence of its productions. Extensive premises are occupied, which are eminently well adapted to the requirements of the business. They are built in accordance with the latest principles of scientific brewing, and are replete with the best and most efficient apparatus, plant, and machinery, that long experience could suggest, or ample means secure. The equipment, indeed, is of a complete and unique style, and eminently adapted to produce the best possible results. The company have also another brewery of similar capacity and resources at Sheffield.

Their celebrated Hop Bitters, or rather Hop Bitter Ale, is bottled in the same way as ordinary Burton Ale. It is the same in appearance and aroma, and possesses a flavour and sharpness something akin to ale. It is a purely non-alcoholic drink, and is unquestionably the best substitute for ale that has ever been put upon the market. It is brewed from cane sugar and the finest English hops only, and it is sparkling, wholesome, and refreshing, and an excellent tonic. In fact, it possesses all the restorative properties of ordinary pale ale, but minus all its intoxicating quality. Every process through which it passes is carefully watched and systematically tested, and every precaution is taken to maintain its perfect purity, and the uniform standard of excellence.

Sir Charles A. Cameron, M.D., D.P.H., M.R.C.P.I., chief medical officer of health for Dublin, in his report of his analysis of this Hop Bitter Beer, says: “It is an article which I can strongly recommend. It has a most agreeable flavour, and is thoroughly fermented. The bitter principle in it is altogether derived from hops, and is associated with the fragrant principles of the hop. It is an excellent tonic. I am sure this beverage will become a great favourite, and being practically non-intoxicating, it will commend itself to persons who profess temperance principles.”

The firm have spent a long time in perfecting their production, and they are to be heartily congratulated on having accomplished what has hitherto baffled the cunning of the most experienced brewers in the kingdom. An extensive and valuable business is controlled with Hotels, Licensed Victuallers, Wine and Spirit Merchants, and others, and all orders receive prompt attention and efficient execution, while prices will be found eminently satisfactory. The proprietors are gentlemen universally known in the trade, and they are regarded as the leading representatives of their branch of business. Their personal attention is given to the business as a whole, and every effort is used to oblige their numerous and ever-increasing connection. It has lately been found expedient to form the company into a limited liability concern, under the joint management, as heretofore, of Messrs. Duncan Gilmour and Duncan McDougall.

THE VAUXHALL METHYLATING COMPANY,
41, MAGUIRE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS firm occupies a most exalted position among the many great commercial enterprises of Liverpool, not only for the high standard of its productions, but also for the courteous and superior manner in which everything in connection with the place is transacted. During the last eleven years it has continued to increase in business and reputation, until it may be now said to pose as a representative of its kind in the district. Very sound judgment and enterprise has been brought to bear on the building up of the business, and with most gratifying results. The Company was established in 1879 by the present proprietors. The premises are excellent throughout, and consist of well-appointed private and public offices, wherein is an efficient staff of clerks. The works contain all the modern appliances for carrying on the extensive trade. The quality of the Methylated Spirits manufactured is most superior, and has a high reputation throughout the whole of the country. A valuable business is done with staining manufacturers, brassfounders, hatters, druggists, &c. The care bestowed upon the purchase and selecting of the materials used in the manufacturing is being amply repaid by enabling the very best quality to be turned out. The Company are happy in securing the services of Mr. Edwin Robinson as manager. This courteous gentleman is conversant with all the branches of the business; and by his ability, tact, and pleasing bearing, adds very much to the standing and prosperity of the concern.

W. A. LANE, FAMILY PROVISION MERCHANT,
4, ISLINGTON, LIVERPOOL.

IT appears, upon an inquiry into the commercial annals of the city, that Mr. W. A. Lane some years ago acquired the old-established business which had been founded at 4, Islington, in 1850, by a Mr. A. Champ. His advent heralded a series of marked successes, and by studying the individual wants of his regular customers he determined such a capital connection, that he found it expedient to open depots at 139A, London Road, and 56, Berry Street, all three establishments being models of careful appointment and methodical arrangement for holding and displaying to the best advantage a very large and comprehensive stock of the primest of provisions, the freshest of home eggs, to the exclusion of foreign importations, and quite an exhaustive stock of the best groceries from all the leading sources of supply in the world. Mr. Lane very justly prides himself upon the high excellence of his provisions, and all his goods are available at strictly equitable prices. By adherence to these rules he has deservedly won the esteem and confidence of a very large, valuable, and rapidly growing family connection from all classes of the community; and nothing could be more commendable than the order and system prevailing in all his establishments, and the care, promptitude and courtesy which mark the demeanour of his well-trained staff of assistants.

JOSEPH PIERCY, WHIP AND THONG MANUFACTURER,
154, DALE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established by the father of the present proprietor in 1842, and carried on under his direction until 1867, when in due course the concern was taken over by the gentleman who now directs the fortunes of the house with considerable success. The premises consist of an excellent shop and commodious warehouse, in which are displayed whips of every kind and description in great variety, together with thongs made by all the different intricate processes known to the trade. The principal feature of Mr. Piercy’s business is the manufacture of “Four in Hand” whips, of which he claims to turn out a larger number than any other maker in the Kingdom. The trade, which is very extensive, receives in every detail, the personal attention of the principal, who is supported by the assistance of six skilled and experienced hands, and the connection, which is very widespread, is more especially developed in the various watering places. Mr. Piercy is an able and experienced business man, with a valuable practical knowledge of his trade, and whilst he is much esteemed in business circles he is also much liked and respected by his private and personal acquaintances.

LUKE BAGNALL, FASHIONABLE TAILOR, MERCHANT CLOTHIER AND WOOLLEN DRAPER,
11, WHITECHAPEL, AND 1 AND 3, BUTTON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS notable business house was established in 1850 by Mr. Henry Hope. At his death, which occurred in 1859, the business was continued under the title of Hope Brothers, until 1860, when Mr. Bagnall, who from the commencement had been managing the house, became sole proprietor. Under his able and indefatigable control, the prosperity of the house has advanced by leaps and bounds. Enlargements have been necessitated from time to time by the constantly increasing character of the business, and, in 1860, the whole of the original premises were pulled down, and rebuilt on a more extended scale. They consist now of a spacious and highly attractive four-storey stone building, occupying a prominent and commanding position at the corner of Whitechapel and Button Street, and possessing a total frontage of seventy feet. There are five plate-glass windows of great capacity, in which are displayed, in a very effective manner, an immense and well-selected assortment of ready-made clothes of every kind and description. The interior, which extends some sixty feet to the rear, has a splendid and thoroughly metropolitan aspect. The appointments are complete and handsome, and include every requisite convenience and luxury. The showrooms and fitting-rooms are on the first floor, and are almost unique of their kind. The cutting-rooms and workrooms are on the top floor, and are lofty, well-lighted, and well-ventilated.

The business done by the firm in ready-made clothes is one of the largest in the city. The proprietor’s wide experience in this branch enables him to select all the latest and best productions, and nowhere is there a greater variety of high-class garments offered to patrons, or more advantages to be obtained in the matter of price. The bespoke department may, perhaps, be considered the leading feature at this establishment. Immense and varied stocks are held of all the finest and most fashionable cloths and textures, which have been selected with great ability and taste. The cutters at this responsible establishment are men of large experience and acknowledged skill, and their operations are carried on under the immediate supervision of the proprietor, who is himself a “past-grand master” of this important branch of his business. In fit, fabric, fashion, and comfort, the house has no successful rivals, while, as to price, it is so favourably situated, both as regards buying and making, that it cannot be beaten. In consequence of the large and efficient staff of workpeople employed — which varies from thirty to fifty, according to the season — the house is able to execute orders with remarkable despatch, and on an emergency a suit of clothes can be turned out in five hours.

The permanent connection of the house is both extensive and valuable, lying mainly among the principal families and gentry in Liverpool and the surrounding district, and an important foreign trade has been developed with Africa and other countries. Six salesmen give constant attention to the business of the house, and the whole establishment is personally supervised by the proprietor, who is ably assisted by his son, Mr. G. J. Bagnall. All the transactions of the firm are conducted on fair and honourable lines, and no effort is wanting on the part of the proprietor to give entire satisfaction to his customers, and to uphold the high reputation his house has so long enjoyed. Mr. Bagnall is well known in social and commercial circles, and is everywhere esteemed for his personal worth, his disinterested public usefulness and his unswerving business probity.

JOHN ANDERSON, COACHBUILDER,
76, ELIZABETH STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS prosperous business was founded in 1870 by Mr. John Anderson, the present proprietor. The premises, which are very well laid out for the purposes of the trade, are of considerable extent. There are well-arranged offices, coachbuilding, body, and smiths’ shops, also paint-rooms, &c. No coachbuilder in the district has done more to advance his calling than Mr. Anderson, nor can another claim to have introduced so many decided improvements. Many years of experience and study have enabled this enterprising gentleman to produce vehicles, which of their kind cannot be equalled. For years he has diligently set himself the task of improving the construction of gigs, with a view of making them lighter, stronger, and more attractive in appearance, for which he has gained such renown. The result of all these improvements has not been accomplished without much cost and labour, but Mr. Anderson is daily receiving the most convincing proofs that his efforts are appreciated.

The entire spring steel under-carriage, which is the invention of Mr Anderson, and is introduced into all the best gigs made by him, is admitted to be one of the greatest modern improvements in connection with the building of vehicles. Mr. Anderson was awarded a certificate of merit for gigs, which was the, only one granted at the Liverpool Jubilee International Exhibition. There is a valuable connection attached to this business, extending throughout the district, and a large export trade, is done with Ireland, America, and Canada. The largest trade in the district is done in the manufacture of two-wheeled pleasure-traps, although operations are by no means confined.to the construction of these, orders being taken for every description of light conveyance. Among his patrons are included many of the leading gentry, members of the medical profession, clergy, merchants, and tradesmen of the district, and throughout the county. Repairs of all kinds receive the most prompt attention. Mr. Anderson has made himself a general favourite by his courtesy, and by the careful attention he pays to all Orders, and is deservedly at the head of a highly valuable business.

WM. K. SPELMAN, GENERAL PRINTER, &C.,
1 AND 11, SOUTH JOHN STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established by the late Mr. William Spelman in 1850, and successfully conducted by him up to the time of his decease, which took place in 1888. His son, Mr. Wm. H. Spelman, the present proprietor, then came into possession; and by his energy, enterprise, and ability has considerably extended the operations of this old and favourite printing business. The premises occupied consist of an office and large and well-arranged printing works. In the latter are several rapid and powerful machines. The very best American and German type is used, and the stock, which is very large, includes all the latest novelties, improvements, and inventions; in short, nothing more modern is possessed by any similar establishment in Liverpool. There is also a good selection of wood letter for poster display, ranging up to mammoth sizes. Commercial, artistic, and theatrical printing is undertaken, as also bookbinding, engraving, and lithographing; but artistic printing of every description and in all lines is a special and leading feature, distinguishing this concern from any other like enterprise. Theatrical printing is also a prominent feature, Mr. Spelman evidently devoting special care to this branch. The most novel and striking effects are produced, the blending of the colours and display being a credit to the resource and ability of the establishment. Among his many large customers are the Prince of Wales Theatre Company, Ltd., the Shakespeare Theatre, New Brighton Palace, Theatrical Programme Company, &c., &c. Mr. Spelman is well known and much respected. He conducts his establishment in a business-like manner, and has the interests of his customers thoroughly at heart.
The telephone number is 1809.

THOMAS DOWDALL, HIGH-CLASS NEW AND SECOND HAND CARPET AND FURNITURE DEALER, &C.,
67, RENSHAW STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS is one of the oldest establishments of the kind in Liverpool, having been funded as far back as the year 1815 by a Mr. Crye originally in Stanley Street. In consequence of these premises being required for town improvements, Mr. Crye subsequently removed to the present address, and about the year 1870 he was succeeded by Mr. A. Hanlon, and on the death of that gentleman in 1885 the business passed into the hands of the present proprietor, by whom the trade has been greatly developed and the connection considerably extended. The present premises occupy an excellent position in Renshaw Street (No. 67), and comprise a large and commodious shop with show-room to the rear, also extensive warehouse accommodation and every convenience for the successful working of the business.

The shop and show-room are admirably appointed and well-arranged for the display and storage of the large and varied stock, which includes a most extensive assortment of new and second hand furniture of every description. Dining, drawing-room, parlour and bedroom suites, wardrobes, cheffioniers, couches, easy chairs, hall and library furniture, brass and iron bedsteads, mattresses and bedding, strong and useful kitchen furniture, carpets, linoleums and floor cloths, and everything neccessary for the complete furnishing of a mansion, cottage, or middle-class residence. Mr. Dowdall has an excellent business connection, his long experience and thorough knowledge of the trade, coupled with one of the largest stocks of the kind in Liverpool, enable him to give his customers unusual facilities both in quality and price. Special advantages are given to cash buyers and houses are completely furnished on easy terms. The business in every department receives the strict personal attention of the proprietor, who is not only well known and highly respected in the trade, but is also widely recognised as a courteous and enterprising business man.

J. PRIDE, HAIR CUTTER AND PERFUMER,
FROM TRUEFITT’S, LONDON,
8, ELLIOT STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business, organised in the year 1869 under the auspices of Messrs. Shirley and Pride in association, is to-day under the able and vigorous proprietary control of Mr. J. Pride, his partner having retired from business some time since. No. 8, Elliot Street, occupies a splendid corner position, having a grand frontage of fifty feet, one part of which faces Deane Street, while the spacious shop extends for fully sixty feet to the rear. The gentlemen’s saloon is located on the ground, and the ladies’ hair-dressing rooms on the first floor, the entire establishment being exceedingly handsome and attractive in every detail of fitting and appointment, and manifesting many indications of the care and attention expended in adapting them to every requirement of a high-class hair-dressing and perfuming business. The shop and its windows are beautifully appointed with elegant show-cases and fixtures, holding a very superior stock of goods of the nature of perfumes by all the loading preparers of the day, proprietary articles, toilet requisites, and the like, conspicuous among which is Pride’s celebrated Mellifluous Extract, a chaste preparation for giving a bright and glossy appearance to the hair without exhibiting any tendency to become adhesive or look greasy in the slightest degree, and having at the same time distinctly wholesome and stimulating properties in maintaining the tone of the scalp in its integrity.

Mr. Pride, it may be mentioned, entered upon his professional career under exceptionally favourable auspices, haying held for several years places of distinction at various establishments in Paris, Vienna, Frankfort, and at the establishment of the famous Truefitt, of London. He caters exclusively for a high-class class connection doing a very substantial business, also attending families and schools periodically, and enjoying the confidence and patronage of the elite of the City and its surroundings.

J. KIRBY PILKINGTON, M.R.C.V.S., &C., NORTH HAYMARKET VETERINARY INFIRMARY,
47 AND 49, FOX STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AMONG the very old-established Liverpool firms, the subject of this notice is well worthy of honourable and even distinguished mention in the pages of the Century’s Progress, Lancashire. The business which has existed and prospered since the commencement of this century, an inquiry into the historical annals of the city will reveal was originally established and carried on by a Mr. S. Maddox. After a number of years he was succeeded by Mr. George Cave, on whose retirement about nine years ago it was taken over by the present widely known and highly respected proprietor, Mr. Pilkington, who has since given it his able and experienced attention. Mr. Pilkington is well known to all large owners of horses, and has acquired almost as great a notoriety as a specialist for diseases of canine and other domestic pets. The entire reliance which is placed upon his skill and judgment in the treatment of horses and other animals, his abundant and daily augmenting practice, evidences that it is not misplaced. The marvellous results he has achieved, in cases that had been abandoned as hopeless, establish his reputation on unquestionable facts, that only long experience and high qualifications could have enabled him to create.

The premises in Fox Street are not only extensive, but splendidly adapted to the requirements of his fine business. They consist of well-fitted surgery with every requisite in instruments, large yard, and besides a number of loose boxes for horses, ample room is provided for the housing of animals under treatment or otherwise, during the absence from home of their owners, at charges that have always been found exceedingly moderate. The loose boxes for horses are fitted with all the latest contrivances for the comfort and health of the animals, and the place abounds with every convenience. Mr. Pilkington is a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, London. Besides the new branches that his extending business will soon render it necessary to establish, he already has several which have existed for many years, at Allerton Road, Woolton, Wellington Street, Garston, Ac., and even at his private address at Acre Terrace, Everton Brow, he can at any time be consulted.

The Fox Street surgery, which is situated quite close to the North Haymarket, where all the farmers send their produce for sale, is admirably placed for consultation as to the ailments of the immense number of horses visiting this large and busy mart, and farmers oft congratulate themselves on its proximity. We can only add, in conclusion, that this gentleman is much appreciated for the great pains he takes with all cases confided to his care, and is generally esteemed and respected, not only for his great ability and straightforwardness in all his dealings, but also for his genial and kindly manner that invariably leave a pleasing recollection.
Telephone No. 5032.

PORTER & WILSON, TEAM OWNERS,
JAMAICA STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS substantial and prosperous firm was originally established thirty-three years ago by Mr. James Porter, who was joined about thirteen years since by Mr. Wilson, when the present premises were taken. They had been at first at Park Street, and afterwards successively at Ashton Street and Simpson Street, before they finally migrated to Jamaica Street. The present establishment was bought by Messrs. Porter & Wilson from the Corporation, and they had the place entirely rebuilt. There are two distinct sets of buildings divided by Norfolk Street, which runs at right angles to Jamaica Street, and on the premises there is a conveniently arranged and comfortable residence for each of the partners. The frontage of the premises to Jamaica Street is about three hundred feet, and they extend to a considerable depth along Brick Street, Norfolk Street, and Watkinson Street. The stables are excellent in all their arrangements and appointments, consisting of two storeys throughout, the upper tier being approached by an incline, and there is altogether accommodation for between sixty and seventy horses, all first-rate, and carefully-selected cattle.

The firm own about fifty lorries and carts, and employ a large number of men and boys, some of their contracts being of considerable magnitude, although the smaller jobbing business is by no means neglected. The carts and lorries are all made on the premises, and a range of wheelwrights’ shops, &c., with ample yard accommodation, is set apart for this important branch. The shoeing is done in a suitably-fitted smithy, and there are excellent loose boxes for sick horses. The hay-lofts, &c., are of considerable extent, and excellently fitted with machines for cutting hay, bruising corn, &c., driven by a capital two horse-power gas-engine. There is further a dairy on the premises, with sheds and yard suitably arranged, and here about fifteen cows are kept for the requirements of an extensive milk-retailing department. The firm have excellent office accommodation, and their telephone number is 1103.

All the multitudinous details of this busy and thriving concern receive close and watchful attention from the two principals, Messrs. Porter & Wilson, who are both very active and energetic business gentlemen, and much esteemed and respected by all who know them, either in the way of business or the intercourse of private acquaintance and personal friendship.

W. H. TYERMAN, PRINTER AND STATIONER,
HARGREAVE’S BUILDINGS, 5, CHAPEL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE important business carried on by Mr. Tyerman at the Tower Printing Works was founded by his grandfather in 1832. The present proprietor has a thorough knowledge of the trade in all its branches, and has the advantage of long experience, having been connected with the business for over forty years. The business is a comprehensive one, for Mr. Tyerman is a printer, manufacturing and export stationer, and account-book maker. Every description of printing is undertaken, but attention is principally devoted to commercial work. The Tower Printing Works are very extensive and they are splendidly equipped. The offices are spacious, well appointed, and are centrally situated. The printing department is admirably arranged for the requirements of a high-class trade. The plant comprises an excellent selection of jobbing and other type adapted to the most effective and tasteful display, and the machine presses are of the best modern construction. Only thoroughly competent hands are employed, and the work turned out by this establishment will vie with that of the leading houses in the trade. Ornamental and artistic, as well as commercial printing is executed in first-class style. Mr. Tyerman’s large and comprehensive stock of general stationery includes account-books of every description, but these can be cut, ruled, bound and lettered to order, for an efficient staff is employed on the premises to do work of this kind. In the direction of the business Mr. Tyerman has displayed skill, ability, and enter-prise, and he has greatly developed the prosperous concern to which he succeeded.

MRS. HUGHES, LADIES’ AND CHILDREN’S OUTFITTER,
120, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business has now been successfully conducted for half a century, and has all along remained in the hands of the same family, who have become widely known throughout the town and districts in connection with their high-class needlework, &c. The premises occupied at No. 120, Bold Street, are in every way suited to the superior business carried on. A conspicuous and pleasing show is made in the spacious plate-glass windows, and the shop is elegantly and tastefully arranged. The great speciality is the making of baby-linen, and in the production of the same the most delicate and exquisite needlework is introduced. A large variety of ready-made articles are imported in addition to those made on the premises. Considerable reputation has been gained for the complete and expeditious manner in which wedding and foreign outfits are turned out, special facilities being possessed for at once attending to these orders. The stock of hosiery, millinery, and fancy goods is very extensive and singularly well chosen. The house too is famous for the elegant and easy-fitting corsets kept in stock, the best makes only being entertained. The trade in corsets has been an increasing one for several years, and may be said to have developed into a leading line of this business. Pelisses and costumes in every shape and variety are on hand, or are supplied to order. There are from fifteen to eighteen hands employed. The fitting-room and the stockroom are on the ground floor. The business is conducted in a decidedly superior manner, and the cordial support accorded to it is richly merited by the courteous proprietress.

JOHN LINACRE, PLUMBER, DECORATOR, PAINTER, &C.,
3, EVERTON ROAD, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established by Mr. John Linacre in Wavertree Road in 1876, and to meet the increase of business was transferred to 3, Everton Road, in 1883. In addition to this establishment, Mr. Linacre has extensive and well-fitted workshops and stores at 6, Walker Street. The premises in Everton Road occupy a commanding position, and are replete with a well-chosen stock of paper-hangings, this being a special line of the business. There is a fine variety, suitable for every purpose, and at all prices, which have been carefully selected from the best paper-stainers in the United Kingdom. As a plumber, painter, paperhanger, and general contractor, Mr. Linacre has achieved very considerable reputation. He has done splendid work on a number of important buildings, among which may be named Pembroke Chapel, Liverpool; St. Mary’s Church, Sandown Park, Wavertree; Neston Church, Cheshire; Young Men’s Temperance Hall, Liverpool; Economic Temperance Cafe, Manchester; Washington Hotel, Liverpool; Queen’s Hotel, Liverpool; Pengwern Hotel, Parkgate; Wellington Hotel, Hale; several of the Liverpool Board schools, &c., &c. Another special feature of the trade is sign-writing, many handsome and original designs being constantly turned out. Specimens of Mr. Linacre’s work may be seen at almost all railway-stations and public places in the neighbourhood. All kinds of glazing, slating, gasfitting, plastering, whitewashing, and colouring is undertaken. Grates are set, and brickwork pointed. The business in paperhangings is wholesale and retail. During the busy season a large number of skilled workmen are employed. Mr. Linacre is much respected by all who know him, not only for his ability, but also for his great courtesy.

