Rishi Sunak has praised the contribution of a longstanding family business to Northallerton when opening an exhibition which charts its history.
The Barkers History Gallery has been created as a permanent exhibition in the company’s Home store in Yafforth Road, Northallerton.
The gallery offers a fascinating journey through the rich heritage of the fifth-generation family business and the town it has served since the 19th century.
It features hundreds of previously unseen photographs, prints and artefacts, tracing Barkers’ story back to its origins as Oxendales Drapery shop.
Mr Sunak, the Richmond and Northallerton MP, said the exhibition offered a fascinating insight into the company’s story and the important role it has played in the county town’s history.
He said: “Barkers is a truly iconic business. The exhibition helps to explain why it has been central to the economy of the town for generations and is so well loved by its customers and also the many loyal staff who have worked there.
“It is vital that we celebrate and cherish family businesses like Barkers and the new gallery does that in an informative and entertaining way.”
William Barker, who is the fifth generation to work in the business, said the idea for the history gallery originated with the late Charles Barker, who had gathered and preserved a large collection of historic photographs and newspaper articles.
He said the Barker family was grateful for Rishi’s role in opening the gallery and added: “While our focus remains firmly on continuing to develop and grow the business, we also believe it is important to reflect with pride on where it all began.
“This gallery honours our family’s history and the generations who have helped shape the business over the years. We are deeply proud of the legacy they have built, and sincerely grateful to our customers for their continued support throughout the years.”
The gallery was created by Mr Barker, who is the great-great grandson of the business’s founder, also called William Barker.
Visitors can explore a collection of original newspaper prints from key moments in Barkers’ history, and historical documents that bring the business’ evolution to life.
One of the gallery’s most striking centrepieces is the original Barkers delivery bicycle from the 1950s, dramatically suspended from the ceiling. This bicycle was once used to transport parcels around Northallerton, reflecting the personal service that became synonymous with the business.
The gallery also features Barkers’ iconic “Outfitters” and “Furnishers” shopfront signage from the 1950s and 1960s. Carefully uncovered and preserved, these distinctive signs provide a nostalgic glimpse into the business’s presence during the mid-twentieth century.
Further highlights include enlarged reproductions of historic newspaper articles, original press clippings, and a digital slideshow presentation showcasing key moments in Barkers’ history. A coffee table display featuring books celebrating the history of Northallerton and the surrounding area adds further context and interest for visitors.
The gallery is a permanent exhibition located within Barkers Home, Yafforth Road, Northallerton.
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