101 High Street
This property was researched by John Thurston
The present building dates from the 1860’s when it was built by George Handscombe Miller. It is presumed there were no buildings previously at this end of the High Street.The first occupant was Thomas Morton, an Ironmonger and Brasier who was on site in 1861.By 1864 Howe and Company , Grocers and Tea Dealers have taken over and possibly stay until the mid to late 1860’s.
In 1871 John Thomas Swinnock, a Stationer and Toy Dealer, is in residence with his family. They stay until the early 1880’s.Mrs Maria Merrie, also a Stationer and Toy Dealer, appears on Trade Directories from 1885 until 1891.
In 1892 there is a change of usage when Ernest Alfred Taylor, a Shoe and Boot maker takes over.The building is altered in 1904 converting a sitting room into a new shop [BorBP4439].
Alterations to 101 High Street, Bedford for E Taylor, 1904 [BorBP4439]
The business will remain on site for 82 years until 1974. During this period, from 1932 – 1965, the premises are partially sub let (address 101A) to single individuals.
From 1974 – 1976 the site operates as K Shoe Shop.
In more recent times the building has been a Ladies Clothier (2008 – “Jinx”) and an Off Licence (2021 “Robins Off Licence”).
Summary of Occupiers
Early 1860’s: Shop built by George Handscombe Miller
1861 – C1863: Thomas Morton, Ironmonger and Brasier
1864 – C 1869: Howe and Company, Grocers and Tea Dealers
1871 – 1881: John Thomas Swinnock, Stationer and Toy Warehouse
1885 – 1891: Mrs Maria Merrie, Stationer and Toy Warehouse
1892 – 1974: Ernest Alfred Taylor, Shoe and Boot Maker
1932 – 1934: 101A Mrs Sophie Margaret Ainslie
1936 – 1938: 101A Gilbert Martin Nind
1939: 101A Herbert James Jauncey
1949/50: 101A Donald F Perkins
1959: 101A R C Allen, Turf Commission Agent
1961: 101A Reginald Callow, Turf Commission Agent
1963: 101A Empty
1965: 101A Donald Cornelius, Chartered Accountant
1965: 101A Bedford Town F.C. Office (Donald Cornelius)
1965: 101A Dinaden Investments Ltd, Investment Office
1974 – 1976: K Shoe Shop
2008: Jinx , Ladies Clothier
2021: Robins Off Licence
See here for a more detailed list of owners and occupiers of 101 High Street, Bedford.