The Waring family were in the ropemaking trade. They supplied Warwick Castle for over 130 years. Over those years generations of the family trained young apprentices in the trade.
They made rope and ‘twine sash cords’ that helped sash windows open and close smoothly. They also sold tarpaulins and haywain canvas to local farms. Records show the Waring’s regularly sold Warwick Castle sash cords and rope to repair those at the castle and many different types of brushes.
Tents for hire!
Warings also had a side line offering tents for hire. One record shows they gave a quote to the Mayor of Warwick for the building of a tent at Warwick Castle. It was to measure 200ft by 30ft (60 metres by nine metres). That’s a long tent!
It is likely the tent was hired for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee party at the castle in 1897. Nearly 3,000 school children and teachers from Warwick were invited for a tea party and amusements in the grounds.
30 gallons of milk
Records of the organising committee show 30lbs of tea, 50 loaves of bread, 50lbs of butter and 30 gallons of milk were needed. Teachers from the schools were expected to help and were told what cake they should bake and bring to the party.
What would you have baked for the party?
This article is part of the Through the Shop Window trail showcasing the links between Warwick businesses and Warwick Castle in the 1800s. Supported by The Friends of Warwickshire County Record Office, The Steven Wallsgrove Legacy and Warwick Town Council.
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