H & G Simonds Ltd A Legacy of Quality and Innovation

H & G Simonds Ltd has a rich history that spans over 140 years, with its roots dating back to 1881 when Henry Simonds founded the company.

The company's early success can be attributed to its focus on quality and innovation, which has remained a cornerstone of its operations to this day.

H & G Simonds Ltd has a long history of producing high-quality tools, with its products being used by professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

The company's commitment to innovation has led to the development of numerous groundbreaking products, including its iconic hammer, which has been a staple in many workshops and toolboxes for generations.

H & G Simonds Ltd was founded in 1785 by William Blackall Simonds in Reading, Berkshire, England. The company started as a small brewery in Broad Street.

The brewery moved to Bridge Street in 1790, where it remained until 1978. This location was chosen for its accessibility to the River Kennet.

William Blackall Simonds' father had a brewing arm of his malting business as early as 1760, but it wasn't until 1785 that the company was officially founded. This shows how the family's brewing expertise was passed down through generations.

In 1885, the company became a limited company, taking the name of H & G Simonds from William's two sons, Henry and George. This marked a significant milestone in the company's history.

The brewery expanded rapidly, and by the 1880s, it was the largest brewery in Reading. This growth was fueled by the company's reputation for supplying high-quality beer to the military and railways.

Here's a brief timeline of the company's major milestones:

The company's growth and success were marked by its expansion into new markets and its acquisition of other breweries.

H & G Simonds Ltd has a rich history, and one notable event that stands out is the company's role in sending beer to troops during World War One. This was largely due to the efforts of Eric Simonds, the managing director at the time, who used his position with the Brewers' Society to encourage brewers to send beer to the troops.

The company's brewery on Bridge Street in Reading was a significant contributor to the war effort, despite facing challenges such as staff shortages and difficulties obtaining raw materials.

In 1914, George Prescott Blackall-Simonds, the son and heir of George Blackall Simonds, was killed in action in France. His father, who had left his career as an artist to work in the family business, came out of retirement to craft a memorial to his son at Bradfield.

Here are some key events in the company's history: