William Thom (1842-1913)
of W. and J. Yates, Canal Foundry, Blackburn.
1913 Obituary [1]
WILLIAM THOM was born at Blackburn on 31st December 1842.
After being educated at a local school, he entered the drawing-office of what was then known as Messrs. Yates' Foundry, Blackburn. He showed such ability in his work that, on the completion of his apprenticeship, the firm appointed him sub-manager, and in a few years' time he was promoted to be manager. The firm at that time was a comparatively small one, but gradually, and mainly as a result of Mr. Thom's energy and enterprise, the scope of its operations was extended, and it became a great engine-building and boiler-making establishment.
He became a partner about thirty-five years ago, and eventually head of the firm of Yates and Thom, which a few years ago was made into a limited company.
In 1905 he retired in favour of his son, Mr. William Thom, but continued to take a great interest in the firm.
His death took place at his residence, Dutton Manor, near Blackburn, after a few days' illness, on 13th August 1913, in his seventy-first year.
He was elected a Member of this Institution in 1877.