Hepworth’s lobby floor, Penrith
For a full century, between 1884 and 1985, Hepworth’s was a thriving national chain of men’s clothing shops, with a strong line in ready-made and made-to-measure suits. Rivals in the same field included Montague Burton, The Fifty Shilling Tailor (later renamed John Collier), Alexandre and Jackson’s.
Hepworth’s shops were converted to the Next format in 1982-85. The premises had never been quite as striking visually as Burton’s – the company did not construct so many complete buildings and did not engage in such all-encompassing shopfitting – yet traces of Hepworth’s can still be spotted on the high street.
Hepworth’s, Penrith
Hepworth’s was founded by Joseph Hepworth (1834-1911), the son of a ‘cloth dresser’ from Lindley near Huddersfield. Joseph followed in his father’s footsteps while he was still a schoolboy, becoming a part-time woollen cloth dresser at a local mill. Because he had to start work at an early age, Joseph always felt that his education was neglected. He compensated for this, however, with business nous.
Joseph married a local girl, Sarah Rhodes, in 1855. Six years later he was living in his mother-in-law’s house and working as a ‘teazel setter and woollen draper’, probably at George Walker’s Wellington Mill in Huddersfield. Teasels were used to brush the surface of the woven cloth, to raise the nap. In 1864 Joseph and his brother-in-law, James Rhodes, entered business together as ‘Juvenile Clothing Manufacturers’ in Scarborough Buildings, Bishopgate Street, Leeds. Although this partnership was dissolved in 1867, Joseph continued to specialise in the manufacture and wholesaling of juvenile clothing, employing 2 men and 20 women in 1871.
Hepworth’s, Blandford Forum
In 1878 Norris Rhodes Hepworth (1857-1914) became a partner in his father’s business, which was known thenceforth as Joseph Hepworth & Son. By 1881 the firm gave employment to 272 hands: they used outworkers as well as employing machinists in the factory at 25 Wellington Street, Leeds.
Shortly after this, on Norris Hepworth’s initiative, the firm adopted a new strategy. It cut out the middleman. Instead of continuing to act as a producer and wholesaler that supplied the trade, Hepworth’s began to retail direct to customers, not just in Britain but also in the Colonies. The decision was taken to open shops in ‘all important towns’ as rapidly as possible, rather than to build up a chain gradually. Amongst the first retail branches, which opened in 1884, were South Shields, Middlesbrough, Birmingham, Derby and Aberdeen. A year later there were 53 shops, promoted as ‘The World’s Clothiers’ or ‘the Great XL’ (seemingly a pun on ‘excel’). When the Wellington Street showrooms were extended in 1885, the basement was lit in the most modern fashion, by electricity.
In 1891, with 81 shops, Hepworth’s became a limited liability company with capital of £360,000 (Leeds Times, 14 November 1891, 4). This followed the opening of a large new factory, the Providence Works on Claypit Lane (Leeds Times, 17 January 1891, 8), designed by the London architect H. A. Cheers. Unfortunately, it had to be rebuilt after a fire just four years later, in 1895. By the eve of the Great War, Joseph Hepworth & Son was probably the largest clothing manufacturer and retailer in the country, a position usurped by Montague Burton in the early 1920s.
Hepworth’s Arcade, Hull
Fragments of several Hepworth’s shopfronts have survived, as does their painted sign in Hepworth’s Arcade on Silver Street in Hull. This L-shaped shopping development was designed by the architects Gelder & Kitchin specifically for Hepworth’s, who relocated there in 1894. In the mid-20th century Hepworth’s shops were characterised by deep entrance lobbies (maximising window display area), low stall risers of pearl granite (bringing the clothing to the same level as window shoppers) and deep fascias (signboards) with large lettering reading, simply, ‘HEPWORTHS’.
Hepworth’s Arcade, Hull
Hepworth’s changed its image in 1961, becoming closely associated with Hardy Amies, the Queen’s dressmaker. It opened shops named ‘The Hardy Amies Tailoring Shop’ within several Debenham Group department stores, such as Woollands of Knightsbridge, Pauldens of Sheffield and Plummer Roddis of Southampton. A new production centre opened at Ashington. Expansion remained strong throughout the 1960s, with 13 new shops opened and another 19 planned in 1966 alone.
Hepworth’s, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis: 1954 advertisement
Hepworth’s, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis
Hepworth’s set off in a different direction in the 1980s. This began when the designer and retailer Terence Conran, then associated principally with Habitat, was brought in as Chairman. Hepworth’s sales were lacklustre in 1981, when the company bought the womenswear chain Kendall & Sons of Leicester, with 79 shops, and used this as a springboard for a new chain of women’s shops called Next. George Davies was brought in to nurture this development. The first Next opened in 1982, followed by Next for Men in 1984, and the chain was augmented by the acquisition of Lord John shops in 1985.
Next proved so phenomenally successful that Hepworth’s name was eradicated from the high street by the end of 1985, absorbed by the new brand.
Next, Oxford Street, London, 1998
Building Our Past 
Well researched. Thank you for this. He was my great grandfather and I am very proud of him.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Are you the son of Joe and Mary Hepworth? I am the daughter if Anne Norton, the company secretary for many years
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes! Anne was much respected by the Hepworth’s board and very much by my father, Joe.
LikeLike
I worked in the Estates department of Hepworths which was adjacent to your mothers department
From leaving school in 1965. She helped me a great deal as did one of her staff Tom Thorpe.
LikeLike
Greetings I remember your mother Miss Norton when she lived at Grey Gables Calverley, my father Donald Naylor who died last week was one of the Transport drivers, and sometime acted as chauffeur to Mr Joe, when Geoffrey Naylor his elder brother was on other duties with Mr Shuttleworth. Geoff’s Wife Marion aged 96 can still tell Hepworths stories, so can I. We have photos of the staff Xmas parties at the Queens. We took a photo of the mosiac at the Dartmouth shop a few years ago. Dad would have been thrilled to know about this site. Angi Naylor
LikeLike
Can you please contact me.
