Joseph Henry Abbott founded the business in 1853 with a store that supplied everyday essential items to those seeking their fortune on the goldfields. The timing and choice of store ensured that he would become a prominent part of the Bendigo business scene. Abbott's next venture was to establish the New Times Boot Market & Factory in Pall Mall, Sandhurst. In 1867, his wife took over running the shop which was located next to the Bendigo Arcade near Williamson Street. In 1876, the leather business of T Baulderstone was purchased, and operations were further expanded later by the acquisition of the Edinburgh Tannery at Sheepwash Creek, and The Edinburgh Leather & Grindery warehouse in Bull Street, Sandhurst. In 1889, Joseph Abbott passed all interests in the business to his son, who shared the same name, in partnership with an adopted son, Richard Hartley Smith Abbott. The business continued trading under the name J H Abbott & Co.Francis Chapman, Sons and Deekes - Monthly Circular (34th Year of Issue; No.397 - Current Prices and Shipping List January 1926, Castlereagh House, Castlereagh Street Sydney; Australian, New Zealand, South African and General Overseas, Buying Shipping, insurance and Chartering Agents. 35 pageshistory, bendigo, abbott collection, francis chapmen sons & deekes