Dreadnought - History and tradition since 1805

200 Years of Dreadnought

Dreadnought began manufacturing clay roof tiles in 1805 and have continued production on the same site ever since.  The company's objective has been throughout its history to manufacture the finest plain clay roof tiles available.  We use Etruria Marl clay from our own quarry located close by.  The extract from our first brochure printed in the 1920's extoles the virtues of the Etruria Marl clay found in the seam running through the area.  "Roofing Tiles made at these works 100 years ago are  on buildings now and in perfect condition, the clay being the strongest in the Kingdom".

Our passionate belief in natural clay colours was not borne of modern marketing.  Again our 1920's brochure highlights the fact that all Dreadnought Tiles are "Natural colours not stained". 

Fire in 1967 which burnt down a large part of the Works

The Works in 1964

Barrow Girls 1961

Hinton Perry & Davenhill Tile Works 1940's

1940's entrance to Hinton Perry & Davenhill

1924 - Dreadnought Ladies

Most of the heavy manual work was carried out by women at this time.

Labourers 1912

Top of the page