Ratsey & Lapthorn Ltd

Sectors:

  • Textile production Canvas, etc, production inc ship sails, tents, sacks, etc
  • Transport equipment production Marine engines & other marine equipment production

Notes:

Leading sail makers for racing yachts. Traced origins to John Ratsey, 1769-1851, in c1790 when made sails for vessels trading out of Cowes. By early 19th century building yachts as well as sails and under Charles Ratsey and his son, Tom, developed into a leader. 1880s merged with the leading sail maker, James Lapthorn of Cowes, who had been established by James Lapthorn in 1820s. The latter had been closely connected with the yacht builders, Camper & Nicholson of Gosport. Now operated as Ratsey & Lapthorn at Cowes and Lapthorn & Ratsey at Gosport. Focused increasingly on sail making. 1902 opened a sail loft in USA. 1903 incorporated. By 1970s sail waving a major activity. Continuing in 2014

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