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

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

Career

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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

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

References

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  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.