c Mar 2001
Collins Antiques
Wheathampstead, Hertfordshire, AL4 8AP
England
Telephone 01582 833111
Valuations | Restoration | Location | History | Opening times
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This page
contributes to the history of Wheathampstead via the display of an early
web page and photographs. Some information has been removed as it may
no longer be relevant. c Mar 2001 |
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Collins AntiquesWheathampstead, Hertfordshire, AL4 8AP
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Description: Dutch floral marquetry Oak Display Cabinet on Bombe Chest. Dimensions: 20" x 70" x 83" Est. Date: Early 18th C Period: William & Mary 1689 – 1702 Retail Price: £11,500 |
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Description: Georgian Mahogany Chest on Chest Dimensions: 22.5" x 44" x 73" Est. Date: 1780 Period: Georgian 1714 - 1830 Retail Price: £3,800 |
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Description: Regency period mahogany Bureau Dimensions: 21.5" x 42" x 42" Est. Date: 1810 Period: Regency 1810 - 1820 Retail Price: £1,850 |
Location |
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We are located in the centre of Wheathampstead opposite St. Helen’s Church.
Wheathampstead is 25 miles (40 Km) north of London in the picturesque valley of the river Lea. Junction 4 on the A1(M) is 5 miles to the east. The Cathedral City of St Albans is 5 miles to the south and Harpenden is 3 miles to the west.
There are frequent trains from London Kings Cross Thameslink station to Harpenden. Journey time 25 minutes met by prior arrangement.
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Opening times |
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History |
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Fredrick George Collins and his brother Charles founded the firm of F G and C Collins in 1907. It was based at the Railway Hotel in Wheathampstead.
After the First World War, the brothers acquired the corner site in Church Street. The present shop, erected in 1931, is constructed from the winter garden rescued before demolition of a local mansion.
Fred died in 1936, Charles was joined by his son Sam in 1950. Two years later the partnership bought Barton House, a disused 18th Century brewery. The building had been condemned by the local authority but after a long legal battle, the demolition order was quashed and the conservation and restoration of the building as furniture showroom commenced. The firm became a limited company in 1960 with Charles as its Chairman.
In 1971 Barton House and the Corner shop were listed as buildings of architectural and historical merit.
The third generation of the family is Michael. He joined the company in 1975 a year before the death of his grandfather.
Today the family business of FG and C Collins Ltd is run by the director Michael Collins. They deal mainly in 17th, 18th and 19th Century furniture displayed in over 5,000 sq ft of showrooms. The company also offers a highly skilled restoration workshop.
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