In December 2012, James Grove & Sons Ltd, Britain’s last horn button maker, closed its doors for the last time. It was 155 years old.
On that bleak winter day, the entire workforce of James Grove lost their jobs and the accumulated skill and experience of its staff, past and present, was abruptly relinquished.
Over 150 years’ of button-making heritage and history was at risk. Sample books, historic dies and company records were discarded.
Responding to an appeal featured in Country Life Magazine (5th June 2013), we acquired the last remaining button-making and finishing machines and much of the heritage of the company.
Courtney & Co®. is committed to apply and pass-on the skills of button-making using both traditional methods and technology.
We are preserving, restoring and making accessible a vast archive of material for reference and posterity.
We source the finest natural raw materials from around the world, respecting and preserving the environment for future generations.
Whether for environmental, commercial or aesthetic reasons, we wish to help make the world a better place to enjoy and live in.