LikeLike
Are you the son of Joe and Mary Hepworth? I am the daughter of Anne Norton, the company secretary for many years
LikeLike
Yes I am. Anne was highly regarded by the Board and much liked by my father… and by me!
LikeLike
Are you his great grandfather?!
Really?!
I respect Joseph Hepworth!!
I’m glad to see you.
Are his parents British?
What is his pedigree?
LikeLike
Hi Joe. I bought a Hepworth’s overcoat in a charity shop today. It’s in fantastic condition. Unsure of age, but it’s superb. You should be proud. I’ll be looking good in 2022
LikeLike
I would imagine you are only the second owner of this fine coat. Best wishes to you … and the coat!
LikeLike
Hi Joe – my Grandmother was Isobel Hepworth and live with her sister Edith Hepworth. I know she was from a mill owning family – any relation?
LikeLike
My aunt was also Isobel who married (and divorced) Dunlop of Dunlop and Rankin. Her father was Joe Hepworth of solicitors Hepworth and Chadwick, son of Joseph Hepworth the Tailor and founder of Hepworths and a none drinker!
LikeLike
Hi.
Nice to meet you.
Are you Joseph’s grandson?! I have great respect for him and next. I have something to know about him.
LikeLike
I am the founder’s great-grandson. And, I am very sorry to say, the last of this line.
LikeLike
hello my name is alan Hepworth , I did connect joseph founder of hepworths the tailors ,to my family in emley, but have sadley mislaid my research, any help would be appreciated thanks
LikeLike
My great-grandfather was James Hepworth. The family always said his father was called Adai Hepworth. I think there was a connection to Batley. Any family connection?
LikeLike
could this name be short for adina, james
LikeLike
Was this the same Joseph Hepworth who became the Lord Mayor of Leeds?
LikeLike
Yes.
LikeLike
Yes!
LikeLike
Hi there…
So interesting reading about your family history…and how big a part of British fashion history they were.
I was actually reading, and looking forward to finding some mention of a huge influencer and my Mentor, as well as Mentor to so many recognisable Designer names in British Fashion,
Mr David Jones, who was involved in the creation of Next, alongside Mr Conran and Mr Davies.
Just a touch disappointed that he wasn’t mentioned…
But really enjoyable to read about days gone by…
Best Wishes,
As.
LikeLike
David Jones wasn’t involved in the creation of Next. He led the team who saved it from collapsing. The rest is a history of success thanks to that team and him.
LikeLike
David Jones was I believe the MD of Empire who Next
Merged with to enter the direct to customer market.
LikeLike
The product that Next were selling 15 or so years ago were of a far better quality and design than those on offer today. My wife and I would shop at next if it would return to its old standards.
I would also love to be able to go into a Hepworth’s to order a made to measure suit as I used to in the 60’s and I think the 70’s.
The style, quality and standards of clothes in this country nowadays look cheap and shoddy, particularly the fit of trousers, just look at the newsreaders and weather forecasters on the TV and you will see what I mean.
Kenneth Moore.
LikeLike
i WAS A MANAGER WITH HEPWORTHS BOTH AT KIRKWALL IN THE ORKNEY ISLES AND PETERHEAD FROM 1972 TO 1984, THE HEPWORTHS NAME IS STILL ON THE PETERHEAD SHOP ENTRANCE, VERY INTERESTING INFO ON THIS SITE THANK YOU MR ALAN JOINER
LikeLike
Like a lot of kids interested in a career in selling after leaving school in 1973 I joined Hepworths Luton . What a fantastic system they had for bringing on young lads and teaching them sales techniques . We used to go on training courses to Leeds in claypit Lane . They were run by a chap called Arthur Hadrick , he was a major influence in my career . Our Manager Don Faulkner was one of the best salesman I have ever had the privelage to work for . I left Hepworths in 1979 and became a sales rep needless to say the Hepworths training put me miles ahead of other salesman in the trade I was in . I owe a great deal to Hepworths and miss some of the great characters that worked in the Luton branch .
LikeLike
I joined in July 1972 and was made redundant when all shops closed 84/85, was Branch Manager Kirkwall and Peterhead and your comments reminded me of the Cadet Star System that was in place and I also attended regular training in Leeds and when you mentioned Arthur Hadrick memories came flooding back, thanks for your comments, Alan Joiner.
LikeLike
Hi Alan , yes the cadet system was very good at focussing young lads on a career at Hepworths , they were great days , maybe among the happiest of my working life . I always loved selling and was blessed to be at Hepworths who seemed to really appreciate the importance of training young lads . Arthur hadrick worked with another trainer called Ron can’t remember his surname .
All the best
Kevin
LikeLike
I also remember Ron,but cannot remember surname,the District Managers were Trevor Norman who was from Sunderland, Bert Knox and John McPeake and Bill McNicol was the Area Manager when a lot of the branches closed down,if Ron`s surname comes to me I will let you know,Kind Regards Alan Joiner
LikeLike
Arthur Hadrick worked with Ron King as trainers.I began work at Hepworths,Union Street,Glasgow in 1979.John Ewart was my District Manager and,in about 1983,John McPeake was my Store Manager.I went on to work for Next in Jersey,London and Glasgow in Store Manager positions.
LikeLike
Thanks for your comments, John Mc Peake was one of my District Manager`s and I recall him as a decent guy who always treated staff well and encouraged you whatever the sales figures were for that time an all round gent!!
LikeLike
I worked in the Leeds New Market St shop, my manager was Don Faulkner, great guy.The staff were disappointed when he moved back down to Luton. There are quite a few ex-Heppy’s staff that benefited from the Hepworth training.
