Edward Sherman (coach proprietor)


Edward Sherman was a coach proprietor from Berkshire who became the second largest operator of coaches in England after William Chaplin.

Early life

Edward Sherman was born at South Moreton in Berkshire in 1776. In 1793 he travelled to London, unable to pay his fare himself, and began to work for 12 shillings per week.

Career

Sherman is believed to have started his fortune by speculating on shares at the stock exchange. He also married three wealthy widows in quick succession. He bought the Bull and Mouth Inn and rebuilt it as the Queens Hotel in 1830 at a cost of £60,000. He became the second largest operator of coaches in England after William Chaplin, retaining about 17,000 horses and carrying on a business with an estimated turnover of over £500,000.

Death

Sherman died at Manor House, Chiswick, Middlesex, on 14 September 1866. he was described as "late of the Oxford Arms Inn in the City of London". He left effects of less than £80,000 and his will was proved by Edward Henry Sanderson, gentleman, one of the executors, of Manor House, Clapham, Surrey.