Address: 35 Stonegate, York, YO1 8AW (now above Rohan)
Description
Above a doorway on Stonegate, a window pane bears the inscription “J.W. Knowles and Sons.
Stained Glass. Leaded Glass. Decorators” in a black Gothic font.
Interestingly, just above the ghost sign, you can spot one of the 35 hidden statue cats perched around the buildings of York.
History
John Ward Knowles, born in 1838, initially made his mark as a photographer, capturing many of the old photos featured on this website.
However, he later turned to stained glass and gained a national reputation for his craft.
Early 1900s – Showing Knowles premises on Stonegate, signs above the windows are visible Source: Explore York Archive Asset ID: 1007381
In 1874, he moved into a house on Stonegate, which became the Knowles family home for the next 120 years.
During his time there, Knowles renovated the building, transforming it into a hub of artistic creativity.
Because of Knowles’ love of photography, we found many photos taken inside his workshop on Stonegate:
Source: Explore York Archive Asset ID: 1007410
Source: Explore York Archive Asset ID: 1007432
These workshops produced not only stained glass but also various forms of ecclesiastical decoration, including intricate embroideries and tapestry work by the Knowles daughters.
The building still retains much of Knowles’ work, such as the ghost sign above the doorway.
John Ward Knowles, photographer and stained glass window merchant
John’s son, John Alder Knowles (1881-1961), continued the family business, inheriting his father’s creative spirit.
He even spent some time in the United States studying glass manufacturing methods before World War I, influenced by Tiffany’s iconic stained glass designs.
A window by JW Knowles (made in 1891) in Saint Olave’s Church, York
The business stayed in the family until 1953, and the building remained in the Knowles family until 1999, when it was purchased by Jonathan Cainer to house the world’s first psychic museum.
Got thoughts or a story to share about this iconic sign? We’re all ears—drop your comments below and join the conversation!