Facing Broad Street from statue, early 20th century
[Local Studies: Warwickshire Photographic Survey]
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Detail from advert of Montserrat Company
[Private Collection]
19th century photograph of Plymouth, Montserrat
[Private Collection]
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Sturge's Business on Broad Street
Sturge, like many philanthropists of the 19th century, had to earn his living through business. His trade, along with his brother Charles, was that of 'Corn Merchant'. White's Directory of Birmingham (1855) tells us that the address of his warehouse offices was not far from his home: 'Sturge, Joseph & Chas, 194 Broad Street, Islington.'
It was often difficult for Sturge to balance 'morality' and 'profits'. It was for this reason his business refused to supply grain to be used for the production of alcohol in 1844.
Later, in 1857, Sturge also established a 'free labour' plantation on the island of Montserrat to prove slavery was not needed to create wealth. A Birmingham owned 'Montserrat Company' operated until the 20th century.
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Directions
Go back through subway. Keep to left of stainless steel sculpture in concourse. Exit by Broad Street Walkway for Broad Street (North Side). Head down to city centre.
Stop nearby the 'Old Orleans' building. Now locate the 'China Red' restaurant. Near this spot once stood a warehouse of ‘J & C Sturge’.
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