George Heron was born in February 1724 in Poultry, London, the third child of Benjamin Heron and Elizabeth Kiffin.
His father died around 1729, aged only 25, leaving his wife and 4 children in the care of his own father, John Heron, a prominent linen draper and business partner of George Arnold.
George was apprenticed to George Arnold and became a linen draper in his own right, as well as becoming the heir to the bulk of the family fortunes following the deaths of various family members and siblings.
George was introduced to the Brooke family of Mere circa 1745 when he moved to the area to follow business. In 1747 he married their eldest daughter, Felicia, and they would go on to have 10 children together.
Around 1757, George purchased Daresbury Hall from John Daniell, and had the original manor demolished and a new hall built. This was completed by 1768, and the family moved in.
George was active in the local community, and a prominent figure within the Weaver Navigation commissioners and within various committees for road improvements in Warrington.
He died 8th Feb 1780 at Daresbury Hall and was buried in the Chapel if Daresbury Church.
Our researchers have been looking into the fascinating story of George’s life and have built up an extensive file on his business and personal escapades, and are in the process of compiling a book.