Mr Patrick Martin came from Ireland to Huddersfield and for some time worked as a cloth designer. In 1859 he formed his own company producing fancy woollens and silk twists. In 1864, Wellington Mills was acquired and four years later commenced the manufacture of fancy worsteds. Mr Patrick Martin died in 1880 and his eldest son, Mr Henry Martin took control of the company. Although other people were involved with the company, the rapid growth of Martin Sons was chiefly due to the enterprise and energy of this member of the family.

When the company was founded only 20 looms were employed but under the direction of Henry Martin, Wellington Mills grew to cover an area of 42 acres with

600 production looms all employed in the making of worsted goods of the highest quality. In its heyday the company employed 1,750 people and was the largest single employer in Huddersfield.

The designs and styles manufactured by the company set the fashions in menswear for the whole world and the buyers in New York, Paris, Vienna, Berlin, St. Petersburg and the other capitals of Europe would inspect Martin's new collection first and foremost as their guide.

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