Manufacturer McClary Manufacturing Company, Colonel Gartshore's Residence, "Beechwood", 80 Ridout Street South

McClary Manufacturing Company Picnic

DateEarly 1900s

DimensionsOverall: 43.2 x 53 cm

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Edna Cleghorn, London, Ontario, 1960

Object number1960.046.001

Label TextHere, employees of the McClary Manufacturing Company enjoy a picnic at Beechwood, the home of McClary executive, Colonel William Gartshore. In 1852, John McClary (1829-1921) and his older brother Oliver (1818-1902) opened J. & O. McClary, a tinsmith shop in London. Over the years, the McClary Manufacturing, Company produced a vast array of high-quality items, including cast iron stoves, copper kettles, and decorative enamelware. The company took advantage of every opportunity to trumpet the quality and range of their products. From match holders to ashtrays to toys, their goods reminded customers of the McClary name and reputation. In 1876, Gartshore joined the company. After John McClary's death in 1921, Gartshore became company president. In 1927, the McClary Manufacturing Company merged with four others to become General Steel Wares. Its London plant closed in the mid-1970s.

NamePhotograph