73 High Street Bedford

This property was researched by John Thurston. 

 73 High Street (Alexandre Ltd, tailors), 24 May 1972, [ref: BorBPH3/124]

First mentioned in 1847 when James Apthorpe, a Grocer, was resident. (It is also likely that it was a Grocers prior to this date with more than half a dozen Grocers shown in this part of the High Street).

A succession of Grocers would then occupy the premises right up until 1955. The building was rebuilt in C1958 and then became Alexandre Ltd, Tailors, who stayed until 1976.

In more recent times the building has housed the AA (1983), Toymaster (2008) Evans (Ladies Wear) 2009, Sports Trader, Sports Wear shop (2012 – 2015) and today is Sundaes Gelato, Ice Cream Parlour (2018 – 2024)

Summary of Occupiers

c.1847 – 1876: James Apthorpe, Grocer, Tea Dealer and Tallow Chandler

1881 – 1901: Arthur Jelley, Grocer and Wine Merchant

1902 – 1930: Jelley and Clarke, Grocers

1931 – 1955: Grimbly, Hughes and Co Ltd, Grocers and Provisions Merchant

c.1957: Bedfordshire Central Supplies Stores & Bedfordshire Road Safety Committee (Prior to Sale)

c.1958: Building Rebuilt

1959 – 1976: Alexandre, Tailors

1983: AA

2008: Toymaster

2012 – 2015: Sports Trader

2017: EMPTY

2018 – 2023: Sharps Bedrooms

2024: GDK - German Doner Kebab

For a full list of occupants of 73 High Street see here