West Street Drapers

 

By cross referencing property records, wills, photos, censuses etc I have identified many of the Victorian occupants of premises on this side of West Street. For a few buildings pre Victorian and 1700s occupancy can be traced. 

This property was occupied by the following drapers:

William Grant -  from at least 1830 until he sold the business in 1849. William started his business as a draper in Marlow in 1824 but I am certain he was in these particular premises only from the 1833 date. In 1846 a Thomas Burnett was sentenced to six months in jail for stealing a handkerchief from Grant's shop. He'd just reached through the window and snatched it up.

Samuel King bought the business in 1849, though a "Mr Grant" continued to own. Samuel ran it to at least 1854, calling the premises West House. He promised a good stock of "Novelties in French and English millinery, in superior style and fashion". Transparent bonnets, glacé silk and  coloured mantles, and muslin dresses were on offer as well as mourning wear.  In 1850 a black and white worsted shawl worth 18 shillings was stolen from his shop. [Bucks Herald 28th December 1850]. The next year Samuel lost 30 yards of muslin worth a shilling a yard from the premises, thanks to 30 year old baker John Cartwright. John said he had been motivated by great want, but he was caught by a parish constable almost as soon as he left the shop. He received a 12 month sentence. A local paper says John appeared to travel about committing petty crimes and therefore doing something of a tour of the countries jails! 

James Roberts. In business in Marlow by 1863. In these particular premises from at least 1871 to at least 1881 when he advertised for a respectable apprentice (and probably till at least 1888). Married Emma England in 1863. Possibly also an insurance agent. Sold dyes and sewing machines as well as drapery.

George Hide from at least 1890 to l901 when he seems to have retired. Had a millinery department. George, born in Sussex, moved from Bexley Heath in Kent where he had also been a draper. He died in Kennington in 1911. Son Geoffrey assisted him in the business as a young man. Geoffrey was one of the brave members of the Marlow company of the Bucks Rifle Volunteers who volunteered to serve at the front during the South African wars. (George also served in the Volunteers) Speaking at a dinner in the Crown Hotel to welcome home those who had seen active service, he says that while South Africa had its points, there was no place like home. This sentiment finds a ready audience and he is met with loud cheers. I believe he may have later emigrated there however! In his leisure time, Geoffrey played football for local teams and was captain of the Institute cricket club. 

Marlow drapery shops had an early closing day every Wednesday when they closed at 4pm. This was compared to a normal closing hour of 8-9pm, not our standard 5.30pm! 

Later Applegates drapers...

1905 advert. The Applegate's advertised that they employed dressmaking and millinery staff. "Charges moderate, up to date styles" 

For more West Street businesses see the Specific Shops, Streets" etc option on the menu. For every mention of a person on this blog see the Person Index on the top drop down menu. 

Researched by Charlotte Day

©Marlow Ancestors.