BARROW HEPBURN & GALE
Established in the 1700’s, Barrow Hepburn & Gale is a British company, internationally known as the manufacturer of the iconic Red Despatch Boxes; a symbol of democracy & Britain’s constitutional monarchy. The company’s history is interwoven with the history of the United Kingdom. Barrow, Hepburn & Gale’s Despatch Boxes have been used, & continue to be used, by British sovereigns, prime ministers & ministers. The Despatch Boxes carry documents that have taken the country to war, ensured peace & shaped the history of Great Britain.
DESPATCH BOXES
Barrow Hepburn & Gale’s Despatch Boxes ensure the efficient & secure transportation of sensitive documents that impact on the United Kingdom & its relations with the international community.
The Despatch Boxes contain confidential, sensitive & top secret documents that are read, commented on & eventually signed & approved by the monarch, the prime minister & other government ministers. These documents safeguard transparency in the decision-making process & provide an accessible historical record for future scrutiny.
HISTORY
The company’s history begins in the very early part of the eighteenth century. John Hepburn, a tanner from Yorkshire moved to London & set up his first tannery in Bermondsey. Through a series of mergers & partnerships Hepburn incorporated other similar companies.
Over the centuries these merges & partnerships resulted in, Hepburn & Gale; Hepburn, Gale & Ross; Barrow & Gale; Toulmin & Gale & Barrow, Hepburn & Gale. All of these enterprises shared their heritage, traditions & skills. Barrow Hepburn & Gale became one of the largest employers in London & the United Kingdom during the 19th & 20th centuries. During World War 1 the company manufactured military equipment, such as saddles, belts & cases. During World War 2 the company’s knowledge & expertise was invaluable. Barrow Hepburn & Gale designed & made military equipment for British & Commonwealth soldiers fighting in Europe, the Middle East. Africa & Asia.
CRAFTSMANSHIP FROM THE 18th TO THE 21st CENTURY
Handed down from generation to generation, Barrow Hepburn & Gale has an unbroken chain of makers whose skills have been passed from one craftsman to another ...
The company has a fascinating archive of products dating from the early -nineteenth century. Working with long established heritage businesses, such as lockmakers Bramah, Barrow Hepburn & Gale is able to bring centuries of experience and expertise to the making of each of its handmade products.
RESOURCES
We have been through many moments in time and our extensive archives make fascinating reading. We have witnessed history & the making of history. We have been present at the darkest of hours & at the dawn of a new. We have served 7 British Monarchs, 37 Prime Ministers…& one or two Presidents of the United States. For 261 years, we have created moments in time. We are very happy to work with interested parties who would like more information on our history & unique position.
WHY RED?
The widely-accepted reason relates to Prince Albert, Consort to Queen Victoria, who is said to have preferred the colour as it was used prominently in the arms of his family, the Saxe-Coburg-Gotha.
