The History of Booths Music Located on Churchgate in Bolton

Booths History
Booth's Music was established in 1832 by Mr. James Booth, who is the great, great, great, great grandfather of the present owners. Our premises are situated in the oldest part of the town. In fact, standing opposite us is the Man and Scythe public house, the most dated building in the area and the second oldest in the country, built in 1251 and is where the Earl of Derby spent his final minutes before his execution. It is our belief that we have existed for over 178 years because of the friendliness we give and receive from our customers. Being at the heart of Bolton’s musical community, we aim to help and encourage both beginners and advanced players. It may surprise you to know that: We are the oldest music shop in the world and one of the oldes family businesses in the country. Our own premises are on the site of Richard Arkwright's barbers shop from 1760 - 1768 - he went on to invent the Water Frame! Frederic Chopin could potentially have bought his manuscript from Booth's Music, we were open for business whilst the great musician was composing his most famous piano works. He gave his very prestigious first concert in Paris in February 1832, the only one in which he was the principal performer until 1841.	Booth’s Music around 1890
James Booth (the founder) could indeed have fought at the Battle of waterloo, the famous battle occurring only 16 years before the store opened for business. Many musicians returning from the war established a living from their musical skills. Communication would not have been a problem after 1832, because it was the year Morse Code was invented. The first Parliament Factory Act became law in 1832. Debussy, Elgar, Liszt, Mendelssohn, Schumann and Tchaikovsky are just some composers alive and writing within our trading years. Many famous modern-day musicians and bands have visited the store. We hope to see you soon...
Royal visit in 1954 passing Booth’s Music Churchgate during the war years Ye Olde Man + Scythe, opposite Booths, around 1890 (possibly same photographer as Booth’s photo above)