George Shortland (c.1781-1856) was listed in 1825 as a maker of lock, sneck, and spoon knives in Coalpit Lane.  He was probably the son of George Shortland, a labourer.  In 1796, George Shortland began his apprenticeship to John Hasland, a knife maker in Heeley, and became a Freeman in 1814.   He manufactured pen and pocket knives in Coalpit Lane until 1837, when the enterprise was listed as George Shortland & Son, based in Carver Street.  His son (by his wife, Sarah) was George Shortland (1805-1877), who may have been granted his Freedom in 1862.   George Shortland Sen., Rockingham Street, died on 11 August 1856, aged 75, and was buried in the General Cemetery.   By 1861, his son George was living in Artisan View in Heeley and employing seven men in the Carver Street business.  He retired in about 1870 and lived with his daughters in Albert Road, Heeley.  He died on 1 April 1877, aged 72, and was buried in the unconsecrated section of the General Cemetery.