Mr. Huntbach was born at Pipe Gate in 1837. 

Coming to Hanley in 1852, he served an apprenticeship with the late Mr. Thos. Swift, of Upper Market-square, and remained with him until 1861, when he commenced business for himself in a small shop in Lamb-street, With the assistance of his wife - a daughter of the late Mr. W. Kirkby, of Trentham - and his two sisters, he was able to lay the foundation of a great trading concern. 

The firm, Messrs. Huntbach and Co., Limited, have now a permanent staff of about 300 persons, with shops. Workrooms, Warehouses, &c. of large and imposing dimensions. During the course of years the business has been extended from time to time by the acquirement of neighbouring premises on both sides of Lamb-street. The history of the firm is a marvellous example of what can be accomplished by foresight. business acumen, and upright and straightforward dealing.