Compton Mackenzie " Writes-up" Brockhouse IN 1886, in a small shop
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and forge, 'behind a butcher's shop in Harvills Hawthorne, adjoining a tavern, one John Brockhouse with eight men opened his first works, making springs and axles. From those small beginnings arose the now big concern of J. Brock house and Co., Ltd., Victoria Works, Hill Top, West Bromwich. One of the eight workmen is still employed, at the age of 72 years, by the company, the managing director of which is a grandson of the pioneer.
These interesting facts are given in a beautifully produced book, with 24 colour plates, entitled " Brockhouse," which is published by J. Brockhouse
and Ltd.. at the address given above. Co.,'The writer is Compton Mackenzie, the well-known author.
After a brief account of the early effects of the industrial revolution on the Birmingham and West Bromwich area, Mr. Mackenzie deals with the beginnings of the company. There was no lack of competition when John Brockhouse started his enterprise, for there were, 70 years ago 11 spring and axle manufacturers in competition in the Hill Top area. Dealing with the development of the concern, the author gives an interesting account of its various stages of progress, with. some stories of different personalities connected with the company. In 1922, after John Brockhouse had died, his son, John T. Brockhouse, succeeded him as managing director. About that time a difficult period was then encountered. During the general strike of 1926 and the depression of 1931 the new managing director was not dismayed,and continued to improve the equipment and buildings of his factory. ed, A gradual expansion follow as several engineering concerns were acquired. In 1944, John T. Brockhouse died and was succeeded by his son, the present managing director, Mr. John 13rockhouse.
Nowadays, the Brockhouse organization .consists of 25 individual companies, among which may be mentioned Lewin Road Sweepers, Ltd., Victoria Works, Hill Top, West Bromwich, maker of refuse collectors, snow ploughs and other municipal 'vehicles. The growth of the concern from small beginnings is an example of ' what can be achieved through hard work and enterprise, and the story is well told in " Brockhouse."