Harrogate Civic Society to pay tribute to Victorian pioneer behind Bettys cafes and Yorkshire Tea
A new plaque is to be unveiled to a Harrogate 19th century figure who played a key part in the story of Bettys cafes and Yorkshire Tea.
The life and achievements of tea and coffee merchant Charles E Taylor, 1866-1942, is to be celebrated by Harrogate Civic Society with the installation of a plaque at the address of what was his home at 1 South Park Road in Harrogate.
A Quaker and son of a York master grocer, he recognised that water chemistry influenced taste, so created bespoke blends to match local water.
With his brother, Llewellyn, he opened tea kiosks and cafes throughout Yorkshire, including the flagship Café Imperial on Parliament Street, now Bettys Tea Room.
They became known for quality blends, initially creating unique blends for local guesthouses to suit their different water types.
In 1896, the firm C. E. Taylor & Co. won a gold medal at the London Grocery Exhibition.
Charles E Taylor also set up tea and coffee kiosks in towns around Yorkshire and a flagship store at 1 Parliament Street, Harrogate.
In 1962, the company merged with Bettys tea rooms, creating the parent company Bettys & Taylors.
Taylors launched the Yorkshire Tea brand in 1977, which has since become Britain’s bestselling tea.
The heritage plaque scheme was established in 1975 by Harrogate Society, now Harrogate Civic Society, and Harrogate Borough Council.
The unveiling ceremony on Thursday, December 11, will be followed by refreshments and pastries at West Park URC on Victoria Avenue.