A. & D. BIRRELL, HERRING CURERS AND WHOLESALE FISH SALESMEN,
52, NAYLOR STREET, AND 9, WHOLESALE FISHMARKET, LIVERPOOL, AND 31 AND 33, FISH WHARF, GREAT YARMOUTH.
Telegraphic Address “Adbirl, Liverpool”
Telephone No. 247.

IN CATERING to the everyday needs and requirements of the community at large the wholesale distributor and curer of fish necessarily plays a most important part in the economy of life; and in this connection it would be impossible to indicate a better known or more representative house than the one which furnishes the theme of the present notice. Organised in the year 1834, this celebrated firm now holds a place second to none of its kind in the kingdom, and is represented by a large wholesale fish and game department at No. 9, St. John’s Wholesale Fishmarket in the city, and an extensive fish-curing depot at 31 and 33, the Fish Wharf, Gt. Yarmouth, where a large establishment is kept up each year during the herring season, from October to Christmas, the firm’s representatives being busily employed in buying the choicest and freshest herrings, and forwarding them daily in truckloads to the Liverpool headquarters for immediate curing and distribution; simultaneously they eagerly watch for and buy up the finest of the sea- salted herrings (fish caught in deep water and immediately salted at sea), for packing into barrels, and forwarding by sailing vessels to Liverpool. Thousands of these barrels of herrings are sent round by sea during the winter months. These sea-salted Yarmouth herrings are the best in the world for stock fish, that is, for keeping in salt for use when fresh herrings are difficult to obtain. The firm’s representatives are to be found in all the principal fishing towns in their alternate herring seasons, from Baltimore, in the south west of Ireland, to Wick, in the north of Scotland, and to Yarmouth, in the extreme east of England.

The depot at the Wholesale Fishmarket receives fish and game of all kinds to sell on commission, and supplies the headquarters at market price with its requirements other than herrings, whilst it buys large quantities of the better class of fresh herrings for curing purposes whenever opportunity occurs. An increasing trade is also carried on there in American oysters. The headquarters of the firm at 52, Naylor Street, is projected on a very extensive scale, and is replete with every equipment and facility for “rousing,” steeping, splitting, hanging, smoking, packing, and distributing their world-renowned brand of kippers, reds, bloaters, and salt herrings. There are enormous troughs for water, smoke-houses called “kilns,” beams called “loves,” for holding the “spitted” herrings, thousands of bags of sawdust, and big piles of wood, only best oak sawdust and hard wood being selected for smoking purposes. A very large and well-trained body of workers is regularly employed; the fish after being cured are packed in barrels, kits, and boxes, and distributed far and wide to the leading markets in the kingdom, to America, Canada, Africa, and to the principal Mediterranean ports.

The trade controlled by the firm, it almost goes without saying, is one of truly gigantic proportions, a particularly brisk business being effected amongst shopkeepers and shippers in Liverpool. The business in all its branches is conducted with marked ability and judgment, upon principles of integrity which have won for Messrs. Birrell the confidence, esteem, and respect of all who have come into commercial contact with them.

GEO. W. RUTTER & CO., BUILDERS’ MERCHANTS,
6, LORD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE history of this celebrated house goes back for more than three-quarters of a century, when operations were commenced by a Mr. W. Blackstock, who carried on the slate and tile trades with considerable success for about fifty years. Mr. Rutter succeeded to the business, in 1868. His experience had been long and sound prior to this, as he had been for sixteen years manager to the firm of Messrs. W. Dawbarn & Co., which was at that time a famous house in the business. The house has gained in importance every year under the able administration of Mr. Rutter, and at the present day it may fairly claim a position of prominence in the trade, unsurpassed by any similar house in the locality. The offices in Lord Street are large and admirably appointed, and thoroughly fitted up. The premises at 37, St. James’ Street, consist of an extensive yard, with offices and sheds running round, and the interior filled with every description of builders’ material.

Under the designation of builders’ merchants, the house does a widespread and substantial trade in an almost innumerable variety of commodities. The firm are well known throughout the kingdom for the reliable character of everything they supply. Patrons have learned to place implicit confidence in their goods, and wherever they are once used, they are sure to retain permanent possession of the field. In every line the house shows superior articles, which the long experience of the proprietor has enabled him to obtain from the best sources of supply. Immense stocks are held of the various goods dealt in, and these have been selected with a consummate knowledge of the requirements of the trade, and arranged in a manner reflecting the highest credit on the judgment and skill of the proprietor.

The stocks include ample and first-class stores of Velinheli, Port Dinorwic, Penrhyn, Bangor, Carnarvon, Port Madoc, and Westmoreland roofing slates; Staffordshire and Broseley ridging, flooring, and roofing tiles, English and foreign machine-cut and hand-split plastering laths, builders’ cast-iron ware, rain-water pipes, gutters, &c., enamelled slate chimney pieces, slabs, &c., Staffordshire red and blue ridges and terminals, of new and elegant designs, and slate, iron, marble, and stone chimney pieces, Encaustic, geometrical, mosaic, and plain tile pavements, hearths, majolica wall linings, &c., of all the most celebrated makers in the kingdom; Yorkshire flags, landing steps, drain pipes, chimney pieces and closet pans, hair, plaster of Paris, and roofing felt. A special feature is made of grates, ranges, boilers, baths, iron railings, garden fittings, etc., and the house displays large supplies of admirably finished English, Canadian, American, and Swedish machine-made doors, sashes, mouldings, architraves, skirtings, etc.

The connection enjoyed by the firm is exceptionally large and valuable. A numerous and efficient force of hands is kept, and all orders receive most careful and immediate attention. The trade extends throughout the whole of the kingdom, amongst builders, contractors, ironmongers, slaters, plasterers, etc., and travellers are constantly kept out in all parts of the country; besides, a considerable export trade is conducted. Mr. Rutter gives his valuable and energetic personal supervision to the whole of the concern. All his transactions are marked by strict fairness and integrity, and by his honourable policy he commands the esteem of all who come into business relations with him. In private circles he has many Mends, and he is everywhere respected for his personal worth, his public services, and his business probity.

CORRIE, COOK & CO., WHOLESALE, MANUFACTURING, AND EXPORT PERFUMERS,
50, DUKE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ALTHOUGH but a few years have elapsed since this thriving concern was organised, it may well claim a foremost place in the trade it so adequately represents. The firm was founded in the year 1887, by the association in business of Messrs. Corrie and Cook, but is now under the proprietary control of Mr. Wilkin Corrie and Mr. E. Browne, who has been taken into the partnership within the last year, taking the place of Mr. Cook, who recently retired. The premises occupied, which are the property of the firm, comprise the whole of the commodious building known as 50, Duke Street, and extend rearwards to Henry Street. A brief description of the various departments may not be uninteresting to our readers.

On entering we find to the right the general and private offices of the firm, fitted with every convenience for the despatch of the large business controlled; passing this is a large finishing and boxing room, where all the good are put into the various fancy and other boxes. Further back is the picking-room, with its stores of packing-cases. On the first floor, extending right through the entire building, is one immense show and sample room, wherein is a display of all the goods in which the firm deals, either of their own manufacture or imported from all the leading centres of commerce. The second floor is utilised as stock-rooms for the storage of the very large quantities of perfumes, &c., always held on hand to meet the growing requirements of their constantly increasing connection, and orders for any quantity can be filled on the shortest possible notice, the whole of the third floor being devoted to the manufacture of two of the firm’s great specialities, viz., Angel White Toilet Powder and Emollient Cream, both being unrivalled preparations for the skin, and there isn no doubt will supersede all others.

The firm operate on a very extensive scale as manufacturing perfumers and makers of all kinds of high-class toilet requisites. Perfumes of every known description are manufactured by them from the choicest flowers imported from all the most celebrated flower-growing districts in the world. The firm also operate largely as importers of foreign fancy articles, of which a large display is always made. The business has, since its origin, developed continuously, with marvellous rapidity, a very large export trade, principally to Africa, China and India, and a very splendid home connection amongst wholesale houses, &c., and others being in active operation, which call into requisition the services of the principals as the chief travellers, and a staff of clerks and warehousemen. The principal employes are girls, of whom a large number are engaged in the various processes of the business. Mr. Corrie is quite an enthusiast in the business, and it is no exaggeration to say, that there are few men better known or more highly esteemed in business circles, than the energetic and enterprising proprietors of this valuable concern.

J. S. JOLLY & CO., SACK AND BAG MANUFACTURERS,
IRWELL CHAMBERS WEST, FAZAKERLEY STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS extensive business was founded by the present proprietor a number of years ago. The premises are in the basement of Irwell Chambers West, and consist of well-fitted offices — private and general. The workroom is of great extent, running the full width of the building, from Fazakerley Street to Union Street. In addition to which the firm occupy large warehouses in Jackson Lane, where an immense quantity of the firm’s production are stored, and from whence orders of any magnitude can be executed at the shortest notice. The number of hands employed varies from fifty to one hundred, according to the pressure of orders. This business occupier a very important position, supplying not only a great many of the merchants and manufacturers of Liverpool, but having an extensive connection in almost every part of the country. Special attention is given to the making of sacks and bags, which are strongly made of the very best material. In addition to these useful commodities, a large trade is done in Dundee goods, twines, &c., a thoroughly representative stock being always on hand, both for home use and for exportation. Any size of bag (and in any quantity) can be made to order in a very short time.

There is an important branch of the business at 15, Canning Street, Birkenhead, for the better convenience of the large Cheshire connection. The premises at this address are extensive, and well suited to the purposes to which they are put. They are under competent management, and contain a full assortment of the goods dealt in. It is interesting, as well as showing the large extent of the business, to note that this firm is at present, and has been for some time, sole contractors for bags to the Mersey Dock and Harbour Board. The principal, Mr. J. S. Jolly, trading as Messrs. J.S. Jolly & Co., is a well-known and much-respected citizen. His enterprise has brought him into considerable prominence, and he enjoys the full confidence of the numerous merchants, manufacturers, and others doing business with him.

HENRY HEYES & SONS, FURNITURE REMOVERS AND STORERS,
115, ISLINGTON, LIVERPOOL
(Telephone No. 1421).

THIS fine old business was founded as long ago as 1830, by Mr. Henry Heyes (and we may justly term him the pioneer of this class of trade in Liverpool), and it was formerly carried on in Hood Street. In course of years, the first Mr. Heyes was succeeded by his two sons, Thomas and Hugh, and on the decease of the former in 1883, Mr. Joseph Heyes was admitted as partner, being some time after joined by his nephew, Mr. Thomas Heyes, who is now the sole remaining partner in the firm. The present premises, in which the business has been conducted since the removal from the original establishment at Hood Street in 1830, are roomy and commodious, containing extensive stabling and van sheds on the ground floor for fifteen large lock-up covered vans and twenty powerful horses. The upper floors are conveniently arranged for the storing and safe warehousing of furniture, &c. Mr. Heyes has a splendid and rapidly-developing business in satisfactory progress as furniture removers and storers, each family’s belongings being carefully packed away in separate warehouses, the extensive removing operations being effected with equal facility by road, rail, or sea, a considerable trade being done in the transport of furniture and household goods to the Continent and various places abroad, besides an extensive trade being done in the forwarding of general goods, &c., the whole business finding regular employment for twenty men. It is worthy of mention that the founder of the business, and grandfather of the present much-respected proprietor, was the first to use the spring cart in Liverpool.

WM. CRAZE, ENGLISH AND FOREIGN FRUIT AND POTATO MERCHANT, &C.

THERE are few names in the business annals of this city that have come to be more closely, creditably, and popularly identified with the English and foreign fruit trade than that of Mr. William Craze. This large and influential business was established by the present proprietor about the year 1874. The sale-rooms are located in Queen Square, North Market, and at the Auction Mart, Nos. 61 and 67, Cazneau Street, and 19, Great Nelson Street. Mr. Craze occupies very commodious premises at each of these places. To meet the extensive requirements of the trade, Mr. Craze has always on hand a liberal supply of English and foreign fruit and potatoes. The stock is selected with great care and sound judgment, and buying in large lines direct from the producers, Mr. Craze is enabled to give his customers exceptional advantages both in quality and price. The trade, which is entirely wholesale, is of a widespread, influential, and steadily-growing character, Mr. Craze having an excellent connection among fruiterers and dealers. Mr. William Craze is also a well-known and popular auctioneer and commission agent. He gives his strict personal attention to all his establishments, and is widely recognised as a courteous and^ enterprising man, with whom it is pleasant and profitable to have business transactions.

ROBERT B. STEEL & CO., GENERAL MERCHANTS,
8, DRURY LANE, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business was established, in 1864, by Mr. Robert B. Steel, who is still at the head of affairs. His Liverpool partner, Mr. Charles Leighton, has been connected with the business during the last eighteen years. Their principal business is with Chili at the port of Coquimbo and La Serena, where Mr. Robert B. Steel is in partnership with his brother Mr. Alfred Steel, under the style of Alfred Steel & Co. The business is principally in hardware and timber, the latter being brought from South Chili, and from British Columbia. They are agents for “Lloyds” of London; also for Messrs. Lamport & Holt’s new line of steamers to that coast, and for several of the mines in that district. Finally, it is quite unnecessary for us to remark that a firm of this long standing retains, as it deserves, the position its transactions and importance entitle it to.

WILLIAM GERRARD, NAUTICAL INSTRUMENT MAKER,
40, SOUTH CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS is one of those fine old establishments which play such a useful part in the city of Liverpool. It is a great source of attraction to all classes of mariners visiting the port, and had long been respected by them for the consistent manner in which all transactions are conducted. It has been favourably known for over one hundred years, and during its long and honourable career has supplied many distinguished mariners with their various requirements in nautical instruments, charts, &c., &c. For many years, and until his death (which took place recently), the business was successfully conducted by Mr. William Gerrard. The success is continued by his widow, who now presides over it, still retaining the name of William Gerrard. The well-known premises, which are conveniently situate for the purposes of the calling pursued, consist of a spacious double-fronted shop, and extensive factory. In the shop there is a valuable stock of marine and pocket compasses, watches, clocks, barometers, sextants, quadrants, telescopes, night glasses, ship and other compasses, &c. There is also a useful and extensive assortment of logbooks, charts, books on nautical subjects, stationery, &c. The place is a most useful one for obtaining a complete outfit in the above, and can be thoroughly relied upon, having stood the test of over a century. Chronometers are adjusted and rated by transit, and the best of skilled labour is brought into requirement in the making and repairing of all nautical instruments. Repairs are most carefully attended to, and in this respect the firm has a well-founded reputation. Long experience has made perfect, and reliance is placed fully upon the capabilities of the workmen. There is an old and very substantial connection, which is constantly being added to. The factory is well supplied with the best tools for making the various instruments. The house is well respected, and the honourable nature of all transactions is much appreciated. In visiting the establishment the customer invariably receives the greatest courtesy, not the least praiseworthy feature of this fine old business.

W. J. REDMOND, TAILOR,
TARLETON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE high-class business carried on by Mr. Redmond has been established since 1849, and was formerly carried on under the name of W. Redmond & Son. Mr. Redmond’s show-room, situated in conveniently-arranged premises at the above address, is heavily stocked with the finest fabrics of the newest patterns made by the best manufacturers. Mr. Redmond is himself a proficient in the business. He cuts and superintends personally all orders entrusted to him, so that his patrons have a guarantee that every possible endeavour is made to give satisfaction. The cutting is conducted on the latest and most scientific principles, and careful attention is paid to trying on. Every garment is fashionably made, and the perfection of fit is guaranteed. The workmanship also, executed by thoroughly competent tailors, is highly finished. Mr. Redmond undertakes every description of first-class tailoring, including suits appropriate to all occasions and requirements. He is prepared to execute special orders in the best style. By conducting his business on a cash basis, Mr. Redmond is able to offer special terms to his clients, and he claims that he can supply superior tailoring at prices hitherto unknown. The recommendations of customers have led to a steady increase of business and Mr. Redmond’s reputation keeps pace with the growth of his trade. By every means in his power he endeavours to maintain that reputation, and his efforts are, as they deserve to be, thoroughly successful.

MADAME ELAINE BOUSTEAD, ROBES ET MANTEAUX,
35, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

TO THE refined and exquisite taste of Madame Boustead, the ladies of Liverpool are indebted for many of the most artistic and elegant robes which are so much admired on the occasions of fashionable gatherings. It was the prevailing custom of lady residents in the city and surrounding districts to send to London or Paris for their outfits previous to Madame Boustead commencing business, but since this talented and enterprising lady became known the custom has almost disappeared, it having been ascertained that needless expense and trouble could be spared by placing orders with Madame Boustead. This high-class business was established six years ago, and the patronage accorded to it during this period cannot be otherwise than gratifying to the principal. Employment is regularly found for between twenty and thirty of the most superior hands, and at certain periods of the year these are taxed to the utmost degree. The leading feature of this house is that garments are made to order, and in all cases a single fitting-on is all that is necessary. The premises are very elegantly furnished, and are quite in conformity with the high-class nature of the connection, Madame Boustead visits Paris twice every year, and secures the very latest ideas and novelties in fashions, and ladies need stand in no fear of disappointment in that respect. The premises are on the first floor, and are conveniently reached by a broad staircase. To have secured the leading connection of the city in the small space of five years speaks volumes for the ability and enterprise of Madame Boustead, and clearly points to a prosperous future.

JOHNSON & RAE, COSTUME AND MANTLE MAKERS,
122, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS recently established firm have made great progress since they first opened their fine Bold Street premises in 1890. Both partners possess excellent credentials. Mr. Johnson was formerly connected with the famous London houses of Messrs. Swan & Edgar and Messrs. Jay & Co. After attaining to a high position with these firms, and gaining a large amount of valuable experience, he came to Liverpool in the capacity of manager to Messrs. Woollright & Co., with whom he remained for a number of years, further increasing his reputation as one thoroughly conversant with the trade in which he is engaged. The second name of Rae is the maiden name of Mrs. Johnson, who, under that name, attained very considerable renown as a high-class dressmaker, a line which she has not abandoned, and which she is now efficiently carrying on, associated in her husband’s business. She was also one of Messrs. Woollright & Co.’s most appreciated dressmakers.

The premises occupied have a most elegant appearance externally and internally. The handsome plate-glass windows contain a rich and artistic display of the newest styles in costumes and mantles. The interior premises are very extensive, as they run right through to Wood Street, a distance of about one hundred feet. Attached are spacious and convenient fitting workrooms. Already employment is constantly found for skilled hands, and, judging from the growing nature of the business, this number must shortly be increased. Qualified dress-fitters, &c., wait upon their patrons when required, and every means is adopted to give entire satisfaction. Both Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are to be complimented upon the important connection they have built up in so short a period. Each is equally courteous and painstaking, and share the respect in which their numerous and aristocratic clients hold them.

JOHN BACON, LIMITED,
3 AND 4, ORIEL CHAMBERS, 14, WATER STREET, AND SOUTH SIDE, TRAFALGAR DOCK, LIVERPOOL.

THIS extensive and flourishing undertaking, which is intimately associated with the Bristol Channel and Irish ports, was originally founded about forty years ago by Mr. John Bacon, whose name was greatly honoured and respected as that of one of the foremost and most representative shipowners in the country. This gentleman died in 1886, and left a considerable fortune behind him, giving various legacies to employes and numerous charities in Liverpool, one of the largest recipients being the Liverpool Aged Mariners’ Homes, which are situated on the Cheshire side of the Mersey, in which he throughout his life had always manifested a deep interest. The concern is now carried on by a limited liability company, under the management of a board of directors, consisting of sound and reliable practical business men, the active and energetic manager being Mr. J. E. Brown.

The fleet consists at present of nine powerful steamers of good class, ranging from five hundred to twelve hundred tons, and the fleet is frequently strengthened by the addition of new steamers of the highest class and power to replace the older, vessels. The company run regular weekly steamers as advertised from Liverpool to Milford, Swansea, Bristol and Wexford, and these four different services are increased by additional intermediate steamers when an inducement is offered by especially busy traffic. The vessels are very punctual and well fitted, and in addition to the carrying trade in goods, they are in excellent repute and much availed of by passengers, especially to Wexford, by the splendid new steamer “Eden Vale.” Messrs. John Bacon, Limited, is one of the busiest shipowning concerns in the kingdom, and the excellent organisation and thorough efficiency of the management merit the highest praise and recommendation.

CHAS. BLACKBURN, RAILWAY MILK TANKARD MANUFACTURER, &C.,
62 AND 64, WARWICK STREET, TOXTETH PARK, LIVERPOOL.

THE enterprise of the proprietor of this fine business has brought him into a very prominent position, commercially speaking, and there are few quarters in the city in which he is not known. Mr. Blackburn commenced business about thirty years ago. His energy and enterprise soon began to be apparent and assert itself, and from the time of opening up to the present the progress made has been steady and certain. As manufacturer of the celebrated prize medal railway milk tankards, Mr. Blackburn has conferred a distinct boon on those engaged in the milk trade. No agricultural show would be considered complete without some of the useful articles of this popular manufacturer on view. The following are the honours received: Silver medal at the Cheshire Agricultural Society’s Show, 1887, and prize medals at the shows of the Crewe Agricultural Society in 1879 and 1881. Mr. Blackburn is a maker of, and dealer in, all kinds of dairy utensils, and the latest improvements in these will be found in his stock. He is a very large consignee of the best and purest milk from the finest dairy farms in Cheshire and Shropshire, and has a splendid connection among hotels, institutions, cafes, &c. Carts deliver regularly all over the city. The premises at Nos. 62 and 64, Warwick Street, are of considerable extent. The shop is fitted with a double front, and is well set out with the various goods dealt in. The other shop is for the sale of milk. The frontage is about ninety feet, and the basement is used for the manufactory, the upper premises being occupied as a dwelling-house. Mr. Blackburn is widely known among the inhabitants of Liverpool, and also among a large number of prominent agriculturists, by whom he is much esteemed and respected.

