Albert Walter Gamage (c1855-1930), founder of Gamages
1855 Born at St. Albans the son of Henry Gamage, a plumber and painter, and his wife Tryphena Carr.
1878 At the age of 21 and having saved £40 he decided to set up his own shop, in partnership with Frank Spain. Between them they raised the £88 necessary to lease and refit a small watch repair shop in Holborn.
1885 Married in London to Jane Muir Murdoch and had three sons and a daughter
1897 Director of the Amalgamated Pneumatic Tyre Companies and Turner Pneumatic Tyre Co. [1]
1911 Living at The Manor House, East End Road, Church End, Finchley: Albert Walter Gamage (age 55 born Hereford City), Athletic Outfitter - Employer. With his wife Jane Gamage (age 43 born Glasgow) and their four children; Eric Muir Gamage (age 25 born Highgate), Manager in the business; Leslie Carr Gamage (age 23 born Highgate), Articled Clerk - Solicitors; Daphne Carr Gamage (age 18 born Muswell Hill); and Cecil Murdock Gamage (age 15 born Muswell Hill). Nine servants.[2]
1930 Obituary. 'Died age 74 years. Born 14th July 1855 the son of Henry Gamage of Hereford. He came to London in 1874. In 1878 he opened a shop with Frank Spain who later sold out. Married in 1888 and had two sons and a daughter. Acquired Benetfink and Co in 1908. He is succeeded by his son Eric Muir Gamage'[3]