There’s been a lively discussion on BBC Radio Sheffield recently about cutlery, with listeners phoning in about all the different knives, forks and spoons they use. Who knew pickle forks were a thing?
Our outreach and education officer Stella Howe joined in this morning to talk to breakfast presenter Toby Foster about the development of the stainless steel industry in Sheffield and the fascinating history of Portland Works. She settled arguments about the difference between cutlery and flatware and asked listeners to get in touch if they had items linked to the Works, either branded with Portland Works or with the stamp of R.F. Mosley, who played a key role in the development of stainless steel when, in 1914, inventor Harry Brearley turned to the company to help make knives from his new rustless steel.
There’s more on our history here and you can hear Stella’s interview on BBC Radio Sheffield by clicking below:
- Breakfast on BBC Radio Sheffield – Toby Foster – BBC Sounds
(Skip to 1hr 18min)
(Photo by Matt Botsford on Unsplash)