Yorkshire Philosophical Society

Event Information

The Varvill family: 19th century entrepreneurs

David Harbourne, YPS Chair

On 2 December, Richard Varvill will deliver a YPS lecture about his work on cutting-edge engines which – had they gone into production – would have ushered in a new era of hypersonic travel.

It just so happens that Richard’s ancestors were pillars of the York economy throughout the 19th century. David Harbourne researched the Varvill family for a book published by Clements Hall History Group, Micklegate: the Great Street of York.

This Zoom lecture will tell their story.

Michael Varvill started a plane-making business in York in the late 18th century. His sons subsequently expanded the business in three directions. Summers Varvill built a factory, the Ebor Works, where he made a wide range of wood-working tools. Michael junior became a plumber, glazier and gas fitter: his firm installed gas lighting in York Theatre Royal among many other places. Robert Varvill expanded the retail and wholesale side of the business, building a five-storey emporium which towered over Ouse Bridge. He also took over the tool-making business after Summers’ death, moving production to a new factory in North Street.

This lecture will be held on Zoom at 7.30pm.   Everyone on the YPS mailing list will receive the Zoom invitation a couple of days before the event.