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We’ve been manufacturing padlocks in the West Midlands since the 18th century, so we’re always interested in hearing about locksmithing history from our local area.
We were excited to learn that our friend Nick Fothergill, owner of Stanford Hall in Leicestershire, discovered a fascinating piece of locksmithing history - a heritage padlock that likely dates back to the 1890s.
The padlock, believed to be made by Abraham Thompson, was manufactured in Willenhall, just a stone’s throw from our original HQ. It’s thought to have been purchased by Nick’s great, great grandfather, Alfred Lord Braye and was initially used to protect the 700-acre estate of Stanford Hall.
It was later used as a makeshift steering wheel lock to protect Lord Braye’s Wilson Pilcher car in the early 1900s. At the time, vehicles were much easier to start, and therefore steal, than modern cars, so this padlock was combined with a chain to prevent the car from being driven away - a great example of innovative early car security.
From London to Japan
What makes this story even more incredible is that this padlock, thought to have originally been used in Hyde Park Road, London, was later taken on a trip all the way from the capital to Japan. That’s just over 8,000 miles - a huge journey by car, especially in the early 1900s when roads were less developed.
Lord Braye and his family would’ve battled the challenges of crossing multiple countries, traversing different, often unpredictable weather conditions and navigating the ferry crossings along the way.
Each leg of the journey would’ve presented different challenges, from rough roads to fluctuating weather, but Lord Braye and his family managed to carry this trusty padlock along for the ride. It’s a fascinating piece of history that ties together adventure and security.
Who’s who in the picture?
In the photo below, you’ll see Alfred Lord Braye and Lady Cecilia Braye in the front seat, alongside their two daughters - The Honourable Sissi Wyatt Edgell and The Honourable Vera Wyatt Edgell.
Standing beside the car is the estate groom and chauffeur, though his name unfortunately remains a mystery. It’s a great snapshot of a time when security was in its early stages, and also a rare glimpse into the personal lives of those who lived at Stanford Hall.
A glimpse into the past of security
This padlock is a fantastic example of how far we’ve come with security. While today’s padlocks are often small and lightweight, this Abraham Thompson padlock is much bulkier, with a solid build that shows how locksmithing and security technology has evolved over the years.
It’s incredible to think that this simple yet sturdy padlock protected not only property but also early vehicles, showing how security was woven into everyday life long before modern innovations.
Visit Stanford Hall
If you’re intrigued by this fascinating piece of history, you can see the padlock in person at Stanford Hall. The estate is open to the public on selected dates only, so please check their website before you travel. At Stanford Hall, you’ll not only be able to see the padlock, but also the Percy Pilcher Aviation collection, which displays a working replica of ‘The Hawk’, the glider designed by the pioneer who sadly died at Stanford Hall. Visitors to Stanford Hall can also view the Hilditch Porcelain Tea Ware Collection, which were a speciality in Victorian times.
To learn more about Stanford Hall, visit: stanfordhall.co.uk
To check out our range of padlocks, visit: squirelocks.co.uk
