Life and work of James Jepson Binns
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Date
25/11/2015Item status
Restricted AccessAuthor
MacRae, Nicola
Metadata
Abstract
This thesis is the first study of the life and work of Leeds organ builder James Jepson
Binns (1854-1929). It is not the intention to provide a full technological evaluation
of Binns' work, but rather to provide a historical evaluation of his work which is
placed into a wider historical context.
First, Binns' family background and life are examined; then his career in organ
building is traced from its beginnings as an apprentice to the firm Radcliffe and
Sagar at the age of 11. His time with Abbott and Co., prior to commencing organ
building in his own right, is assessed; and finally the origins and development of his
own company is traced from its founding in 1880 up to his death in 1929.
The examination of Binns' company is split into three distinct periods, mirroring its
rise and decline. Since Binns' first ledger book is considered to be lost, the author
has reconstructed what it is likely to have contained and has discussed its content
chronologically. The patents granted to Binns are also discussed chronologically and
placed into historical context. A survey of the company's work and output in each of
the three periods is given, with examples drawn from the surviving ledger books.
The decline of the company was partly as a result of the Great War and is given due
consideration.
Through this study of Binns' life and work, a picture emerges of the British organ
building industry from 1880 to 1930. In conclusion, an assessment is made of Binns'
place within this and the factors that contributed to his success.