Edward Elwell Ltd
of The Forge, Wednesbury (Midlands). Telephone: Wednesbury 0300. Telegraphic Address: "Elwell, Wednesbury"
There was a forge making iron at Wednesbury during the reign of Elizabeth I. The first written record dates from 1597. At that time the forge was one of several water-powered sites along the River Tame. Wednesbury residents still know the site as 'Elwell's'.
1817 Edward Elwell took over the forge and quickly built a reputation for quality edge tools. Elwell further improved the water power system.
1869 Edward Elwell was succeeded by his grandson Alfred. As well as developing the forge business, the Elwell family also invested heavily in their workforce. The Elwells built St. Paul’s church and converted old workshops to workers housing. They also developed sports facilities, including a football field and later a bowling green.
1871 Henry Elwell left the partnership of Edge Tool Manufacturers at The Forge, Wednesbury, which was continued by Edward, Alfred and Frederick Elwell[1]
1870s An engraving of the 1870s shows two pools as well as three large chimneys.
1890s The site had five breast-shot water-wheels and several steam engines.
1904 The water wheels were replaced by water turbines.
1937 Listed Exhibitor - British Industries Fair. Axes, Choppers, Cleavers, Earth Borers, Edge Tools, Forks, Hammers, Hatchets, Hoes, Horticultural Tools, Ladles (foundry) Matchets**, Picks, Road Contractors' Tools, Shovels, Billhooks, Spades, Slashers, Agricultural Tools. (Stand No. A.729)
later became part of Eva Industries and then Spearwell Tools
Note: **
- Matchet - a large heavy knife used in Central and South America as a weapon or for cutting vegetation - similar to a machete.
See Also
Sources of Information
- ↑ London Gazette Issue 23782, 6 October 1871
- [1] Ironbridge Archaeology
- 1937 British Industries Fair Page 359
- [2] Dictionary.com