Albert Ernest Beatson was born in 1873, the son of Sandy Beatson a partner in William Beatson & Son, Albion Works, Fitzwilliam Street.  In the 1881 Census Albert is working with his younger brother, Sandy, both having followed their father into Cap and Ferrule manufacture.  Albert's father, Sandy, committed suicide at his home in 160 Fitzwilliam Street in 1881 following the dissolution of his partnership with his brothers (Sheffield Daily Telegraph 25 June 1881 p12).

In 1895 Alfred married Laura Florence Braham (the daughter of a Table Blade Forge Cutler) and continued in the trade, living at 217 Springvale Road.  The 1911 Census describes Albert as a 'White Metal Handle Maker' and is included in White's and Kelly's Directories for 1911, 1923 and 1919.  The 1939 England and Wales Register lists Alfred as Cutlery Handle Maker still living at 217 Springvale Road

Albert, aged 72, died in 1945 and was buried at City Road Cemetery, aged 72, while his wife Laura died in 1979 aged 102!