Chairmakers in Lambeth/Maidstone

[iwccc]

I am trying to trace descendants who were chair makers. 
They lived in Salem Street, Maidstone.
Edwin Stone b. 1829 was a chair maker/master employing 7 men and 4 boys.
It appears that some of these men/boys were brothers or sons.
I am trying to find if there is any record of his business.
Also wanting to know any more information of how a chair maker started his business, trained himself, how he sold his chairs etc etc.
Would appreciate any leads.  Thanks

[ShaunJ]

Have you seen this reference in connection with the Chairmakers Arms? https://goo.gl/yrG7hX

[ShaunJ]

Salem Street in 1885:

[ShaunJ]

Edwin Stone b. 1829 was a chair maker/master employing 7 men and 4 boys.

16 men and 3 boys by 1881.

[iwccc]

Dear Shaun J.
thank you so much for your input to my questions.. I was so excited to see a photo of the Chairmakers Arms. It would seem that the family chair makers were growing in size of business over the years. 
Can I ask where you found the list of residents in Salem Street - was it in a book or on line etc.?  I have not heard of Mrs. Ellen Stone before - interesting that a woman is listed as a chair maker.
Do you know if they would have made the chairs on consignment to be picked up / delivered OR would  they have used their home/workplace as a bit of a showroom? 
Very grateful for your help...you have made my day!  Regards

[ShaunJ]

The Salem Street residents are listed in Stevens' Directory which is available online
http://ukgo7.com/England2/Directories/Stevens%20Directory%20Of%20Maidstone%20And%20Neighbourhood%201885.pdf

[ShaunJ]

There are more Kent directories (and lots more) here http://specialcollections.le.ac.uk/cdm/map/collection/p16445coll4