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George Shillibeer, 1797-1866

Main details

Main details for this item.
Reference number
1996/5200
Name
George Shillibeer
Born
1797
Collection
Object type
  • Person
Completeness
17%
  • Biography

    AttributeValue
    Biography
    Shillibeer was a coach builder, who is thought to have supplied vehicles for the world's first bus service, started in Paris. Much impressed, he brought the idea to London, starting his own service in 1829. Within two years, competitors had forced him into bankruptcy, and he was elected chairman of the first horse bus Association, designed to limit such damaging competition.
    Retiring from the bus scene in 1834, he ended his days as a funeral director.

    A memorial tablet to Shillibeer was unveiled at St Mary's Church, Chigwell, on the wall of the north aisle, west end on the 17th September 1929.
    Employment
    Chairman, first omnibus Association, 01/09/1831 - 31/12/1834
    Bus operator, 04/07/1829 - 31/12/1834
    Role
    Staff,