The Story of Spear & Jackson , the firm that called a spade a spade

This illustrated talk will tell the story of Spear and Jackson, a Sheffield Company that can trace its roots back to 1760. The original owners claimed to have operated the first crucible furnace in the city. It was only in 1829 that the brand Spear and Jackson emerged. At times they operated out of The Etna works and had a volcano logo.

By 1861 the firm had a workforce of 357 and had won prizes for excellence at numerous worldwide trade exhibitions. The company’s 60 inch circular saw was regarded as a technical marvel.

In 1960 the company employed over 100 workers. The brand still exists today but in foreign ownership.

A range of documents and products from Spear and Jackson will be available at the talk.

Kelham Island Museum
Alma Street
Sheffield
S3 8RY