© Ken Hawley Collection Trust - K.2349
Benjamin Harral was a watchmaker, jeweller, and silversmith. His ‘Ring Shop’ was where generations of Barnsley people bought their engagement and wedding rings. Its origins can be traced to Edward Harral (1850-1927), a Barnsley pawnbroker, clother, and jeweller. In 1905, he launched Harral’s Stores Ltd, with £10,000 capital. At his death in 1927, he left £11,144. In 1898, his son, Benjamin (1876-1971), established his own jewellery business. In 1906, he moved into The Ring Shop, which was on Eldon Street, Barnsley. Its large outside clock and elaborate window displays made it a local attraction. Its cutlery was made in Sheffield and branded with the Harral name. In 1929, the firm – which had another branch at Mexborough – was registered as Benj. Harral Ltd, with £5,000 capital. Apparently, Benjamin Harral served on the premises until the day before his death on 24 April 1971. He left £31,848. The Ring Shop on Eldon Street closed in 1985.
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