Part 5 - Barbour x
In 1894, the Manchester Ship Canal opened, overhauling large swathes of Liverpool's Docking Trade; lighting the blue touch paper, that most likely started the staunch/vitriolic rivalry between Manchester United and Liverpool.
Another vital rivalry exists; a cross river/commonality scenario, between North Shields and South Shields and their football clubs (The Robins/The Mariners) respectively.
Dame Margaret Barbour officially opened the Malcolm Barbour Lounge (former supporter/director) for The Mariners, in 2016 (a fitting tribute to her late husband's grandfather).
Rewind back to 1894 and you can connect all of the aforementioned, with how proud British clothing company Barbour was founded -
By steadfast Scotsman John Barbour, in South Shields, at 5 Market Place, who imported/sold weather protective oilskins to mariners, dockers, fishermen, miners et al.
In 1908, John's son Malcolm created the pioneering label's first mail order catalogue, for a strong variety of important pursuits.
By 1917, this was hugely accountable for the stalwart brand's heritage/lifestyle business, from a passionately local stance, right through to elite international level, by 75%.
In 1928, Malcolm's only son Duncan, came on board.
In 1936, being a savvy/passionate motorcyclist himself, Duncan produced a classic motorcycling range, known as Barbour International - Made iconic by Steve McQueen. (Note the nuanced, slanted pocket - for a map/time trial card).
This was to be a massive turning point in Barbour's distinctive manufacturing and marketing direction.
Tragically for the family, Duncan passed away at the age of 48, in 1957, followed by Malcolm, in 1964 and then Nancy's (Duncan's wife) son John (Margeret's husband), in 1968.
In 1973, Margaret (now Dame) became Chairwoman of the company.
By continuing her late husband's honourable outdoors legacy, Dame Margaret has majestically overseen household designs, launches, the receiving of Royal warrants (1974, 1982, 1987) and the cultural setting up of the Barbour Trust (1988); raising over £20M for various charities.
Daughter of Margaret and John, Helen Barbour, has been Vice-Chairwoman, since 1997.
She has been massively/superbly instrumental in the brand's modern day image, particularly the likes of Barbour Beacon (2018) and her insatiable love for dog walking, designing apparel and accessories for both humans and dogs.
Its 128 year old traditional/country roots are powerfully fascinating/vastly steeped in creativity, endurance, quality, style, class and absolute heart and soul.
For dapper and chic men and women alike, made famous from Princess Diana, South Shields born Sir Ridley Scott, to David Beckham - Choose Barbour x