Alexander Barnes
Listed in the 1865 directory as a Bowie knife maker, Alexander Barnes was based in Shrewsbury Road, Park. In 1841, he was enumerated in the Census as a journeyman pen-blade forger, living in Claywood (close to the present Midland Railway station) with Elizabeth Barnes (aged 55). The identity of Alexander’s parents is uncertain. He may have been related to Matthew Barnes, a die sinker, active since about 1833 in Claywood. Matthew died on 1 October 1854, aged 76. In 1852, Alexander was....