LikeLike
Hi Bob ,
Don Faulkner was a real gem , a very good man manager and a fantastic salesman . He was lived by all his staff so much so that in 1990 we arranged a Hepworths reunion which involved staff from the 60’s and 70’s with Mr . Faulkner ( could never call him Don ) as the Center point to the whole occasion . Sadly he died a few years ago he was well into his 90’s so despite continually smoking rolls ups he lived a long life . Sadly I couldn’t make the funeral as at the time I was out of the country . Great memories of him though and the Hepworths training set me up for a successful life in selling without that training I doubt I would have gone on to achieve much at all .
LikeLike
My Mum had a friend called Lillian who married Norman Shuttleworth who eventually became CEO of Hepworths. She told me that the ‘Worth’ in Shuttleworth was the ‘Worth’ in Hepworths which was of course complete rubbish. I remember my parents visiting the Shuttleworths at their home and my father coming home with several new suits. Apparently Norman would be given a sample suit every time the company manufactured a new style and was happy to give them away!
LikeLike
I like the ‘worth’ story! Norman was very good for Hepworths. Smart, intelligent and very likeable he was perfect for the business.
LikeLike
Hi Joe
I believe that I am related to the Hepworths. My grandfather was Hubert Atack Hepworth and I have Norris as one of my first names. I have a lovely gold embrosed book addressed to Norris Hepworth from his employees on the occasion of the opening of the factory in Claypit Lane in Leeds. It is signed by a number of the employees including Alfred Hepworth
LikeLike
We are lucky to have this channel! As you will know it was Norris, Joe’s (let’s call him Joe the First!) son, who really established the business.(Was Norris a great grandfather?) There are so many to characters in this story! One of them, my father’s uncle, and his favourite was fond of cards but not successful with them so his father put him on a boat to Australia. Onboard he ran up some severe debts so when they arrived in Australia the Captain contacted his father. “Keep him,” he said. “Funds are on the way.” These cleared, he set off to discover Aus with an ice cream cart and was never heard of again. Which was a pity as later one of Joe 1st sister’s died and she left him a great deal of money! I’ve seen those books they are something to be proud of.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Lawrence, that’s incredible. I’m Kirsty Hepworth, Joseph senior (founder) was my great, great, great grandfather. I then follow the line of Norris, Alfred Atack, Norris and my dad Ralph. I would love to see a photo of the book if possible. It’s the info like that which is difficult to come by.
LikeLike
Kirsty, very good to hear from you. Was Norris your great grandfather and the founder’s son? Please say yes!
LikeLike
Hi Joe,
Didn’t seem to have the option to reply to you directly, apologies.
Yes, Norris (Joseph, founder’s son) is my great great grandad.
There are of course more family members, but it’s me, my Dad Ralph (who has just joined this group also), his father Norris, Alfred Atack, Norris and then Joseph.
We knew the line went back to George and Martha Morton, and beyond a Martha Mallinson, but then our research seems to differ from your messages a bit. Where you have two Thomas’s father and son, we have a Paul ??
This is such a great page. By the way, are you aware of a link to Barbara Hepworth sculptor? I have been trying to get a connection for a long time and would be great to know.
Hope you’re keeping well in these strange times
Kirsty
LikeLike
joseph hepworth founder ,goes back to emley and to the brother of my 10xgreat grandfarther henry hepworth
LikeLike
Ralph, Allen, Kirsty, Nick, our family! I want to find out more about Norris as he is always included in the early history of the company. He seems to have been well respected and I feel was responsible for the significant growth in Hepworths. Do any of you hold any papers on him? An interesting fact I picked up was that socialism hadn’t established a party then (1980’s) but that many of the early trade unionists were methodists as of course, Joe was himself. Care in the community comes to mind. Are any of you methodists? The book I’m currently writing is based on my mother’s grandfather who was born in Ukraine, became a tailor in Odesa, was wrongly convicted of fraud, sent to Siberia where he walked in fetters the last 700 miles to his jail in Krasnoyarsk. He then worked on the Trans Siberian Railway, learned magic in Mongolia, journeyed to Beijing with his family where they became street entertainers. They joined a circus, that of Col Fillis, and travelled south putting on shows in every large city in every country they entered till they arrived in Bangkok where they left the circus and opened a hotel…. with a stage! Which the King of Siam made his regular! Not sure you could do the same today! And I also want to write Joe’s story and there are more stories yet to find. For Joe to do what he did he must have had a great deal of help so if we rattle the cage what shall we find?!
LikeLike
I joined Hepworths in 1972 when the previously mentioned Don Faulkner asked me to join the company.
He said to me it would be the best career move I would ever make….so right he was!
As a salesman at 16 years old I was like a kid in a sweetshop!
Hepworths encouragement of selling suited me perfectly and the level of training was the best I’ve ever seen in the retail trade.
I can honestly say with pride it was the best working environment I’ve ever been in.
The Luton branch where I worked had some of the best salesmen I’ve ever worked with,including Kevin Moroney who has commented on here previously.Kevin and I remain friends to this day and are always reminiscing about those great times.
He is too modest to say it but he went on to be a tremendously successful businessman and the experience he gained at Hepworths helped him to achieve that success.
My thanks to Hepworths and I will always be grateful to the best company I’ve worked for.
LikeLike
Best career move I ever made,joining Hepworths
LikeLike
I started at Hepworths in 1965 in Leith Street Edinburgh as junior salesman. Manager was Tom Carlton what a great guy. I owe a great deal to Mr Carlton for his fanatic training. I ended my career with Hepworths in 1972 as Manager of there Perth shop.
John Hamilton
LikeLike
does anyone know what josephs farthers first name was,
LikeLike
George, who married Martha Morton in 1823.
