Description and History of Site:-
John H Gill and Sons. Brick. 2 storeys. Lot of semi-circular blank arcading. John H Gill & Sons originally manufactured agricultural implements at this site but are now principally distributors for nationally made implements. The original foundry buildings are of red brick with decorative semi-circular arched windows and iron frames. (Hatcher, 1973).

Information panel:

F. Mattison & Co.& J.H. Gill & Sons

After training as an iron moulder in Richmond, William Mattison moved to Leeming Bar in 1850s and established an iron foundry close to the railway. Producing farm equipment, William found a great deal of success in Leeming Bar, as his foundry and workforce continued to expand in the following decades. The nearby railway allowed the company to transport their products, largely agricultural equipment, around the country and as far as Ireland and mainland Europe. 1869 even saw Mattison take first prize in the Great Royal International trial of reaping machines, held in Hungary.

After William's son, Francis, passed away in 1937, the foundry was purchased by John Henry Gill, whose name the business still bears to this day. Gill's continues to operate from their shop nearby Leeming Bar Station, and the company legacy lives on through the branded ironstone mile markers that can be found throughout North Yorkshire.

Still (2017) in existence, though probably not manufacturing on site.

Further Reading and References:-
YAHS - Hatcher Card Index. Research funded by the Yorkshire Arts Association 1972.
Hatcher, J. The industrial architecture of Yorkshire. Phillimore, 1985.
Atkinson, F. Industrial archaeology of north east England, Vol 2 : The sites. David & Charles, 1974.

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Key Words :- iron foundry implement works agricultural engineers

Viewing the Site :- Can be viewed from the adjacent footpath.

Address :- Leeming Bar, Bedale, North Yorkshire, DL7 9AB
Grid Ref :- SE 28769 90030
Co-ordinates :- Lat 54.305070 , Long -1.559386
Local Authority :- Hambleton District Council
Pre 1974 County :- Yorkshire - North Riding
Site Status :- Listed - Grade II
Historic England List No - 1150915,
Site Condition :- Site in alternative industrial use
Record Date :- 16 May 2015

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