Richard Tapper Cadbury facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Richard Tapper Cadbury
Cadbury in 1840.
Born	1768 likely Exeter
Died	13 March 1860 Birmingham
Nationality	British
Occupation	Draper
Spouse(s)	Elizabeth Head
Children	James Cadbury Ann Cadbury Maria Cadbury Lucretia Cadbury Sarah Cadbury Emma Cadbury Joel Cadbury Elizabeth Cadbury Richard Cadbury Benjamin Cadbury John Cadbury

Richard Tapper Cadbury (1768 – 13 March 1860) was an important English businessman. He was a draper, which means he sold cloth and fabrics. Richard Cadbury was also an abolitionist, someone who worked to end slavery. He was also a philanthropist, meaning he gave money and time to help others.

In 1794, he moved to Birmingham. There, he started a business selling linen with a friend. This friend was also a Quaker, a member of a Christian group known for its peaceful beliefs. Richard's son, John Cadbury, later started a tea and coffee business. This small business eventually grew into the famous Cadbury's chocolate company. Many members of the Cadbury family became important in business and charity. They were known for their wealth and new ideas, especially in making chocolate.

Richard Cadbury's Early Life and Business

Richard Cadbury was born around 1768 in Exeter, England. His father made a type of fabric called serge. Richard learned the drapery trade by working for a draper in Gloucester. After that, he worked for other drapers in the town.

In 1794, Richard started his own business in Birmingham. He partnered with Joseph Rutte. Later, in 1824, Richard helped his son John start a new business. This business sold tea and coffee right next door. It later became known as Barrow's Stores. Richard's other son, Benjamin, took over the main drapery business in 1829. This allowed Richard to focus more on helping others.

Richard Cadbury was not just a businessman. He also got involved in community work. He served on the board of the Birmingham General Hospital. He also helped at the Eye Hospital. Richard was also part of the Town Council, helping to make decisions for the city.

Fighting Against Slavery

Richard Cadbury was very active in the movement to end slavery. This movement is called abolitionism. In 1840, he went to a big meeting called the World Anti-Slavery Convention. This event took place at Freemasons' Hall, London in London. People from many different countries came together to discuss how to stop slavery.

There is a famous painting that shows all the important people at this meeting. It is now displayed in the National Portrait Gallery. Richard Tapper Cadbury can be seen in the painting. He is at the very back of the crowd. His portrait is one of the smallest ones in the picture.

Family Life

In 1796, Richard Cadbury married Elizabeth Head. She was from Ipswich. Two years later, his business partnership with Joseph Rutte ended. Richard and Elizabeth had ten children together. Their children were John, James, Ann, Maria, Lucretia, Sarah, Emma Joel, Elizabeth Head, Richard, Benjamin Head, and Joel. Elizabeth also helped run the family business when Richard was away. They lived in a large house in the center of the city.

Richard Cadbury's Later Years

Richard Cadbury passed away in 1860. This was the same year that his son John Cadbury stopped working closely with his brother. Soon after, John left his business for his own sons to manage.