LikeLike
thank you joe, my youngest son is also called joe, after my grandad joe
LikeLike
hello joe, I have found two records showing George married martha Morton, 1823, but I am now confused as it states on one record they only had one sibling called david, and another one where it states one son called William , the reason for my research is to find that connection I mislaid years ago, to joseph, as I would be proud as punch to think I was related to such an icon,and something to be very proud of, any help would be much appreciated joe, my hepworths lived in emley ,and Thornhill . I have gone back to the 1500s . thank joe,
LikeLike
This is interesting. I have George marrying Martha 1823, who begat William, Sarah, Harriet, John and Joseph. George was either a blacksmith or a cobbler, can’t find out which. The first Joe Hepworth on my list married Martha Firth 1639. That’s as far back as I can go…. for now… but..
LikeLike
hi joe , would you possibly have georges father and the line back to your joseph 1639 thanks
regards alan
LikeLike
OK. JH m. M FIRTH 1639 begat 2 sons Daniel and Richard who m. Martha Matthewman 1680 who begat John Hepworth who m Elizabeth Barker 1764 and begat Mark and John Hepworth who m. Martha Mallinson 1790 and begat Robert, John, David, Abraham and George who m. Martha Morton 1823. Hope these are correct. Best wishes cousin, Joe.
LikeLike
thank you joe , much appreciated, oh and I found the 1851 census looks seems George had 7 or eight siblings and he occupation is woollen cloth dresser, are you still based in Yorkshire joe.
regards alan
LikeLike
Hi. Joe and Alan.
Do you know anything about Joseph’s parents,
George(1801) and Martha?
Are they British?
Do you have a Hepworth’s family tree?
LikeLike
Thanks, Alan. A cloth dresser was not a ‘nice’ job. It was dirty and would have caused lung damage. It would be interesting to find the cause of deaths in our ancestors. I now live in Sussex near Goodwood but spent 30 odd years in London running Joes Wine bar and Joes Brasserie so you can tell what kind of a man I am. Currently, I’m writing an adventure story based on my mother’s grandfather, also a tailor. He was born in Ukraine and died in Bangkok. It’s the bit in between which is remarkable and well worth telling! BTW I think Joe was annoyed with one of his uncles, who was wealthy but felt no compulsion to share it. I think that is why Joe was determined to create an enterprise that would provide plenty of jobs. Which he did, and which still does. Good for him.
LikeLiked by 1 person
very interesting joe, its wonderful what you turn up when you do family research, I have wrote the history of the hepworths from 1575 till present day, it was realy to put a story to all of the names for my grandchildren, I think the most interesting facts I found out were about my hadfield ancesters, one of them a joseph hadfield. had the pleasure of hanging dick turpin, in York jail. apparently it was a practice that if one of the prisoners was chosen to do the deed he was then pardoned, joe was the one they chose, another hadfield ancestor. who had been in the nepolionic wars, walked into drery lane theatre and tried to assassinate king George, and I believe he was the first person to be sectioned .which is a term used now, I wouldlike to read your story when you are finished joe, I was just a humble explosives engineer, in my working days, working in Egypt training the indigenous arabs how to use explosives in one of their potash mines, and in Algeria, for the Japanese gas corporation, I am also attempting to write a screenplay, its all about murder mayhem and drugs, enjoying our exchanges joe, keep in touch ,how old are you joe
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good stuff, Alan! I’m 74, I think! Everyone has stories. I used to go to Heathrow and chat with anyone who wanted to talk and the tales people told! These must not go to waste! And a Joe hanged Dick Turpin?! You can’t beat that! And another was the first to be sectioned! My book A Tailor’s Tale is about six months from completion. Keep writing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
cant wait to read your book, I am 77, love to hear storys from the past, I went down to emley where the hepworths settled in the 1500s, the vicar kindly let me have the freedom to look at the records of births deaths and marriages, could not believe it when she looked down at the isle and said here is your ancesters,took my breath away joe,. in the middle of the isle, my ancesters are burried, and I am sure you will have connections to these hepworths, henry Hepworth 1575, was known as de capella of the chant in st michaels in emley, and he lived in what was the knights hospitaliers building later being pulled down by his grandson john Hepworth and with the stone he built chapel house farm which I have had the pleasure to go inside, have you an email address joe, then if there is something of interest I can upload it for you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
joehepworth@aol.com I knew Emily was familiar. Emily Moor – the transmitting tower is sited there! I looked on Goggle maps to find St Michaels. Well worth a visit! Apparently many moons ago we were called the D’Hepworths. Yes, we must keep in touch.
LikeLike
hi joe hope you are well. I have some good news for you and me, I was right we are blood relations I have found the connection, joseph Hepworth who married martha firth 1639, was the son of Thomas Hepworth1580 and ann blackburn 1584 , Thomas 1580, was the son of Thomas 1553 and janet sunderland1553 , josephs farther Thomas, was my henry hepworths brother,s and josephs uncle, and the good news for you is you are now officialy the 3oxgreatgrandson of Robert the bruce, king of England and Scotland ,
LikeLike
Now, this is News! Are you holding the crown? And thanks for the other facts. Pity we can’t meet them all.
LikeLiked by 1 person
well you can stand next to your 30xgreatgrandfarther he is in a large marble sarcophagus, in st hildas church in Hartlepool, 10 miles from me to view it, I had a lot of information on our line back to William the conquerer, which I cant find, but its fact I have seen the records, that we go back to a sister in law of the William, he had an affair and there was a child, we go back to the sister in law and Williams bastard son, all good stuff joe, so now emley has become part of your ancestry, because josephs dad Thomas and his brother henry my 10xgreatgrandfarther lived at chapel house, I will upload the ancestry that goes back to Robert the bruce, on an email
LikeLike
Hi,Alan hepworth.
You said you knew something about my ancestors!
How did you know?!
