Alfred Allestree Parker, a journeyman blacksmith, came to Rushden in 1880 to work for A T Ginns. Alfred was born at Higham Ferrers, in 1848, second son of John and Ann. His father was a wheelwright, and in 1850, now with three young boys, the family moved to Oundle, but soon moved back to Higham Ferrers. Alfred was working in the shoe trade at 13 years of age, but by 1871 he was lodging and working with blacksmith Thomas Hunt at Thurning.

In 1875 Alfred married Mary Cooke, born at Melchbourne in 1856, daughter of Thomas and Ann. Their daughter Mary M was born at Keyston in 1876, and their son John Thomas was born at Rushden in 1880.

In 1886 Mary died and was buried at St Mary's Church, 19th March 1886 aged 30.

A year later Alfred married Lydia Williams (born Kimbolton HUN), the banns having been called at Rushden, at Huntingdon All Saints in 1887. In 1889 their daughter Agneta was baptised at St Mary's on 7th April 1889.

About 1894 Alfred established his own buiness at Church Street and 7 John Street.

Lydia died in 1904 aged 56 and was buried on 19th March 1904 in Grave C704 at Rushden Cemetery.

Three years later Alfred married Rebecca Allen.

Alfred traded until his death on 18th January 1913. He was buried in Rushden Cemetery grave E180.

Joseph Henry Hubbard took over the business but was only listed in the 1914 and 1920 and 1924 trade directories. He was aged 36 in 1911 with his wife Mary, and three children, Victor aged 10, Winifred aged 7, William Joseph aged 5, at Myrtle Cottage, Addlestone Hill, Surrey. Richard Absolom aged 19, was boarding with the family, as a blacksmith's improver. They had moved away by 1928.