19th Century

The 19th century was a good time to be a printer, and there were many in towns and cities across most of Europe. Print was increasingly important for all sorts of communication and social affairs. Above all, it became an integral element of the Industrial Revolution. Printed documents in many forms underpinned production, employment, marketing, sales, etc. William Pollard & Co was one of many successful printers of the era, and surviving records show that the company made a wide range of contributions to administration, agriculture, commerce, tourism, education, etc. The business was led first by William Carss Pollard and then by his son, William Pollard. However, in 1885, William died leaving seven young children and no immediate successor. This was the first major challenge for the survival of the family business. Emma, William’s sister, stepped in to organise new managers …. and trading continued.

Our History / 19th Century