Charles Wells (brewer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Wells
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| Born | 13 August 1842 |
| Died | 1 April 1914 (aged 71) Bedford, England
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| Nationality | British |
| Known for | Founder of Charles Wells Ltd Progenitor of the Wells Baronets |
Captain Charles Wells (born August 13, 1842 – died April 1, 1914) was a British businessman. He founded Charles Wells Ltd, which grew into a very large family-owned brewery in the United Kingdom. He also started the family line known as the Wells baronets of Felmersham.
Contents
Life Story of Charles Wells
Early Life and Sea Adventures
Charles Wells was born on August 13, 1842. He was the second son of George Wells, who was a cabinetmaker. Charles left Bedford Modern School when he was fourteen years old. He then went to sea, joining the shipping company Wigrams. He started as a midshipman on a ship called the Devonshire.
Charles worked hard and became a captain on December 16, 1868. He was even offered the chance to command Wigrams's first steamship.
A New Path: From Sea to Business
In the early 1870s, while he was on leave from his sea duties, Charles met Josephine Grimbly. They became engaged. Josephine's father liked Charles, but he wanted Charles to leave the sea. He felt it was too dangerous a job.
So, Charles decided to find a new career. In 1872, Charles and Josephine got married. They had five sons and three daughters. One of their sons, Richard Wells, later became a baronet, which is a special title given by the King or Queen.
Starting a Brewery Business
In 1876, Charles Wells started a new business. He bought a brewery and a malt house in Horne Lane, Bedford. He also bought thirty-five pubs that were connected to the brewery. He bought all these at an auction in December 1875. Charles then sold off the part of the business that dealt with coal. This was the beginning of his famous brewery company.
Community Role and Business Growth
Charles Wells also became involved in his local community. In 1903, he joined the Bedford Borough Council, which is like a local government. He served on the council until 1909.
Charles wanted his sons to be part of the family business. Four of his sons became partners in the brewery. They had to agree to live in Bedford, Charles's hometown. By 1910, the business was officially registered as a private company. It was worth a lot of money and owned 140 pubs.
Charles Wells passed away in Bedford on April 1, 1914. He is buried at the Foster Hill Cemetery in Bedford.
Images for kids
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The grave of Charles Wells, at Foster Hill Cemetery, Bedford.
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