Rossendale Glass and Wood Decorating Company
of 53 Portland Street, Manchester, and at Stubbins, near Ramsbottom, Lancashire
1892 'This important concern, which has its headquarters at 53, Portland Street, Manchester, and its works at Stubbins, was founded a few years ago for the purpose of working upon a large and practical scale the valuable patents of Messrs. A. S. & J. Young. Mr. A. S. Young is a member of the firm of William Rumny & Co. The glass is printed upon by the Messrs. Young’s patent process, and the work thus produced in very artistic designs and in all effective colours, is designed to take the place of coloured enamel, embossed glass, &c. Of course, in addition to its beauty of appearance, this new form of decoration has the merit of great economy, and the price is brought down so low that it can be made applicable to almost any purpose with distinct advantage. The material is found to be specially suitable for glazing partitions, offices, warehouses, &c.; and it may also be used with the very best effect for the permanent decoration of ceilings, wall panels, dadoes, pilasters, friezes, facias, and in all positions, where cleanliness and permanency are desirable. Thus nothing could be better for use in restaurants, public rooms, smoking rooms, billiard rooms, and on steamships, as the glass thus prepared needs only occasional wiping with a damp cloth or leather to keep it perfectly clean, and it effectually withstands the action of smoke and vapours. Its durability has been amply proven, and its lightness, extreme cleanliness, and general adaptability to the covering of extensive surfaces, all strongly recommend it as an exceedingly useful and valuable decorative material.
'This printed glass is made in sheets of any shape or size up to 60 inches by 38 inches. In ornamental effect there are very few decorations in the market that can compare with it, and the Company exhibit at their showrooms in Portland Street a large variety of designs of very great beauty, novelty, and artistic elegance. These were shown with much success at the Manchester Arts and Crafts Exhibition, held a few months ago. “The Plumber and Decorator and Journal of Gas and Sanitary Engineering” reviewed this direct glass printing process about a year ago, and concluded its remarks in the following terms: “Of all the various substitutes for flashed, embossed plate, stained, pot metal, and pictorial glass decorative work, we can with confidence say that none have been put on the market with really greater hope of a big success — if it is properly worked — than that invented and introduced by the Rossendale Glass and Wood Decorating Company.” From what we have seen of the Company’s work thus far we can fully endorse the above competent opinion, and as the affairs of the concern are in able and experienced hands, there is no doubt that the invention will be “ properly worked” in every respect essential to its ultimate and complete success.
'It should also be noted that wood for doors, blinds, window frames, &c., as well as glass, can be printed by this valuable process in a great variety of designs and colours, to suit any apartment. Architects, builders, and other persons interested should send for designs and estimates to the Company, who are already doing a large and progressive trade, and building up an influential and widespread connection. One striking feature in this new industry is the adaptability of the process for advertising tablets, and from the specimens shown is sure to lead to a very extensive business. The artistic beauty and catching effect cannot be described unless seen, and for advertisers wishing to bring their articles effectually before the public at a moderate cost this process stands unrivalled.'[1]