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John Barber (1849 - 1918) was a Scottish draper and businessman, best known as the person who put his name to the Barbour Jacket, and as founder of the Royal Warrant holding luxury and lifestyle brand J. Barbour & Sons Ltd.

Early Life & Career
Born and raised at Bogue (Dumfries and Galloway), John was the second son of a farmer who moved to South Shields in the North-East of England and setup as a travelling draper in 1870. In 1894, he began trading as J. Barbour & Sons from a shop in South Shields. They initially sold all forms of clothing, but soon began to specialise in oilskin coats for fishermen, sailors and other outdoor workers.

Contrary to popular belief, Barbour didn’t invent Oilskins as the process of weatherproofing fabric with oils and waxes predates this, and in fact goes back to the 15th Century.

Growing the Business
By 1906, the range had expanded to include oiled clothing for landowners, farmers and shepherds. A mail-order catalogue introduced in 1908 (at the instigation of John's son, Malcolm ) and, by 1917, 75% of the company's business was through that medium.

Decendants
John's son Malcolm took over the business in 1927, and his son Duncan who was a keen motorcyclist encouraged the business to diversify into producing a motorcycling suit, the Barbour International.

The company has also been chaired by mmebers of the Barbour family ever since, currently residing with the fourth generation Dame Margaret Barbour.