R. & W.F. Fryer Records

Scope and Content

Records of R. & W.F. Fryer including customer incidental papers, family papers, estate papers and deeds of properties other than bank premises.

Administrative / Biographical History

Foundation

This private bank was formed in 1807 by Richard Fryer, an innkeeper. An anecdotal account of its foundations relates how Fryer discovered a chest of gold coins that had been hidden at his inn during the 1745 Jacobite Rising, which provided the capital for his bank. The bank had major interests in iron and coal businesses at Hatherton near Cannock Chase.

Takeover

The business was small, yet sound and profitable. However, the surviving partner had become and MP and had no great faith in his nephew's capacity to manage the business. As a result, the bank was acquired by Lloyds for £20,000 in 1872. William Fleeming Fryer was appointed director of Lloyds on amalgamation.

Access Information

Access is by appointment only, and at the discretion of the Archivist. Please e-mail archives@lloydsbanking.com for further information.

Other Finding Aids

Item level catalogue available - please e-mail archives@lloydsbanking.com for further details.