22 Frederick Street

By Marie Haddleton from the Hockley Flyer and Rebecca O’Grady, research volunteer

The present building was built in 1901 as a branch of the National Provincial Bank of England with two entrances: one for the bank’s clients and the other for employees – with a staircase to the 1st floor where the bank manager and clerks were employed, complete with large walk-in strong room, and a hoist near front door up to first floor, and an internal staircase. These premises also included a ground floor and 1st floor extension at the rear. A toilet block was built in the outside yard. The new building has a particularly attractive pediment which bears the date 1901.

Abrahall & Bint traded from 22 Frederick Street occupying the rear ground floor and 1st floor during WW1. They were Diamond Mounters. They also designed and manufactured all kinds of Gem Jewellery and High-class Pearl Goods and specialised in Gem Rings, Brooches, Bracelets, Tiaras, Necklets, etc. Another speciality was Municipal and Presentation Work with Special Attention to Repairs and Approbation Orders.

Birmingham Medal Co. was established in 1921 – Hal (Harold) Stewart Turner, head, also Silversmiths, joined by Hutchinson & Co. Jewellery Valuers.The Birmingham Medal Company employed mainly disabled ex- servicemen. In 1922 they operated from 58, Vittoria Street, in 1926 moved to Summer Hill Terrace, in 1930 moved for about ten years to 1st floor 22 Frederick Street (over Natwest Bank). In 1939 changed name to Birmingham Medal & Badge Co., and in 1940 moved to 29/30 Albion Street, 1963 to 95 Albion Street, then to 30 Frederick Street. Their makers mark was ‘BM Co’ and they produced a wide variety of objects including enamel badges and AA and RAC badges.

In 1988 York Business Administration, later YBA Publications (Marie Haddleton, Mark Haddleton) took over semi-derelict 2nd Floor. The Hockley Flyer launched in 1984, YBA Publications also published programmes for Hednesford Hills Raceway and Birmingham Wheels Stock Car racing tracks plus the monthly A4 Short Circuit magazine, National Grass Racer and many Year Books; also publishing The History & Guide to The Jewellery Quarter (Issues 1 and 2). There is a sculpture on the pavement outside 22 Frederick Street premises depicting the trolley which Marie used for many years to distribute the Hockley Flyer to every letterbox in the Jewelley Quarter!