Colson's of Exeter
1792 Established by Mrs. Colson, a Milliner.
formerly Colson and Co
1923 Expansion. 'It is announced that Messrs. Colson Co., the well-known business firm of High-street. Exeter, have acquired the Swan Inn, Catherine-street, and the shop occupied by Messrs. Overmass in Martin's-lane for the extension of their already spacious premises. With the addition of this property, Messrs. Colson and Co. will have a fine block of buildings, ranging from 52 to 35, High-Street, through to Catherine-street. Mr. E. S. Plummer, proprietor, has thus acquired the considerable display-frontage in Martin's; lane - a thoroughfare much used by citizens and visitors.'[1]
1897 'Colson and Company drapers, silk mercers, milliners, costumiers, mantle makers, ladies' & children's outfitters, furriers, hosiers & undertakers, 33 & 34 High street'[2]
1930 Listed as Colson and Co, 32, 33, 34, 35 High Street. Drapers.[3]
1955 Listed as Colsons, 32, 33, 34, 35 High Street. Silk mercers, milliners, costumiers, ladies and children's outfitters, furriers, hosiers and glovers.[4]
Later bought by House of Fraser and traded as Dingle's