William Challen
English
partner
sole owner
piano maker
Biography
William Challen joined Thomas Butcher's piano shop as a partner in 1816 and became its sole owner when Butcher retired in 1830. Under his leadership the firm produced excellent upright pianos and Challen amassed a considerable fortune. He retired in 1862, leaving the business to his son, C. Challen, establishing the lineage that became the firm Challen & Son.
Highlights
- Became sole owner of Thomas Butcher's firm upon Butcher's retirement in 1830
- Built excellent upright pianos and amassed a fortune
- Retired in 1862, passing the business to his son
Source
Alfred Dolge, Pianos and Their Makers, Vol. I (1911), p. 247.
Public domain.