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George W. Holtzapffel Budd Obituary

The following obituary appeared in the January 18, 1924 "Scientific News" column of English Mechanics magazine, indicating the death of George W. Holtzapffel Budd on January 17th, 1924. (Note: Ogden's Pedigree of Holtzapffel Lathes lists Budd's death as December 17, 1924, which appears to be a typo.)

DEATH OF MR. GEORGE W. HOLTZAPFFEL BUDD

In the "Times" this morning appeared the announcement that this very well known and distinguished Turner and Manufacturer of lathes and all sorts of apparatus connected therewith, had passed away on the 17th ult., at the age of 67. As the successor of the older Holtzapffels, he was worthy of the office, for he was always courteous, approachable and communicative; anyone who practised or desired to commence the art of Ornamental Turning was sure of the best advice from a skilled artist. To this day, the tools and fittings of all kinds are the best that can be found, for neither time nor expense was spared in perfecting and finishing them in the highest manner possible. Of course one had to pay for them, but they were worth their price, and they never wore out.

Mr. George Holtzapffel Budd used to show the various specimens, that his patrons and pupils had executed, with great pride, and liked to puzzle inquirers by inviting their opinion as to how certain intricate portions had been executed. When I had leisure for a visit while in London, I often called in, and sometimes I came away with less money in my pocket than when I entered No. 53, but I always felt that my few shillings were well spent, and that I had had another noteworthy interview in his office. We corresponded at times, also, so that I much regretted latterly when I called in, that he was prevented by ill-health from attending there. To-day I have been working at my Holtzapffel and Deyerlein lathe on a piece of ivory; that lathe was made in 1810 (!) ten years before my father, also a turner, was born, and it is as true now as when it was made, I can say.

Besides his Haymarket business, he did work for Government and others, I believe, and was always busy. In my early days, as I passed the firm's premises, 64, Charing Cross, I often looked in and admired the tools, etc., displayed in the window, as well as the trade mark, three elephant's tusks, strapped together, that rested under the window on the pavement. And then I visited them later, there and at 13 and 14, New Bond Street, and finally in the Haymarket.

Mr. George Holtzapffel Budd was a Justice of the Peace, a Past Master of The Worshipful Company of Turners, a constant Judge at that Company's Exhibition, and a personal friend of many. We have lost a distinguished Turner, Manufacturer, and Judge, and regret exceedingly that the hand of Time; was not stayed some years longer for this gentleman of commanding presence, charming manner, and generous character. May we hope that Major J. G. Holtzapeffel Budd, M.A., A.M.I.C.E., another Past Master of the Worshipful Company, will assume the direction of the wonderful school of Ornamental Turning, that has its headquarters in 53, Haymarket.

K. C. A. J.