Orchard, James

28 King Street, Soho, London; upholder, cabinet maker and undertaker (fl. 1805–33)

The 28 King Street address appears to have been used throughout the life of this business but in 1821 and 1823 one directory lists the number as 30. Another directory in 1826 lists George Yard, Crown Street, Soho.

The business was fairly substantial in size and insurance cover in April 1805 was £1,000 and in April 1806, £1,250. Of these sums £770 and about £1,000 respectively concern utensils and stock in trade [The London Archives (TLA), Sun MS vol. 434, ref. 775612; vol. 437, ref. 787828]. A workshop was maintained behind the dwelling house.

The business had a number of important clients. In 1820 it was patronised by the 4th Marquess of Londonderry in connection with the furnishing of Wynyard Park, County Durham and entries are recorded in the Chatsworth, Derbyshire accounts for every year from 1822 to 1833 [Durham Record Office, D/LO/E 492].

Source: DEFM