Porky Down butchers shop history
Down & Son Ltd was established in Exmouth's Exeter Road in 1900 by John Henry Down. The business later moved to its present location in Chapel Street, which has been part of Magnolia shopping centre since 1976.
John's sons, Stanley and Percy, joined the business and worked hard to establish its reputation for quality. The business has now passed to Stanley's son, Chris Down, and his wife, Linda.
Butchers shops in 1900
Most shops in 1900 had open fronts. Marble slabs were placed in the display windows; these were washed at the end of the day and wiped clean before the display was put out every morning.
The floors were covered in sawdust and salt was generally used for cleaning. Since refridgerators had yet to be invented, meat was kept cool by buying ice.
Meat was handled in a more robust way at retail and wholesale levels. Most people would now be horrified at the level of hygene, but the view was that all meat would be washed and cooked thoroughly, so the risk of contamination was small.
The war years
World War I severely affected the meat trade and rationing was introduced in 1918. Staff shortages were also a problem since many men were called up.
Rationing was introduced once again during World War II. The Government took control of the nation's slaughter houses in 1939 and many were closed down. The "meat allocation" was a difficult job, and John Down was involved in local distribution. The Saturday morning queue for meat stretched down the street and around the corner (much like the Christmas queues are today!)
It was not until 1954 that the slaughter house laws were lifted and many began to re-open.
Mr Trotter
To find us in Exmouth, head for the Magnolia centre, and look out for Mr Trotter - he is a popular landmark loved by the local residents and holiday makers.
