Brandy Snap Maker

[HeidiR]

Hello
I am trying to find some informaiton on my GG Grandfather
I have found him on the 1881 / 1891 and 1901 Census and his is listed as follows:
1881 - Confectioner (Wholesale)
1891 - Confectioner
1901 - Brandy Snap Maker
His wife was listed as a Baker
Does anyone know anything about bakers / Confectioners and more interestingly Brandy Snap Makers ??

Many thanks
Heidi

[Jane Gee]

Hallo Heidi
I am sure there is a society of master bakers and this started around 1881 if you google it you should find something. I am sure I emailed them sometime ago but cant find the details sadly mine died in the 1870's so they couldnt help.
Best Wishes
Jane

[Lizzy9]

Hello Heidi,

You may find this site interesting.

http://www.accessdbdev.com/FoxBiscuitsStory.htm

[blue wren]

Hi HeidiR:)

Some of my ancestors were Bakers/Confectioners from Redditch in Worcestershire so I have a common interest. You might want to check out these two sites

http://www.hovisbakery.co.uk/pdf/Hovis%20History.pdf |book| and

http://www.bakeryinfo.co.uk/news/fullstory.php/aid/882/History_in_the_bakery.html

The first is specific to Hovis but is very thorough in British baking history and the second is more of a time line. I am sure you will find something of interest that will give you some background information at either or both sites.

Regards
Blue Wren;)

[HeidiR]

Hello
Many thanks for the links - all very interesting and certainly lots of information to read and absorb and help me understand my ancestors and their work more
Thanks again

[HeidiR]

There seemed to be a surge in confectioners around 1880's does anyone know why ?
Was it anything to do with Great Exhibition in London in 1851 ?

[Jan1954]

There seemed to be a surge in confectioners around 1880's does anyone know why ?
Was it anything to do with Great Exhibition in London in 1851 ?Sugar Tax.

In 1874 the British Government abolished the tax and brought sugar prices within the means of the ordinary citizen. :)

[HeidiR]

Thanks Jan1954
That makes sense - I didn't know that
An interesting fact to add to my story !

Many thanks
Heidi