Billhead, invoice

Copper-engraved billhead with handwritten invoice issued by the linen draper, D.H. Pugh located at 69 Gracechurch Street. Dated 13th April 1785 the invoice refers to the supply of two fine fancy stripe patches to Mr John Thomas and company and includes a handwritten note signed by D H Pugh stating that the remainder of the order will be supplied as soon as possible. The retail drapery firm of John Thomas and Company was located in Hinckley, Leicestershire but went out of business in 1787. Similarly to other county drapers J. Thomas and Co ordered cloth from London wholesalers, such as D.H. Pugh, who liaised directly with the cotton manufacturers. Many London wholesalers also had large showrooms where they would display their goods to attract retail trade.