Introduction
This catalogue was originally published in 1829. In this edition Francis West also described himself as 'Successor to Mr. Adams'. Apprenticed in 1821.
He is reputed to have supplied Ross with his own instruments and was advertising in the Quekett publications as late as 1855.
His son:- West, F. L. - Optician and Instrument Maker - 39 Southampton Street, Strand
West F. (Francis) 83 Fleet Street, London (1829-1852)[ near St. Brides Church] was the precursor to the above firm.
Trade labels state ' Philosophical Instrument Maker', 'Optician and Instrument Maker.' And 'Optician to His late Majesty.'
Succeeded by son Francis Linsell West (above) at 39 Southampton Street, London 1849-1885, also 31 Cockspur Street, London 1859-1885.
A microscope is in the Billing Microscope Collection signed by this maker. ( F. L. West, 31 Cockspur St., Charing Cross, London), AFIP 49185.
The 1881 census entry for the above contains the following information:-
Dwelling: 31 Cockspur St
Census Place: St Martin In Fields, London, Middlesex, England
Francis L. WEST, Widower, aged 59, Male, born at Oxford Street, Middlesex, England Occupation: Optician
Elizabeth LEE, Unmarried, aged 39 Female, born at St Martins, Middlesex, England Occupation: Housekeeper
Rebecca WILLSHEER, Unmarried, aged 32, Female, born at Waltham Abbey, Essex, England Rel: Occupation: Domestic Serv
Addresses known:-
17 RUPERT COURT, DRURY LANE, LONDON, ENGLAND. (1807 - 1825).
83 FLEET STREET, LONDON, ENGLAND.(1829 -1846).
and later Southampton Street & 31 Cockspur Street, London.
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