For our Supplier Spotlight this week we’ve got a real treat for you lovely people. Today we travel all the way back to 1642 and shine our spotlight on AE Williams. This is one of our oldest suppliers. With centuries of experience these folks are truly masters of their craft. One of the best producers of pewter in the world.
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One of their first creations!
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It all started for AE Williams with a spoon. A very humble beginning, the mould of the spoon was found in the bottom of a well and is still in use to this day. In 1666 the Great Fire of London ravaged the capital, destroying the records of the pewter manufacturers. It wasn’t until 1779 that Thomas Williams started the business from his own home creating flatware and dishes. The business grew as fathers and sons joined and grew the business into the giant it is today. Through the years they started moved onto producing tea sets, buttons during the Napoleonic Wars, plates and dishes, The Ritz’s tea sets, BBC props, tankards, stage props, candlesticks and so much more.
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Like all companies they had their ups and downs. Mainly the outbreak of the 1st World War, where many of their new young apprentices were called up to fight. And the 2nd World War when 19 year old Thomas Williams worked through the night to keep the business alive with wife Dorothy after working during the day at an airfield and munitions factory respectively.
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AE Williams has had the privilege of making some amazing things. Amongst other, they’ve recreated the cutlery of the Titanic, Henry VIII’s tankard and his wine fountain! As well as recreations they have supplied props for a multitude of films and TV shows. Some of these include candlesticks for Blackadder’s Christmas Carol, movie props for films like Master & Commander, Gladiator and Pirates of The Caribbean. They also created the ‘please sir may I have some more?’ bowl for the BBC series Oliver Twist!
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The stunning pewter works of AE Williams are some of our biggest sellers at Kilts Wi Hae. They make an amazing gift or a brilliant talking point for house guests. Some of our personal favourites include their Quaichs. Toast the bride and groom from their beautifully crafted range.
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Their pewter works have also been made into pin badges, candle holders and one of our personal favourites, their decanter and glasses which are a perfect addition to something like a home bar or just the dining room!
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At Kilts Wi Hae we’re proud to stock the wares of such a brilliant company. We’ve got a huge range in stock and with free delivery on all orders and 15% off with code Facebook, now is a great time to treat yourself!