Frederick born on 23rd October, 1868 in Lewisham Road, Lewisham, near London. Fred was the fourth child of nine.
Fred won a national scholarship to the Normal School of Science in South Kensington, London (later known as the Royal College of Science and now part of Imperial College). Fred left before his final exams with no formal qualifications
Fred moves to Birmingham to start as Assistant Works Manager at the Forward Gas Engine Company, Saltley, Birmingham. He is later joined at the firm by his brother George, who becomes an apprentice. Fred creates syndicate leading to Lanchester Engine Co. Fred applies for 7 patents.
Fred was granted an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Laws by the University of Birmingham. It was his first formal qualification. Friends later referred to him as ‘Doctor Fred’.
Fred married Dorothea Cooper (1898-1978), the niece of his voice tutor.
Fred designed and built a house (Dyott End) for himself and Dorothea in Moseley, Birmingham, where they lived for the rest of their lives.
Fred was diagnosed with Parkinson’s a progressive neurological condition that affects movement.
Fred died on 8th March following 2 strokes. His ashes were buried with his parents’ in West Sussex.
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