James Bazeley Petter
- Son of John Petter of Barnstaple[1].
- 1865 Married Charlotte Branscombe, of Bristol, daughter of a rubber merchant. 15 children, including the twins Ernest and Percival who were to become the leaders in the development and growth of Petters.
- 1865 Received ironmongery firm Harman and Gillett of Yeovil as a present from his father on his marriage, his father having purchased the business as a wedding gift for his son.
- Later acquired the Yeovil Foundry and Engineering Works, making agricultural machinery. Took the manager, Henry F. Edgar, as a partner in the business.
- Founded the Nautilus Stove Co, making grates and kitchen ranges.
- After Queen Victoria installed Nautilus fire grates at Balmoral Castle and Osborne House, demand for these grew substantially.
- 1886 Henry Edgar died in accident.
- 1895 James appointed his son, Percy, as manager of the foundry.
- Yeovil Motor Car and Cycle Co established; 12 horseless carriages manufactured.
- The company concentrated on small agricultural engines.
- 1901 Ernest and Percy bought the business from James; renamed as James B. Petter and Sons Ltd.
See Also
Sources of Information
Sir Ernest Willoughby Petter, by Anne Pimlott Baker, ODNB.
- ↑ A History of Petter Innovation by Jack Sweet http://www.yeovilvision.co.uk/data/57.htm