The Crabtree Society, ex-employees of the company, researched and published this book, with the support of Electrium and Siemens, Crabtree’s parent company. Both granddaughters of John Crabtree, Susan and Katherine, attended the book launch and were delighted with the portrayal of the past achievements of their forebears.
The book was launched at the Lyndon House Hotel, Walsall, which now stands on the site of the original factory where John Crabtree produced the first quick make-and-break switch 90 years ago. This innovative product proved so successful in its day that after starting with just a tiny workforce, within just a few years the company had moved to a much larger site and was employing over 600 staff.
What makes this book even more special is that all proceeds are being donated to electrical industry charity, the EEIBA.
Copies of the beautifully bound hardback, which is jam packed with interesting facts and beautiful images, can be purchased by contacting Electrium on 01543 455000.
Old Archived Videos Found
Watch an old archived video filmed by the BBC and narrated by Peter West, titled Going to Work: A Factory Day, which profiles the Crabtree factory.
The date of the launch had particular relevance as it marked 50 years to the day since the Crabtree factory in Walsall, near Birmingham, was visited by HRH Queen Elizabeth II. Watch a video of Her Majesty’s visit to the Crabtree Factory on May 24th, 1962.
A Few of the People Behind The Crabtree Story
Betty Cooper, Crabtree Ex-Employee:
Started working for Crabtree in 1946 in the accounts department.
“It was a lovely firm to work for,” said Betty.
The Crabtree HQ also played a role in matchmaking for many of its past employees. Betty met her husband, Sid Cooper, there. They are celebrating their diamond wedding anniversary this year.
Sid Cooper, Crabtree Ex-Employee:
Worked at Crabtree from 1947-1960 in the laboratory. Sid tested and analysed different products and ideas.
“It was a really interesting job and the people were very friendly,” said Sid. “Crabtree was the biggest employee in Walsall at the time. Someone in your family in Walsall always worked for Crabtree.”
Sid on finding true love at Crabtree: “It was almost like a dating agency with so many wonderful people working together and being social together.”
Ruby Hathaway, Crabtree Ex-Employee:
Started working for Crabtree in 1936 and worked there for 45 years. Her role was “Office Girl”, based in the Departmental Office working as a clerk of the colour shop.
Ruby recalls the incredibly friendly work environment at Crabtree: “I remember people singing while they were working. And there were big dances and social events where the whole factory would take part.”
John Crabtree’s Grandaughters, Susan and Katherine:
The hotel the book launch was held at is actually the first Crabtree factory, which has been converted. The granddaughters slept in the room that used to be John Crabtree’s office.
“I am humbled by the book and all the hard work that went into it,” said Susan. “If the book should be dedicated to anybody, it should be to the people who put it together.”
Alan Preston, President of the Crabtree Society:
The Crabtree Society started out as a social club for Crabtree employees and ex-employees. One of its other main aims was to create an archive of its wonderful history.
“If we hadn’t published this book, all of this would have been forgotten,” said Alan. “This book was created from the passion of Crabtree’s employees who gave lots of their free time to document the heritage and history of this company and town.”
Barry Glew, Siemens Country Division Lead (UK), Low and Medium Voltage
“This was an ideal opportunity to recognise the significant amount of work the Crabtree Society has put into keeping the Crabtree history alive,” said Barry.”
“Mr. Crabtree set the platform for the industry through the fundamental technology that he brought forth into the market.”
Val Austin, General Manager of EEIBA:
“We are delighted to be associated with this book,” said Val. “Like the EEIBA, Crabtree has such a long history in the electrical industry and it has been a caring company to its employees.”
All proceeds from The Crabtree Story will be going to the EEIBA , which is the only charity to help those in hardship or distress who work, or have worked in the electrical and electronics industry.