In 1852 the firm of Burfield and Rouch was established by Henry Burfield and William White Rouch for the purpose of supplying instruments for chemistry and the optical trade. Prior to this partnership, Burfield and his predecessors had an established business as a practicing chemist since 1831. The new business of Burfield and Rouch moved into Burfield's established business located at 180 Strand, (corner of Norfolk Street) London, W.C.

Turn of the century advertisements state that W.W. Rouch & Co. was originally established in 1854. This may indicate the introduction of photographic camera equipment by the Burfield & Rouch firm, because 1852 advertisements only indicate photo chemicals were being sold.

On the 24th of January 1856, a formal partnership deed was executed between Burfield and Rouch. Burfield with this deed bestowed one-half of the good-will and stock of the business to Rouch, except the building lease, which was to remain Burfields, however the business would pay the rent. The agreement stipulated that they two would become partners for fourteen years.

In 1858 Rouch patents and introduces a registered portable tent that could be carried in a box.

In early 1859 The firm introduces a new tent design and new folding camera. This design uses the camera as a base to insert rods that holds a light proof covering for field work. The weight of the covering and rods is an extra 5 lbs.

On December 29th, 1859 the Burfield and Rouch partnership was officially dissolved. The reasons are unknown.

In 1862, the two partners enter into a law suit over the house lease of the building. Rouch argues that when the partnership was formed with a one-half split, that the building was to be included. Burfield argues that it was not included since it was his prior the formation of the partnership some 24 years. Rouch wins and the case ruling is used in subsequent partnership disputes.

In 1863 Rouch Changed the name of the business to W.W. Rouch & Co.

In 1888 Samuel W. Rouch, believed to be Williams' brother, patents the very successful Eureka camera.

In 1894 the business moved to 161 Strand, London WC.

In 1898 W.A. Rouch son of William W. Rouch takes over the business after Samuel W. Rouch's death.

Ref:
1852, Aide-mémoire to the military sciences, p122
1858, A dictionary of photography, by T. Sutton
1862, Reports of cases in Chancery page 241-242
1898 Process Engravers Photogram, page 237



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2019-01-23 18:45:40