Introduction
Epoch Industries was established in London, England, in 1867 by two brothers (Roger and Graham Epoch) who had inherited a large sum of money, being the only living kin of a distant relative. The first two decades saw the brothers investing and developing a wide range of business opportunities, none of which saw any real success. Whilst one brother was an rational industrialist, the other was a stereotypical dreamer and artist, however this combination worked in their favour eventually, as they found a niche in developing stylish yet affordable carriages for upper-middle class families. In 1886, word reached them of a new invention - The Automobile.
Whilst the general adoption of this new mode of transport was relatively slow (only the very wealthy could even afford to purchase one), the Epoch brothers found their calling, helping to design and build custom coachwork for clients who had specific needs or desires and wanted modifications to their vehicles. Their complimentary skills and attributes helped them to become one of the most sought after in London.
With the onset of WW1, the demand for what was a luxury service crashed, and Epoch Industries was forced to retool and refocus their business on assisting the war effort. The brothers, now joined by both their sons, attempted to design and build an armoured car for the British Army, which was not taken up, that quickly gained the name “the prettiest coffin on wheels” due to its beautiful design but paper thin armour, and delicate mechanicals.
Five days after the end of the war, tragedy struck. Roger’s son was driving the two brothers home after a large celebration at the main factory when their car left the road and crashed into a ditch, killing all three of them. As the only surviving family member, Graham’s son Walter was now in charge of the whole business. Without a real passion for it, the business stagnated and released nothing noteworthy until after WW2, once Walter had passed on the reigns to his son, Thomas.