Wilson and Galt

MESSRS. WILSON & GALT, Cabinet and Chair Makers, Crummock Park Works, Beith, Ayrshire.

    The great development of the manufacture of furniture in Beith during the last thirty years is one of the most marvellous facts in the history of northern industry. Though the career of the present firm takes us back only about ten years, still, from the enterprise and ability of its management, it ranks among the foremost and most notable concerns associated with the industry.

    The firm possess very large facilities for the successful carrying on of their enterprise : such as large and suitable premises extending over an acre, a splendid staff of skilled workers, and a special plant of improved wood-working appliances. The machinery merits special attention, but we cannot afford space for a description of the many ingenious features embodied in the various shaping and fitting appliances. The larger part of the machinery is situated on the ground floor of the main factory, which is a substantial building of three storeys. The second floor contains the chair factory, and the third the carving shop. Alongside is the timber-drying store, 60 feet long, heated by steam pipes, where the final drying of the prepared materials is carried out ; and over this is the store for manufactured goods, the sand-papering, polishing, and upholstery shops, through which the steam-heating apparatus also runs. There is also a second carving shop, engine and boiler house, and the usual timber sheds and timber yards. The handsome suite of business and private offices occupies the neat building at the entrance.

    The stock of fancy woods held is of great magnitude, and includes all the finest home and foreign hard-woods. It will thus be evident that Messrs. Wilson and Galt occupy a favourable position for conducting their special industry, and own one of the most complete and most thoroughly founded concerns of the kind. They are particularly celebrated for their high-class chairs, artistically designed and carved, and for their dining-room suites. The designs shown are of special merit, and represent the work of all the best epochs, including many exquisite modern types. No trouble or expense is spared to secure the best designs ; this being now a main factor in the success of the trade, owing to the rapid growth of a better taste among the public.

    We need hardly say that the firm hold the highest rank as manufacturers, and enjoy a valuable trade connection all over North Britain. Both partners are experts, and have introduced the most perfect organisation into all departments. Their business is expanding steadily, and with the resources at their disposal, Messrs. Wilson and Galt have evidently a brilliant future to look forward to during the second decade of the career of their important and well-managed enterprise. We may note, in conclusion, that their working staff numbers some sixty hands.

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