Democratic Sentinel, Volume 22, Number 34, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 3 September 1898 — Oldest English Business. [ARTICLE]

Oldest English Business.

Probably the oldest business In England is an ancient linen drapery concern which has been in existence since 1600. Under the title of the Sign of the Croune, the Industry has been carried on in the old town of Shefford, in Bedfordshire, upward of 300 years, for more than half of which time it has been in the hands of a single family in an almost direct line. Since 1750 this ancient drapery shop has been under the control of Cator & Sons, who occupy the original building.