Sun Foundry

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Benoit & Walker grate.
Flyer. Courtesy University of Ballarat Historical Collection [Cat. No. 1248].
Benoit & Walker grate.

Also known as Benoit's S.U.N.

In 1903 Charles S. Benoit and G. Williams established the Sun Foundry in Mair Street. The "Sun" grates and copper framed fireplaces became will known throughout Australia.[1]


Background

History

In 1906 they advertised as manufactures of column friezes, ballustradings, etc. They also made all manner of building and agricultural machinery castings, as well as improved cast iron fireplaces - 'They are durable, useful, and ornamental. None Better. No Home Complete without one.'[2]


The Sun Foundry participated in Factory Day, 1916 - an initiative of the Forward Ballarat Movement. Their advertisement in The Ballarat Courier read...


‘BENOIT’S SUN FACTORY. .. Whilst various kinds of engineering work are carried out at Benoit’s Sun Factory, in Mair street, the firm pays particular attention to household articles that come within the range of the foundryman’s trade. The Sun copper frames have achieved a wide reputation, and are a boon on washing day. Then there are the parlor grate and cooking stove combined, which are claimed to be indispensable in a house. Amongst other articles manufactured by the firm are Hob grates, verandah columns, agricultural castings, etc. All orders will be promptly executed.’ [3]


Fire caused 5,000 pounds damage in 1926.

Site

Innovations

Community Involvement

Works Produced

Manufacturers of household items like stoves.[4]

Workplace Relations

The People

Legacies

See also

Factory Day, 1916

Forward Ballarat Movement

Benoit and Williams' Foundry

Recommended Reading

References

  1. McCallum, M. (1916) Ballarat & District Citizens & Sports, Ballarat.
  2. Guide to Beautiful Ballarat, Ballarat Progress Association, 1906. [University of Ballarat Historical Collection Cat. No. 1604].
  3. The Ballarat Courier (Vic. : 1914 – 1918) Tuesday 17 October 1916, page 6. Digital copy accessed via Trove.
  4. J. E. Skilbeck. Foundries of Ballarat's Past. Ballarat: 1950. [Australiana Room, Central Ballarat Library]


Further Reading

External Links


--C.K.Gervasoni 09:49, 16 August 2011 (EST)