Amesbury Industry

In the 17th century Amesbury was an important centre for the manufacture of clay pipes, quality of its products became famous far beyond the local needs it provided. Earliest known example of a “fox” pipe (believed to have been made here) names of four pipe makers are recorded as

• Edward Fox
• Robert Smith
• Gabriel Bayley
• Gabriel Gauntlet

Two early writers speak favourably of Gauntlet pipes – “the best tobacco pipes in England” – Aubrey and “the best for shape & colour” – Fuller

Amesbury attracted the industry due to the vast local supplies. A quarry has since been found showing the rich clay in the local soil.