Port of Hull (1932)
This is an interesting insight into the promotion of British industry abroad between the wars, as Sheffield cutlery manufacturer Billy Ibberson heads off for Copenhagen where an impressive shop has been established in the city centre specifically selling Sheffield cutlery. As might be expected, the business trip soon becomes a pleasure as he tours the city, and films the naval vessels in the port; there is also an intriguing possible connection with a Danish soldier.
This is one of many films made by a local amateur filmmaker, “Billy” Ibberson, over a period of 60 years. William Ibberson’s Sheffield cutlery company went back to the 17th century, and was the first company to manufacture stainless steel cutlery. As well as making films related to his work, he made many films of his family. Ibberson worked to promote Sheffield industry at home and abroad, and he made a number of films as part of this. As a member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce and the Company of Cutlers he made visits overseas, both before and during the war, to promote Sheffield trade, which he often filmed – Washington, New York, Chicago and New Mexico – and which he would also show adding his own commentary.
Duration: 12 minutes
Suggested credit: Port of Hull (1932) © The British Film Institute