William Rose and ‘Roses’ are two names closely associated with Gainsborough. In a new book, (Market Street - The Odd Numbers Side) William Rose’s early life, and the tobacco machine he created, are revealed.

This includes never before seen comments from William Rose and memories from the people who worked with him. Here is a short extract from the chapter about William Rose:

“Mr Frank Jecock, share his memories and says “it was in 1880 that he did his first piece of work for Mr Rose. It consisted of a wheel with segments of racks cut on the side. The wheel formed part of a small counter machine. The weighed tobacco was placed in the machine, the handle turned and one revolution of the wheel wrapped the tobacco in paper ready for the customer.”

“William Rose’s axiom was that “we cannot make the trade fit the machine - we must make the machine fit the trade.” Through all the early trials and difficulties, William Rose’s mother was his great source of help and comfort.”

“There were skeptics who openly derided his efforts, but his mother, with her astounding energy and supreme confidence had faith in his ultimate success. Without her I fear the load would have been more than he could have borne, especially during those years when he spent whole nights and until the early hours of the morning, struggling with his problems.””

“Market Street - the Odd Numbers Side” is an A4, 111 page book that  costs £10.00. You can order your copy by calling 01427 612030

The Gainsborough and District Heritage Association - helping preserve Gainsborough’s heritage and history for today and tomorrow.