This firm, which was one of the first of its kind in Christchurch, was founded by the senior partner in 1860. Mr. Fletcher was born in the centre of the woollen industry in the west of England, at Stroude, Gloucestershire, where he served his apprenticeship. He arrived in Christchurch just after the eighth anniversary of the province, and opened a shop on the site still occupied by the firm, and has seen the growth and development of the city. His son, Mr. H. J. Fletcher, after serving an apprenticeship to the practical part of the business, went to London in 1889 to gain experience in cutting … Messrs. Fletcher and Son are direct importers, and their experience of the English woollen trade brings them in touch with the best mills. The total number of hands employed by the firm is twenty-five, and none but experienced cutters and workmen are engaged.
The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Canterbury Provincial District] The Cyclopedia Company, Limited, 1903, Christchurch. NZETC
— — — — —
We have digitised a rather splendid 1902 publication Tourists’ guide to Canterbury.
I will share some of the interesting ads and pictures from it in a series of posts – there’s lots of information about local businesses and places in 1902.
Christchurch City Libraries Blog 