History
Our history
JJ Coupland and Son was founded back in 1904 by John James Coupland, with support from his father who was a coal dealer at the time. John set up business in Station Yard, Staveley. The coal was brought directly into the yard via steam train, coal would have to be handled twice, shovelling off the train and then again into hundred weight sacks.
Delivery at this time was by horse and cart around the Staveley village and surrounding areas.
John’s son James would have to be up early before school to retrieve the horse from the other side of the village near Craggy wood, then deliver the horse to his father ready for the days work. The beast never wanted to be caught and would often lead him on a merry dance each day.
John eventually retired in 1945 and James took over the business.
James was known as the singing coal man and his tenor voice was often heard as he delivered the coal.
Until the 1960’s coal was transported straight into the yard by train onto a separate siding and these trucks would then have to be emptied by shovel into the yard. After this time James had to purchase another vehicle to transport the coal from the railway yard in Kendal.
James retired in 1980.
Ted joined the business in 1980.
Coal still had to be bagged by man power and shovel before being delivered which was very labour-some.
In the early 90’s Ted invested in modernising the way in which coal was packed with the purchase of a specialised bagging hopper and loading tractor. This sped things up ten fold and enabled him to work more independently .
In 2003 Ted acquired the round of Edward Clarke and Son covering Arnside, Silverdale and surrounding areas. At this point Ted’s Son Oliver was brought in to help in the winter months.
Having served his customers for 40 years, carrying countless tonnes of coal, Ted has decided to hang up his leather this year and hand over the reigns to his son Oliver, now 5th generation into the family business.
2019-
My background has been in forestry and arboriculture and I have spent the last 7 years in the wood fuel and Biomass industry. With this expertise I have introduced a range of fuels to accompany the quality coal and smokeless fuels we already supply and help to broaden our customer base. My wife Mel is also involved in the business behind the scenes helping with accounts and processing orders.
Ted will still be a familiar face out on the round and will be helping out at times.
Heather will be the familiar friendly voice at the end of the phone although you will be able to contact myself should you wish to.