The Origins of Swaine & Adeney

Swaine began as makers of driving, riding, and hunting whips in 1750 earning the distinction of suppliers to the royal family. Evolving through craft and innovations Swaine Adeney Brigg became known for dedication to fine craftsmanship and quality materials.

The Origins of Brigg & Co

Charles Brigg began as a plumassier before expanding into high-quality umbrellas, becoming a hallmark of gentlemanly style. The merger of Brigg with Swaine & Adeney was a logical step, given a shared history of royal endorsements and quality craftsmanship.

The Origins of Herbert Johnson

In 1996, Swaine Adeney Brigg acquired Herbert Johnson, a distinguished hatter founded in 1889. Known for its royal connections, Herbert Johnson was awarded a royal warrant by King Edward VII in 1901 and became renowned for its innovative military headwear during WWI.

Swaine's Hunting Whips

Swaine's rich heritage, dating back to 1750, began with crafting hunting whips, which remained the focus until 1825 due to high pre-railway demand. The reputation grew with royal endorsements and international accolades.

Heritage Royal Affiliations

John Ross traded as ‘Whipmaker to the Royal Family’ in 1770 and passed his clientele to Swaine & Co., who continued to serve royalty, including Queen Victoria and George III. This continued under Edward Swaine and James Adeney's management.

Polo Pursuits: Sporting Legacy

Recognising the growing popularity of polo in the 1860s, Swaine & Adeney seized the opportunity by producing and curating a comprehensive range of polo equipment, including in-house crafted whips and sticks, and innovating new designs.

Swaine & Adeney's Luggage Legacy

Swaine & Adeney, originally renowned for whip-making, transitioned to crafting luggage for automobiles as the industry evolved. This shift and diversification into motoring luggage, handbags, and document cases met modern demands.

Rise of the Umbrella

By the late 19th century, Brigg was renowned for crafting high-quality umbrellas, which became a symbol of status in British society. Their introduction of the 'Centenary' gentleman's umbrella in the 1930s solidified their prestigious reputation.

TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP

Swaine's craftsmanship epitomises a blend of meticulous attention to detail and the use of premium materials, resulting in products renowned for their durability and elegance. Each piece reflects a longstanding tradition of artisanal excellence.

Brigg's walking sticks and canes

Brigg's introduction of a premium range of walking sticks in 1838 coincided with the accessory's transformation into a symbol of authority and fashion, popularised by dandies who owned extensive collections to match various moods and occasions.

Swaine's canes and whips

By the mid-19th century, Swaine & Isaac transitioned from exclusively retailing whips to expanding into canes and walking sticks. By 1845, their entry into the cane market was highlighted by Queen Victoria's purchase of a Malacca walking cane.

Silk Top Hats by Herbert Johnson

Herbert Johnson is renowned for crafting silk velvet top hats prized for their "gossamer body" and lightweight feel, ideal for equestrian use like hunting and polo hats. Their historical significance includes a hat recovered from the Titanic.