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Microscope Museum Collection of antique microscopes and other
scientific instruments |
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Library telescope from J. H. Steward (c.
1880) Library
telescope engraved with ‘J. H. Steward, London’. This instrument
should be dated to c. 1880. James Henry Steward (1818-1896) started his
business in London in 1852. Although his business started as retail business
selling watches and firearms-related optical equipment, the business grew to
include telescopes, binoculars, compasses, barometers, and microscopes, some
of which he claimed to have made. Over the years, Steward sold many
instruments with their name on the instruments, but many of these were made
by others for Steward. The firm traded from 406 Strand, London (1865 – c.
1915), 66 Strand (1868 – 1888), 457 Strand (1885 – c. 1920), with various
other branches. As each of James’ sons reached adulthood, they were given a
subsidiary shop elsewhere in London to manage, but the establishment at 406
Strand remained as the centre of the business. After James’ death, the
company continued (only being inherited through the male line) until 1975. |