garage in harpenden

[splashingduck]

hi

does anybody have any info on a garage called pinneys in harpenden around 1870-1950. or know how to find any out. i have no idea where to start

many thanks
sharon

[Jan1954]

Hello again Sharon,

Pinneys are still in Harpenden: Station Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 4UY Tel: 01582 764311

Give them a ring and see if they have any records of their history. As far as I can remember, they were always a family firm. However, I will ask Mr P when he gets in, as he is the resident car enthusiast.

[Jan1954]

An update:

Mr P and I have had a chat.

He recalls that they were a Volvo dealership (now they are Mercedes) but were definitely a family-run business. Although they are now in Station Road, they used to be in Harpenden High Street, opposite the corner of Station Road. Where they once were (next to The George public house) now stands a pizza restaurant

Trade directories could be a good starting point for you. St Albans City Library has a fairly good reference section, with Kelly's and Post Office directories. However, as you live in Bedfordshire, you may find that the Bedford Library or perhaps the Bedford Archives could have some relating to the Bedfordshire end of Hertfordshire. Harpenden is only about 6 miles from the Bedfordshire border.

I hope that these random jottings are of use.

[Clive Blackaby]

As I had them "to hand" had a look in Piggotts 1839, and Post Office (Kelly) 1851. Total Blank!!. (I know it is before your target date, and before garages were required, but thought they may have been in a related trade, farrier, wheelwright, chemist etc.)