Information needed on lock maker, J.T Needs

lorddlm2

Hi there

I am doing research on the English lock maker J.T Needs and I am struggling to find any answer to two questions:

What do the initials ‘J.T’ stand for?
What year did he establish his business?

I know that he took over Bramah circa 1871, but there is almost no information about him before that date.

If anyone could help me, I would be so thankful.

Many thanks

Scott Klemm

J.T. Needs Co. was the sole representative and manager for the Bramah lock company between 1874 and 1901. I have a padlock from this era, and it’s marked on the back “Bramah & Co., 100 New Bond by late J.T. Needs.” The key is marked simply “N. & Co.” In 1901 Bramah was bought by the Whitfield Safe & Lock Company. Sorry, but I don’t know what the initials J.T. stand for. I hope this helps a little.
Scott

lorddlm2

Hi there Scott

Thank you so much for answering me. So are you saying that Needs & Co didnt exist in their own right before being a part of Bramah in 1874?

Many thanks

Scott Klemm

I can’t say for sure, but my inability to find any earlier mention of this company suggests that they were not in the lock making business prior to acquiring Bramah.
Scott

lorddlm2

Hi there Scott

Thank you again for your help. This info is extremely helpful