Richard Sugden (II) Williams

John Dilworth

WILLIAMS, Richard Sugden (II) Born 1873, died 1945 Toronto Canada Son of a highly successful piano and organ maker and dealer, above. The company operated under the sign of ‘the Big Fiddle’ in Yonge Street, Toronto. Entered the business c.1888 when it became known as ‘R. S. Williams & Sons’, and took over the presidency after the death of his father in 1906. R. S. Williams jr., developed a deep interest in violins and turned the focus of the business towards importing and dealing in fine instruments. Employed G. Heinel, L. Delunet, and, most significantly, A. Delivet who made around 200 instruments for the firm from 1920. These were sold in three grades: the cheapest ‘under the direction of A. Delivet’; the best bearing his brand on the lower rib: ‘A. Delivet’. Fine bows. Round and octagonal sticks silver mounted also sold with the company’s brand. Williams was recognised as the leading connoisseur in Canada. The company was declared bankrupt 1931 and Williams donated his personal collection to the Royal Ontario Museum. Made in the workshops of / The R. S. Williams & Sons Co. Limited. Toronto Canada. Varnished and Regulated in the Atelier / of the / Williams & Sons Co. / R.S. (Musical Instruments of Quality) Limited / 145 Yonge Street, Toronto. No..