David Jones

David Jones (1793-1873), merchant, began his retail career in Pembrokeshire and London before emigrating to Sydney via Hobart. At the end of 1835 he became a partner in Appleton and Co, trading in Sydney. By 1838 he had opened commodious premises on the corner of George and Barrack Streets opposite the GPO. His mission was to sell 'the best and most exclusive goods' but at the same time to carry 'a stock that embraces the everyday wants of mankind at large.' The business prospered until Jones retired from active management; a few years later, faced with bankruptcy, he had to return to redress its affairs. The store's full recovery was accomplished with the involvement of David's son, Edward Lloyd (1844-1894) who had travelled widely overseas, seen European 'department stores' and returned to implement retailing innovations. David Jones became gravely ill in 1866 but his life was prolonged by his older son Philip, an eminent physician. Retiring in 1868, he died in 1873; his wife, Jane née Hall (Mander) died three weeks later.