The Ball brothers were James (1848-1904) and William (1850-1920), who began business in about 1883.  Their father was James Ball (1824-1902), a scythe maker and local lay preacher, who had co-founded Burgon & Ball, the well-known makers of sheep shears (see Charles Burgon).  Ball Bros, which was based at Globe Works, Penistone Road, also made patent sheep shears.  In 1895, James retired and died at Seacombe, Birkenhead, on 18 May 1904, leaving £1,168.  The firm continued at Globe Works under William.  After his death on 22 June 1920 (leaving £7,236), his son, James William Ball (c.1871-1930) was the senior partner.  By then the firm was producing swords and general cutlery.  In 1953, the assets and trade mark (a cutlass with the word ‘SUCCESS’) were acquired by the neighbouring firm of George Barnsley.