Antique early 20th century Geo Bassett hexagonal tea caddy tin Chinese motifs. Both rare and unusual tea caddy tin with a spout for pouring your tea leaves but originally would have held sweets etc.
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Some age related wear
17 cm tall
11 cm wide
13 cm depth
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Geo Bassett was the founder of the Bassett's confectionery company in Sheffield, England, in 1842. His company became famous for its sweets, particularly the Liquorice Allsorts, which were created accidentally in 1899 after the founder's death. Beyond sweets, he was an important figure in Sheffield, serving as the town's Mayor in 1876, and was also a devout Wesleyan Methodist.
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His company became famous for its sweets, particularly the Liquorice Allsorts, which were created accidentally in 1899 after the founder's death. Beyond sweets, he was an important figure in Sheffield, serving as the town's Mayor in 1876, and was also a devout Wesleyan Methodist.
Company history
Founding: George Bassett, after serving an apprenticeship as a confectioner, started his own business in Sheffield in 1842, initially as a retail confectionery store.
Expansion: The business grew significantly in the 1850s, and Bassett moved into sugar confectionery manufacturing, opening a factory on Snig Hill, which he called a "manufactory". By 1876, the company's Portland Street factory was considered the largest confectionery works in the world.
Liquorice Allsorts: The famous Liquorice Allsorts were accidentally created in 1899, after George Bassett had already passed away. A sales representative dropped a tray of mixed liquorice sweets, and a customer requested to buy the mixture, leading to the creation of the product.
Modern day: Bassett's became a brand of Cadbury Schweppes in 1989 and is now part of the Mondelēz International group, having been merged with Maynards to become Maynards Bassetts.
Personal life and civic contributions
Religious devotion: Bassett was a dedicated member of the Wesleyan Methodist Church, serving as a preacher, leader, and benefactor throughout his life.
Political career: He was also active in local politics, becoming a council member in 1851 and serving as the Mayor of Sheffield in 1876. During his time as Mayor, he hosted U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant.
Philanthropy: Bassett was known for his generosity, providing meals and trips for his workers and donating to various religious and charitable causes, such as hospitals and orphanages.