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Henry Birks, silversmith, businessman (born 30 November 1840 in Montreal, QC; died 16 April 1928 in Montreal, QC). Birks was the founder of Henry Birks & Sons Limited (see Birks Group).
Career
Henry Birks graduated from Montreal High School in 1856 and spent the next winter perfecting his French. In April 1857 he joined Savage and Lyman, a large firm of watchmakers and jewellers (see Clocks and Watches; Jewellery and Silverware Industry). On 1 March 1879, he opened the first Birks store on St. James Street in Montreal (see Birks Group). Six years later he moved to larger premises on the same street.
In 1893, since three sons were active in the business, the company name was changed to Henry Birks & Sons. The following year the store was moved to their new building at the corner of St. Catherine and Union streets. The Birks building still stands on Phillips Square.
