Number 7 on our Photographic Tiverton Trail is based at 2 Bridge Street, now home to Unite Carers in Mid Devon. The image shows the building when it was occupied by Henson’s tailors and outfitters. We know that Henry Henson’s business was in operation by 1880 as we hold some trade receipts in the museum’s collection, although it was then listed as being at 1 Bridge Street. It’s possible he moved, but by 1897 he was based at 2 Bridge Street. Henson & Co Ladies and Gentlemen’s tailors were still in the building in 1947. While his tailoring business is more well known for its place in Tiverton, Henson eventually expanded to Cathedral Yard in Exeter where two of his sons Arthur and Messrs took the lead.
We hold another photo in the collection of Henson’s; the sign is the same but there is more stock put out on show for the photograph. We also hold a couple of hat brushes advertising the business which shows that they also sold hats.
On 24th October 1881, Henson’s house in St Paul’s Square caught fire and according to the Western Times, ‘Considerable damage was done’. Luckily despite the fire, they were still able to stay nearby and moved to No.4 in St Paul’s Square.
Our Research Library has reports from the Devon and Somerset Times and they reveal that whilst being a prolific businessman, Henry Henson also had many connections within Tiverton aside from tailoring. Henson was part of the Tiverton Town Council for 9 years as well as the deacon and the oldest trustee of the Tiverton Baptist Church as of 1933. Furthermore, he was also the Secretary for Ash Thomas Baptist Church as well as the Chairman of the churches around Tiverton and Bampton. He became he Vice-President of Tiverton Bowling Club.
His dedication to his town was matched with his dedication to his wife, Mary Henson, when they celebrated their Diamond Anniversary on the 31st May 1933. The couple received congratulations from Queen Elizabeth II and King Philip as well as Mayor and Mayoress of Tiverton.
Henry Henson died 23rd November 1933 and his funeral took place 30th November 1933 at Tiverton Baptist Church. He was survived by his widow, Mary and 11 children; 2 daughters and 9 sons. However, before his death, one son, Cecil died in the Great War in France, while another, Lieutenant Sam Henson, was injured whilst serving with the Canadian army. His tailoring business in Tiverton was taken over by his son-in-law Mr. H. Marley and continued on into the Second World War.
Written by Museum Volunteer, Em