And Please tell me in detail!
LikeLike
I love it all, it’s fantastic! would have liked to visit Joe’s Wine Bar or Brasserie for a natter over a glass or two, I look forward to your book
kind regards
Kirsty (now in Lancashire)
LikeLike
Hi, Kirsty.
Do you know anything about Joseph Hepworth’s parents.
Do you also have their family tree?
LikeLike
I was brought up in Leeds and as a young man I had several Hepworth suits made, I think, through a branch in Briggate. Very good service and good suits. The second suit was a Hardy Amies window-pane check- rather loud I would now say. I thought I looked the bees’ knees. Wore the suit to friends’ wedding at Immaculate Heart Church, Harrogate Road. Much to my chagrin, old school friend wore an identical suit!
My wedding suit was made by Willerby- again ordered in Leeds.
Happy days and I was pleased to read the comments above, especially from Joe Hepworth. So much industrial and commercial history has changed drastically during my lifetime.
LikeLike
Hi
Does anybody have or done a family tree for the Hepworth family?
Lawrence Webster
LikeLike
hi Lawrence joseph Hepworth line goes back to Thomas Hepworth1557 this is where our trees meet, Thomas was my 12xgreattgrandfather, and I think josephs 9xgreatgrandfather, from there we both go back to Robert le brus,
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Alan, it’s amazing, well done you for going so far back. We got as far as George and Martha, I don’t have the tree to hand, but thought Joseph’s father was John and a cobbler / shoe maker.
My grandma always said we were also related to Barbara Hepworth sculptor (we were both born in Wakefield). Her parents were Gertrude & Herbert, I think from memory her grandfather was Benjamin. I would love to prove this right somewhere along the line (or wrong for curiosity’s sake). Does anyone know? Friends say we have an uncanny resemblance!
For context, I’m 47 by the way, my Dad Ralph, son of Norris junior is coming up 73. (he’s one of five)
Really interested to read all comments, but especially your research and Joe Hepworth also. Would love to buy your book(s) once published.
I am so proud of what they achieved, and proud to be a Hepworth (until marriage changed it)
thank you all
Kirsty
LikeLike
Hi Kirsty and Ralph
I can send you details and photos of the book which was signed by some of the employees given to Norris Hepworth when they moved to the new factory. I am in Spain for winter but can do this on my return to UK.I also have a complete catalogue of the sale contents of Torridon, Headingly Hall on the 7 and 8 th July 1914. If any of the family have some of the paintings from this sale especially the Grimshaw’s they are worth a lot of money.
I wonder how I may be related to you.
If possible could anybody be prepared to send me details of the Hepworth family tree I would be very grateful.
Thanks
Lawrence Webster
LikeLike
Hi Lawrence,
Sorry for delay, been away & things busy since getting back.
Would really love to see photos of the book, even if next year when you’re back from Spain. I can give you an email address for anything you could share. Also very interested in items they had in Torridon, to put together a sort of social picture of them & the things they owned. I believe there was a fabulous stained glass window internally in the house with a family shield in the art work.
My Dad is on genes re- united and has a family tree on there, if you link up.
Do you know where the name Atack stems from on yours & our side?
My husband proposed to me at the Torridon gate posts, I love them, wish the house still stood.
Kind regards
Kirsty
LikeLike
How far British are his ancestors??
Does anyone know?
LikeLike
hi nick, joseph goes back to my 10xgreat grandfarther in emley,
LikeLike
Hi!
Thank you very much for answering my questions!!
You are a relative of Joseph?!!
I’m very impressed.
And I’m very happy. Do you know anything about Joseph’s parents? Born place, raised place, nationality…
LikeLike
Hi. Alan Hepworth.
Do you have a family tree?
I want to know about Joseph’s parents.
Will you please help me?
LikeLike
Hi all and in particular Alan and Joe,
My name is Ralph Ian Norris Hepworth (born 1947). My daughter Kirsty, who brought this site to my attention has already commented a few times.
My Hepworth line is through Norris 1922, his father Alfred Atack 1893, Norris Rhodes 1852, Joseph 1834, George 1801, John 1769, Paul 1733, John 1685, John 1641 and Johannis 1605. That’s as far back as I got.
I have researched and created a large tree and gathered a good few newspaper cuttings mainly early 1900s and some photos including Joseph and Norris’s houses in Headingley, Leeds. Norris’s house Torridon became WIRA and teacher training college. The gate posts are still standing.
As a Leeds United supporter I have some information about its history and, in particular, links to Norris Rhodes (son of Joseph) who was chairman of then Leeds City in the early 1900s.
I am very interested in the book and would be happy to share any information and hopefully gather some to take my tree further back. All the way to Robert the Bruce or William the conqueror if possible.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi. Ralph Hepworth.
I’m very interested in your research.
There is something I would like you to tell me about Family Tree.
LikeLike
hi rina , did you know one of your ancesters is robert the bruce king of england and scotland
LikeLike
How can I help you.
LikeLike
Hi! Thank you for your reply!
I have a question about Joseph Hepworth’s parents.
I want to know where they were born and their lineage.
I’m sorry if my English is bad.
LikeLike
Hi Rina, I’m happy to share what information I have about Joseph Hepworth.
Before I do, I am aware that there are many Joseph’s on the tree and I am sharing information about my great great grandfather Joseph, born 1834, married Sarah Rhodes and started Hepworths Clothing in 1865. He was born in Lindley, Huddesfield, His parents George (1801) and Martha Morton (1803) according to my information were also born in Lindley, Huddersfield. The line goes back to John Hepworth (1769) married Martha Mallinson (1771); Paul Hepworth (1733) married Mary Horsfall (1735); John Hepworth (1685) married Mary Crowder (1685); John Hepworth (1641) married Judith Dyson (1641) and finally, as far as I have information Johanis Hepworth (1605).
