David Barbour & Co.

MESSRS. D. BARBOUR & Co., Renfield Works, Pollokshaws, Glasgow.

    The important department of textile industry, represented by Messrs. David Barbour & Co., Chenille and Tapestry Manufacturers, of the Renfield Works, Pollokshaws, has for many generations past found a home in the district of Glasgow, and has, by the vast improvements which have distinguished the application of modern appliances and scientific skill to the various processes of production, obtained a firmly established position in the markets of the world.

    The business conducted by Messrs. Barbour was founded some years ago, and was continued for a considerable period under the style of Barbour and Anderson, which was altered to its present title on the retirement of the latter gentleman. The premises occupied by the firm, and to which they have recently removed, comprise buildings admirably adapted for the trade and combining all the modern improvements which experience suggests for the provision of well-ventilated and healthy workshops for the operatives engaged. The works are entered by a carriage way with gate-keeper’s lodge, and contain suitably appointed offices, packing and dispatch departments, and finely decorated show and stock rooms, lighted from the roof and fitted throughout with stained and varnished wood panels, partitions, and counters, the whole having an effective and pleasing appearance. The operative departments are conducted in large weaving sheds containing about 100 hand and steam power looms, and are now in the course of fitting up further looms, and are provided with every convenience adapting them for the extensive trade of the firm.

    A large staff of hands is employed in the several branches of production, which include the manufacture of the finest qualities of tapestries in the richest combinations, which for artistic designs and beauty of colouring are unrivalled by any maker in the trade ; Chenille table covers and upholsterings, silk and Madras curtains, and goods of similar texture. The firm are now engaged in producing an entirely new range of designs in Chenilles by first-class artists, for the season’s trade, which will sustain the high reputation of the firm in this class of goods and fully justify the leading position they enjoy in the markets of the world. An extensive and valuable connection has been established by the firm, who number on their books the principal buyers throughout the Kingdom ; and they also cultivate, with marked success, a considerable foreign export trade.

    Messrs. Barbour obtained awards of gold medals for the excellence of their exhibits at Paris (GrandPrix), 1878, and Melbourne, 1881, and in conclusion we may add that their London showrooms, situated at 2, Paternoster Square, E.C., will be found convenient for Metropolitan buyers, while their telegraphic addresses, “Lightful”, London, and “Renfield”, Pollokshaws, will place clients at a distance in prompt communication with the firm.

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