His middle name was Ebenezer but he was no Scrooge…
“Mr. Joseph King, of George-street saw mills, who, a short time since, had his factory destroyed by fire, has experienced practical sympathy by means of a generous subscription to meet his loss. He was insured for £300 only, while his loss was almost double. Mr. L.E. Thomas, with characteristic kindness, has acted most energetically as hon. sec. to the fund, and a sum of £173:1:3 has been contributed and received by Mr. King, who has expressed himself very thankful to his neighbours and friends, and especially to Mr. Thomas.” (Bucks Herald, Jun 1903).

Water colour by Bill Bailey of George Street
This painting shows the timberyard chimney in George Street and a horse drawn Co-Operative Bakery van in foreground.
Joseph King lived at 102 George Street in 1901. Lewis Ebenezer Thomas (1841-1920) was a nurseryman’s clerk for most of his working life.