Peto, Samuel Morton

Sectors:

  • Construction Other construction & civil engineering exc railways, roads & inland navigations
  • Construction Railways construction & civil engineering

Notes:

Sir Samuel Morton Peto, 1809-89, was a railway and public works contractor, who, with is cousin, Thomas Grissell, inherited the contracting business of his uncle, Henry Peto, 1774-1830, in 1830. Henry had handled important projects since 1806. Samuel rapidly emerged as a leading contractor, carrying out prestige projects such as Houses of Parliament rebuilding. Partnership with Grissell dissolve in 1846 when Peto focused on railway work in UK and overseas, rapidly becoming the world leader. From 1846 in partnership with Edward Betts. Collapsed 1866 following failure of their bankers, Overend Gurney. Subsequently resumed contracting in a small way

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