History of Gillows of Lancaster
Gillows of Lancaster and Waring and Gillow: A Legacy of Fine Furniture Making
Robert Gillow, born in Singleton in the Fylde region of Lancashire in 1704, founded the renowned Gillow furniture making company in Lancaster. Known for his innovative use of mahogany imported from the West Indies, Robert transformed a small local cabinet-making company into a world-famous enterprise. Upon his death in 1772, his sons Richard and Robert continued the business, combining London fashion with Lancashire craftsmanship.
Expansion and Notable Works
From 1750 to 1811, Gillows of Lancaster produced some of the finest English furniture. Richard Gillow, also a trained architect, contributed significantly to Lancaster's architecture, including the Custom House on St George's Quay. The company expanded its expertise to fitting out luxury yachts and liners, furnishing notable vessels like the Royal Yacht 'Victoria and Albert' and the liners 'Lusitania', 'Heliopolis', and 'Cairo'.
Merger and Wider Recognition
In 1903, Gillows merged with S J Waring, forming Waring and Gillow. Their final ship fitting contract was for the Cunard liner 'Queen Elizabeth'. Gillows' craftsmanship can be seen in various locations in Lancashire, including a dedicated Gillow Museum in Lancaster.
Company History and Legacy
The firm’s history traces back to Robert Gillow in 1730. The London branch, established at 176 Oxford Road in 1764, further cemented their reputation. Financial difficulties at the end of the 19th century led to a merger with Waring of Liverpool, formalizing the company of Waring and Gillow in 1903. The firm's reputation for outfitting luxury liners continued, and during the World Wars, they contributed to war production. The Lancaster workshops closed in 1962, and in 1980, the company joined Maple and Co, becoming part of Allied Maples Group Ltd.
Furniture Markings and Craftsmanship
Gillows furniture was marked with making numbers and stamps, indicating their origin and craftsmanship. The stamp 'GILLOWS LANCASTER' first appeared between 1780 and 1790, evolving over the years. Marks are typically found on the top edges of drawers, undersides of lids or table tops, and on the legs or seats of chairs. The furniture often bears the penciled signature of the craftsman.
Researched and written by Tony Geering