Samuel Chick II and Harriet Chick blue plaque

This blue commemorative plaque records: No 3 High Street (now No 10). From 1849-92, this early Victorian house was home to Harriet (1812-92) and Samuel Chick II (1811-80), son of Abigail and Samuel Chick I of Berry Barton, Branscombe. Abigail's business acumen transformed cottage lace industry of Beer and Branscombe, just as her son's business was to open up nationwide market to lace makers of Sid Valley. Materials supplied and completed "sprigs" were returned for making up in rear upstairs workroom. Sent to London and sold by their son, Samuel Chick III from 5, Newman St., as "Honiton" lace (reputation gained in late 18th c. for lace trade which was in decline due to changing fashions. Recorded plaque organisation: Sid Vale Association.

Samuel Chick II and Harriet Chick operated a significant cottage industry in the Sid Valley, expanding the market for local lace makers by supplying materials and coordinating production that was sold as "Honiton" lace in London, thus contributing to the revival of the declining lace trade.