The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

GavinM wrote: Sat Feb 22, 2025 8:57 am

epigramophone wrote: Sat Feb 22, 2025 8:35 am J.G.Windows Ltd have been trading from the same premises in the Central Arcade, Newcastle since 1908.
The Windows family sold the business in 2006, but it is now one of the UK's longest established music stores.

Sadly, Windows closed last November:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvgw2ywzqx3o

Steve wrote: Thu Feb 20, 2025 8:44 am I wonder if any other collectors have an interest in tracking down the original buildings / shops which used to be gramophone dealerships. I know some collectors have an interest in former shops in their immediate locality but I've always liked machines with retailers plaques or transfers on them, irrespective of where they've come from. For me personally, it just adds another element of interest.

I'd previously never heard of Jake Graham Gramophones of Liverpool until I bought the Pathé "Rigoletto" recently from an auction in Liverpool. The machine and its later replacement soundbox both came from the same dealer. Imagine my surprise then when an HMV Monarch ("Doric" double-spring) I purchased in West Sussex, also originated from Jake Graham. Another HMV cabinet machine is being offered on The Saleroom currently, also retailed by Jake Graham! I don't know how large the dealership was but it certainly existed from 1902 through 1920 at least. The building itself was erected in 1902 and machines I'm aware of which sold there date from at least 1907 so it's quite likely he was the first retailer in the building. I've attached a Google image of what is approximately 76 & 78A Renshaw Street, as it is today.

Please feel free to share any images you might have found of former gramophone enterprises.