A look into the Rowntree’s factory on Haxby Road, York, remembering its legacy and founder, Joseph Rowntree.
He was born May 24, 1836, in Pavement, where Pizza Hut now stands. Joseph made York a sweet-making capital and had a big impact on the city.
Joseph started with his brother, Henry Isaac. Joseph first took over his dad’s grocery store, while Henry managed a cocoa business he got from the Tukes of York.
Henry had money problems in 1869, and Joseph helped him out. This started Rowntree & Co., which later became a legendary company.
In 1890, the Rowntrees bought 29 acres of land on Haxby Road and built a new, modern factory there. Nine years later, they bought 31 more acres. The factory linked to a train line using a private railway connection.
By 1906, the factory had over 4,000 workers, a number that grew to 14,000 later on. Rowntree was a social reformer and ensured good working conditions.
Workers could see a doctor, dentist, and optician for free. Free schooling was available for children under 17, and a pension began in 1906. The work week was 44 hours by 1919. The factory included a gym and lecture hall.
Some of the factory is now housing called the Cocoa Works. Joseph Rowntree’s name still exists today on a park and a school. He also built New Earswick, which provided good homes for workers.