Webers of Fishponds facts for kids
Webers of Fishponds was a company that made delicious chocolate in Fishponds, a town near Bristol, England. It was once a famous part of Bristol's chocolate-making history.
The Sweet Beginning
A man from Switzerland, Mr. Weber, started his chocolate factory in Fishponds in 1914. He opened it on Goodneston Road. At that time, Bristol was already famous for its chocolate. Other big chocolate companies like Fry's, Carsons, and Cadbury were also there. Webers made different kinds of chocolate, including rich dark chocolate. Mr. Weber was also very interested in radios. He was known as an early radio broadcaster.
From Chocolate to Cannons
Things changed a lot during World War II. In 1941, another company called Thrissells Engineering took over the factory. By January 1942, they started making parts for weapons. They produced breech casings and barrels for Oerlikon 20mm cannons. These cannons were important for defending against enemy aircraft.
At its busiest time during the war, the factory had 420 staff working there. They made over 5,300 guns for the war effort. It is even said that the guns made at this factory helped shoot down 1,026 enemy planes! Even with all the gun production, the factory still made a small amount of chocolate.
After the War
After World War II ended, Mr. Weber's son took charge of the factory. He continued to run it for several years. However, the factory eventually closed its doors in 1964. Today, the land where the factory once stood is owned by a company called Diamonite Aircraft Furnishings.