CHARLES R. HALL, LIVERPOOL STENCIL AND BRAND WORKS,
53, PARADISE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE interesting business carried on by Mr. Hall has only recently been established, and marks an advance in the trade. Before commencing at the above address Mr. Hall was thoroughly capable and experienced, and had spent three years in America, where he noted the superior method of letter-cutting which is practised there. He has, therefore, submitted certain improvements, and his skill is already appreciated. In order to ensure the best results the appliances he makes use of have, for the most part, been prepared by himself. Mr. Hall undertakes the making of all kinds of stencil plates, brass box brands for printing in ink upon wood, and branding press brands, steel stamps and dies, and engraving in metal. In addition he manufactures and deals in embossing dies and presses, seals for wax, iron burn brands, and cork brands, bookbinders’ tools, soap stamps, moulders’ pattern letters, and tablet plates, brass time checks, tokens and labels, rubber stamps and inks, stencil inks and brushes, copying-presses, and letters in metal for all purposes. This enterprise, therefore, is comprehensive and of considerable importance in its application to the requirements of various trades and industries, more particularly as regards commercial brands. These last can be had either in plain or elaborate styles. Stencil plates of superior design and finish can be had at lower prices than heretofore, owing to the improved methods which Mr. Hall has adopted. He has already gained an excellent connection amongst manufacturers, merchants, shippers, packers, and professional men, and his trade is steadily increasing.

T. B. TREVITT, PLUMBING, FAINTING, AND DECORATING CONTRACTOR,
14, SEEL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

LOOKING back to the time that he commenced business, in 1886, Mr. Trevitt can hardly be otherwise than satisfied with success which has so steadily followed him. It will readily be conceded by all who have had occasion to employ his services that the success has been well won, for Mr. Trevitt has entered into all his work with commendable energy, and principally by his own exertion has built up the reputation he now enjoys. The original scene of operations was at Admiral Street, but to meet the pressing demands for more room the commodious premises at the above address were taken in 1891. These consist of a spacious suite of general and private offices on the ground floor. To the rear of these are the well-appointed workshops. The building, which is of brick, is of two-storey elevation. There are excellent plumbers’ and painters’ shops, both well supplied with every necessary appliance used in the trade.

Special attention is given to sanitary work, and perhaps in this important branch, more than any other, Mr. Trevitt has become renowned. Every detail undertaken is treated in a thorough and practically experienced manner, and satisfaction is guaranteed. Plumbing and painting in all their branches are skilfully carried out. In exterior and interior painting and decorating much more than a local reputation has been gained. Among the many fine specimens of the artistic treatment of this progressing house only one or two need be cited, the New Wesleyan Chapel at Crosby, and Hamilton Buildings, Chapel Street, Liverpool, and several large private dwelling-houses, which have been completely fitted with sanitary arrangements.

The proprietor is open to contract for any class of plumbing, painting, and decorating, in any part of England. He has in his employment a large regular staff, which is increased according to the nature of the work on hand, and the business is conducted under his personal supervision. In connection with the important subject of disinfection, Mr. Trevitt has introduced an apparatus for household use, called the “Ozonator,” Leather’s patent, which is claimed to be the most complete germ destroyer and atmospheric purifier known to science. Many thousands are already in use, giving the most entire satisfaction. It is supplied, complete with disinfecting liquid, in brass, at twelve shillings and sixpence, and nickel at ten shillings and sixpence. The telephone number is 2,090. In all his dealings Mr. Trevitt is thoroughly straightforward, and is generally respected by all who come in contact with him.

T. K. FLEMING, LADIES’ AND GENTLEMEN’S BOOTMAKER,
41, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS business has now been established twenty years, and was founded by the present proprietor, Mr. T. K. Fleming. The business has long ago developed into one of a sound and substantial nature, and may be regarded as holding a very honourable position in the trade. The success of the undertaking is mainly due to the energy and enterprise exhibited by the proprietor, who is practically acquainted with all the various details, and who has constantly given it his personal and careful attention. Mr. Fleming neither goes in for sensational prices nor sensational announcements, but does a superior business, trusting to the quality of his goods for his profits. The quality of the boots and shoes is distinctly first-class, and for ladies and gentlemen on any occasion will be found to wear well. They are of superior appearance and reasonable in price. Large quantities are made to order on the premises, there being about thirty experienced hands constantly employed. Special care is taken to meet the peculiar structure of the foot. The premises at the above address have an attractive and businesslike appearance, and are fitted and furnished in a manner becoming to the high-class trade carried on. The large plate-glass windows are always appropriately set out with a representative selection of boots and shoes. The shop is very extensive. On the first and second floors are the well regulated workrooms. For his courtesy and attention to the requirements of his customers, as for his geniality as a citizen, Mr, Fleming is well and deservedly respected.

J. BAKER, WIGMAKER, HAIRDRESSER, AND PERFUMER, IMPORTER OF FARINA’S EAU-DE-COLOGNE,
80, BOLD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS house is one of the oldest of its kind in this city, having been established at the beginning of the present century by a Mr. Thompson, who was succeeded in 1851 by Mr. Baker, under whose able and vigorous administration the extent and importance of its transactions were largely increased. The business is now very efficiently conducted by Miss Baker, aided by a thoroughly qualified staff of assistants. Large, commodious, and attractive premises are occupied, comprising an extensive double-fronted shop, with fine plate-glass windows filled with an ample and tastefully arranged selection of goods of every description pertaining to the business. The interior is spacious and is fitted up throughout in a style of great elegance and tastefulness. At the rear of the shop are the hair-dressing and toilet rooms, all admirably appointed and thoroughly equipped with machine and rotary brushes, shampooing apparatus, hot and cold water appliances, douche baths, chairs with sliding backs, foot rests, &c.

The house makes a special feature of wig-making and hair-dressing for costume and fancy balls, also for private theatricals. In this branch of the business, the highest class of workmen are employed, and their services are in frequent demand not only in Liverpool and immediate suburbs, but in a large number of the surrounding county families. The house also gives special attention to the ladies’ hairdressing department, and its work in this branch of the business is looked upon as of a very high-class and artistic character. Miss Baker imports largely Farina’s celebrated Eau-de-Cologne, and buyers can be sure of obtaining the genuine article at the most reasonable prices. This house is the only depot in Liverpool for the sale of the well-known Baker’s Restorative Balm, the Nutritive Balsam and Chemical Wash, as also special washes for special cases, so widely and favourably appreciated for their efficiency in preserving the hair and in promoting its growth, as well as for the Australian Hair Dye.

Large and well-selected stocks are held of every possible appliance and requisite for the toilet and the dressing-room, and all goods are offered at such satisfactory prices as cannot fail to produce business. The selections include Titterton’s hair-brushes in every style and material, Hinde’s patent wire brushes, Dr. Scott’s electric brushes, also ebony and xylonite brushes, nail and tooth brushes, shaving brushes, combs of every description and material, razors of the most celebrated makers, razor paste and strops, pomades, and perfumery, tooth powder, and toilet soaps of every well-known kind; also an ample assortments of dressing-cases, writing-desks, and leather bags in great variety. The best and most experienced workmen are employed in every branch of the business, under the daily personal supervision of Miss Baker, and the reputation of the establishment for the courteous attention and treatment its patrons and customers receive, also the admirable style in which all business of the house is transacted, cannot do otherwise than deserve and maintain the confidence and continued support of its present large business connection.

G. R. WARD & CO., ACCOUNT-BOOK MANUFACTURERS, LETTERPRESS AND LITHOGRAPHIC PRINTERS, &C.,
58, 60, AND 62, SOUTH CASTLE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IN connection with the printing and allied trades a very prominent and representative position is held by the important firm of Messrs. G. R. Ward & Co., whose extensive and well-appointed works are advantageously situated at the above address. This old-established and prosperous concern was originally founded about the year 1836, by Mr. S. R. Gresson, and was carried on by him with much success, and continuously satisfactory development, until about four years ago, when the business was taken over by Mr. Ward. The premises are extensive, and excellently adapted for the purposes of a very considerable business. The shop is contained in the ground floor of No. 58, South Castle Street, and is excellently fitted and appointed, the works being located in the upper floors of the three buildings. The stock is large and comprehensive, and consists of a varied and well-selected assortment of stationery of every [description, account-books, letter-books, copying-presses, &c., and all kinds of articles for office use, and general purposes in the same line.

The firm undertake all kinds of letterpress and lithographic printing, engraving, die-sinking, &c., and they bear a very favourable name for the promptitude and good style in which all their work is executed. The works are well arranged, and the plant is admirably efficient, the machinery being of the most approved kind, and every requisite provided for carrying out high-class work with the greatest possible expedition. The necessary power for driving the machinery is derived from a capital “Otto” gas-engine, built by Messrs. Crossley Bros. A speciality is made of the printing of large posters and of general printing for agricultural exhibitions, horse and dog shows, and similar work; and Messrs. G. R. Ward & Co. have a very good name for the excellent quality of the work turned out from their establishment. They have an influential and widespread connection among commercial firms generally, the principal steamship lines, official corporations, and insurance and other mercantile companies.

A large staff is employed, under the close and watchful supervision of the clever and energetic principal, who spares no pains to maintain the very high reputation which the house has for so many years enjoyed, and whose indefatigable personal efforts have fully merited the marked degree of success which has hitherto attended his undertaking. Mr. Ward is widely known in the neighbourhood, and his estimable personal qualifications have gained him the respect and esteem of all with whom he comes in contact. We may add that he has obtained the contract for the whole of the printing of the Royal Manchester, Liverpool, and North Lancashire Agricultural Society’s show to be held at Liverpool during the present year (1892).

NEALE, HARRISON, & CO., TIMBER BROKERS AND MEASURERS,
UNION BANK BUILDINGS, FENWICK STREET, LIVERPOOL.

IN connection with the important and considerable interests of the extensive timber trade of Liverpool a position of leading influence and representative prominence is filled by the well-known and substantial house of Messrs. Neale, Harrison, & Co., whose widespread and prosperous operations have their headquarters at the above address. This thriving and flourishing firm commenced business under their present trading style on the first day of January, 1891, when they took over the busy and extensive transactions in Liverpool of the eminent London firm of Messrs. Price & Pierce. The business is very large, and the firm are well known in commercial circles as a sound and substantial house of the first rank and one of the most prominent and successful houses in the trade, who are continuously developing and increasing the scope and extent of their transactions with the most highly satisfactory results.

The offices are advantageously located in a very central and convenient position in the heart of the business community, and comprise a handsome suite of roomy and capacious apartments, admirably fitted and appointed, and providing every facility and accommodation for a large staff. In all branches of the timber trade Messrs. Neale, Harrison, & Co. are very favourably known, and bear an exceedingly high personal reputation, being greatly esteemed and respected throughout the wide circle of those with whom their very extensive and considerable transactions bring them into direct personal contact. This firm are. agents on the West Coast of England and over all Ireland for the well-known firms of W. & J. Sharpies, of Quebec, and And. H. Kioer & Co., of Fredrikstad. They are also sole agents in Great Britain and Ireland and the entire continent of Europe for the sale of pitch-pine shipped by Messrs. Hagerman & Dunwody, of Pensacola and Apalachicola.

EUING & CO., NAVY BISCUIT FACTORY,
15 AND 16, STRAND STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS well-known and old-established concern fills a highly important place in the industries of Liverpool, and probably is the most popular firm of ship-biscuit makers in the district. It secures the patronage of many of the principal ships belonging to or visiting the port, besides having a very extensive sale of its domestic articles. The business was founded in 1790, and for one hundred years has been to the fore as a first-class ship bread and biscuit bakery. During the century it has been before the public it has borne an unsullied reputation, and by honest and straightforward dealing won the confidence of all having transactions with it. Mrs. Euing died about eight years ago, and the business was taken over by Captain Hall. This highly respected gentleman was for many years in command of some of the best vessels in Moss’s line. He is well known in the service, and is accounted on all sides worthy of the great confidence which is reposed in him. He is now the sole proprietor of this grand old establishment.

The large and compact premises are admirably arranged for the purposes of the calling pursued, and are liberally supplied with all the latest hygienic improvements suggested by architects versed in the construction of large bakeries. The basements contain patent revolving ovens heated by prepared coke, a sixteen horsepower engine being used for the purpose. The fine machinery is specially constructed for rolling and cutting the dough, and making it into biscuits. On the first floor are the spacious offices, also the well-fitted-up drying rooms. The three floors above are heavily stocked with kiln-dried flour, shipping flour, split peas, whole green peas, oatmeal, barley, rice, fowl com, &c. All these goods are of the most superior quality. Twelve experienced hands are employed. All the operations are conducted in a most superior way. For his genial disposition, and for the admirable way in which he manages his business, Captain Hall has the good wishes of all his customers and friends.

THE “FP. F.” PILL AND OINTMENT COMPANY,
5, BACK GOREE, LIVERPOOL.

AT THIS address will be found (though in the modest guise of a pill) by those who have to take sea voyages, perhaps the most successful of all known remedies against that dreaded malady sea-sickness. By a judicious and proper use of these no Frenchman need henceforth shudder at the thoughts of mal-de-mer; or the German groan at the mention of see-krankheit, or the placid Norwegian wince when tie dreaded sosyge is mentioned. The “F. F.” pill is the patent invention of Mr. Dewar, a man well known to Atlantic voyageurs, and in his possession are hundreds of testimonals which bear conclusive evidence of the fact that so far the pill is the only preventive for sea-sickness yet discovered, and as the stream of sea-going folks increases so does the demand for this article, and what with the facility with which they can be obtained, not only at the depot in Back Goree, but through chemists, passenger agents, &c , and the price which is charged for them, it really seems a species of semi-insanity to cross the water unprovided with a plentiful supply of these “Faithful Friends.” Mr. Dewar is also the inventor of the “F. F.” ointment, which is a marvellous cure for eczema and all other skin diseases, and in many cases its application has effected cures when the sufferers have been ineffectually treated in hospitals. For cuts, bruises, and abrasion of the skin it is invaluable.

J. CRITCHLEY, MANUFACTURER OF ARTIFICIAL LIMBS, &C.,
88, UPPER PITT STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE extensive business carried on by Mr. J. Critchley, Manufacturer of Artificial Limbs, &c., presents many features of more than ordinary interest and importance, both industrial and commercial. The business, which is the only one of the kind in Liverpool, was established by the present proprietor in 1873, in the premises now occupied, No. 88, Upper Pitt Street. On the ground floor are the spacious and well-appointed offices, the remainder being used as workshops and stores. The premises, in fact, are eminently suited to the business, having been specially fitted up with machinery, and arranged in the most careful and complete manner to ensure the effectual and economical working of the various departments. Mr. Critchley gives regular employment to upwards of a dozen skilled and experienced workmen, in the manufacture of all kinds of artificial limbs, elastic stockings, abdominal belts, spinal supports, crutches, every known make of trusses, and Dr. H. O. Thomas’s splints and surgical appliances. These beautifully made and highly finished goods are constructed on the most improved principles, and display in every detail of their manufacture that marvellous excellence of material and workmanship which has made the productions of this house famous throughout the country. The trade is of a widespread, influential, and steadily growing character. Mr. Critchley supplies upwards of three hundred hospitals, infirmaries, &c., throughout the United Kingdom, amongst which may be mentioned the Royal Infirmary, Infirmary for Children, Royal Southern Hospital, Northern Hospital, and Stanley Hospital, Liverpool. Mr. Critchley possesses the advantage of long and thorough practical experience, and has introduced into the construction of his specialities many important inventions and improvements, and, with the exceptional facilities at his command, he is able to fulfil all orders on the shortest notice and with every attention to economy.

TOXTETH CARRIAGE WORKS, LIMITED, COACHBUILDERS, &C.,
12, GREAT GEORGE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THIS recently-established business is surrounded by all the essentials for securing success, and judging from the steady progress being made, bids fair to develop into an exceedingly important commercial undertaking. It was founded in 1891, and is the property of a limited, liability company. The excellent works are situate at Nos. 253 and 255, Mill Street. They are modelled on the most approved principle, and are provided with the newest appliances, &c. The owners have, in fact, acted on the wise plan of thoroughly equipping each department, and have not spared expenditure nor trouble in so doing.

The firm enter fully into all the branches of the business as coachbuilders, wheelwrights, harness-makers, and general and shoeing smiths. The premises have a capital frontage of seventy-five feet, and extend backwards a distance of sixty feet. The office, which is well fitted and furnished, is on the ground floor, at the entrance to the yard. There is a commodious warehouse, and an excellent and spacious show-room for the carriages, &c. The yard at the back contains the well-appointed smithy. The large second floor is chiefly used for the purposes of storing. There are at present about twenty men employed, and each department is kept busy. The firm are rapidly establishing a reputation for the all-round excellence of their work. The carriages are designed on graceful lines, are made of the soundest material, and generally have a superior and serviceable appearance about them. The harness department is also making most satisfactory progress. The business is managed by Mr. H. R. L. Bath, an energetic and practical gentleman, who works in a praiseworthy manner in the interest of the company, and to whose exertions much of the success is due. He is ably seconded in his duties by Mr. T. Price, who is the courteous secretary.

ANDREW HOWARD, MANUFACTURER OF TARPAULINS, MARQUEES, TENTS, &C,
35, REDCROSS STREET, LIVERPOOL.

AN EXTENSIVE trade is done in Liverpool in the manufacture of tarpaulins, marquees, and tents, and employment is found for many large firms. Among the leading houses so engaged none are better known or enjoy a more deserved reputation than that of Mr. Andrew Howard, of 35, Redcross Street, Canning Dock, with branch establishments at 22, Strand Street, and works at Denbigh Street, Great Howard Street. Mr. Howard succeeded the firm of Isaac Bolton, which was founded in 1849, and since then has developed it with unceasing perseverance and marked ability. From his long experience he knows exactly the kind of goods the public require, and his efforts to supply them have been fully successful. The Redcross Street premises consist of three floors of a large block of building well fitted at every point to meet the requirements of the trade. The first floor contains offices and spacious warehouses, and store-rooms filled with tarpaulins, oilcloths, waggon-covers and waterproofing in general, while further stocks are found on the second and third floors, as well as some work-rooms for doing repairs. The works at Denbigh Street are ample in size and equipped with every plant, apparatus, and contrivance to save labour and expedite work. Employment is found for thirty skilled hands.

A large trade is done by the firm in their goods, and the articles they turn out find favour with all classes of customers. In cart and waggon covers, horse covers and haystack sheets, the house has gained a good name, and both in quality and price it will favourably compare with any of its competitors. An important feature is made of supplying temporary wooden ball-rooms, fitted up and decorated, lighted, and laid with polished parquet floors. These are very superior structures, and in convenience, arrangement, and charming effect cannot be surpassed. Marquees and tents for flower-shows, banquets, out-comes or out-door festivities of any kind, are supplied and fitted up to order, and are carried out in a thoroughly artistic manner. A notable department of the house is that devoted to letting out the goods manufactured on hire.

A large and substantial trade is being done in Liverpool and throughout the country. The reputation and standing of the house can be well judged from the many important contracts which have been placed in its hands, for the supply of their specialities. We may mention among others, Liverpool Horticultural Association; Stanley Hospital Bazaar and Gala, 1882; Royal Dog and Poultry Show, Dublin, 1886; Bangor Dog and Poultry Show, 1888; Carnarvon Horse Show; and Royal Horticultural Society’s Provincial Show, Liverpool, 1886. Mr. Howard is a man of large experience in every department of his business, and energetic and enterprising in his habits. He is fair and honourable in his dealings and thoroughly trustworthy and reliable. In private life he is well known and highly respected for his many good qualities.

JOHN HOPE, MECHANICAL ENGINEER AND MECHANICIAN,
ORIEL CHAMBERS, 14, WATER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ESTABLISHED some twenty years ago by the present proprietor, in the same place as still occupied, this business soon began to be recognised, and every year since has added to the reputation acquired for reliable and original work. The premises consist of compact offices on the top floor, together with workshop, and, also, large workshops at No. 12, in the same street. The equipment of the shops has been carried out in a complete style, and embraces apparatus, plant, and machinery of the latest and most improved construction that can possibly be required in the business. A number of skilled hands, varying from five to fifteen, is employed, according to the demands made upon the firm. The proprietor is a mechanician of large and varied experience, and of acknowledged ability. He is in every respect fully qualified for the class of work he undertakes. Here the ideas of inventors are put into practical and tangible form; models of the most intricate and ingenious kind are constructed to show the working of a suggested principle, and investigations are made and assistance given in any experiment or projected invention.

Mr. Hope has lent his valuable experience and ability to bring to their present state of perfection some of the most notable inventions of latter days. It would be impossible in the short space at our disposal to enumerate a tithe of the important subjects that have been practically dealt with in his workshops, either in miniature or full size. From the long and interesting list we may specify automatic electric signalling on railways; steam lifeboat and self-righting boat experiments, smoke abatement experiments, reflector and refractor telescopes, architectural models for Court of Chancery, magnetic compasses, railway points and signals, pneumatic sewers, ’bus checking-machines, automatic syphons, and miners’ lamps. This list must suffice to give some idea of the variety and importance of the transactions Mr. Hope is engaged in. It is worthy of note that this gentleman was the maker of the model of the engines of the “Nedjed” and “Mameluke” to the order of Sir William Armstrong, Mitchell, & Co., which was exhibited by them on their stand in the Inventions Exhibitions, and the Liverpool Exhibition. Every conceivable kind of scientific, electrical, and optical work is undertaken, and carried out in a thoroughly able manner.

