The Family of George Robert Thompson - 'The Postcard King'

This collection includes copies of birth, marriage and death certificates, parish register entries of baptisms, marriages and burials, obituaries, newspaper articles, a copy of George Robert Thompson's will, a family tree all relating to Mr. Thompson and his descendants.

George Robert Thompson was the son of a Yorkshire farmer born at Royton Farm, Malton. He was apprenticed to the printing trade in Hull. At the age of 22 yrs he came to Llandudno to work for Mr. J. R. Thomas who had an office in the lane leading to Tan yr Ogo Terrace. The business was bought by Mr. Zulu Smith who decided to publish the "Advertiser" as a weekly newspaper and Mr. Thompson was prominent in establishing the paper.

After a few years in Llandudno , Mr. Thompson started his own business as newsagent and stationer. He began with a stall on the Pier which was so successful that he opened a shop at 19, Mostyn Street. He later moved to 63a, Mostyn which became the headquarters of the firm [1929] and there were also branches on the pier, in South Parade, Gloddaeth Avenue and Deganwy.

In the early days of picture postcards he recognised its posssibilities as a business proposition and was known for years as the 'Postcard King'.

He died in July 1929 at the age of 74 years leaving a wife, 5 sons and four daughters.

This collection is open for research. Access to some documents may be restricted due to Data Protection legislation, Conwy Archives will advise where this is the case. For details and opening hours see http://www.conwy.gov.uk/en/Resident/Libraries-Museums-and-Archives/Archives/Archives.aspx.

See also CP262