Inspired by English country gardens, Royal Albert
has long been known for
its vivid floral style.
The company was founded originally as T C Wild & Sons in the 19th
century. The company succeeded quickly, and in 1896 it took over a
factory known as the Albert China Works. Incidentally, The "Albert"
it was named for was the infant prince later to become King George
VI and father to the present Queen Elizabeth.
After the death of his father, Thomas C Wild
became sole proprietor of Thomas Wild & Co in 1898. The factory
was already a thriving business producing tea, coffee and dinner
ware under the Royal Albert name. In 1905 it moved from the Albert
Works to St Mary's Works which was also based in Longton,
Staffordshire. It continued to grow and became a major contributor
to the growing export of china from the UK.
In 1964 the company was purchased by Pearson &
Co, making it part of Allied English Potteries which was later to
merge with the Royal Doulton Group. In 1975 Royal Albert extended
their ranges to include giftware in many of the popular ranges such
as Old Country Roses, which was first produced in 1962. Items such
as clocks, candlesticks and even telephones introduced. Today Royal
Albert continues to be one of the major names within the Royal
Doulton Group.
