
A Jennings hearse and carriage in 1910
On the hearse is Frederick Jennings (Snr) with Jack Jennings who
later became a Methodist Minister. On the carriage is Frederick
Jennings (Jnr) and Thomas Picken who was the groom.
The business was quickly outgrowing the Union Mill Street property and
larger premises were urgently required. In between 1893 and 1903 Frederick
moved the business into St James Street. This provided the much needed extra
space with room for stabling, a coach house and up-to-date workshops.
Frederick ran the business for 41 years until his death in 1916. He was
followed by his three sons; Frederick (Jnr), George, and John (known as
Jack) who became a Methodist Minister after leaving His Majesty's Forces.

Frederick
Jennings
George Jennings
Grandson of the founder
Grandson of the founder
Frederick and George took charge jointly and began to carry through the
improvements started by their father. They extended the facilities available
to relatives of the deceased by purchasing and refurbishing an adjacent
property in Horseley Fields. An oak panelled service chapel was added, and
by 1937 three rest chapels with leaded windows were also added. Further
improvements were carried out to the offices, reception rooms, workshop and
garage. The horse-drawn hearses were replaced by motor vehicles including a
model T Ford, and the firm brought its first Daimlers from the Royal Mews at
Buckingham Palace.
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