Joseph Warren
Joseph Warren (c1805-1872) of the Maldon Iron Works Co
1872 Obituary
Death Mr. Joseph Warren.— It is our painful duty this week to record the death of Mr. Joseph Warren, proprietor of the Maldon Iron Works, at the age of 67 years. For some months past the growing infirmities of age had visibly affected the deceased, and this was the cause, no doubt, which induced him to sell his extensive business (which passes into the hands of the company in January). Week after week he gradually got worse, and when the announcement of his death was made on Friday morning it was received with regret rather than surprise, for the past week the event was feared to be near.
Mr. Warren's history has been a striking example of what may sometimes be achieved by energy combined with intelligence. Something like forty years ago he commenced business in a small way as a blacksmith at Broadsted-green, Heybridge, and like Longfellow's "village blacksmith" he "laboured at the anvil week in, week out, from morn till night." Success attended him in an unwonted degree, his business extended, and ultimately he secured site at Fullbridge for his works. Here he engaged more in the manufacture of agricultural implements, and with the increasing demand in this branch he at last devoted himself entirely and successfully to it. Perhaps his name was brought more prominently forward by his famed North Essex Plough, and his double-furrow plough.
Mr. Warren, beginning his career as a village blacksmith, went until he employed from 89 to 100 men in his extensive business.
Mr. Warren for some long time officiated minister over the persons worshipping at Zoar chapel, and what he lacked in eloquence was compensated for by bis earnestness and plain teaching. Success and increase of wealth in no way dried up the springs of a liberal spirit, and many will miss a kind friend, whose acts benevolence will endear his memory them.