Although Robert Sorby was first registered in 1828, its roots go back much further.
This would lead to the ‘Made in Sheffield’ mark enduring as a globally-recognised symbol of assured quality craftsmanship for centuries.
The role of the Master Cutler was paramount. Although elected annually, he controlled the Company of Cutlers, and was responsible for finance, granting trademarks and issuing penalties. Soreby went on to be re-elected in 1628. During the next forty years, two of Robert’s sons also held that high office – Malin in 1647 and 1657 and Robert in 1669.
During the 17th century, cutlery marks were granted to no fewer than five members of the Sorby family – Malin (1635), Robert (1658) Thomas (1682), John (1699) and Ephrim (1710). In the early 18th century, scissorsmiths’ marks were granted to another five members of the Sorby family – Josiah, Thomas, Jeremiah, Benjamin and a second Thomas.
In the early 18th century, scissorsmiths’ marks were granted to another five members of the Sorby family – Josiah, Thomas, Jeremiah, Benjamin and a second Thomas.
In 1837 the company moved to new premises in nearby Carver Street. Robert Sorby, the great, great grandson of the very first Master Cutler, ran the company until his death in 1858.
The ‘Sheffield rules’ had a major influence on how the modern game of football developed. Among other things they introduced were the concepts of corners, and free kicks for fouls. Thomas Austin Sorby (son of Robert Sorby), was vice-president of the club from 1857-59.
The Kangaroo Brand During the latter part of the 19th century, many of Sheffield’s leading businessmen travelled widely overseas, seeking new markets. This was often reflected in the names of their factories and brands. In the case of Robert Sorby and Sons, the factory was known as Kangaroo Works. That building still stands today, in dilapidated condition. Nevertheless, the famous Kangaroo motif can still be seen carved in stone over an archway. The kangaroo itself was one of a number of registered trademarks used extensively until the 1980s.
During the latter part of the 19th century, many of Sheffield’s leading businessmen travelled widely overseas, seeking new markets. This was often reflected in the names of their factories and brands. In the case of Robert Sorby and Sons, the factory was known as Kangaroo Works. That building still stands today, in dilapidated condition. Nevertheless, the famous Kangaroo motif can still be seen carved in stone over an archway. The kangaroo itself was one of a number of registered trademarks used extensively until the 1980s.