Career
Thorneycroft moved to Leeds with his family and returned to Wolverhamton aged 18 with a basic knowledge of iron forging which allowed him to join an established iron works in Bilston. From an initial production of 10 tons of iron a week George used his experience to grow the business and was soon producing 700 tons a week of high quality iron. With skillful marketing he became a key supplier to the fast expanding railway companies.
The business continued to grow, even after Thorneycroft"s death, and made large profits from production of armour plating and shells during the Crimean War.
Along with other businesses in the town the works suffered, during a slump in demand for iron, and closed in 1877. An outspoken conservative, his growing stature saw his selection as the first Mayor of Wolverhampton after incorporation in 1848.
He donated a silver gilt mace to the Corporation to mark his accession. A statue of Thorneycroft, by sculptor Thomas Thornycroft, now stands at the top of a staircase in the foyer of the old Town Hall.
The house now bears a commemorative blue plaque.