The great speciality of the house, and one for which Mr. Hope has gained the highest repute, is the developing of Wrigley’s patent ship’s course recorder. The late Arthur Wrigley, Esq., of The Dale, Hoylake, cotton broker (Messrs. Nicholson & Wrigley, Exchange, Liverpool), was known for the remarkable enthusiasm he had for mechanical science. Mr. Wrigley engaged Mr. Hope to assist him with this very difficult problem of recording a ship’s course, the subtle difficulties of which took years to overcome. The beautiful and, better still, the successful instrument that is the result of Mr. Hope’s scientific knowledge and mechanical skill has fully justified the late Mr. Wrigley’s judgment in placing the difficult work in Mr. Hope’s hands, for truly the invention will be an enduring honour to both names. This invention is a very valuable acquisition to every nautical outfit, and is secured by letters patent in all the principal maritime countries. The instrument is intended to record the course of the ship at sea, or, in other words, to show how the ship has been steered, or behaved herself, under different conditions of weather. The instrument itself is of convenient form and size, simple in construction, and easy to manipulate. It only requires winding up once a day, like a chronometer, and a fresh chart (a slip of paper) put in once in eight or ten days. So minute and accurate is its operation that it marks the ship’s head for every minute of time and every degree of arc, good and bad steering being indisputably distinguished and every bend from the straight course indicated. Its general use will be promotive of more care, attention, and better discipline in the management of ships, thus contributing to their safety and reducing the number of casualties and losses. This instrument is invaluable on board a ship, and is highly spoken of by captains and officers reputed for sound judgment and nautical skill.

Mr. Hope is a man of energy, untiring perseverance, and skill, and in all he does he commands the esteem and entire trust and confidence of his patrons. He is strictly fair and honourable in all his commercial transactions, and is respected by all the many that know him, whether in business or in private life. Mr. Hope’s workshops have now been taken over by the Ship’s Course Recorder Syndicate; and is exclusively employed in manufacturing the course recorders. Mr. Alfred Wrigley (son of the inventor) is the manager, and Mr. Hope is appointed superintending mechanician.
The telegraphic address of the establishment is “Compass,” and the telephone number, 2,384.

THOMAS A. HANMER, F.S.A.A., ACCOUNTANT, HOUSE AND LAND AGENT,
15, HARRINGTON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

MR. Thomas A. Hanmer, F.S.A.A., commenced business on his own account in 1880, and has secured a position in the very first rank among his contemporaries. He occupies a spacious and handsome suite of well-appointed offices general and private, with an efficient staff of clerks and assistants busily employed. Mr. Hanmer has a splendid practice as an accountant and as auditor of the accounts of public and private companies, merchants, manufacturers, and financial associations. As a land and house agent Mr. Hanmer has the charge and management of a large amount of valuable property, including farms, mansions, shootings, fishings, villa residences, private dwellings, and lodging houses, &c. In the insurance department Mr. Hanmer represents the London and Lancashire Fire Insurance Co., the Marine and General Mutual Life Assurance Society, the London and Provincial Horse and Carriage Insurance Co., Limited, and the Liverpool Plate Glass Co., Limited. For all of these popular offices he does a large and steadily increasing business. In business and social circles Mr. Hanmer is well known and highly respected, and to his strict integrity and prompt and careful attention to the interests of his large and influential clientele is to be traced the success achieved and the eminent position so well maintained among his contemporaries.

TAYLOR, TREGENT, & CO., OIL MERCHANTS, &C.,
87, CHALONER STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE prominent Liverpool industry carried on under the above title is the outcome of the firm of Messrs. Blyth & Deacon, who commenced business many years ago in Wapping. The concern was taken over by Messrs. Taylor, Tregent, & Co.,. who, finding their business rapidly increasing, removed to Parliament Street. These premises in turn becoming too small, they had a specially-planned building erected at the present address, which for the purposes of the trade can hardly be excelled. Messrs. Taylor & Tregent are now both dead, and the present partners are Mr. J. M. Lewis, Mr. O. Bley, and Mr. H. Howard. The premises consist of a building of three floors, the frontage being sixty-six feet by seventy-nine feet. On the ground floor are well-appointed offices, sample-room, and laboratory. At the back are premises containing the requisite machinery for grinding colours and oil-boiling, &c. Here also are stores for storing large quantities of all kinds of oils, paints, tar, pitch, &c. The other floors are used for the purposes of colour-making and for storing dry colours, &c. A large number of hands are employed, and the firm are principally engaged in an export trade to Africa and South America. They do a large business in painting ships, &c., and are makers of a well-known composition for coating ships’ bottoms.
They are connected with the Exchange telephone, No. 294.

THE SHAKESPEARE TEMPERANCE FAMILY, COMMERCIAL, AND PRIVATE HOTEL
(PROPRIETOR, MR. W. THOMAS),
7, FRASER STREET, LONDON ROAD, LIVERPOOL.

THIS pleasant hostelry was established about two years ago by the present proprietor, who came to Liverpool from Bangor, North Wales, where he had previously enjoyed an excellent reputation. The Shakespeare is very centrally and conveniently situated for those visiting the City either for pleasure or on business, being opposite to the Shakespeare Theatre, and within a few minutes of both Lime Street and Central Stations. The hotel contains, in addition to the usual offices, four sitting-rooms and fifteen visitors’ bedrooms. The sitting apartments are roomy and pleasant and most comfortably furnished and appointed, while the bedrooms are also well furnished and very neat and snug in appearance. The sanitary arrangements are good, and the service and general conduct of the establishment unexceptionable. The cooking is also excellent, and the tariff is exceedingly moderate. The house has an excellent name among a large and valuable connection of well-pleased frequenters of the Shakespeare, and is held in high favour by commercial gentlemen as well as private families and visitors of good class. Mr. W. Thomas devotes close and watchful attention and no little experienced skill to ensuring the comfort and well-being of his guests, and his courteous and obliging disposition renders him very popular with all who have ever taken advantage of his excellent hospitality.

A. E. VOAKE, ARTIST AND PHOTOGRAPHER,
REMBRANDT ART GALLERIES, 1, UPPER DUKE STREET, LIVERPOOL.

A FIRM that is well known in the art world of Liverpool, is that of Mr. A. E. Voake, artist, portrait, group, and architectural photographer. This important business was established by Mr. Wilson, who carried it on for about fifteen years, until 1887, when it was taken over by Messrs. Jamson Bros., who comtinued to develop its prosperity until 1891, when it passed into the hands of Mr. A. E. Voake, who had been the operating partner in that firm, and it is now his sole property. The premises consist of an attractive and effectively displayed specimen room and an elegantly-appointed reception room on the same floor, the studio and waiting-room being at the top of the building. The business enjoys a high reputation for the Cambridge, the Imperial, and the Imperial Opal portraits, very artistic productions of considerable merit, which are handsomely framed and admirably painted in oil-colours. A staff of experienced operators and attentive assistants is busily employed under the personal supervision of the proprietor, who is a very courteous and business-like gentleman, possessing much artistic taste and no mean scientific knowledge, gained by long practical experience.

THE SANITARY PAINT COMPANY, LIMITED, MANUFACTURERS OF PAINTS, COLOURS, VARNISHES, &C.,
CHIEF OFFICES AND WORKS, 9, 12, 14, 16 AND 18, EATON STREET, VAUXHALL ROAD, LIVERPOOL.

A VAST trade is done in Liverpool in the manufacture of paints and enamels, as well as for anti-fouling composition for marine purposes, both for home consumption and export, and some of the most experienced and largest manufacturers in this line are to be found in this district. An old-established and responsible house so occupied is that of the Sanitary Paint Company, Limited, whose chief offices and works are at 10,12, 14, 16 and 18, Eaton Street, Vauxhall Road. The origin of the business dates back as far as 1860, when it was established by the present Company. They soon acquired a prominent position in the trade, and by the energy and ability displayed in the control of the business, it has grown every year in the extent and importance of its transactions. Extensive and commodious premises are occupied, well and substantially built, and having a frontage of about seventy yards, and a depth of some forty yards. They comprise a handsomely appointed suite of offices, both general and private, warehouses, stock-rooms, and workshops and sheds. The works are equipped with the latest and most improved paint-grinding mills, mixers, and every requisite, plant, and machinery, driven by a powerful steam-engine. Numerous workpeople are employed, and the utmost efficiency is maintained in every department.

Under such favourable circumstances, an extensive trade is controlled in the manufacture of enamel, silicate, and other hygienic paints, colours, and varnishes. The productions of this house are well known in the markets, and are everywhere recognised for their uniform quality and general excellence. Their paints are non-poisonous, possess great density of body, they dry quickly, and are unaffected by extremes of temperature. Only the most suitable and best materials are used, and every article is warranted to be as represented. They are absolutely unsurpassed in durability, economy, and in brilliance and permanence of colours, while in cost they are no higher than the ordinary “lead” paints. The leading speciality of this enterprising and capable Company is their celebrated enamel paints, shield brand. For twelve years the house has been largely occupied in making this article. The still rapidly increasing reputation this valuable preparation holds, after the test of so many years, shows that it is one of the best possible paints for the purposes specified. It is economical in cost, and saves both time, material, and labour. It can advantageously be used for internal or external walls, iron and woodwork of all kinds, state-rooms, saloons and cabins, cisterns, tanks, &c. Many spurious imitations of this popular article are about, and care should be taken that the packages bear the firm’s trade-mark, a shield. Immense stocks are held of this as well as of their other specialities, notably silicate and sanitary paints, petrifying liquid for curing damp walls, varnishes, marine paints, tinting colours, zinc white, anti-incrustation fluid, &c.

The superior and reliable character of their goods has secured for the house a widespread and influential connection, extending, in fact, to every part of the kingdom, and to many of the great centres of commerce abroad. The firm are contractors to the Admiralty and other Government departments, and it is interesting to notice that their exhibits have carried off the gold medal and other awards at Sydney, 1873; Calcutta, 1881; London (Fisheries), 1883; London (Inventions), 1885; Liverpool, 1880, &c., &c. Mr. A. J. Lloyd is the general manager of this Company, and to his ability, skill, and attention no small part of the success of the concern must be attributed. He is strictly fair and honourable in all his transactions, and by his creditable policy he retains the confidence and continued support of all his patrons. He occupies a good position in trade and social circles, and enjoys the respect of all who know him,

FALCON RESTAURANT,
30, LORD STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE Falcon Restaurant has become one of the best known and most popular houses of refreshment in the city. The reason for this is not far to seek, seeing the enterprise and courtesy that so distinguish its administration. These premises were formerly occupied by the Old Pallatine, until a little over three years ago the elegant Falcon Restaurant was established. Its very central position has also tended to increase its popularity. The dining-room on the ground floor is very handsomely fitted, furnished, and adorned, and is one hundred and twenty feet long. In this vast saloon a large number of people can be seated at one time. There are pretty convenient movable screens in this room, so that persons who are desirous of a certain amount of privacy can be accommodated. Adjoining this room is another elegantly got-up dining-room for about seventy-five diners and also a large music-room, which comfortably contains about a hundred people. This room contains a very handsome and valuable “Erard.”

The cuisine is international with a cordon bleu at its head, and it can with truth be assured that the Falcon can supply almost anything that may be called for. The cellars extend right through from Cable Street to Lord Street, a distance of about two hundred feet, and they are stocked with some very grand brands of wines and spirits in the very best condition, excellent beers, &c. are kept on the premises, as well as a well-selected stock of cigars. Private dinner parties are a special feature and receive great attention. The “Falcon,” under such conditions as it enjoys, cannot do otherwise than prosper.

JOHN GREEN & CO., PUBLIC COFFEE AND CHICORY ROASTERS
(DUTY PAID AND IN BOND),
24, SEEL STREET, LIVERPOOL.

THE business located at the above address has the distinction of being the largest and best of its kind in the United Kingdom, and is also the oldest established, being founded by Mr. John Green in the year 1847. In 1881 the business passed into the bands of Messrs. James Rennison & Sons, who trade under the title of John Green & Co. The premises consist of five floors, which are provided with all the necessary machinery and appliances to facilitate despatch of business, one feature being that each floor is connected with a patent friction hoist. The approach to the premises is by a large gateway leading to a wide passage, where the goods are received and delivered. The trade of Messrs. John Green & Co. has two important departments — one, the duty-paid, embracing the home trade of wholesale and retail grocers, tea and coffee merchants, &c., in Liverpool, Preston, and many more large towns of Lancashire and the adjoining counties; the other, the bonded, embracing the export and ships’ store trades, allowing the goods to be shipped free of duty by vessels going abroad.

The duty-paid warehouse has a spacious, well-lighted roasting-room, and its cylinders, both of iron and wire, are driven by a powerful steam-engine. The grinding, which is done by the newest style of steam-mills, is conducted on a floor by itself, and another special floor contains the stocks of the numerous customers stowed in well-arranged order. The bonded warehouse, specially approved and privileged by the Board of Customs for the purpose of roasting, grinding, mixing, and packing of coffee and chicory in bond for ships’ stores and exportation, is well adapted for such work. Its roasting cylinders are turned by a gas-engine and are built on strong cement concrete flooring. Great attention is here paid to the thorough mixing of coffee and chicory. In the lower room good accommodation is found for the various stocks.

In both departments the roasting and grinding are conducted on the most- approved principles by a thoroughly experienced and efficient staff of workmen. The roasting and cooling apparatus is specially constructed to obtain the finest manufacture combined with the minimum loss in roasting, so that the proprietors have the satisfaction of securing the largest maximum return of coffee per cwt. Orders are promptly executed and despatched on the day of their arrival. The firm are extensive dealer in the best English-grown chicory. The stocks are fully insured, and all goods are delivered to any station in Liverpool free of charge. The members of the firm, by their attention to. business, their enterprise, and courtesy, have won the highest esteem from all sections of the trade in Liverpool and ^the- surrounding districts.

GEORGE BERRILL & SON, FRUIT MERCHANTS,
10, VERNON STREET, LIVERPOOL.

ONE of the most active and enterprising houses in this city engaged as wholesale fruit merchants and commission agents is that of Messrs. George Berrill & Son, of 10, Vernon Street, whose Liverpool branch was established in 1887 by Mr. W. H. Finn, who is still at the head of affairs. The premises consists of a three-storey block of buildings, with offices and sale-room on the ground floor, and store-rooms on the upper floors, fitted with every contrivance and convenience for the storage and preservation of the stocks held, An immense and high-class trade is controlled in American and Continental fruit of every description.

The long experience the firm have had in every department of this business has familiarised them with all the best sources of supply, and all the choicest fruits in season can be found in their ample stores. The extent of their connection and the value of their transactions give them great advantages in buying, and prices here are always such as find favourable acceptance. The stocks held are very large and admirably selected, comprising some of the finest fruit grown. Vast quantities are imported direct, and large transactions are conducted on the Liverpool market. The conveniences for handling large consignments and for storage purposes are ample, and wholesale buyers will find here just what they want at prices which will prove satisfactory. Large quantities of fruit are bought on commission for patrons living in distant parts of the country, and the development of this branch has been so marked of late that the house is recognised as one of the leading ones in the trade. Four clerks and six warehousemen are employed, while eight horses and carts are kept constantly occupied in conveying goods, from the docks and railways, and in delivering orders.

The firm publish a weekly wholesale price list, in which the quotations at their various establishments are given, together with the nature of the supplies in the market. The head offices and warehouses, presided over by Mr. Henry Berrill, who exercises a general supervision over all the branches, are at Birmingham, and, besides the Liverpool house, the firm have branches at London, Bristol, Leamington, Llandudno and Bournemouth. Mr. Finn, the head of the Liverpool establishment, has had a long and sound experience in every department of the field of commerce he is so prominently engaged in. All his transactions are characterised by strict fairness and honesty, and by his creditable policy and courteous manners he has gained the confidence and esteem of all who do business with him. In private life he is much respected for his ability, public spirit and uprightness.
The telegraphic address of the house is, “Brillson, Liverpool.”

THE ISLE OF MAN

THERE is a special interest attaching to this picturesque and salubrious island in the midst of the Irish Sea — an interest arising out of the several distinguishing characteristics of race, language, laws, and social and political customs, which have given to the inhabitants of the Isle of Man an individuality that is still in a large measure preserved. But, apart from these peculiar features (sufficiently attractive in themselves), the modern increase of commerce in this historic island, and the great and well-merited favour in which the place is now held as a health and pleasure resort, entitle the Manx people and their beautiful country to something more than passing mention in the pages of a work reviewing the; material progress of the century.

The Isle of Man has had a highly interesting history, but in tracing its annals back to their starting-point, historians have not failed to find the usual grounds of difference regarding very early events in the career of this little insular domain. There is no doubt that the real history of the place began with the origin of the Bishopric of Sodor and Man, but the chroniclers differ as to when that event took place. Some assert that the see was under Amphibalus as far back as the year 360, while others say that St. Patrick founded the bishopric, and that Germanus was the first prelate, about 447 A.D. In earlier times the island was a stronghold of Druidism, and it still possesses many Runic monuments and other remains of the most interesting character, associating it with the weird beliefs and religious rites of the early Celts. Regarded from an antiquarian point of view the Isle of Man is much more than ordinarily interesting, and visitors will find here a great many ancient and historic edifices that have played a prominent part in local history, such, for instance, as Castle Rushen, Rushen Abbey, and Peel Castle, the first named dating back as far as the middle of the tenth century.

With regard to the name now held by the island, we do not propose to enter into its etymology here, but it is worthy of remark that the name “Mona” was given by the Romans to Anglesey, and not to Man, though it is now very generally applied to the latter. The political troubles and inter-racial strifes of early times raged just as fiercely in this little island as upon the neighbouring mainlands, and several different peoples dominated the Isle of Man in succession — first the Celts, then the Scots, then the Northumbrians, then the Norsemen and Danes. Each of these nationalities-held a brief sway in the island, but eventually the place was ceded by Magnus of Norway to Alexander III. of Scotland. Then we read that the inhabitants requested Edward I. of England to occupy the island, and this he did in 1290. The Scots recovered it in 1313, but were shortly afterwards deprived of their possession by Montacute, or Montagu, Earl of Salisbury, who was the first of the long line of “Kings of Man” under the suzerainty of the English Crown. Later the place came under the control of the Earls of Northumberland, but in 1406, Henry IV. granted it to Sir John Stanley. It was taken from this family by Queen Elizabeth, but was restored by James I. to the Earl of Derby, and remained in the possession of the Derby family until 1651. The forces of the Parliament then besieged the island, which was heroically defended for a time by the Countess of Derby, but eventually was surrendered when further resistance became impossible. The Restoration brought about the reversion of the island to the Derby family, and they continued to hold it until 1736, when the Dukes of Athole inherited the island, and the title, “King of Man.” In 1765 the Athole family received £70,000 for the land from the Crown, and in 1829 they were paid a further sum of £132,944 in purchase of their remaining rights in the revenues. Since then the island has appertained to the Crown. It has a government and constitution of its own, with special laws, law officers, and courts, and is thus in some measure independent of Imperial control.

This system of “Home Rule” enjoyed by the Manx people works well in all respects, and is a method of government well calculated to meet the special requirements of the exceptional case here presented. There are two legislative, bodies in the island — or, rather, one legislative body consisting of two distinct sections. The Court of Tynwald is a species of senate, composed of the Lieutenant-Governor and his Council. The councillors are the bishop, the attorney-general, two deemsters (judges), the clerk of the rolls, the water bailiff, the archdeacon, and the vicar-general. The people are represented by the House of Keys, an institution of great antiquity, which may be said to correspond to the House of Commons in England. The members of the House of Keys are twenty-four in number, and are elected by the people every seven years. The Lieutenant-Governor and Council, and the House of Keys separately consider all bills and measures of local government, and those passed by them are submitted for royal assent. When this has been gained, and the bill has been proclaimed on the Tynwald Hill, it becomes law, and takes its place in the code of the island. In May, 1891, a general election took place in the Isle of Man, a Redistribution of Seats Bill having been carried by the local legislature. Owners and occupiers of real property of the annual rateable value of £4, lodgers with £10 qualification, and unmarried women qualified by ownership, have the right to vote. The result of the election was the return of democratic members. — (Hazell's Annual, 1892.)

The situation of the Isle of Man is about midway between England and Ireland, and 16 miles south of Burrow Head, Wigtownshire. It is 33 miles long, 12-and-a-half miles broad (at the widest), and contains an area of 145,325 acres. The Calf of Man, a small island in the extreme south, contains about 800 acres. In 1871 the population was 54,042; in 1881, 54,089; in 1891, 55,598. Emigration seems to be accountable for the very slight increase in the number of inhabitants during the past twenty years.

Being favoured with a remarkably mild and equable climate, the Isle of Man has all the natural qualifications for a popular health resort, and during late years it has come into great favour as such. West and south-west winds are prevalent at almost all seasons, and only in autumn do the chillier gales of the east and north-east visit the island. The soil is in a high state of cultivation almost everywhere, upwards of 100,000 acres being devoted to the purposes of husbandry, and the inhabitants are well advanced in the methods of scientific farming. Geologically speaking, the chief formation of the Isle of Man is clay slate with granite here and there. The mineral resources are considerable, lead, copper, zinc, and iron being present in some quantity. In lead there is an especially satisfactory yield, amounting to over 4,000 tons per annum. The island has no lakes of importance, but is watered by numerous streams, such as the Douglas, the Neb, and the Sulby, in some of which there is good angling for trout and other fish.

On the coast fishing is the chief industry, and large numbers of the inhabitants find a profitable occupation therein. The “take” of herring and cod is large, and in these two branches of the Manx fisheries about 700 boats are employed. There is a coasting shipping trade of some magnitude between the different seaports, and large numbers of fat cattle are sent to the English markets, besides regular shipments of wheat of very good quality. The manufactures of the island are not very numerous or extensive, but the making of canvas, nets, and cordage is a well-developed industry; and a regular local business is done in the well-known Manx cloth, a highly useful fabric.

In the matter of internal communication and means of transport for goods and passengers the island is well provided. All the main roads sire excellent, and there is good railway communication between the principal towns. The first railway — that between Douglas and Peel — was opened on July 1st, 1873. Between Man and the mainland of England the chief means of communication is the splendid line of steamers now running from Liverpool to Douglas. The swift, commodious, and admirably appointed vessels employed in this service command high approval, and make the brief sea voyage quite a delightful experience.

Of the popularity of the Isle of Man as a resort of health-seekers and holiday-makers it is hardly necessary to say more than that it increases annually, a sure proof of the fact that the island offers attractions which secure wider appreciation as they become better known. Something like 130,000 visitors now betake themselves yearly to this charming resort, and their requirements are well looked after by the thriving and hospitable Manx people, who are evidently glad to welcome such a large number of appreciative guests to their beautiful island home. Visitors will find many fine qualities in the people of Mona, who are possessed of all the excellent characteristics of the high-spirited Celtic stock, from which they trace an uninterrupted descent. The Manx language is a most interesting survival of ancient days, and belongs to one of the Celtic groups. Though not so much spoken now as formerly, it is to be hoped that it will not lack that careful preservation which is due to a tongue that was familiar in the mouths of many long before the English language of to-day became evolved from its polyglot antecedents. It may be remarked that both the Bible and the Prayer Book were translated into Manx over a hundred years ago, but we are not aware of the existence of any other purely Manx literature.

