Ernest Baker tailor’s coat hanger, c.1910–1914

A wooden coat hanger bearing the inscription “Tailor & Costumier ERNEST BAKER, 12 Wellowgate, Grimsby.”

The hanger is associated with the tailoring business of Ernest Baker, born in Grimsby in about 1886–1887. His father, Edward Baker, came from Attleborough in Norfolk, while Ernest’s mother was from Lincolnshire. In the 1901 Census, aged 14, Ernest was living with his family at 1 Lime Street, Grimsby, and was recorded as an “Outfitter’s apprentice.”

By 1910, a trade directory records Baker at 1 Lime Street with a shop at 12 Wellowgate, Grimsby. The 1914 directory again records his shop at 12 Wellowgate, although by then his home was at 29 Manor Avenue. The address on the hanger therefore corresponds directly with his documented business premises during this period.

By 1921, Baker was a merchant tailor and employer, living with his wife Amy and their young son at 33 Seacroft Road, Cleethorpes. Amy was born in Halifax, Yorkshire, giving the family a connection to both Lincolnshire and Yorkshire. In 1922, Kelly’s Directory lists “Baker Ernest, tailor, 40 Victoria Street.” His burial record confirms his occupation as tailor and his residence as 40 Victoria Street when he died on 13 December 1922, aged 36.

A company record subsequently lists Ernest Baker Ltd., a private company established to carry on the business of tailors, clothiers, outfitters and costumiers, among other related trades. One of its first directors was Mrs A. Baker of 40 Victoria Street, Grimsby, consistent with Ernest’s widow, Amy Baker, who was granted probate following his death. By 1926, Kelly’s Directory listed Ernest Baker Ltd., tailors, established at St Mary’s Gate.

This simple wooden hanger preserves the name and address of Ernest Baker’s 12 Wellowgate shop, providing a tangible connection with a Grimsby tailoring and costumier business and with the career of a local tradesman who progressed from teenage apprentice to an established tailor and employer.

From the Grimsby and Cleethorpes Museum collection.

With thanks to Pete Milsom.