William Henry Penhaligon (1837–1902) was a British barber and perfumer, the founder of the British perfume house Penhaligon's, and Court Barber and Perfumer to Queen Victoria.

Early life edit

William Henry Penhaligon was born in 1837 in Madron, Penzance, Cornwall.[1]

Career edit

In 1861, Penhaligon started a perfumers and barbers in Penzance.[1]

 
Turkish Baths in Jermyn Street, 1862

In 1869, Penhaligon moved to London, and worked as a barber at the Turkish baths (hammam) on Jermyn Street.[2] In 1872, Penhaligon launched his first fragrance, Hammam Bouquet, and in 1874 he took over the running of the baths' salon, and expanded it to offer perfumery and related items.[1] In 1880, he went into business with his foreman, and Penhaligon's & Jeavons was founded, with premises a few doors away from the baths, also in Jermyn Street.[1][2]

Penhaligon died in 1902, and the following year they received their first Royal Warrant, from Queen Alexandra.[1][2]

Personal life edit

In 1862, Penhaligon married Elisabeth, and they had four children, Clara, Ida, William and Walter.[1]

References edit

  1. ^ a b c d e f "Father & Founder: Mr William Penhaligon - Blog - Penhaligon's". www.penhaligons.com. Retrieved 25 January 2024.
  2. ^ a b c "Penhaligon's - The Perfume Society". Retrieved 16 December 2017.