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Richard Gillow who died on the 14th of August 1811 aged 77. His grave pictured here sits quietly at the top of St Mary's Steps between the priory and Lancaster Castle. Sadly in need of a refurbishment. Richard Gillow was an English architect and businessman from Lancaster.
He was the son of the carpenter Robert Gillow the founder of Gillows of Lancaster and London, which were known as a successful cabinet making Firm. His Father Robert also exploited the lucrative West Indies trade, exporting mahogany furniture and importing Rum and Sugar.
In his early days he trained in London as an architect and it wasn't until 1757 when he started work with his Father in The Gillow establishment becoming partners with his Father Robert and being Known as Robert Gillow and son.
in 1772 Robert Passed away. (Robert Gillow below)
in 1772 Robert Passed away. (Robert Gillow below)
The Business was continued by Richard and his younger brother Robert. Who passed away in 1793.
The Gillow family are not just well Known in Lancaster, but all across Great Britian as at one time they were world famous for working with the Waring family from Liverpool.
The Gillow family are not just well Known in Lancaster, but all across Great Britian as at one time they were world famous for working with the Waring family from Liverpool.
Robert Gillow built many Buildings like the customs house in 1765, the old town hall and with his Father built many Georgian buildings which still stand today. Other notable builds consisted that of many ships that went on to be slave ships and sailed to the west Indies.
although the Gillow family would distance themselves from the slave trade, The company were based on Castle hill and there is now a plaque on the wall of the original building where they worked.
Richard and his wife Sarah had eight children, five daughters and three sons; Robert Gillow; George Gillow; and Richard Gillow, who all joined the family firm. Even though his passing is now 210 Years ago his hard work and passion will live on for a long time for everyone to see.