Space has not permitted us to enter into any review of the local traditions and interesting legendary lore of the Isle of Man, but we may be excused from any such dissertation, upon the grounds that visitors will derive much greater pleasure from finding out these matters for themselves. Besides, Mona needs not the advertisement of historical anecdote or romance; it has its own peculiar charm and attractiveness which rise superior to any that could be conferred upon it by even the most fascinating folk-lore, and it is with the island and its people as they now exist that our readers will find themselves most interested and enraptured. The importance of the Isle of Man as a health and holiday resort cannot be over-estimated, and, thanks to the splendid facilities of transport from the mainland, a constantly increasing stream of weary work-a-day pilgrims now make their way every summer to Douglas, Peel, Ramsey, and other delightful Manx watering-places, there to be refreshed by healthful breezes and balmy airs, and to enjoy a temporary respite from the smoke, and dust, and ceaseless din of the big towns. Man is an ideal resort for the invalid, who may find here climatic conditions hardly surpassed by those of the much-vaunted Riviera; and as to the scenery presented to lovers of nature, a volume could barely do it justice.

Striking contrasts occur between the majestic and the pastoral, and the tremendous grandeur of some parts of the coast is not less attractive than the quiet beauty of the interior. A range of mountains extends from Maughold Head to the southern extremity of the island, and the monarch of this chain of hills is Snaefell, rising to an altitude of 2,035 feet above the sea level. On the south-west the coastlands attain a vast elevation, some of the giant cliffs towering in rugged and precipitous grandeur hundreds of feet above the waves that lave their bases. Here is the tremendous promontory of Spanish Head, a sight revealing nature in one of her most awe-inspiring moods. In pleasing contrast is the more lowly coast-line of the south-east and east, where there are numerous fine bays, like those of Douglas and Laxey.

Douglas, the beautiful and prosperous capital of the island, and the seat of local government, is the largest community in the Isle of Man, and has a delightful situation on the picturesque bay of the same name. This charming town (deriving its name from the “Dhoo,” black, and the “Glass,” grey, two small streams which unite in the neighbourhood) is a sort of insular Brighton, and has attained a very high pinnacle of popularity as a watering-place. The quaint old streets and houses of the port in its more ancient part are in contrast to the newer quarters with their handsome villas and stately hotels on the rising grounds to the west and north; and the beautiful circular bay is an ever-present delight to visitors and residents alike. The harbour has been much improved, and has excellent piers and a breakwater. The Queen’s Landing Pier is a fine structure, erected at a cost of over £46,000, and inaugurated in July, 1872, by Lieutenant-Governor Loch, after whom has been named the magnificent Loch Promenade, which skirts the bay for a considerable distance. The tower of refuge on Conister Rock is a notable object in the bay, and the Isle of Man Tower, with suspension-bridge to Douglas Head, is an important and interesting engineering work which is now being actively projected. In July, 1891, the fine marine drive at Douglas Head was formally opened. Douglas has numerous fine hotels, excellent residential accommodation, and everything essential to the life of a fashionable modern watering-place, including many first-class business establishments in all general branches of trade, these latter being conducted by merchants equally well known for their enterprise and their straightforward principles.

The other notable towns in the Isle of Man are:— CASTLETOWN, the ancient capital, with its excellent harbour, and the keep of the famous Castle Rushen; PEEL, at the mouth of the Peel Rive, noted for the ruins of an ancient castle and cathedral; and RAMSEY, finely situated, on Ramsey Bay, on the north-east coast of the island. These places are all delightful in their several ways, and will well repay a visit. Indeed, for the home-loving Briton who cares more for the rare beauties of his own land than for the somewhat effete pleasures of foreign resorts, the Isle of Man must always possess a strong interest and fascination. Here, within a few hours’ sail of busy Liverpool, lies a unique little world of healthful and unconventional enjoyment, where ample enterprise has been displayed in making the most of exceptionally fine natural attractions. The Manx people have done almost as much for their island as nature herself, and they now extend a cordial invitation to all and sundry to participate in the good things they have to offer — to wit, a splendid climate, enchanting scenery, excellent living, plenty of sport of various kinds, and a host of minor delights far too numerous to be catalogued here. The liberal response that invitation has met with proves that the future of the Isle of Man as a popular resort is fully and substantially assured.

ISLE OF MAN.

REPRESENTATIVES OÏ COMMERCE.

ARCHER & EVANS, FAMILY DRAPERS, SILK-MERCERS, &C.,
DUKE STREET AND VICTORIA STREET, DOUGLAS.

THIS old-established house has been in existence “close upon a century,” and was founded originally by Thomas Wilson, afterwards Thomas & John Wilson & Co. Mr. Archer became sole proprietor in 1873, and in 1884 he was joined by Mr. Evans. Since then the house has been conducted with constantly increasing success under the present title, Archer & Evans. The business is the oldest and most extensive Concern of its kind in the island, and occupies very fine premises at the corner of Duke Street and Victoria Street, comprising a large and handsome four-storey block, with a frontage of one hundred and eighty nine feet on the two thoroughfares. The corner building is quite an ornament of the locality, and was erected by Mr. Archer, expressly to meet the requirements of their business, at the time when the new street was laid out in 1874. There are eleven large show windows on the ground floor, all of which are most elaborately and tastefully “dressed.” Here are exhibited specimens of all the newest and most fashionable goods, British and foreign, in silks, drapery, &c., &c., and the completeness and freshness of the display at all seasons proves how closely Messrs. Archer & Evans keep “in touch” with the great markets of the trade at home and abroad. They receive the latest novelties with remarkable promptitude, and their establishment presents an appearance which would do credit to any London emporium.

Internally, the premises amply fulfil the promise held forth by their attractive exterior, and the spacious, handsomely appointed shops exhibit to great advantage a large and magnificent stock, covering every department of the modern draper and silk-mercer’s trade. The variety of fashionable goods here laid out for the inspection of customers is not to be surpassed; and on the first floor there are fine show-rooms with a splendid display of new styles and artistic designs in millinery, mantles and costumes, illustrating all the latest fashions of the day from Paris and London. There are also splendid stocks of carpets and furnishing drapery, gloves, hosiery, furs, ladies’ and gents’ outfittings, laces, ribbons, trimmings, &c., and the firm have a high reputation in the matter of trousseaux; also, a gentlemen’s woollen cloth and tailoring department. Every effort is made to secure the newest and best goods of every kind.

This house, standing at the head of its trade in the Isle of Man, leaves nothing undone which can tend to maintain and increase its enviable reputation; and it continues, as of old, to enjoy the favour and patronage of a most valuable and influential connection. A very numerous staff of well-trained assistants is employed, and the firm also have in their service a number of highly-skilled workpeople, whose productions in the millinery, mantle and costume departments are marked by the best of taste and finish. The senior partner, Mr. Archer, has had a career of thirty-three years as a leading merchant in Douglas, and he continues to devote his attention actively to all the affairs of the business. His colleague, Mr. Evans, is also a gentleman of experience and well-known ability, and takes a very prominent part in superintending the execution of all orders entrusted to this thoroughly-representative house by its widespread and numerous clientele in all parts of the island.

WAID’S TEA MART,
26, DUKE STREET, DOUGLAS.

THIS extensive and admirably conducted establishment was founded by Mr. W. Waid so long ago as 1851, and has a reputation for general excellence which extends to almost every town and village on the island. It is perhaps more particularly known in connection with the very superior teas supplied, which, for delicious flavour and strength, have long held a foremost position, their two shilling tea being the most popular in the island; other qualities from one shilling to ten shillings per pound. Their coffee is freshly roasted on the premises by improved patent machinery. In the provision department country-fed hams and bacon, smoked and pale dried, are also in increasing demand. The general stock of groceries is very large, and well adapted to a first-rate family trade. Of Crosse and Blackwell’s, and Lazenby’s condiments, fresh supplies are constantly arriving, and the long experience of the proprietor enables him to select the very best goods. The superior class of customers, who have continued to deal year after year at this establishment, include many of the best families in the island.

The business occupies a three-storeyed building, with a handsome double front to the shop. The exterior and interior view of the shop has a most superior appearance, and is in admirable order. The premises have a frontage of twenty-seven feet. There is a useful branch establishment at South View, Queen’s Promenade, also well stocked and well conducted. The Queen’s Promenade is a new work, and is a great improvement to this, the most fashionable part of the town, where splendid accommodation will be found on most reasonable terms. The extensive view from Nos. 1 & 2, South View, Queen’s Promenade, is the finest on the bay, while the situation is quite sheltered by the hills from the north and east winds. Mr. Waid is a director of the Manx Banking Company, and is a well-known and widely respected gentleman.

W. A. BREAREY & SON, PHARMACEUTICAL CHEMISTS,
PROSPECT HILL, DOUGLAS.

THIS establishment has been in active operation for over fifty years, having been founded by the present proprietor in 1840. It occupies a position of considerable advantage in the fashionable quarter of Prospect Hill. The premises are very spacious, and are contained in a building of three floors, there also being a large basement. The frontage is twenty-seven feet, and the premises extend to the rear for some distance. The shop is a handsome one, and has a fine plate-glass window encased in handsome brass pillars and framework. It is reached by a lobbied entrance. The arrangement of the goods in the shops is very artistic and attractive, the furnishings and fittings adding to the display. All the essentials of a first-class chemist and druggist’s establishment will be found here, the firm purchasing their supplies from the leading manufacturers and wholesale houses.

Mr. Brearey is a Pharmaceutical Chemist by examination, London, is a member of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, and is well read in all the branches of his profession, making dispensing a special feature, and dispenses both British and foreign prescriptions and family recipes, and customers have long ago learned to repose the fullest confidence in him as he spares neither expense nor labour in order to secure excellence of quality and purity in all his preparations. In addition to the thoroughly representative stock of drugs and chemicals, scientific and experimental appliances, there are all kinds of high-class articles for the toilet, perfumes, scent, smelling-bottles, &c., and the firm’s speciality in perfumes is a remarkably fine “Lavender Water,”; which is noted all over Great Britain.

The elevating pastime of photography has not been lost sight of by Mr. Brearey, who extensively deals in all kinds of photographic apparatus. This establishment will be found replete with a most useful and attractive assortment of cameras, dry plates, papers, and other sundries required by the amateur or professional. Messrs. Brearey & Son have a dark-room which they place at the disposal of their customers, who receive every attention at their hands.

The business is conducted in a most superior manner, reflecting the utmost credit upon the respected proprietor. The above firm have an equally handsomely fitted branch at Prospect Terrace, where the business is conducted in the same approved first-class style as at Prospect Hill. Both businesses being connected by telephone, it really makes them as it were one establishment. At Prospect Terrace there is a Telephone Exchange with communication to railway and steam packet offices, hotels, and principal places of business in the town.

JNO. J. DAVIDSON, WATCHMAKER AND JEWELLER,
VICTORIA STREET, DOUGLAS.

THIS handsome business was established by the present proprietor upwards of twenty years ago. For the extent of stock, and the brilliance of the same, as well as for the artistic care displayed in arranging the goods, and conducting the premises generally, it is generally admitted that this is the leading jewellery establishment in Douglas. It is most advantageously situated at the corner of Victoria Street and Duke Street. The building in which it is located is of fine appearance, and has a frontage of forty-five feet. The shop is approached by two entrances, one in Duke Street, and the other in Victoria Street. The interior has a most superior look about it, and the costly collection of goods lend themselves to furthering the effect. The variety of articles on view are all of a decidedly superior nature, and judiciously bought from the best English and foreign manufacturers. Those in quest of presents, for any occasion, and desiring goods which may really be depended upon, will find it to their advantage to pay Mr. Davidson a visit, where they may always rely upon seeing the very latest novelties.

Among the most prominent of the goods in stock are the gold and silver watches for ladies and gentlemen; gold and silver chains and alberts, gold and silver brooches, earrings, necklets, bracelets, sleeve-links, scarf-pins, bangles, ladies’ victoria chatelaine chains, &c. The selection of diamonds and other precious gem rings is very fine. There are clocks of every design and material, striking and non-striking, a beautiful stock of electro-plated goods, and a miscellaneous selection of other pleasing articles. The workrooms are on the premises, and here repairs of every kind of watches, clocks, jewellery, &c., are speedily attended to. The proprietor gives the business his personal attention, and by the spirited enterprise he has displayed has won the respect and support of a large portion of the community surrounding him.

THOMAS KEWLEY, TEA MERCHANT, WHOLESALE AND FAMILY GROCER, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANT, &C,
10, LVING STREET, VICTORIA STREET, DOUGLAS.
ESTABLISHED 1796.

THIS thriving and prosperous concern was originally founded as long ago as the year 1796, and was succeeded by Mr. Nicholas Moore, and that gentleman carried on the business with marked success and steady and progressive development for a period of no less than seventy years, until, in 1881, the establishment came into the possession of Messrs. Mylchreest & Co., who were succeeded, in 1884, by the present proprietor, Mr. Thomas Kewley, who still numbers on his books many supporters of the firm of very old standing. The premises occupied consist of a substantial building of four storeys, containing every facility and accommodation for carrying on a very considerable trade, both of a wholesale and retail character. The shop, although not too roomy, is patronised more by the natives and visitors than large and dazzling establishments, and the upper stories are used for storing and blending teas, and for dry goods and general groceries, &c. There is extensive cellarage underneath, where a very large quantity of old Wines and the finest Spirits are stored, while Mr. Kewley has also other large Beer and Porter cellar premises in the immediate vicinity.

The stock, which is very considerable and comprehensive, includes high class Teas, general Grocery goods of all kinds, as well as Hams, Bacon, Cheese, Butter, and Provisions of every description. A very good trade is also done in Wines and Spirits, Mr. Kewley being one of the largest holders of Dunville’s celebrated V.R. old Irish Whisky on the island. Andrew Usher & Co.’s old vatted Glenlivet Whisky is also a speciality, and Bass’s Ale and Guinness’s Stout, bottled in Mr. Kewley’s own admirably arranged cellars.

Mr. Kewley employs an adequate staff in each department, and he delivers orders by his own light spring vans to any part of district daily with the greatest punctuality, and also to all parts of the island. He has an influential and valuable connection, and enjoys the full confidence and substantial support of all who know him. He is a very energetic and capable business man, civil and obliging to all his customers, and is personally universally liked and respected by his numerous customers and brother tradesmen, and in the great English commercial circles. Mr. Kewley, being a young man, has probably very many years of prosperity before him, and it may fairly be assumed that nothing will be lacking upon his part to maintain his standing as at present one of the leading merchants on the island.

A. COOPER & SON, TOBACCO MANUFACTURERS, VIRGINIA MILLS,
71, CIRCULAR ROAD, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

THIS business has not been in existence any great length of time, having been established by the present proprietors in 1884. But there are very few firms that have developed such an enormous trade in a similar period. The premises occupied are known as the Virginia Mills, and comprise a large and commodious general shop, which is heavily stocked with a grand assortment of goods of the firm’s own manufacture, and extensive work-rooms in the rear, which are admirably equipped with some of the best and latest machinery and appliances incidental to this important branch of industry. The basement is used for storage purposes. The premises have a frontage of thirty feet, extending backwards to a depth of sixty-three feet, and are most conveniently situated, being within a few minutes’ walk of the North Quay and railway station, and a very short distance from the Belle Vue, where the Manx Exhibition will be held.

Messrs. Cooper & Son manufacture black and brown roll tobaccos, cake tobaccos, cut tobaccos in bulk, flaked and packet tobaccos, and a number of excellent brands of cigars and cigarettes in boxes, in packets, and by weight. Special attention is devoted to the manufacture of distinct and well-known brands, which are produced in the finest qualities, and all are exceedingly popular among smokers and visitors throughout the island, they being suited to every taste in smoking. The greatest care is taken to insure the maintenance of a uniform standard of worth and excellence in each class and grade of tobacco produced. This attention has caused the house to have an unsurpassed reputation for the purity of its goods, which are prepared from the best qualities of selected American leaf, upon the most modern principles, and all the manufactures of the firm are guaranteed pure and unadulterated.

Messrs. Cooper & Son are also large dealers in cigars, holding stocks in these goods from some of the first-class foreign manufacturers — Manillas, Burmahs, Havana cigars, &c. Samples are forwarded to any distance and quotations given, hotel proprietors, clubs, public-houses, and the trade being supplied on the most liberal terms. All orders by post also receive prompt attention. A number of skilled and experienced hands are employed, under the keen and strict supervision of the proprietors, who conduct the business with admirable energy and ability, each partner taking an active part, and between these two courteous and enterprising gentlemen a policy of administration has been developed which places the prosperity of the house upon a solid and enduring foundation.

WILLIAM BURROWS, PICTURE DEALER, ART COMMISSION AGENT, &C.,
DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

THERE are few crafts that appeal so powerfully to the tastes of cultured persons as that of the modern art agent and renovator of pictures; and in this connection Douglas is particularly fortunate in the possession of an emporium presided over by a well-known connoisseur of art treasures; and skilful manipulator of old paintings and articles de vertu that are apparently past redemption, in the person of Mr. William Burrows, of Marina Road. Mr. Burrows inaugurated his present prosperous business in the year 1880, and already enjoys a reputation which extends to all parts of the United Kingdom; and to him belonged the honour of having identified and brought to light a famous historical portrait, General Washington, by Gilbert Stuart, which at the time of its resuscitation created no small commotion, and was freely commented upon by the press. Concerning this the Whitehall Review said “A more than usual interest attaches to the portrait of George Washington, by Gilbert Stuart, the American painter, which has recently been discovered in the Isle of Man by Mr. W. Burrows, the well-known picture-dealer. It possesses an interesting pedigree in the fact that it formerly belonged to Mr. Breed, a well-known Bostonian, who at one time owned Breed Island, Boston Harbour, U.S.A., and whose memory is immortalised in the well-known engagement of Breed’s Hill. Mr. Breed settled in the Isle of Man, where his daughter married, and lived in a house known as Mount Vernon, the name, it will be remembered, of Washington’s home. Here, since the beginning of this century, Stuart’s picture has reposed, undisturbed and forgotten, till the death of the lady referred to brought the work, together with a fine collection of old Dutch paintings, to the hammer.”

Mr. Burrows operates on an extensive scale as a fine art dealer and art commission agent, devoting the most careful and competent attention to the behests of his patrons, and always with the happiest of results. His opinion and advice upon the merits of works of art are eagerly sought by connoisseurs and collectors, and in this department alone he commands a large and valuable circle of customers. His elegantly-appointed premises are very fully stocked with a splendid collection of rare old prints, proof engravings, oil and water colour paintings by the old masters, as well as by rising and leading artists of the day; sketches and drawings of “Picturesque Mona,” antiques, curiosities, coins, and every description of picture frames. In his executive department he operates as a carver and gilder and manufacturer of all kinds of picture frames to order, and won for this work the only medal and diploma of merit at the International Exhibition, Liverpool, in 1886.

As a skilful renovator of old picture frames, window cornices, pier glasses, console tables, to be regilt, &c., he stands unsurpassed in the island, and as a restorer of old oil paintings and other pictures suffering from the ravages of time, he has gained a widespread and well-merited renown. Added to all this, he conducts his business in all its branches in the most capable, judicious and energetic manner, and has deservedly secured the esteem, respect, and liberal support of a large, influential, and still rapidly-growing connection, drawn from every quarter of the kingdom. Testimonials have been received from, amongst others, the Lieutenant-Governor of the Island; the Most Noble the Marquis of Anglesey, Plas Newydd, North Wales; Sir R. Williams Bulkeley, Bart., Baron Hill, Beaumaris, North Wales; Lord Rathdonnell, Lisnavagh, Rathvilly, Co. Carlow, Ireland; J. Mylchreest, Esq., M.H.K., White House, Michael, Isle of Man, the Manx Diamond King, &c., &c.

THOMAS QUAYLE, STONEMASON, &C.,
7, GEORGE’S STREET, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN
(RESIDENCE: 63, BUCK’S ROW).

IT APPEARS upon investigation that this thriving concern was projected in the year 1861, under the able and vigorous auspices of its present able proprietor, Mr. Thomas Quayle, who, with the capable assistance of his brother, Mr. William Quayle, has bit by bit built up a business of the first magnitude, by sheer practical ability, and the exercise of a perfect knowledge of the details of the trade in all its intricacies. The premises occupied are very extensive, and in every point of character and situation exactly adapted to the requirements of a brisk business of the kind. They consist of a large plot of land facing George’s Street, upon which are erected a series of well-appointed general workshop's, perfectly equipped for the carrying on of all the operations incidental to the dressing and manipulation of stone, and the sculpturing of monuments and architectural stones of every description out of white and coloured marbles, limestones, sandstones, serpentines, granites, and other rocks suitable for building purposes. A glimpse into the workshops shows that both Mr. Quayle and his brother not only direct the labours of their staff of skilled artisans, but themselves ply the chisel to good effect; and there may be seen at any time a goodly series of finished specimens, as well as works in progress, which testify far better than any mere words can do to the fact that none but the most unexceptionable work is permitted to emanate from their establishment. A very substantial trade, moreover, is carried on in the erection of walls in plain and ornamental stone, for railways, and the enclosure of public buildings and private dwelling-houses, an excellent specimen of their work in this department being en evidence around the railway-station at Douglas. They, moreover, enter into contracts to keep headstones in good order, and grave-railings clean and neatly painted; and altogether transact a business which has all along been managed with credit to themselves, and distinct advantage to the public at large throughout the length and breadth of the island.

