The final years
In 1779, Thomas died and there followed yet another dispute between his two sons Henry and William who were due to inherit the works. Henry moved to Birmingham where he worked with a long established japanning firm, John Taylor & Co. which had been in business since 1740. William continued to run the business alone and because of his natural ability as a salesman, he was nicknamed 'Billy the Bagman'.
The midland manufactories had now come into their own, producing excellent quality Japanware in direct competition to the Pontypool factories. The rival factory at Usk was also still in production. To meet this competition, William planned to increase production, cut costs and improve quality. There were new markets waiting for the finished products in France, Holland and America. The durable nature of the products meant that carrying it over long distances was not a problem.
Examples of Pontypool ware of this period can therefore be found in the large houses of the eastern seaboard. Paul Revere, a silver smith in peaceful times, but noted for his role in the American war for independence, sold japanned wares from his Boston shop.
This increase in production under William called for new and larger premises. The works became divided between two premises in Crane Street. Upper Crane Street then became known as Japan Street.
Sadly, due to family disputes, the Pontypool factory declined, and by 1817 it had closed. In 1926 the Pontypool factory (now derelict) was demolished. There is little left to remind us of a business that became world famous for the beautiful things it made.
Follow this link to read an Extract from 'The Local Register' or 'Chronology of Pontypool'.