A BOOK celebrating Westbury’s oldest business has been written and published by a local history enthusiast.
‘The Pinnigers’ tells the story of the law firm, Pinniger Finch and Co, and gives a glimpse of life in Westbury in the 19th century. It is written by Eileen Dew, a former employee, with the help of Sally Hendry from Westbury Heritage Society
“Pinniger Finch is the oldest firm in Westbury and has been an important part of the town for over 200 years,” Eileen said at the recent launch of the book at its offices in Church Street.
“The firm began in 1819 when Henry Pinniger bought a legal practice here in Church Street and from then until 1936, generations of the Pinniger family worked here as solicitors, providing legal advice and being involved in many of the town’s organisations.
“My interest started when I found letters, deeds and other documents dating back to 1819 and up to the 1950s. When I joined the local history group, the idea of a book came about. It was fascinating to read all the old documents; they tell the story, not only of Pinniger Finch but also provide a glimpse of life in Westbury in the 19th century.”
Bill White, senior partner at the firm said, “Our legal practice is the oldest established business in Westbury, so it is a great privilege to introduce this fascinating story of our historic firm.
“We have come a long way from those early days of Henry Pinniger working by gas light, marking his documents by quills and ink and dealing with everything from gamekeepers’ licences to poor relief, courts and councils.
“More than 200 years on, Pinniger Finch is still a thriving, well-respected legal practice and I hope you will be interested to see the role it has played in the history of our town. We hope you enjoy reading about this special piece of Westbury heritage.”
- The book is available from Westbury Heritage Society, based at Westbury Library.
