Image source: Fortnum & Mason archivist
The records of the founders of Fortnum and Mason are not too clear. In 1707 a William Fortnum is said to have become a footman to Queen Anne and at about the same time to have founded a grocery business in Duke Street jointly with his landlord, Hugh Mason. The first documented reference to the business is in 1756 when it moved premises to Piccadilly.
describes the growth of the business through the involvement of William's grandson Charles (1738-1815) who was footman to Queen Charlotte.
This section lists the memorials where the subject on this page is commemorated:
William Fortnum
From the shop's website: "1964 saw a new landmark added to the front of the ...
Born Scotland.   Emigrated to Canada in 1838 to work with the Hudson's Bay Company.  He worked his way up the company and entered politics, made his fortune and was knighted in 1886.  Died  28 Gros...
Person, Commerce, Philanthropy, Politics & Administration, Canada
Erected at the entrance to the Bishop of London's Park.
Fleet Street. This pub dates from Shakespeare's time. Johnson and Boswell often visited. It was pulled down in 1829 by Hoares to extend their bank.
Founded Foyles Bookshop in 1903.  Born Shoreditch, the 7th child of a 7th child of a 7th child.  William and brother Gilbert opened their first bookshop in Islington, moved to Peckham and then Ceci...
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