Edward Oakes & Son
In 1817, Edward Oakes was described as a factor in Orchard Street. By 1822, Edward Oakes & Son was listed in Orchard Lane as a merchant and manufacturer of pen, pocket, table knives, and razors, Orchard Lane. The founder, Edward Oakes, died on 30 August 1826, aged 75. His obituarist remarked: ‘One of his late departed associates had not inaptly called him the “laughing philosopher”, as his risible faculties might be truly said to be in almost perpetual motion amongst a larg....
