The Jonathan Fallowfield Photographic Chemical and Material warehouse was established in 1856 by Jonathan Fallowfield, located at the Lower Marsh, Wakley Street, Lambeth. Jonathan Fallowfield was a chemist by trade who focused on selling chemicals and materials required for early photography. He had a reputation for hard work and was well respected in the community.

In 1860 Fallowfield began an annual publication called Fallowfields Photographic Annual. It was a comprehensive list of chemical and materials. It was well known for being the most complete guide of photographic chemical, materials and apparatus in the world. By 1900 the publication peaked in size and contained 880 pages and 1620 illustrations.

In 1888 the business was purchased by F. W. Hindley. Mr. Hindley expanded the firms photographic offering to include cameras made from independent manufactures with the Fallowfield name on it.

In 1889 Fallowfield received the rights to market the Facile camera, which was designed and patented by Frank Miall. The Facile detective camera proved to be a significant success. It was noted that the camera export business was strong in this period.

In 1890 the business moved to 146 Charing Cross Road, London and continued to expand the camera and products offered.

In the 1890s Fallowfield became noted as a specialist in Ferrotype cameras. The Firm was one of the first to usher in the use of automatic ferrotype cameras by providing new cameras that facilitated the ease of the photo development process. Fallowfield introduced several Ferrotype cameras including the Takuquick, Taquta, and Popular Ferrotype.

By 1919 the sale of Fallowfield labeled cameras diminish, however the business continued to sell other manufacturers equipment and photographic materials.

In 1921 the business incorporated and became Jonathan Fallowfield Ltd.

In 1923 the business moved to xxx and later began to sell radios.

During the 1950s the business continued mainly with wholesale and exports.

In 1987 the business became part of Sangers Photographic Wholesale Ltd.


Ref:
Encyclopedia of Nineteenth-Century Photography Dec. 2010, M. Pritchard
British Journal Almanac, 1910, 1913 & 1926
The Year Book of Photography, 1900

CLICK HERE for a list of Jonathan Fallowfield cameras.

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2011-06-19 00:00:00