John Innes
Area | Merton Park |
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Picture Reference | MerMor_26_10-1 |
Original Format | Photo |
Notes / History | One of seven children John Innes received a poor education but prospered after joining his brother’s wine importing business in the City. Dwindling trade led the brothers to switch their attention to the property market. In addition to his role as landowner and property developer he was a churchwarden, a J. P. and the Merton representative on the Croydon Rural District Council. He also supported the Ambulance Brigade, the temperance movement and local educational charities. His horticultural research company later developed a formula for gardening compost. |