Hope this is useful to you
LikeLike
Hi!! Ralph Hepworth!!^^
Thank you for the information!
It’s really helpful….!!!
So, does Next’s founder Joseph Hepworth have a pedigree of England all the way from his ancestors so far away??
How did you get that family tree?!
It’s really amazing to have that much information…
LikeLike
Ralph, can you please get in touch with me. I’m very interested to read of your Hepworth collection and wonder if among them you might have a copy of a newspaper article about the founder, his problems with the wholesalers and his setting up a cycle manufacturing business (very short lived). I would also like if it be possible to have a photo of Headingly House. Many thanks.
LikeLike
Hi Joseph, your comment yesterday (17 June) refers. I do have a number of newspaper cuttings regarding the Hepworth family, which I got from Leeds City Library (Family History section) many years ago. I don’y however have any related to your specific questions regardong the Bisiness. I do have a photo of Headingley House, where Joseph (the founder) lived. Vry close to Headingley Cricket Ground. If you give me your email address, I will happily sent you a copy. I also have an image of 5 Cromer Terrace, ‘Roseneath’, Leeds, built in 1881/2 for Joseph Hepworth, Can you confirm which Joseph you relate to. I know there are many on my family tree and believe there are 8/9 generations all Josephs. My great great grandfather Joseph (b1834) was the founder of Hepworth clothing and my line goes through Norris, his son. Hope this helps.
LikeLike
Good day, Ralph, dear cousin of mine! We share the same great grandad, I too through Joseph Hepworth, the founder and then his son Joseph who founded Hepworth and Chadwick, Leeds. My email is joehepworth@aol.com. I would very much like to see the photos of the houses. What I would also like to see is a plaque on the wall of the Hollies in Harrogate.
LikeLike
Ralph, I have momentarily lost the family tree and need help, please! Can you tell me the year George, Joe’s father, died.
LikeLike
Hi Joe, according to my records, George, Joseph Hepworth (1834) father born 1801 and died 1865. Hope you are well. How’s the book progressing. May I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Ralph
LikeLike
Thank you Ralph. As the average age of death for someone from the poorer end of society was 25, George had a good innings. I’m now in the mid section with the book. Read about mid sections! This is where many need goading with a sharp pointed stick! By the way have you been to Lindley? Searched for the old man’s house? I think its time we put it on the map – if it still exists – and organise a blue plaque. A very happy Christmas to you, your family, our relatives and every one who was and is anything to to with J Hepworth and Son.
LikeLike
Good Morning Joe, you asked about Lindley, where Joseph (1834) was born. We visted Lindley, a suberb of Huddersfield (M62 side) many years ago as part of my research. I have 2 addresses linked to George, 1841 census – Croft Cottage, Lindley Cum Quarmby and 1851 – West Gate, Lindley Cum Quarmby. Could not find either. We did however find a few gravestones in a cemetary at Salendine Nook, nearby. This information was provided by Gill Marsden back in 2005.I believe you communicated with her arouind that time. Good luck with the mid section! If I can help further, don’t hesitate in asking me.
LikeLike
I have some more information about Norris Rhodes Hepworth, my great grandfather. An extract from Contemporary Biographies – Commercial (don’t know date of publication) states: Educated at Leeds Mechanics Institute. As well as being Chairman and Managing Director of Hepworth and Son Ltd, President of Central Leeds Parliamentary Division (Liberal); member of Leeds City Council; member of M.C.C; Captain of Leeds C.C; founded the old Caledonian C.C; Fellow of Society of Arts; member of the Selection Committee Leeds Infirmary. Travelled world wide and collected Japanese curios. Also Chairman of Leeds City FC 1905 – 1914 (became Leeds United 1920/21). More information on http://www.mightyleeds.co.uk – Chairman – Norris Hepworth.
LikeLike
I joined hepworths in 1970 at truro became manger at Falmouth aged 21 went to claypit lane leeds for cadet training worked at all cornwall branches made redundant 1985 roy evans was dm Plymouth was district office my name graham wright
LikeLike
was your Hepworths Van driver Coathanger / Don Naylor ? He did that run for many years, Because it was a fix run he was able to be a member of the local pub darts team. Dad died earlier this year still recalling Hepworths stories
LikeLike
Angi
In the 60s the regular delivery driver was Terry Heggarty
LikeLike
Graham
As a Devon and Cornwall branch manager just before your time I would appreciate anh names you can remember from that era.
LikeLike
Joined Hepworths as a junior at Leith Street Edinburgh branch in 1966, was interviewed by Alex Pirie who was the Area Manager (later to become the CompanySales Director). The manager was Tom Carlton And then John Ewart. My Area managers were Alex Pirie, David Ewing and Regional Managers were Alex Pirie and Bill McNIcol (don’t remember who was before Alex Pirie) It was a great place to work. I became a cadet manager (their trainee management system) and was promoted to the shop in Alloa in 1970 where after a year moved to Perth and then after 2 years moved to Dundee. John Hamilton (previous contributor) took over from me in Perth. I was the manager in Dundee for 3 years before joining the stock audit department which meant travelling all over Scotland and Northern England. Met Alan Joiner another contributor in Peterhead. I was still with the company when it changed over to Next and after a few years was asked to join the newly created Security department by Brian Ridd who was a great boss. I was there through the really tough times for the company and redundancies were made in the department but luckily I wasn’t one of them and after 39 years in 2005 took early retirement.
LikeLike
Glad to read your comments Ian, you were a very fair person when carrying out your audits both in Peterhead and Kirkwall, times pass very quickly, after leaving Hepworths I was a prison officer for 30 years and for the last four and a half years been with G4S, many memories during my 12 and a half years and noted Tommy Pirie died a few months ago, well into his nineties, anyway, kind regards, Alan.
