Brown & Tawse: an Illustrated History

In 1881 two cousins purchased an iron merchant in Dundee, on the banks of the River Tay. Thus was initiated the partnership of P.S.Brown and James Tawse - and a company which, from its twin bases in Dundee and London, has steadily expanded and diversified through a century of great technological and economic change. Today it is one of the country's major stock holders of steel, tubes, valves and other industrial components. This illustrated account covers the development of a business which has played an important role in British industry. Thus it is not only about the company itself but also, through its experience, about fundamental changes in industry and the economy as a whole. Much of the story tells of survival in adversity. Brown & Tawse exemplify how to identify and grasp major opportunities in such situations. In his research the author interviewed a number of present and past staff - many of whom have a record of long service with the company. Through their reminiscences, and through correspondence and other documents, a human picture emerges. This book is about the characters who made the success of the enterprise and carry it forward today.