Sausage entrepreneur and philanthropist. Born at 113 Jermyn Street (2022 this is occupied by Rowley's Steak Restaurant). In 1870 he was made a partner in his father's sausage making business and with his brother Frederick, developed it as a countrywide concern. The company usually saw a fall of sales during the summer months and from this, the idea of making ice cream was born. He became a generous supporter of many charities and established the Thomas Wall Trust to support students' education. He died at his home, Blythewood, Worcester Road, Sutton, Surrey.
The Oxford DNB gives: "Burly and bearded, a confirmed bachelor who lived frugally, he devoted most of his energies and resources to assisting almost every known charity that offered recreational, sporting, and educational facilities to boys and young men, including the Boy Scouts; females were helped by the provision of nursery schools and a Working Women's College."
Credit for this entry to: Alan Patient of www.plaquesoflondon.co.uk
