Leedham White (c1838-1905)
1905 Obituary [1]
LEEDHAM WHITE, born in 1838, was the son of the late John Bazley White, a former Associate, and grandson of the John Bazley White who founded the firm of cement manufacturers which bore his name (John Bazley-White and Brothers) until it was absorbed in the Associated Portland Cement Manufacturers Limited, in 1900.
Developing at school a taste for modern languages and chemistry, Leedham White was sent to France and Germany to complete his studies, and on his return in 1858, he entered his father’s business, becoming a member of the firm in 1863.
To the business of a cement-manufacturer, Mr. White brought a keen perception of the importance of scientific methods. He was associated with the late Sir Frederick Bramwell in efforts that were made 30 years ago to improve the method of burning cement - a subject to which from that time he gave great attention. The introduction into this country of the rotary kiln process was largely due to his advocacy of the process, after a careful investigation made in the United States.
He died at his residence, 16 Wetherby Gardens, S.W., on the 26th January, 1905, in his sixty-seventh year.
Mr. White was gifted with a retentive memory, clearness of perception, and considerable power of putting his views in a convincing manner before those whom he sought to interest in them. His kindly disposition led him to take an interest in all that concerned the well-being and advancement of his employees, and others with whom he came into contact.
He was elected an Associate of the Institution on the 9th April, 1872.