PERCIVAL P. JOHNSON, LANDSCAPE & PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER, STATIONER, AND FANCY GOODS DEALER,
42, BUCK’S ROAD, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

IN historically reviewing the trades and industries which may be said to have contributed materially to the commercial prosperity of Douglas, and to the needs and requirements of its permanent and fugitive community, it is interesting to meet with a house of such deserved popularity as the one whose rise and progress furnishes the theme of the present brief review. Mr. Percival F. Johnson entered upon his now prosperous career in the year 1880, in Strand Street, where by dint of perseverance and well-directed enterprise he established a first-class reputation, and succeeded in securing such a large share of patronage that he found it necessary, in 1890, to transfer his quarters to the present more commodious and conveniently situated premises, in the Buck’s Road, where he now operates on a large scale as a landscape and portrait photographer, and dealer in every description of stationery and fancy goods. His elegantly appointed shop is always neatly and tastefully arranged with a vast and varied assortment of plain, commercial, and fancy stationery; albums and frames; leather goods in the way of bags, purses, and the like; articles of novelty and utility in glass and china; bric-a-brac souvenirs; and a very select series of views and photographs of picturesque Mona. The shop is augmented by a capitally ordered modern studio, where Mr. Johnson devotes the most careful and competent attention to the taking of portraits by all the best-known processes; and has achieved considerable distinction for the clearness, beauty of tone, and finish of his permanent pictures. The business in all its branches is conducted with marked ability and enterprise, upon principles which have won for Mr. Johnson the esteem, confidence, and liberal support of a very large, influential, and still rapidly growing connection.

C. L. FRASER, MANUFACTURING AND DISPENSING CHEMIST,
PROSPECT HILL, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

ORGANISED in the year 1879, this prosperous concern was for many years conducted by its founder, Mr. F. H. Home, who in 1891 disposed of the business to Mr. Campbell L. Fraser, a gentleman who for many years held responsible positions with leading houses in Edinburgh, London, and Cork. The premises occupied are in every point of character and situation well adapted to the requirements of a brisk high-class business; they are fortunately located in the fashionable quarter of the town, on Prospect Hill, immediately opposite to Dumbell’s well-known bank, and consist of a neatly-appointed double-fronted shop, tastefully arranged to hold and display an exhaustive series of Drugs and Chemicals of ascertained purity and standard (British Pharmacopoeia) strength; Homoeopathic Medicines from the celebrated firm of Messrs. Thompson & Capper of Liverpool; popular Patent Medicines and Proprietary Articles, choice Toilet Requisites and Perfumery Appliances, and Sundries suitable for use in the sick-room, nursery, &c., with all the additamenta of a First-class modern Pharmacy. The undermentioned Popular Specialities deserve attention: Fraser’s Manx Floral Bouquet, the gem of Mona’s perfumes, a most refreshing and permanent essence for the handkerchief or toilet, sold everywhere; Fraser’s Pulmonic Powder, for the instant relief of asthma, hay fever, bronchitis, &c.; and Fraser’s Digestive and Liver Pills.

Mr. Fraser operates in every branch of his important profession, devoting the most careful and competent attention to the dispensing of Physician’s and Surgeon’s prescriptions and the compounding of Family Recipes. He is agent for the following preparations: Armbrecht’s Coca Wine, Carbolic Smoke Ball, Kepler’s Malt and Cod-Liver Oil, Camick’s Beef Peptonoids, Valentine’s Meat Juice, Fairchild’s Peptonising Powders, Thornton’s Disinfecting Tablets, Gage’s Hygrometer or Damp Indicator, Fellows’ Syrup of the Hypophosphites, Benger’s Beef Jelly; Stem’s Pumilme Essence, Pumiline Jujubes, and Pepsalia. By his strict attention to duty, well-known business integrity, and courtesy to all his customers, Mr. Fraser has deservedly won the esteem, respect, and liberal support of a large and still rapidly-growing clientele, drawn from all classes of the community.

RT. C. CAIN, LINEN AND WOOLLEN DRAPER, &C.,
44 & 46, DUKE STREET, DOUGLAS.

OF THE many handsome business establishments located in Duke Street, few attract more attention than the one owned by Mr. Robert C. Cain. This gentleman commenced business in 1884, and in a short space of time has built up a large and valuable connection. The premises occupy a considerable ground space, and the building is of three storeys, with spacious basement accommodation. The extent of the frontage is fifty-seven feet. There are four plate-glass windows, and two fine entrances. On the first floor are showrooms and workrooms, and there is a dwelling-house attached. The windows are set out in a masterly way, and contain an ever-varying selection of rimmed and untrimmed hats and bonnets, dress goods, jackets, jerseys, furs, flowers, gloves, trimmings of all kinds, ribbons, skirts, &c., the whole making an exceptionally rich show. The interior of the shop is also splendidly arranged, in the most approved modern style. Ample opportunity is afforded for thoroughly inspecting the stock, and competent and attentive assistants wait on customers. Very great care is taken in the mourning department; urgent orders are expeditiously executed, without fail. There is a very large and well-selected stock of trimmings for mourning orders, as well as dress stuffs, &c. First-class hands are employed in the workrooms, each department being under the control of an experienced head. Mr. Cain, by his constant desire to please his patrons, has won their high respect. He is most certainly deserving of the very extensive support accorded to him.

J. W. CLINCH, LAKE BREWERY,
DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

THIS notable concern dates back in its foundation to tbe year 1779, and was formerly conducted by a Mr. John Hogg, wbose common “Jongh” had always been held inhigh esteem in the Island. Mr. Hogg was succeeded in the year 1868 by the present talented proprietor, Mr. J. W. Clinch, a gentleman of “light and leading” in the brewery world, who completely revolutionised the business of the house and enlarged the accommodation, entirely remodelled the plant, secured an abundant supply of water by sinking tube wells on the premises; and by using only the finest Manx-grown barley for making his malt, the best of hops, and the purest yeast, has succeeded in producing a series of unrivalled ales which in the native vernacular have been universally pronounced to be “Glen as lajer” (“clean and strong”). According to a careful analysis of Dr. Augustus Voelcker, Analytical Chemist to the Royal Agricultural Society, the water was declared to be extremely good, and perfectly wholesome. This report was made in 1868, but since then the yield of the spring tapped by the tube wells has more than doubled the supply. This water was tested in 1880 by Mr. Edmund R. Southby, analyst, of Gresham House, Holborn Viaduct, E.C., and its suitability for high-class brewing conclusively confirmed.

The machinery and appliances employed by Mr. Clinch embody all the most modern improvements. The water is forced to a large cistern on top of the main building by means of steam pumps. The premises are all supplied from this cistern, and there is also another large one in which water to supply the malting is stored. The barley is cleaned by a special machine and, after passing through the malting process, is stored as malt in granaries. Storage for hops is also provided in these lofts. The malt, after cleaning and weighing, is placed for the requisite time required by the Manx Act of Tynwald, under which the duty is levied, in an “entered room,” as it is technically called, in the basement of the brew-house. It is then lifted to the top of the same building by the steam hoist and crushed into a grist case commanding the mashtub, which is of castiron. The boiled worts, after cooling, are first fermented and then cleansed in a very complete apparatus, on a modification of the celebrated Burton system; after which they are racked off into carriage casks and stored until required for consumption, in the spacious cellars at the back of the buildings. Steam is supplied to the engines, steam pump, and boiling tanks from a Cornish boiler, placed in a separate building, situated at the corner of Bank Hill, and communicating with the brew-house by a bridge over the private road adjoining.

To Mr. Clinch the honour is due of having put into speedy practice the system of air purification promulgated by the illustrious French savant, M. Pasteur. This step is clearly commented upon by “The Country Brewers’ Gazette”:— “Mr. J. W. Clinch, of Douglas, Isle of Man, has, since the year 1879, used a simple and very effective method of supplying the beer, from the time it leaves the hopback to the racking stage, with plenty of pure air. In order to effect this the fermenting-room has been rendered air-tight, the vertical refrigerator cased in, and floating covers fitted to the settling backs. Into the refrigerator casing and fermenting-room a fan delivers, through capacious ‘trunks,’ air which has been first washed in a ‘scrubber’ and then filtered through cottonwool. The appearance of the cotton after some quantity of air has been blown through it is quite sufficient evidence of what is taken out of the air. But the purity of the yeast, and the stability of the beer produced, are the best testimonials that can be adduced of the soundness of the views upon which such treatment is based, and of the practicability of the method by which it is carried out. We have had opportunity during the last five years of repeatedly testing the wonderful stability of Mr. Clinch’s ales since he has adopted the above arrangements. Year after year we have taken a cask of Mr. Clinch’s light bitter ale, of about 18 pounds gravity, and left it exposed in an open yard from Christmas until the end of June, or even later. We have then set it up in an ordinary cellar. It has dropped bright in a few days, when we have tapped it, and it has remained on draught during a portion of July and all August. We have then frequently bottled the last two or three gallons in the cask, and have kept this bottled beer for a further period of two years. The beer has always stood these tests, and has remained brilliant and in good condition, and free from all excess of acidity, under the most trying circumstances.”

In connection with practical brewing, Mr. Clinch has also scored a triumph, as the inventor of the valuable contrivance known as Clinch’s “Acme” Malt Cleaner, Corn Cleaner and Grader. This machine, in order to separate stones, nails and other foreign matter larger in size than the malt or other grain, consists in the first place of a shaking screen, from which the grain passes into a cylinder of perforated steel, which rotates, and against the exterior of which a brush is lightly pressed. This brush keeps the perforations clear and prevents the choking of the apertures in the steel plate. A spiral brush revolves inside the cylinder, which causes the malt or grain to travel from one end to the other, and in its passage so brushes, tosses and tumbles it about that it arrives quite clean and polished at the delivery end, the rootlets and dust passing through the perforations. On the top of the case a powerful exhaust fan is fixed, which effectually removes all the floating dust, leaving both the malt and the culms or rootlets perfectly clean. The barley before malting is cleaned and graded by a similar machine to that used for malt, but with the perforations in the cylinder larger, so as to remove the undesirable small corns. The sole makers of these machines are Messrs. Stanford & Co., engineers, Colchester, from whom further particulars as to prices, firms who use the machines, and where they may be seen working, may be obtained.

The most recent addition to the premises consists of a building comprising most commodious offices with laboratory (communicating with the brew-house by a bridge) and stores over. In the laboratory the malt and beer are subjected to tests both of an optical and chemical nature, and the stability of the finished article rigorously ascertained by the “forcing” of samples and their microscopical examination. For the rest the high reputation and demand throughout the Isle of Man for Clinch’s ales during the decade that has passed is ample evidence of itself that his efforts have hot failed to meet with due appreciation and support.

WILLIAM CALLISTER, GENERAL DRAPER,
VICTORIA BAZAAR, VICTORIA STREET, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

THE history of this, one of the most noted, prosperous, and extensive drapery depots in the charming town of Douglas, dates back to the year 1877, when it was successfully inaugurated under the style and title of Messrs. William Callister & Kermonde. Upon a dissolution of partnership in 1882, the entire concern came under the control of its present spirited proprietor, Mr. William Callister, a gentleman of recognised ability and extended experience. Under his regime the emporium has from time to time been enlarged, until it now constitutes one of the largest and most imposing; shops in the best part of Victoria Street, and is replete with a stock of the most diversified and attractive description, including everything in- household drapery for everyday use, linens, calicoes, flannels, blankets, sheetings, quilts, towelling, all manner of furnishing. drapery, dress fabrics of the most novel description, millinery, mantles, jackets, dolmans, capes, furs, gloves, corsets, fancy goods, haberdashery, &c. The Victoria Bazaar is manifestly one of those establishments where resources are practically unlimited, and where customers are served with courtesy, efficiency, and despatch at all times. The house develops continuously in all its resources and operations, and a very large and influential trade is effected, the firm’s valuable connection taking effect in all parts of the “beautiful isle of the sea.”

J. E. BRUTON, “THE ABEL LEWIS ”PHOTOGRAPHIC ART STUDIO,
10, FINCH ROAD, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

THE capabilities of modern technical photography are nowhere perhaps more triumphantly demonstrated than in the magnificent and deservedly popular studio of Ellan Vannin Veg Veen (“dear little Isle of Man”), located in the midst of a charmingly laid Out garden, from which a glorious view of the Bay of Douglas', from headland to headland, may be obtained. The studio in question was projected in the year 1866 by the celebrated photographic artist, Mr. Abel Lewis, after whom it is still called, and came, in 1885, under the control of his no less eminent successor, Mr. J. E. Bruton, the winner of the gold medal at the 1886 Liverpool Exhibition and many others, who has since achieved a European reputation. In order to convey an accurate notion of the magnitude, character, scope, and aims of this, by far the leading establishment of its kind in the island, it would perhaps be best of all to give a few facts and figures, gathered during a peep at the premises; and this has been done most excellently by a writer to the “East End News” as follows:-

“The spacious entrance in Finch Road is in itself an attraction to the ordinary pedestrian, as the show-cases on each side of the porch contain some splendid portraits finished in the latest and most approved style, interspersed with some beautifully-coloured work. Upon entering the spacious entrance hall an artistically-furnished dressing-room is seen to the right, replete with every little requirement for the toilet. Across the hall to the left is a very finely fitted up reception room for ladies, most charmingly decorated by some excellent specimens of photography, which include some magnificent instantaneous views of the Isle of Man. The general reception room is next to the ladies’ room, and the number and variety of portraits, paintings, and drawings here exhibited would surprise even those well acquainted with our best of West End photographic studios. As a proof of the class of persons who have patronized this establishment, may be mentioned the names of a few whose portraits I saw, H.R.H. the Duke of Edinburgh, Duke of Sutherland, late Dean Stanley, Lord Lytton, Sir Henry Loch, now Governor of the Cape Colony; Lord Lathom, late Lord Shaftesbury, Archbishop of York, Lord Bishop of Sodor and Man, members of the Manx Legislature, including His Excellency the Governor. There are also many highly-finished portraits on porcelain in this room, and was surprised to learn that the cost of same was about one-half of that charged in London. A rather new idea was an enlargement of a portrait to suit a frame about 3ft. by 2ft., finished in crayon. These cleverly-executed works only require to be seen to secure a ready sale. I also noticed some excellent enlargements from old portraits, and was particularly struck with a most comprehensive view of Douglas Bay taken by the instantaneous process. The studio is approached through a beautiful fernery, which overlooks a spacious garden much frequented by visitors during the summer, as the view seaward is magnificent. The studio is 70ft. long, and 20ft. wide, the arrangements for light, &c., are perfect, any desired light can in fact, be obtained, so that photos can be taken at any reasonable hour and in any weather. There is a plentiful supply of apparatus and accessories of the most approved description. In close proximity to the studio are two dark rooms, printing room, toning room, mounting room, retouching room, framing room, and the artist’s room. In some of these rooms there are racks containing thousands of negatives; and to give some idea of the colossal amount of work turned out, I may mention that one of the racks alone contains upwards of 6,000,” and it appears upon inquiry, that a stock of no fewer than 70,000 negatives is held on the premises; being the joint work of Mr. Bruton and his predecessor during the past twenty years.

Mr. Bruton has indeed made the benefits of his study, research, and skill practically universal; and has exerted his best endeavours to make his studio available for all classes of the community; and it is therefore small wonder that his clientele is now one of the largest of its kind in the United Kingdom.

BENBOW & CO., BOOT AND SHOE MANUFACTURERS,
7, STRAND STREET, DOUGLAS.

THIS is one of the oldest boot and shoe manufacturing firms in Douglas, the business having been established in 1861. The founder was Mr. J. B. Kelly, who was succeeded by Messrs. Little & Cooper, and successfully carried on by them until the year 1891, when it passed into the hands of the present firm. The premises are of great extent, and consist of a substantially-built house and shop, of three-storey elevation, and having a large and convenient basement. The frontage measures thirty-three feet, and extends some distance to the rear. The shop has two handsome plate-glass windows, and the internal fittings are of a very high order. The principal, Mr. Benbow, himself a practical man of many years’ excellent experience, in taking over the business is following in the same lines as those which have been so popular for the last thirty years. The policy of the former proprietors was to give the utmost value for money received, and to supply the most superior boots and shoes at thoroughly reasonable prices. This policy Mr. Benbow is implicitly following out. The stock at the present time is an exceptionally heavy one, and consists of boots, shoes, and slippers, for wear on all occasions, by ladies, gentlemen, and children. In the bespoke department the greatest care is taken to ensure a good and easy fit. The best and most experienced hands are employed, and the best seasoned leather, and superior fittings only are used. The connection is a heavy and superior one, and customers come from all parts of the town and district. Mr. Benbow is rapidly ingratiating himself with his patrons, his courtesy and attention being much appreciated by them.

G. H. HORNE, R.D.S.E., SURGEON DENTIST,
1, MOUNT PLEASANT, FINCH ROAD, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

MR. HORNE commenced his extensive practice as a surgeon-dentist at Douglas in 1880. The premises occupied are provided with all the modern conveniences for the comfort of patients, there being well-fitted and furnished waiting-rooms, consulting-rooms, operating-room, &c., extensive dental lavatory, &c. The skill of Mr. Horne has become known throughout the whole of Douglas, and in the principal towns and villages on the island, and his connection has long been a large and superior one. In addition to the home practice, he professionally visits Ramsey, Laxey, Peel, and Castletown, at regular stated periods, and is at home daily (with the exception of Tuesday), his hours of consultation being from 10 A.M. to 7 P.M. Mr. Horne is a registered dental surgeon of England, and has made teeth his life-long study, and by careful observation and experience has made many highly important discoveries relative to the cause of decay and its prevention. These discoveries, together with a large amount of interesting facts, new to most readers, he publishes, in a concise and simple manner, in his “Treatise on Teeth,” a copy of which will be at once sent to anyone applying.

Long practice has made Mr. Horne an expert in extracting teeth, and such is the care he exercises that delicate ladies and children need have no fear of placing themselves in his hands. Gas of a perfectly harmless nature, which leaves no unpleasant after effects, is administered when desired. This experienced practitioner endeavours to save a tooth when possible, by arresting the decay. He has established a leading reputation for his artificial teeth, which are fitted in such a manner as to do away with clasps or springs. They have a most natural appearance, and assist materially in promoting the health, comfort, and personal appearance of the wearer. Teeth are supplied from 3s. 6d. each, and upper sets from 40s. Complete sets can be made in a day. All branches of dentistry are carefully attended to, such as stopping or scaling, and special attention is paid to irregularities of children’s teeth.

Mr. Horne is the inventor and proprietor of several valuable preparations, which are meeting with an ever-increasing demand. These are — Coral Dentifrice, for rendering the teeth white; Nervo-Dentine, or Electric Tooth Tincture, a magic cure for toothache; Tincture of Myrrh and Borax (prepared with Eau-de-Cologne), a most agreeable preparation for the teeth and gums. Mr. Horne pays the strictest attention to each individual case under his notice. Among his clients his kindness and courtesy is highly appreciated, while his strict integrity causes him to be very widely respected.

MRS. JOHNSON, IMPORTER OF FANCY GOODS,
68, STRAND STREET, DOUGLAS.

THIS business, which has been in existence for close upon half a century, continues to receive the cordial support of the residents of and visitors to Douglas. It was founded by the late Mr. John Johnson, who died in 1885, since which year it has been ably carried on by his widow. The business occupies a large four-storeyed building and basement, with a frontage of twenty-four feet. The spacious shop is set out with a large assortment of goods of a most attractive nature, and the masterly way in which they are displayed greatly adds to their effect. The interior of the shop is also suitably furnished and fitted. The stock on view is of a most extensive character, and represents many of the leading productions of English and foreign fancy goods manufacturers. Included are many exceedingly artistic examples of jewellery, leather goods, all kinds of bags, mechanical toys, games and puzzles, ornaments, photographic views, guide-books, medallion and other views, &c. The whole forms a pleasing and miscellaneous selection, affording ample choice for customers in any of the articles named. There are useful and ornamental goods suited for any kind of presentation, or for personal adornment, or household use. The latest and best novelties are being constantly added to the stock as they appear in the market. Visitors and residents alike speak most highly of the courtesy they receive on visiting the establishment, Mrs. Johnson and her assistants sparing no pains to thoroughly satisfy all wants.

T. HOGG, CORN, FLOUR, PROVENDER, AND GENERAL FEEDING DEALER, &C.,
9, LORD STREET, DOUGLAS.

MR. HOGG first founded his thriving and flourishing business in the year 1888, and he has rapidly developed a sound and steadily increasing trade of the best class. His principal transactions lie in corn, flour, and provender and feeding stuffs generally, and he occupies very extensive and conveniently situated premises, fronted by a roomy double-fronted shop of old-fashioned appearance, and containing ample warehouse room. The general stock comprises large supplies of whole and crushed corn, Indian meal, bean and peas meal, groats, oatmeal, &c., as well as barleys and also oilcakes, cotton and linseed of every description. Mr. Hogg also does a very large trade in artificial manures, &c., of all kinds. He has, in addition, extensive transactions as an insurance and general commission agent, and represents the Palatine and United Fire Insurance Company, Limited, as well as Messrs. Donald Currie & Co.’s “Castle” Line of South African Mail Steamers, &c. He has already, in a comparatively short space of time, gathered round him a widespread and influential connection, whose support is cordial and substantial. He is an active and capable business man, of wide experience and valuable commercial knowledge, and his affairs are conducted with much vigour and spirited enterprise. He is well known and exceedingly popular with all classes in the locality.

WALPOLE HOTEL,
DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN
(R. E. PARKINSON, PROPRIETOR).

This well-known hotel was successfully inaugurated in 1890, under the able auspices of its present proprietor, Mr. R. E. Parkinson, a gentleman who had won his laurels in the art of hotel management, as the conductor, for a period of twelve years, of Rothesay House, one of the leading boarding establishments on the Loch Promenade. The Walpole Hotel, as shown in the woodcut, consists of an imposing five-storied structure, apportioned out as follows:- The capacious basement is divided into capitally equipped kitchens, cellars for liquors, and catering and domestic offices of the most modern types. The main entrance gives access to a dining saloon of noble proportions, situated at the rear. Above, accommodation is afforded for luxuriously furnished drawing-rooms and apartments en suite, smoking and billiard-rooms of the first class; lavatories and perfect sanitary arrangements, and a complement of fifty large, light, airy, and comfortable bedrooms. The windows of the hotel command a glorious view of the charming bay; the cooking is faultless, the cellar superb, the attendance perfect, and the charges marvellously moderate.