LikeLike
Hi Ian
Great to read your information. Other people I remember David Loch, Jim Twinning and Colin Groundwater. Any information on the Tom Carlton? Take care. John Hamilton
LikeLike
Hi Ian
Great to read your information. Other people I remember David Loch, Jim Twinning and Colin Groundwater. Any information on Tom Carlton? Take care. John Hamilton
LikeLike
Hi. Alan Hepworth.
Do you have a family tree?
I want to know about Joseph’s parents.
Will you please help me?
LikeLike
Also remembering, Mr McKinley Auditor. When he arrive at the shop great respect was given to him, not to have would have been a mistake.
LikeLike
Remembering, George Jackson Manager of Great Junction Street Leith. He was great Manager and relayed fantastic stories of his experiences in WW2
LikeLike
Anyone have pictures of Hepworth’s window displays in the 1960s?
LikeLike
some photos of shop front still in situ especially glassing bars
LikeLike
You might find some under google/J Hepworth and Son tailoring/ images.
Best wishes
LikeLike
Hepworth’s leith street Edinburgh was a great place to work for me, starting as a junior salesmen in 1965.
LikeLike
My dad Roy Evans was manager of launceston branch then Exeter DM for Devon and Cornwall Mr Murray was area manager Dad closed Tavistock branch when Hepworths closed a lot of Devon and Cornwall branches
LikeLike
I too am a former employee, I joined the company in 1964 straight from school this was in the Devon and Cornwall District and became a branch manager at the Tavistock branch aged 20
I left the company after 6 years but rejoined in the East Midlands area.
I remember the training courses in Leeds staying at the Mount hotel and others.
I remember Mr Hadrick a very nice man and Norman Shuttleworths son was also involved with the company
I can remember the head office bespoke manager was a chap called Gareth Bunn.
A great company
I remember Roy Evans he was my district manager he came from Swansea
LikeLike
Bill Murray remembered too
LikeLike
I remember and worked for your father when he was Devon and Cornwall dm
LikeLike
Hi Wendy
I have a b/w photo of the hepworths annual
Dinner dance, held at the Lewtrenchard Hotel Lifton Devon. I would say it was taken about 1969/70
If I find it, I could email you a copy.regards Steve
LikeLike
Wendy
I have found a b/w photo of the Hepworths annual dinner dance circa 1969 or 70 would you like me to send you a email copy?
Steve Horsfall
LikeLike
Yes, I would. Thank you.
LikeLike
I cannot see, where to send a photo, Wendy
Would you like me to send to your email or maybe WhatsApp
LikeLike
Remembering David Ewing District Manager East of Scotland 1960s -1970s
LikeLike
3 Hepworth’s branches in Edinburgh Leith Street, the Bridges and Great Junction Street
LikeLike
I was lucky enough to join Hepworths transport department in 1979 under Eddie Wilson.
I can remember Angi’s dad Don and uncle Geoff very well, also Laurie Gilbertson and a few of the great drivers like Kevin Rostron, Mel Wainhouse, Les Hart, Gordon Haddow. . I wish I could list more, as these guys were brand ambassadors, getting the suits and stock through whatever the weather, like clockwork.
.As I get towards my retirement, I got thinking about the routes we operated and all the shops on them.
I think my recall is right that there was a shop for each day of the year: 365.
I can remember about half of them reliably and despite trawling t’internet can not find a list.
Hope you can help
LikeLike
I have a list of shops will try & post later or you can send me an email anginaylor@ outlook.com
LikeLike
Big Gordon used to deliver to our branch in Peterhead which was the North of Scotland district, would always have a cup of coffee and a locally made pie after unloading, a really nice guy and I remember his numerous gold rings he used to wear, happy memories 1972 to 1984, thanks for your comments, Alan Joiner, ex manager Kirkwall and Peterhead.
LikeLike
Hi Angi,Thanks for your incredibly quick response, You are a credit to Don andGeoff.
I knew someone would have a list!!, I’ll e-mail you my e-mail. I’m hopeful that as I’m taken back 40 plus years I’ll remember some more of the drivers, as they all need listing!!
Alan,. thanks for quick your response too,
I’ve read your previous posts and am glad you are there for the Hepworth fan club, even though sadly Big Gordy is not.. He was a gentleman, a Scotsman , a persomality, and a safe and considerate driver like all the rest of the guys. I still get up to Fraserburgh very occaisionally , to Gray & Adams..
Look forward to sharing more memories!!
LikeLike
Gordon lived in Bradford and used to come to Calverley to collect Donald on a Sunday as they set out for the 3 day journeys. Gordon also sold me my first guitar ( you can find me on youtube Try Yorksha Couple and when Father painted the parlour – blame Donald ) Always think of Gordon as I drive past his parents house. Geoff’s wife Marion is still in touch with Eddie Wilson wife
LikeLike
I worked at Just Pants Plus in South Shields in 1976 and we were friendly with the manager of Hepworth’s just along the same road and I found out they were part of the same retailers. JP+ was teen fashion and Hepworth’s older tastes. I’m wondering if JP+ was the early template for Next
LikeLike
The template for Next was a company called Pippa Dee. George Davies worked for them. Hepworths senior management admired the colour coordination of the product range so much they employed George and his team to set up Next women. The also purchased Kendall’s “keep you dry” to start the business. The finance for Next expansion came from the sale and leaseback of their freehold Hepworth branches.
LikeLike
Can someone on admin for this site tell me how to load up pictures please Many thanks
LikeLike
Alas, I haven’t found an easy way to let people upload images, but if appropriate I can upload an image on your behalf. Please send as email attachment (as per our previous exchange), and let me know if it should be within the Hepworth post or uploaded as a separate post with a link. Also how you want to be acknowledged.
