In 1876, marine engineer, Asplan Beldam invented a seal (“packing”) to stop the steam escaping on ships in order to make them go faster. He went on to form the Beldam Packing and Rubber Company, London, and continued with his inventions which included including semi-metallic packings, metallic rings for high-pressures, and corrugated metallic valves for air and circulating pumps.
But what of 'Lascar'? It comes from the Arabic 'Al-Ashkar' meaning ‘sailor from East India’ but t was used as shorthand for any non-European serving on a British vessel. The Lascars were the first British Asians, and despite their invaluable role, were treated dreadfully, receiving pitiful wages and and made to endure conditions not unlike slavery.
The Beldam Group expanded and there would have been Beldam branches and agents in all important ports throughout the world including this one, although it has been closed for a very long time.
Judging by the old lettering still visible, this must have been a busy area in the past – look above the shop and you can see the “Restaurant” Ghost Sign. To the left, you can see the Blue Coupons ghost sign and the “50/ Trousers” advert (“Celebrated for 50/- Suits and Trousers" ).
5 Queen Charlotte Street, Edinburgh EH6 6BA
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