Mr. Parkinson has also displayed in his various rooms some very valuable oil paintings and drawings from the old masters, a collection well worthy the attention of visitors to the island, where is an extensive and valuable library, which is also much appreciated by these staling in the hotel. All these factors combined have made the Walpole one of the best patronised houses in the town. Mr. Parkinson, moreover, runs the Fort Island Hotel and pleasure grounds in connection with the Walpole, and this sylvan paradise, situated in the entrancingly beautiful neighbourhood of Castletown, affords every facility for the indulgence in delightful al fresco entertainments, picnics, boating, yachting, bathing, fishing, and antiquarian rambles. At the request of many of his customers he is making arrangements for parties camping out on this island, which has every convenience in the shape of pure fresh water, &c., and commands a splendid view of the magnificent bay and country. Everything is done that can be done to make the place popular, and a distinct meed of praise is due to Mr. Parkinson for the capable manner in which he directs his dual undertaking, to the unbounded benefit and complete satisfaction of the residential as well as fugitive community in the island.

JAS. MAXWELL COOLE, GROCER, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANT
(THE OLDEST PROVISION STORE IN THE ISLAND),
VICTORIA STREET, AND GREAT GEORGE’S STREET, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

IT IS particularly interesting to meet with a house of such old standing and extensive business relations as the one here referred to. It appears that during the early days of the present century these identical premises were in the possession of a member of the Guinness family, who dwelt here in his private mansion in the midst of green lanes and charming gardens. With the rapid growth of the town all the available land was built upon, and about half a century ago the substantial country-house was converted into a fine grocery store by the father of its present able and energetic proprietor. In continuing the business Mr. James M. Coole has had occasion to alter and augment the accommodation from time to time; he has lately introduced one of Andrew’s noted gas-engines of the new type which roasts and grinds coffee, crashes com, cuts hay, works the bottle-washing machine, also a hoist for the warehouse, and works the dynamo for lighting the premises with electric light, the apparatus for which has been erected by Mr. A. Stanbury, electrical engineer, of Liverpool, and is one of the most complete installations in the Island; ,and the depot, as it at present stands, with its spacious well- appointed double-fronted shop, capacious, carefully constructed cellarage, and ample warehouses annexed, altogether constitutes one of the largest and best-regulated establishments of its kind in the Island.

Mr. Coole operates in every branch of his business as a general grocer, provision dealer, and wine and spirit merchant. His stocks are exhaustive, carefully chosen, and well arranged, nothing of a questionable character being ever permitted to enter or emanate from his emporium. A large and manifestly efficient staff of hands is employed indoors, and a large county trade is done in the work of collecting and delivering orders, and the whole establishment bears unmistakable witness to the competent system of management that Mr. Coole has developed and maintained, to the benefit of his house and of its many patrons in the town and its surroundings.

J. T. FARAGHER, AUCTIONEER, SEED MERCHANT, &C.,
QUINE’S CORNER, NORTH QUAY, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

MR. J. T. FARAGHER, of Quine’s Corner on the North Quay, has carried on a flourishing business for the past ten years, and has acquired a widespread renown for his exceptional ability. In the sales by auction of all kinds of property and merchandise Mr. Faragher does a very brisk business, and the success that has been gained speaks very highly for his individual ability. In addition to auctioneering, Mr. Faragher does a gigantic business as a seed merchant and dealer in agricultural implements of every description. His premises consist of a large and substantial five-storied stone ware-house, the floors of which intercommunicate by means of hydraulic power, and are always very fully stocked with goods of every description for farmers, gardeners, and others; the heavier agricultural machines being stored on the ground floor, whilst tools, seeds, and lighter wares generally are kept above.

To specify these commodities would be beyond the limits of these pages; but a tolerably accurate notion of them may be gathered from the following list of firms, for whom Mr. Faragher acts as the accredited agent in the island: The Cunard Steamship Company; Odams’ Manure Company; Day & Son’s Horse Medicines; Johnston’s Harvester Company’s Self Binder; ,R. Houston & Sons, Woollen Merchants; Bamford& Son’s Combined Mower and Reaper; Woodroffe & Co.’s Albion Iron Works, Chaff Cutters; Powell Brothers and Whittaker’s Chaff Cutters, &c.; G. W. Murray & Co.’s Hand and Foot Threshing Mills; and the Drogheda Manure Company. For the rest Mr. Faragher maintains a valuable and influential connection in all parts of the island, and enjoys the unreserved confidence of all his clients. He has been an eminently successful business man, winning his laurels in the worthiest and most straightforward manner, and at the present day is one of the best known merchants in Mona’s fair isle, and has now the honour of representing No. 1 ward upon the Douglas Town Commission.

BROWN & SON, PRINTERS AND PUBLISHERS OF “THE ISLE OF MAN TIMES,”
“TIMES” BUILDINGS, ATHOL STREET, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

THE annals of commercial enterprise in the Isle of Man present many remarkable instances of what individual energy and self-help can do to raise the fortunes of an undertaking from a comparatively humble beginning to one of great magnitude and power for good; and in this connection it is particularly interesting to meet with an example of such eminence as the one here noticed. This prosperous institution was organised in the year 1847 by the late Mr. James Brown, who with his son, Mr. John Archibald Brown, commenced operations in a very modest way, by opening a small printing-office in the obscure quarter of Duke Lane, his plant consisting of a primitive wooden printing-press and a very limited assortment of old-fashioned type. By dint of perseverance and conscientious performance of every “job” entrusted to their care, an advance was made, and a removal was effected, in 1850 to a large back room in King Street, where additions were made to the working plant. In 1854 another step higher was achieved, and father and son, still working together without extraneous assistance, acquired the still larger premises, No. 53, North Quay, now occupied by Mr. C. Gallimore. Four years later saw Messrs. Brown & Son fairly installed in Parade Street, adjoining the Royal Hotel, upon the spot now being utilised for Mona’s edition of the Eiffel Tower; and about this time, a company having been formed to float what was called the “Isle of Man Advertising Circular,” Messrs. Brown were entrusted with the printing and publishing thereof.

The “Circular” languished and nearly died, but Mr. Brown, at the earnest solicitation of his friends, incorporated it with his new venture, of which the following is a plain statement of facts, which subsequently appeared in the pages of his publication, upon the attainment of its “majority” on Saturday May 6th, 1882:— The Isle of Man Times was established on the fourth of May, 1861, by the late Mr. James Brown, and at first consisted of but a small four-page publication consisting of only twenty-four columns. By dint of perseverance and the careful editing of the journal, which soon became famous for its correct reports of local news, six months had barely elapsed before the size of the paper was increased to twenty-eight columns. All this time it was being printed upon a hand-press, but in 1867 a “Belle Sauvage” machine Was procured, and the journal extended to forty-eight columns. After several minor enlargements, the full standard of sixty-four columns was reached in 1875, and a splendid Wharfedale machine having been added to the plant, the journal finally assumed its present proportions. On the 8th August, 1888, another marked advance was made; the paper having reached its full dimensions, an increase of size merely would have been not only impracticable but unnecessary, so that a new departure, and a very welcome one, was taken by the publication of a second weekly issue. The premises and plant were simultaneously enlarged, and the proprietor having purchased the old post-office building adjoining, the fine block now known as the “Times Buildings” was erected, splendidly appointed throughout, and became the home of what is to-day the best-conducted journal on the Island, which is said to be subscribed for by every family in Manxland.

Apart from the affairs of the “fourth estate,” as well as their job printing, lithographic, and book-binding, Messrs. Brown & Son concentrate their attention upon every branch of the stationer’s and bookseller’s trade, their show-room in Athol Street being about one of the best-stocked concerns of its kind in the Island. The present personnel of the firm are Mr. John Archibald Brown and his son, Mr. Walter J. Brown, who ably assists his father in the journalistic department of the business.

Mr. Brown senior is a gentleman of most- extraordinary organising abilities, which have been so fully recognised that there is scarcely a company of any consequence in the Island for which his services on the board of directors have not been eagerly sought. He is a shareholder on most of the great joint-stock concerns in Manxland, acting either as chairman or as director on many of the boards; and has for many years occupied high rank as a Freemason, being Past Master of: the Tynwald Lodge, No. 1,242, having filled the chair as W.M. of the lodge three times, viz., in 1871, 1873 and 1891. He was also the first W.M. of the Ellan Vannin Lodge, No. 2,049, and he has twice over occupied the principal chairs in the Royal Arch Chapter, Athole, No. 1,004. He is also a P.D. Prov. G.M., and is everywhere respected as much for his well-known integrity and great business qualifications and acumen as for his many estimable personal qualities. His residence, Woodlands, recently built, is, with its extensive gardens, one of the most charming places in the suburbs of Douglas.

J. J. FROWDE, A.F.S., &C., REGISTERED DISPENSING AND FAMILY CHEMIST,
THE GALEN PHARMACY, 4, WINDSOR ROAD, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

THE now well-known “Galen Pharmacy” was organised in the year 1883 by a Mr. W. A. McKown, and was taken over about two years ago by its present talented proprietor, under whose able administration it has grown into one of the most prosperous concerns of its kind in the island. Mr. Frowde is a fully qualified chemist by examination, and holds the diploma of associate of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. His elegantly appointed premises are conveniently situated in the very best residential quarter of the town, and almost in the midst of the leading boarding establishments and visitors’ resorts. The spacious shop is most tastefully and methodically arranged to hold and display a complete series of drugs, chemicals, and pharmaceutical preparations of ascertained purity and standard strength, meeting, in fact, all the requirements of the British Pharmacopoeia.

In addition to these special prominence is given to a series of medicinal and toilet specialities, all of which are skilfully and accurately prepared from the purest and best ingredients in the Galen Laboratory, and are enumerated, by Mr, Frowde as follows:— FROWDE’S ANODYNE COUGH ELIXIR, an old-fashioned remedy prepared from a recipe which has been in use for nearly a century, and has never been excelled for the immediate relief of coughs and colds (incipient or chronic), hoarseness, difficulty of breathing, and other kindred ailments. The unpleasant tickling sensation which deprives so many of rest at night by the incessant coughing it causes, is quickly removed by a dose of this elixir. Bottles, 1s. and 1s. 9d. - FROWDE’S ANODYNE LINIMENT, an application for sprains, bruises, &c.; bottles, 1s. —FROWDE’S TOOTHACHE ELIXIR acts upon the nerve and affords instant relief; 6d. and 1s. —INFANT’S PRESERVATIVE, perfectly safe and eminently effectual; bottles, 1s. — TIC AND NEURALGIA MIXTURE, for the relief and cure of neuralgia, tic doloreux, toothache, and other nerve troubles; bottles, 1s. and 1s. 9d. — REMEDY FOR INDIGESTION, a specific for dyspepsia, heartburn, wind on the stomach, loss of appetite, &c., price 1s. 6d., purely herbal.

Among other specialities may be mentioned—superior quinine and iron tonic, 1s. 6d. per bottle; very fine cod-liver oil (special quality), from 1s. upwards; orange quinine wine (pharmacopoeial strength), 1s. 6d. and 2s. 6d.; strong essence of Jamaica ginger, 1s. and 2s. Frowde’s superior rose cold cream, an elegant preparation, perfumed with attar of roses, and an indispensable toilet requisite for any period of the year; in winter softening the skin and thus preventing chaps, roughness, &c., usually produced by the severity of the weather; and in summer a most useful application for sunburn, soothing and softening the skin when hot, dry, and painful from exposure to sun and wind; in jars, 6d. and 1s. May-dew lotion, like the foregoing, a cooling application, more especially intended for sunburn when accompanied with intense heat.
This preparation is of great use for eruptions, chafing, and roughness; sold in bottles at 1s. Ispahan dentifrice (rose), for cleansing and beautifying the teeth. It possesses a most charming fragrance, imparts a delightfully refreshing taste and feeling to the mouth, effectually removes tartar and arrests decay; boxes, 1s.

Old English Lavender Water: In the manufacture of this perfume, unless the very finest ingredients are used, the product will only be of second-rate quality. The perfume sold at the Galen Pharmacy is prepared from the finest oils and essences, and has been pronounced to be equal to any of the most noted brands; bottles, 1s., 2s. 6d., 5s., and 10s. Frowde’s glycerine and cucumber for softening and beautifying the skin, removing tan, freckles, &c.; in bottles at 1s. — Frowde’s fluid malt, 1s. 3d. per bottle. Pomades and hair washes, brilliantine, tricopherous; lime cream and assorted cosmetiques; all the fashionable perfumes and essences; perfumery a speciality; hair, nail, and tooth brushes in great variety; dressing and nursery combs; smelling bottles and vinaigrettes; toilet soaps of all kinds. Homoeopathic medicines, turkey and honeycomb sponges, toilet requisites, surgical appliances, chemical apparatus, fine chemicals.

It is positively refreshing in these days of “quack” remedies and nostrums of fabulous virtues to meet with a thoroughly straightforward man of the stamp of Mr. Frowde, who is content to make a plain statement to the effect that his preparations are by no means new, nor, under any high-sounding, fanciful, or obscure name, capable of annihilating all the ills that flesh is heir to by the steady consumption of 1s. 1-and-half d. worth at a time, but that they are all compounded according to well-tried, successful formula, which have been proved to be highly reliable and effective in the hands of physicians, apothecaries, and chemists in various parts of Great Britain and Ireland, and are guaranteed to be made from ingredients of the very best quality, and it is reassuring to know that he has already won a widespread and. well-merited renown for these specialities. Mr. Frowde, moreover, operates in every branch of practical pharmacy; and having made dispensing a special study, he makes this all-important subject a special feature in the business, devoting the most careful and competent personal attention to the dispensing of physicians’ prescriptions, British and foreign, with accuracy, neatness and despatch, in strict accordance with their respective Pharmacopoeias and at popular charges. In short, his entire business is a perfect model of what a modern chemist’s ought to be, and it is not therefore surprising that he enjoys the esteem and confidence of the local medical practitioners, and the liberal support of not only their patients, but the residential and fugitive inhabitants of Douglas of to-day.

CHARLES DIBB, GENERAL GROCER AND PROVISION DEALER, &C.,
21, STRAND STREET, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

“THIS is an age of many new and growing social wants, greatly enhancing the cost even of legitimate living, and thus necessarily demanding an ever-increasing expenditure. The pressure of these circumstances upon all classes is real, deep felt, and irksome; hence there is much force in the universal cry and demand for a cheaper method of distributing the ordinary necessaries of life. The competitive struggle between co-operative and individual effort for supremacy in meeting this want has evolved a system of uniform small profits and cash payments on ordering. This system is perfected and carried out in detail for the advantage of consumers, and they may by their own power of observation see the immense material benefit of from fifteen to thirty per cent, resulting to their advantage in purchasing of the Douglas and the Island Supply Association. Having gained the general confidence of the public, we are resolved that no effort or enterprise shall be wanting on our part to maintain and still further increase and develop this feeling, by tenaciously adhering to the principles which have achieved for us this position. Since we adopted the principle of strict cash payments, we have had several imitators, who have sent out price lists which are only colourable imitations of the one we issue: we ask consumers to examine prices very closely, and especially qualities of goods supplied, and always to use our list for the current quarter. We issue every quarter, and fix the prices for that period.”

So runs the appropriate prelude to about one of the best and most comprehensive catalogues of groceries and “creature comforts” of every class that has hitherto been compiled as a guide to the successful purchase of goods at prices which would be suicidal in any but an establishment doing a “roaring trade.” Mr. Charles Dibb projected his great establishment in 1888, and his only premises are located in the best and busiest part of Strand Street, forming, as will be seen from a glance at the accompanying illustration, quite a notable architectural feature of that important commercial thoroughfare; and a tolerably correct notion of the ample accommodation afforded may be gathered from the following facts and figures:— Total depth from front to back, 186 feet; front sale shop, 96 feet long, 30 feet wide; bakehouse and factory, 96 feet long, 50 feet wide. Sugar, fruit, and grocery warehouse; flour, rice, and meal warehouse; dry goods, paper, and biscuit warehouse; bacon-washing, drying, and smoking rooms; stabling, and man’s house at rear. Good airy house accommodation for the thirty-five to forty persons engaged upon the premises.

That within the comparatively fleeting period of four years such a flourishing business hive should have been firmly established is nothing short of marvellous, but Mr. Dibb’s prosperity has been based upon a foundation that cannot well be shaken, for it is really the outcome of an experience gained only after many years of indefatigable energy in some of the leading houses in the kingdom, and a perfect acquaintance with all the leading markets of the day. The departments represented include groceries, provisions, fresh meats every Friday and Saturday, patent medicines, druggists’ sundries, brushes, green fruit, bread and confectionery: all of which are available at store prices. A branch establishment is now in operation at Market Place, Ramsey, and when Mr. Dibb is absent from headquarters the direction of affairs is assumed with judgment and ability by Mrs. Dibb. Another factor which has unquestionably contributed to the astonishing prosperity of this great depot is, that Mr. Dibb is a firm believer in the efficacy of judicious announcements. and the evidence of his excellently-arranged price lists demonstrates his faith in placing his light upon a candlestick and not beneath a bushel, for his every action proves that he fully appreciates Lord Macaulay’s proverb, that, “Advertising is to business what steam is to machinery — the great propelling power.

TODHUNTER & ELLIOT, GENERAL AND FURNISHING IRONMONGERS, &C,
20, DUKE STREET, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

DATING back in its foundation to the year 1801, the commercial development of this, the oldest-established and largest concern of its kind in Manxland, has been both rapid and continuous from the very commencement. In 1862 the business received a powerful impetus through a change in its proprietory, having, at that time, been transferred from the hands of its founder, Mr. Thomas Gelling, to those of Messrs. W. Todhunter and A. Elliot, both of them gentlemen of recognised ability and extended experience in connection with the important branch of business to which their attention is now (along with Mr. J. G. Elliot, who has now taken his deceased father’s position) so vigorously and successfully directed. In its early days the business was conducted in the Market Place, then the leading business thoroughfare in the town. The decadence of that quarter, however, especially after the completion of the Victoria Pier, led the proprietors to transfer their headquarters to the branch establishment which they had opened in Duke Street in 1879, and to retain their original premises for the storage of heavy stock and bulky goods.

The Duke Street premises consist of a large and commodious four-storied building, the interior of which opens up to the roof, and is galleried. The ample accommodation thus afforded is most systematically arranged to hold and display a vast, varied, and valuable stock of domestic, furnishing, building, and general ironmongery of every conceivable kind, including all descriptions of oil lamps, gas fittings, cutlery, and electro-plated ware, kitchen ranges, gas stoves and grates, Milner’s safes, bedsteads and baths, tools for all trades, and, in short, everything in the way of hardware. A goodly stock is also held by the firm of gunpowder and explosives, which are stored in two magazines at Walbery Head, they being the accredited agents for Messrs. Curtis & Harvey’s Blasting and Mining Gunpowder, and for Nobel’s Explosives Company.

In the executive department, Messrs. Todhunter & Elliot hold large warehouses and well-equipped workshops at 1, 2, 3, and 4, Cambrian Place, where a large staff of skilled and experienced hands is regularly employed and held in readiness to be despatched at the shortest notice to houses in any part of the island for the purpose of carrying out orders. The firm operate on a very large scale in every branch of engineers’ and smiths’ work—copper, tin, iron, and zinc plate working, bell-hanging, brassfounding, plumbing, and gas, hot-water, and sanitary engineering. A very large and still rapidly-growing patronage has been secured, and the admirable organisation of the whole establishment speaks highly for the careful attention bestowed by the talented proprietors upon the administration of this thoroughly representative business. The firm possess a large iron store in Lord Street.

J. R. GRAY, HOSIER, HATTER, GLOVER, &C.
(OPPOSITE THE GRAND THEATRE), VICTORIA STREET, DOUGLAS.

THIS business was established some years ago by Mr. Gregory, and succeeded to by the present proprietor in 1884. The handsome and imposing building is of four-storey elevation, and is also provided with a large and convenient basement. The attractive ground-floor shop has two spacious plate-glass windows, and the premises extend to the rear about fifty feet. The shop is lofty, and is fitted throughout in modern style. The artistic arrangement of the goods in the windows commands the attention of residents and visitors alike. The establishment is noted for always having the latest novelties, and for the superior quality of all articles offered for sale. Mr. Gray makes special lines of waterproof coats and white shirts, holding a great variety in all sizes. The general stock consists of scarves, gloves, braces, dressing-gowns, travelling-bags, umbrellas, &c. The latest styles in felt and silk hats may at all times be seen. The stock further embraces clerical shirts and collars, wool and merino hosiery, silk hosiery, wool shirts, &c. Mr. Gray is evidently a believer in small profits and quick returns, for the prices asked for very superior articles are extremely reasonable. Additions are constantly being made to the stock, new goods arriving weekly. There is a substantial trade done, and a good connection exists among regular customers. Courteous and obliging, Mr. Gray, aided by his experienced staff of assistants, succeeds in administering to the wants of his customers in a manner which wins their hearty esteem.

AYLEN & CO., THE ASSAM TEA AGENCY, TEA AND COFFEE MERCHANTS,
59, VICTORIA STREET, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

AS breakfast beverages, as well as afternoon and evening drinks, tea and coffee have long held such ascendency in the United Kingdom that their growth, preparations, importation, and distribution may be said to have contributed very materially to the commercial prosperity of the country at large, and the regular employment of a veritable legion of its industrial and commercial population. Tea and coffee have been consequently made the subject of a special study and a definite line of trade, and amongst the most worthy exponents of the business in all its branches a place of prominence must unquestionably be accorded to the house whose rise and progress furnishes the theme of the present brief historical review.

The Assam Tea Agency was formed in the year 1871, under the initiative of Mr. T. S. Aylen, a gentleman of recognised ability and extended experience in connection with the important branch of commerce to which he has so vigorously and so successfully devoted his best energies; and it appears upon investigation that the commercial development of the concern has been both rapid and continuous from the very commencement. In order to indicate the present character, magnitude, scope, and aims of this prosperous firm it would perhaps be best first of all to give a general outline of the premises held, and to supplement this with a few observations upon the nature of the operations there being carried on. There are three capitally-appointed depots in Douglas, the headquarters at 59, Victoria Street, a branch store at 61, Duke Street, and a duty-paid warehouse at Fort Street, in addition to new premises at 12, Parliament Street, Ramsey, and offices at 15, Harrington Street, Lord Street, Liverpool. The firm operate on a very extensive scale as direct importers of all the best growths of Assam tea, taking care to secure only leaf of the highest value, strength and flavour from the planters. This they distribute in original parcels or choicely blended, upon both a wholesale and retail scale, at marvellously low prices; so low, indeed, that it would be impossible for them to sell except upon the ready-money system which they have all along adopted. They moreover do a very substantial business as coffee roasters and blenders; and in both tea and coffee have won a well-merited renown for the high excellence of all their commodities. An important branch has recently been added, the firm now doing business on an extensive scale as wine and spirit merchants. The entire business is most capably and energetically conducted, and Mr. T. S. Aylen now has the proud distinction and satisfaction of knowing that his undertaking takes foremost rank amongst mercantile institutions.

