We picked up this charming little wall cabinet this week. It’s constructed of wood with a mirrored front advertising G & J. Weaver, House Furnishers, Warrington.

Doing a little data mining on the internet, we found mention of “G. & J. Weaver, cabinet makers” located at 86 Bridge Street – sandwiched between a pork butcher and a confectioner. They also had another premises at 2 Arpley Road which it appears they shared with a beer retailer, tallow chandler, wire mattress manufacturers, wheelwright, brass founder and a printer. England really was a nation of shopkeepers!

George (the ‘G’ in the partnership) is recorded as having lived at 208 Wilderspool Road and James at Manor House, 96 School Brow.

We find social history like this fascinating. What started as a quick, 2-minute search for a company name ended up in an hour-long browse at street maps, census records and old photos.

Back to the cabinet. It probably dates from the early 20th century. It’s had various layers of paint applied over the years – we can identify red, green, white and mustard shades. We love the current combination of mustard exterior and red interior.

The immediate use that springs to mind is a bathroom medical cabinet perhaps, as it’s a classic size & shape for one – and has the mirror. However, it’s a very flexible piece. It would make a lovely little craft room cupboard – or kitchen spice storage area to name but two.

We love the shabby chic, vintage industrial look and simple practicality of it. If you do too, it’s available now in our online shop.