Richard Hattersley, the founder of the company, served his apprenticeship at
Kirkstall Forge. He set up his own business in 1789 at Stubbings Mill, Airworth, manufacturing nuts, bolts, screws and small parts for textile machines. Although the first loom was produced in 1834, it was never delivered as it was smashed up in transit by a group of
handloom weavers of the
Luddite persuasion who were fearful for their livelihood. A replacement was eventually delivered. Hattersley's prospered and developed an extensive catalogue, adding new products to their range such as tobacco machines and garden furniture. They also ventured into production and the subsidiary companies have survived where the parent did not. G. Hattersley and Sons Ltd closed in 1983. ==Products==