WM. DALRYMPLE, CIGAR MANUFACTURER,
10, VILLIER’S BUILDINGS, VICTORIA STREET, DOUGLAS.

THIS extensive business was founded in 1877 by Mr. William Dalrymple, the present proprietor, at 52, Duke Street. This is now used as a branch establishment since the handsome premises were obtained in Villier’s Buildings, Victoria Street. These were taken in 1881. The ground floor of the extensive building is occupied, and there is a spacious warehouse at the rear for the storage of the manufactured goods. The premises have a frontage of twenty-four feet, and have been admirably adapted to suit the requirements of the calling pursued. The window is arranged in a refined and thoroughly attractive manner with a choice, selection of the proprietor’s own manufactured cigars, as well as with those of English and foreign makers. The interior has an imposing appearance. The shelves round the shop are packed with all the best brands of cigars, and the counters, &c., are also tastefully set out with more cigars, and a large variety of the best and most popular makes of tobacco. This is the depot for the real Limerick twist, which is such a great favourite with smokers, a large stock being kept on hand.

The cigar factory is fitted with a modern plant for securing the most satisfactory results, and is worked by a large staff of competent hands. The very best leaf only is used, and this is subjected to Mr. Dalrymple’s well-liked treatment, so that the cigars produced are noted alike for their flavour, and for the manner in which they are rolled. There is a large and wide-reaching connection, and this is of a constantly-increasing nature. Mr. Dalrymple is a gentleman of great enterprise, and of good business habits. He has made for himself a respected name, and has founded a valuable industry.

R. D. COWIN, BREAD AND BISCUIT BAKER,
2, 35, AND 38, PROSPECT HILL, DOUGLAS.

THIS superior business was founded in 1871 by the present proprietor. Such has been his energy and enterprise that in twenty years he has added two large branch establishments. This success is owing to the superior quality of his goods, and the untiring energy displayed on all occasions. He has spared no expense in procuring any appliance necessary for the rapid execution of orders, or of improved machinery. The consequence is that the bakery departments are as perfect as it is possible to make them. The specialities turned out are in biscuits: lunch, cracknel, water, Mona, cream, Albert, Abemethy, cabin, &c.; and in cakes: sultana, Queen, plum, seed, rice, sponge, shortbread, buns, &c., &c. These are all of exquisite flavour, and composed of the very best ingredients. The patentee has granted to Mr. Cowin the sole right to manufacture the patent Extract of Malt Bread, biscuits, and rusks, for Douglas. These wholesome and superior delicacies are the patents of Mr. Montgomerie, which were awarded the Gold Medal at the Industrial Exhibition, Glasgow, 1886-1887; and the highest award Prize Medal at the International Exhibition, Edinburgh, 1886. The three shops occupied are all extensive, and admirably fitted and furnished. The principal one, 38, Prospect Hill, is a substantial building of three-storey elevation, with a frontage of twenty-four feet, and depth of ninety feet. A large and competent staff of assistants is employed, especially in the season, and everything is done that is possible to study the convenience of both residents and non-residents. Mr. Cowin is very highly respected in the town, and in the districts surrounding it. He is an enthusiastic Freemason, and holds office in the Spencer Walpole Lodge, No, 2,197, Douglas.

R. H. COLLISTER, LIVERY, BAIT, AND POSTING ESTABLISHMENT,
ST. GEORGE’S STREET, OFF ATHOL STREET, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

THE livery stableman and posting master’s occupation is still as lively as it was in days of yore in the charming capital of Manxland, and is most admirably represented by the above notable institution. Organised as far back as the year 1846, by its present able and energetic proprietor, the commercial development of this prosperous concern was both rapid and continuous from the very commencement, and to-day the establishment is unquestionably the most popular and largest of its kind on the island. The premises occupied are centrally situated, and commensurate in size with the magnitude of the business carried on. They cover in all an area of a quarter of an acre of land, and comprise within their limits large covered carriage houses, private order offices, ample accommodation for a large staff of trustworthy drivers and ostlers, and extensive modern stables and looseboxes, for fully forty horses. Mr. Collister owns no less than thirty excellent conveyances of every kind, such as elegant clarences suitable for wedding and private parties, closed and open phaetons and cars, neat hearses and mourning-carriages, gigs and dogcarts, omnibuses, and wagonettes, and the like; and a large number of good horses and ponies for both saddle and harness. He is connected with the principal hotels and business places in the town. Telephone No. 4. He operates on a very large scale in every branch of his responsible business, and, by prompt attention to orders and strictly moderate charges, has established a business which reflects nothing but the highest credit upon all those who are in any way concerned with the conduct of its affairs.

ROBERT E. CAIN, BUILDER, &C.,
CIRCULAR ROAD, DOUGLAS.

AMONG the most important and prominently representative commercial and industrial undertakings that flourish in the Isle of Man, a leading place is occupied by the considerable business in general building operations carried on by Mr. Robert E. Cain at the above address. This thriving and prosperous concern was originally founded in the beginning of the present century, by the grandfather of the present proprietor, who came into possession of the business in 1889. The premises occupied are very extensive and cover a considerable area of ground, the dimensions being forty-eight feet by sixty-six feet. The building, which is of four storeys, is roomy and substantial, having conveniently-arranged offices at the entrance, with general joiners’ shop, timber-yard, drying-sheds, store-rooms, &c, for all kinds of building and other materials, the whole providing every facility and accommodation for carrying on the business upon a very extensive scale. An efficient staff of skilled and competent workmen and mechanics is regularly and constantly employed, and the workshops are throughout fitted with all the necessary tools, appliances, and plant for every branch of the trade and in a most complete manner. Mr. Robert E Cain has a very excellent reputation for the sound and thoroughly reliable character of his work and the uniform high quality of the materials employed. He is himself a practical and energetic man of business, and is much looked up to and esteemed in business circles. In private life he is equally popular and esteemed in a very large circle of personal acquaintance, and he is specially well known as a good and active Freemason, being a P.M., P. Prov. A.G.P.

E. J. BOWMAN, FAMILY AND DISPENSING CHEMIST,
58, VICTORIA STREET, DOUGLAS.

THIS business, which was established in 1843, occupies handsome and commodious premises at the above address, and stands out prominently among the many fine shops located in that leading thoroughfare. The premises occupied consist of a fine lofty building, four storeys high, and having a useful and extensive basement. The frontage is twenty-four feet by fifty-four feet. The spacious shop, on the ground floor, is provided with double-fronted large plate-glass windows. These are always arranged in a most becoming manner, and speak to the high-class nature of the business. Mr. Bowman is a gentleman of experience, his business being the oldest of the kind in Douglas. The dispensing department is the most important in this establishment, and has a large connection attached to it; it is carried out under the personal observation of the proprietor, aided by qualified assistants; prescriptions of every kind are accurately prepared, and a register of them kept for future reference. Drugs and chemicals of guaranteed quality only are used, and there is no establishment on the island with a higher reputation for careful dispensing than this.

The general stock consists of all kinds of pure drugs, chemicals and chemist’s sundries. There are also patent medicines of all kinds, proprietary goods, toilet requisites, perfumes, smelling and perfume bottles, and a host of other useful articles. Here we must not forget to dilate on the excellence of his speciality in the way of perfume, “Manx Heather-Bloom Bouquet;” this is most delightfully fragrant and lasting, attractively put up, and the sweetest souvenir a visitor can take from the island; it has received most encouraging eulogiums from the public and press. He also claims the privilege of being able to supply to the traveller a preventive against mal de mer, viz., “Mites of Comfort,” and has testimonials from all over the country, speaking most highly as to their efficacy. As an old resident and tradesman, Mr. Bowman has long borne the hearty respect and esteem of those around him. His genial and outspoken manner is much admired, and he is very popular both in business and social circles.

MRS. A. HOLMES, TOBACCO AND SNUFF MANUFACTURER,
5, NORTH QUAY, DOUGLAS.

THIS extensive business was founded in 1866, by Mr. William Warburton. In the year 1868 it was succeeded to by the late Mr. George Holmes, and is now carried on by his widow. In 1878 operations were transferred to the present premises, having previous to this time been carried on in Lord Street. The premises at 5, North Quay are in every way well adapted to the requirements of the calling pursued. They occupy the extensive first floor. There is an office, store-rooms, and the making, rolling, cutting up, and packing departments, in all employing a number of hands. These have for the greater part been employed for a great number of years in this business, and have attained to high proficiency. The factory is well equipped with all the latest modern appliances used in the manufacture of tobacco, including new and improved patent steam machinery. The reputation which has been held for a quarter of a century steadily continues to grow, and the sales, in various parts of the island, have reached large proportions. All tobaccos and snuffs are guaranteed to be of the best and most pure description, and with the aid of the improved machinery and the long experience of the hands, perfection is approached as nearly as possible. This business has long borne a high name for the very honourable manner in which all transactions are conducted, and it is certainly deserving of the patronage it receives. The private residence of Mrs. Holmes is at Sea View Villa, Port Soderick.

JOHN DUFF, HORSE DEALER AND CAR PROPRIETOR,
42, SOUTH QUAY, AND ROYAL HOTEL STABLES, NORTH QUAY, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

VISITORS to, as well as dwellers in, Douglas are indeed fortunate in the possession in their midst of the conveniences accruing from a well-kept modern posting establishment, in the well-known stables and horse and carriage repository situated as above. It was in the year 1871 that Mr. John Duff commenced his business, which very soon assumed a leading place in the island, in virtue of the capable management and attention bestowed upon the wants of the community, and at present it is acknowledged to be the largest and best conducted concern of its kind in Mona’s charming capital. Mr. Duff recently acquired the car business of Mr. Francis McArdle, at the Royal Hotel stables, North Quay, and in his dual capacity operates on a very large scale in the sale and exchange of horses and carriages, dog-cars, wagonettes, and the like. In addition to this he keeps a stud of some thirty tractable carriage and saddle horses and vehicles of all kinds for hire, on a scale of charges based upon a clearly equitable tariff. He holds ample accommodation of the most modern and improved class for stabling horses and keeping conveyances, contracts for the removal of goods, and is ably assisted in his work by a staff of reliable drivers, coachmen, stable hands, and others. Thus constituted, it is little wonder that Duff’s Repository “rules the roast” in Douglas, and the entire business is conducted in a manner which has won for Mr. Duff the esteem and well-merited support of a large and distinctly high-class patronage, which it is manifestly his resolution shall not only be retained but steadily augmented in days to come.

CLAGUE & CRAINE, CORN, FLOUR, PROVENDER, SEED AND MANURE MERCHANTS,
NORTH QUAY, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN
(Telegraphic Address, “Corn, Douglas, Man”)

AGRICULTURISTS and all those interested in horse labour in Douglas are indeed fortunate in the possession of well-organised institutions for the supply of their special wants in the matter of corn, flour, provender, seeds and manures of every description, and in this connection it would be difficult to indicate a more thoroughly representative house than the one here mentioned. Organised in the year 1881 by a Mr. M. W. Corran, this prosperous concern was acquired in 1889 by its present able proprietors, Messrs. Clague & Craine, both of whom entered upon their new undertaking as men of recognised ability and extended experience in connection therewith. A large and substantially built three-storied warehouse, bordering upon the water’s edge of the North Quay, and in close proximity to the railway terminus, provides at once for the importation and ready distribution of the heavy and bulky commodities dealt in. A peep within the warehouse reveals a handsomely appointed office, with every facility at hand for the rapid transaction of business, and vast stores of corn, flour, provender, and agricultural and horticultural seeds of every conceivable kind held in readiness to be despatched at a moment’s notice to any part of the island. The consignments of manure are held in a special large storehouse on the South Quay hard by, and a glance at samples would be quite sufficient to convince anyone that all the goods have been selected with great care and discrimination. The trade controlled is one of very considerable volume, and extends amongst farmers, gardeners, livery-stable keepers, and private gentlemen in all parts of the island, and no house could have won by more honourable and legitimate means the high reputation and widespread patronage which this house enjoys.

JAMES HOLROYD, FAMILY GROCER AND PROVISION DEALER, AND WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANT,
1, BRISBANE STREET, DOUGLAS.

A PROMINENT position among the leading commercial undertakings in this district has for many years been held by the thriving grocery and provision business which is carried on at the above address by Mr. James Holroyd. This busy and prosperous establishment was originally founded in the year 1861, and was formerly under the proprietorship of Mr. Thomas Hines. The present proprietor acquired the concern in 1885, and he has since devoted much energy and business capacity to the development of an already considerable trade, which he has greatly increased in scope and extent, and shows promise of further considerable growth and prosperity in the near future. The premises occupied consist of a well-arranged building of three storeys, situated in a flourishing and rapidly extending and improving district. The shop is of attractive appearance, fronted with handsome plate glass, and the interior fittings and appointments are excellent. The stock is very large and comprehensive, including all kinds of groceries, and general provisions, hams, bacons, butters, cheese, eggs, canned goods, and similar articles in extensive and attractive variety, all selected with much careful judgment and experienced knowledge of the markets. A considerable trade is in operation, and Mr. Holroyd also supplies considerable quantities of Allsopp’s and Bass’s ales, and Guinness’s stout, and wines and spirits of every description, which he sends out at all times in splendid condition. Mr. Holroyd has an influential and valuable connection among the best residential families and high-class boarding establishments throughout a wide area of the surrounding neighbourhood. He enjoys an exceedingly favourable reputation for the thoroughly reliable quality of the goods he supplies, and is not only well known as a sound and substantial man of business, but he is personally greatly esteemed and respected by all who have the advantage of his acquaintance.

CHARLES T. COWELL, WATCHMAKER AND JEWELLER,
PROSPECT HILL, AND 21, VICTORIA STREET, DOUGLAS.

THESE two businesses were established by the present proprietor, Mr. C. T. Cowell, in 1870. Both shops have a prosperous and pleasing appearance about them, and give an impression that the proprietor takes a keen personal interest in them. The two places are connected by telephone. In each case they have a frontage of about twenty-one feet, have handsome plate-glass fronts, and workrooms attached. The display of goods in the windows is remarkably fine, and represents a considerable amount of capital. In clocks especially the show is very brilliant. There are all kinds of French, Swiss, German, and English clocks—striking, in glass shades, and in almost every design and material, and well adapted for all purposes. An imposing show is made of English and foreign watches, in gold and silver cases. The prices commence at a low figure, and extend upwards to expensive goods. London, Birmingham, and French jewellery helps to add to the brilliance of the display.

The interiors are fitted in a most becoming manner, and the fine showcases contain, in addition to the articles already named, diamond and other precious stone rings, plain gold wedding rings, ladies’ and gents’ scarf-pins, studs, sleeve-links, gold and silver watch-chains, and a host of useful and ornamental articles of jewellery. These are added to by silver and electro-plated breakfast and tea services, &c. Electro-plating and gilding is done on the premises by a staff of skilled workmen. Repairs to watches and jewellery, also clocks, weather glasses, &c., are well and promptly attended to. Mr. Cowell has the appointment by the Insular Government, the Harbour Commissioners, the railways, and the Steam Packet Company to attend to their clocks, &c. It must not be omitted to mention that very considerable attention is devoted to opera and field glasses, spectacles, eye-glasses, marine-glasses, folders, &c. The branch business is in charge of an efficient manager, and the two establishments are a credit to their energetic and respected proprietor.

R. WILLIAMSON, GROCERY AND PROVISION STORES,
PROSPECT HILL, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

A RECORD of the progress of trade in the Isle of Man would, indeed lack completeness without reference to the mighty revolution for good that has followed upon the initiative taken by its more enterprising men of business, in their endeavour to stamp out the pernicious credit system from their midst; and amongst the brilliant successes achieved in this direction due recognition must be accorded, in these records of commercial progress, to the prominent part taken therein by Mr. R. Williamson, the well-known caterer, and proprietor of the excellent hotel and pleasure-grounds in the picturesque glen of Laxey. In 1890 Mr. Williamson boldly ventured to establish a first-class grocery and provision store at Prospect Hill, Douglas, for the supply of the best goods exclusively, at stored prices, and on store terms, viz., ready money. The result far exceeded his most sanguine expectations, for no sooner did it become generally known that the pick of the markets could here be procured at astonishingly low figures for cash than the success of the venture became established, and the business, progressing literally by leaps and bounds, necessitated considerable extensions, until it assumed its present vast proportions.

The spacious shop, elaborately appointed in the most modern style, is situated in the very best and busiest part of the town, near to all the principal hotels and boarding-houses, and the selections from the stocks held are certainly displayed with great taste and judgment, and altogether form one of the largest and most attractive shows of the kind in the island. Mr. Williamson keeps well in advance of the times by purchasing for cash from all the leading markets and producers of the day, and selling for cash upon the principle of small profits and quick returns. He publishes a complete price list giving full details of the lines of goods held, which include general groceries of every kind, Italian warehouseman’s goods, teas and coffees of the choicest brands and blends; American, Indian and Colonial, and Continental comestibles and table delicacies of the highest order, and prime provisions of all descriptions in the way of bacons and hams, lard, butter, cheese, and the freshest of eggs; also a good assortment of patent medicines sold at the lowest prices, and a choice stock of confectionery at unusually low prices.

The business is under the management of his nephew, Mr. William Cain, who has had many years’ experience both in England and on the Island. There is a large staff of civil and manifestly well-trained assistants, and nothing could be more commendable than the order and system which prevail in every part of the premises. For the rest, the business, as already stated, is in a particularly prosperous condition, and its rapid advancement, capable management, and well-sustained good name all combine to justify and preserve the favour in which it is deservedly held. Mr. Williamson has the honour of being one of the members of the House of Keys.

S. SHIPPAM, PASTRYCOOK, CONFECTIONER, &C,
25, STRAND STREET, DOUGLAS.

THIS business was established in 1867 by Mr. Joseph Smith, and came into the possession of the present proprietor, Mr. S. Shippam, in 1882. This house, which has a reputation which extends throughout Douglas and the districts surrounding it, may lay claim to be the leading confectionery establishment of the place, for the various confections produced could vie with any large London or Liverpool firm, being of the very best description. Matured knowledge is brought to bear on all the various stages of mixing, cooking, &c., and the ingredients used cannot be excelled. The premises, which have a refined and pleasing appearance, consist of a building of three-storey elevation, there being also a large basement. The front is a double one, the shop being provided with two compact plate-glass windows. These windows are arranged with great taste, and seldom fail to favourably impress the visitor or the passer-by.

The interior of the shop is a model of cleanliness, good taste, and perfect order. The tempting articles are laid out to advantage, and it is easily seen that a high-class business is carried on. At all times there is a choice of fresh confectionery, sweetmeats, pastry of many kinds, meat-pies, &c. This is a famous house for muffins, crumpets, tea and sponge cakes; also for the renowned Manx toffee, an agreeable remedy for sore throats, hoarseness, &c. As a manufacturer of wedding cakes, Mr. Shippam has perhaps excelled himself. These wedding cakes are made in artistic shapes, of the most absolutely pure ingredients, and are known throughout the district for their delicious flavour. The bakery, which is situate at the rear, contains every modern improvement suggested by science and experience, and the most superior hands are employed. The basement is used as stores, and the upper portion of the building is devoted to domestic purposes. The way in which this fine business is conducted does credit to the proprietor, and is worthy of the support so liberally accorded to it.

EDWARD EMETT, FASHIONABLE HATTER AND GENTLEMEN’S HOSIER, LONDON HAT AND CAP EMPORIUM,
23 AND 25, DUKE STREET, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN.

THE distribution of hats, caps, and hosiery to meet the needs and requirements of all classes of the community in Ellan Vannin Veg Veen (“dear little Isle of Man”) is nowhere, perhaps, more admirably and energetically carried on than at the above attractive emporium. Upwards of half a century has elapsed since this prosperous concern was inaugurated, and although its commercial development has been both rapid and continuous from the very commencement, it received a most powerful impetus some twenty-five years since, when the concern came finally under the sole proprietory of Mr, Edward Emett, a gentleman of recognised ability and extended experience in connection with the important branch of business to which his attention is now so vigorously and successfully directed.

The premises occupied are located in a commanding corner position, its three lofty windows being dressed with great taste and judgment, and displaying all the latest and most fashionable commodities incidental to the trade. Within doors the elegantly appointed shop is very heavily stocked with goods, arranged in the most methodical manner to facilitate the brisk business in operation. Here may be seen an immense variety of silk and felt hats for both ladies and gentlemen, caps of every conceivable kind, leather hat-cases, carpet bags, mourning hat-bands, men’s and boy’s braces, gents’ hosiery. All the goods are derived from the leading makers of the day, and are available at the lowest possible prices consistent with equitable trading. Promptitude and civility characterise the attendance at this establishment, and the entire business is carried on with marked ability, energy, and enterprise, upon a thoroughly sound basis of honourable mercantile principle, in virtue of which Mr. Emett enjoys the esteem, confidence, and liberal support of a very large and still rapidly-growing connection of the best class.

T. WITHERSPOON, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL SWEET MANUFACTURER,
11, STRAND STREET, DOUGLAS.

THIS business was founded in the year 1868, by the present proprietor, and was removed to the more extensive and commodious premises now occupied in 1884. These comprise a spacious and well-appointed shop, with extensive sugar-boiling works and sweet factory, fitted with every convenience for the successful working of a large and increasing business. Mr. Witherspoon has always on hand a liberal supply of sweets of various kinds manufactured on the premises, and is the original and oldest maker of the celebrated “Isle of Man Rock,” and the first maker of the equally popular “Hi, Kelly.” Mr. Witherspoon is keenly alive to the fact that the best goods can only be made from the best materials; the greatest care therefore is exercised in the selection of ingredients of the purest and best quality, and quality is never sacrificed to price. The trade, which is both wholesale and retail, is of a widespread, influential, and steadily growing character. Mr. Witherspoon supplies most of the dealers in the island, and visitors to this delightful health resort never fail to take back with them a “large parcel” of the “Isle of Man Rock” and “Hi, Kelly,” which is eagerly looked for by their friends at home.