Biscuits for Queen Victoria: The Story of the Early Days of Huntley and Palmer
Richard Marks
- Region:
- South East
- Notice Period:
- Short (maybe less than one month's notice)
- Type:
- Professional
- Fee:
- Paid: £75 plus travel @45p per mile up to 50 miles from Reading. Can also be run online
- Category:
- History
- Updated:
- 10th January 2024
- Tagged:
- Business | Victorians | Food History | Economic History
Huntley and Palmer were one of Britain's best-known producers of biscuits and a brand recognised across the world.
In this talk we will look at the very earliest days of the company, from humble beginnings to the huge company it became in the nineteenth century.
Discover how the company adopted new technology to increase its ability to serve an ever-increasing number of customers, and how they took advantage of developments in Victorian transport to reach every corner of Britain.
We will explore who the Huntley and Palmer families were, how they came to found the business as well as some of their products.
We will also look at how the company was one of the earliest to recognise the importance of brand marketing and how they used it to bring the company to the attention of the world.
Views: 676 | Enquiries: 2About Richard Marks
I am a freelance professional historian residing in Berkshire. I specialize in industrial, military, and railway history, as well as the history of science. My current research focuses on industrial and social change during the Victorian era, the progression of Britain's railway and canal systems in the latter half of the 19th century, and the broader history of British industry. I earned my PhD in history from the University of Reading in 2024 and also have experience teaching a range of historical subjects to diverse groups.
My talks are suitable for different audiences and group sizes. I can adjust the length and format to meet your needs. My goal is to inform and entertain, and to leave the audience with a new insight and a desire to learn more.
My previous career in technology, working with British and international manufacturing companies, has given me a unique perspective as an historian.
Feedback from previous talks: "Richard had clearly done a massive amount of research and preparation. He is an excellent presenter very knowledgeable and engaging speaker. It was informative and thought provoking."
"I found the whole subject fascinating and wanted to learn more."
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- The Royal Navy in World War 2
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