Joseph Barber and Co Ltd , wharfingers and warehouse keepers

The origins of the company are obscure, but there is evidence to suggest that the Barber family was in business as wharfingers early in the 18th century (see Aytoun-Ellis, 300 Years on London River, London, 1952). Joseph Barber was born in 1778 and first appears in London Directories in business alone, as a wharfinger at Chamberlain's Wharf, Tooley Street, Southwark, in 1815. Evidence from London Directories and miscellaneous deeds (Ms 10944A) suggests that Joseph Barber was also in business in partnership with Robert Smith prior to 1815. The freehold of Brewer's and Chester quays was purchased in 1832, although the company had acquired a leasehold interest in these and also Galley quay some years earlier.

In 1859 the style of the firm was changed to Joseph Barber & Company and in 1861 Chamberlain's quay was sold. The company also acquired warehouses and vaults on the north side of Lower Thames Street; bonded vaults in Beer Lane, George street and Tower Hill; bonded warehouses and vaults in Coopers' Row, and drug and other warehouses in Beer Lane, Savage Gardens and Cooper's Row. In 1901 the company was incorporated as a limited liability company. In 1908 Brewer's, Chester and Galley quays were sold; other warehouses and vaults were also sold and by 1920 only those at 10 Cooper's Row remained. From 1911 the registered offices of the company were: 1911-36, 40 Trinity Square; 1937-46, 41 Trinity Square; 1947-71, 61 Crutched Friars (61-2 Crutched Friars 1957-61); 1972-83, 12 America Square. The company went into liquidation in 1983.