Marshall & Snelgrove enjoyed a superb reputation as high-end retailers for over 100 years. James Marshall had opened a shop at 11 Vere Street in 1837, and in 1848 on the retirement of his business partner he was joined by John Snelgrove (a former assistant in the shop), and the firm's name was changed to Marshall &
Snelgrove. The article above dates from 1884 and advertises costumes, mantles, furs, lace and gloves.
Following rapid success, the business expanded and Marshall & Snelgrove took over grand new premises at 334 - 348 Oxford Street in 1851. James Marshall retired in 1871 and his son James C Marshall took over his share, helping to expand the business further by opening stores in fashionable resorts such as Harrogate and Scarborough to encourage their customers to shop whilst on holiday.
The First World War and its vast impact on deparment stores (especially those selling luxury goods) prompted a merger with Debenham and Freebody in 1916, which became a full merger in 1919 although both companies retained their separate identities - the ownership of this prestigious store was more a status symbol for Debenhams than a financial move.
Marshall and Snelgrove dresses circa 1927. Left to right: jumper suit, coat frock, young matron's gown, dainty lace gown and dance frock. All made in crepe de chine or georgette.
James C Marshall was President of the Linen and Woollen Drapers'
Institution for approaching 40 years till his death in 1925 at the age of 95. The firm continued to remain in family hands and more stores opened in cities such as Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds and York selling luxury goods to the rich middle classes of the industrial towns and cities.
Above: 1920s black chiffon and lace cocktail dress and label from Marshall & Snelgrove
I started work at marshall and snellgrove in1957. I was a junior in the childrens shoe department. There were two other assistants, Jocelyne and Miss Marchant, The buyer I think was called Miss Rose. Going to work was like stepping back in time to a more elegant and genteel era. I liked my post and recall good memories of the time I was there
In 1963, I left school aged 14 and worked in the York store, initially in the Warehouse where Mr Wells (Jack) was my boss and latterly was promoted to the Menswear department where Mr Firth was my boss. The general manager was Mr Searle.
As Warehouse boy he used to send me every morning to Woodcocks to buy him two cream slices.
Even now I think back to these days with immense pleasure and pride…
my first job was with Marshall and Snelgrove Oxford Street, I went there to do an apprenticeship at fifteen years old I worked in one of the workrooms on the top floor learning to do men’s and women’s alterations and occasionally we made clothes I am still in touch with two other ladies who worked in the same workroom and one other who worked in the corset / underwear workroom we are all now in our sixties and still friends.