LikeLike
Hi just thought i would tell u guys there isca facebook page with 18 names on that would be quite interesting to some of u
LikeLike
Hello Les,
Would you be able to take the 18 names you have found on FB and list them on this page please. Angi and I are hoping they are the staff from the transport department. Thanks
LikeLike
I was secretary to Bill McNicol, Frank Moore, Don Lee and Keith Harrison when I started Hepworths Blackett Street,Newcastle upon Tyne from 1960 until 1973.when I was 17 Bill McNicol died Nov. 2019 aged 95 as I kept in touch with him, I also know Frank Moore and Don Lee have also passed away.
It was a great company to work for and all the staff were well trained with the cadet scheme.
Very happy times and great people.
LikeLike
Does anyone remember Ron Topps the window dresser
LikeLike
In the East of Scotland we had a great window dresser called Archie Kesson.
LikeLike
I think Ron was on the East Midlands District in the 1970s
LikeLike
Hi Trev, discovered this site only recently, yes I remember Ron, and my dad, Ray Brett, would have met him many times at the Derby and Burton shops. There was another window dresser also called Ron – Ron Blades – and we fondly remember them both. My dad was with Hepworths from I think the early 70s until 1985; he was initially assistant manager in Derby and then manager at the Burton on Trent shop from its opening in I think the early/mid seventies to closure. I worked as a Saturday lad and summer holiday cover between about 1977/78 and 1983 and occasionally worked in Derby, Litchfield Leicester and Hinkley as well as Burton. Good times fondly remembered. Next time I’m up in Burton I’ll set dad up to contribute to this site.
LikeLiked by 1 person
hi tony, great to hear old names, i worked with your dad at derby, i understand he worked for himself after leaving. ron blades, another great character, had so many ain those days, no wonder it was known as happy heppies.
LikeLike
Hello Hepworths and friends. I’m in northern Ohio and no relation (although my family name is of Yorkshire origins) , but I do own a 1933 MG that was sold new in May of 1933 to J.B. Hepworth of Leeds. It was purchased through Appleyards, and the story with the car was the first owner was in the clothing business.
Does this ring any bells in the Hepworth family history?
Thank you.
LikeLike
Yes! That was my father’s car. Joseph Bulmer Hepworth.
LikeLike
Fascinating! It’s not in brilliant condition, but I plan on restoring over the next few years The UK registration is UG4767. I have no idea how long it’s been in the USA.
Did you see the car before, or know any history of it, or family stories, or how long owned, or – most of all – any old photos?
Many thanks! Tom
LikeLike
Tom. I think it better if we converse by email. Here’s mine joehepworth@aol.com
LikeLike
Jos Hepworth has a monument in Lawnswood Cemetery Leeds, as does Norris. I am researching an Art Fund walk and many oil paintings seem to have been donated to the Leeds Art Gallery by H. M Hepworth in 1923. Is this any relation to Joseph or Norris?
LikeLike
Ann I have list of paintings etc bequeathed to various Leeds Art Gallery and am awaiting another from The Nat Gal.
LikeLike
Pingback: Cash & Co. and Turner Shoes | Building Our Past
I have now finished a brief but interestinng biography on the Founder. Four pages in PDF. If any of you would like a copy please email me at joehepworth@aol.com.
LikeLike
I joined Hepworths as a Saturday job in 1977 at 17 years old in Colchester and that led quickly to a full time sales job. Sadly I was made redundant in 1981. Although it was a relatively short amount of time, it was the most influential time if my life and I owe an awful lot to a a lot of fantastic people who worked there. I can still hear Arthur Haddrick’s voice in my head often after attending a few training courses even though I’m 61 now! His ”revelations” (to me anyway) about human behaviour and asking questions before diving in with what you’ve got to say is so simple but priceless. How lucky was I to have been a small part of a great company.
LikeLike
George Davies (Hepworth, and later Asda) was a fine footballer at non-Leagud level and played for Bangor City for a while in thr 50s or 60s. I have some notes somewhere about him, and IIRC was studying dentistry in Liverpool when playing part-time for Bangor
LikeLiked by 1 person
my father donald percival morris was manger of the bristol store for 30 years
harris morris my older brother was district manager for south wales area then nottingham district manager.
and myself steven morris and my other brother donald morris jnr worked in the bristol store
LikeLike
any body remember derek summers ted lockyer bob prescott
bob prescott was head of the display team
LikeLike
I too am a former employee, I joined the company in 1964 straight from school this was in the Devon and Cornwall District and became a branch manager at the Tavistock branch aged 20
I left the company after 6 years but rejoined in the East Midlands area.
I remember the training courses in Leeds staying at the Mount hotel and others.
I remember Mr Hadrick a very nice man and Norman Shuttleworths son was also involved with the company
I can remember the head office bespoke manager was a chap called Gareth Bunn.
A great company
LikeLike
I love reading all the comments & chat. I believe they were a good employer which I love to hear too.
Any photos anyone has of old stores etc or Mgt team / Hepworth’s please share. Would be great to see.
I’m Kirsty Hepworth, have added comments on this page before. Joseph Snr, founder is my 3x great grandad.
So I love all the anecdotal stuff that you may not find on the Web. I’d love to know more about them as people, friendships, families etc
Hope everyone well & that you enjoyed your time with the company
LikeLike
It really was an ‘institution’ & great to keep it alive
LikeLike
I worked at ARNOTTS in Elgin and bought several made to measure suits from the local Hepworth store in Elgin. The manager of the Hepworth store tried to get me to come and work for him and to the to the day I wish I had done!
Great Suits!
LikeLike
I worked at the Broad Street branch in Reading and joined the company in 1967,the branch manager was Terry Bunce,who thought me every thing I needed to know about sales and good dress sense,the style of clothing was sheer class and in my opinion has never been equaled by any high Street chain,I loved my time there an amazing company to work for.
LikeLiked by 1 person