The start of ESSE's unique heritage

During the late 1800s James Smith introduced his stoves and cookers to the wealthy Victorian market in Edinburgh.

In 1854, on a return trip to America, James was dramatically shipwrecked in the Atlantic and survived by floating in a zinc-lined wicker basket until he was rescued three days later. Soon after, James Smith formed a business partnership with his old friend Stephen Wellstood and the company became known as Smith and Wellstood. Later, with the addition of a third partner, George Ure, the group opened an iron foundry at Bonnybridge called 'The Columbian Stove Works'.

It was at this point the ESSE brand was created, with the French-sounding name reflecting the fashion at the time.

Above: An early Smith & Wellstood catalogue