An example of a printed advertisement distributed by James Healey, a tobacconist in Alnwick. He uses a witty poem to sell his wares, and the piece includes a woodcut engraving. William Davison often used engravings in his printing, and for some books employed the famous engraver Thomas Bewick.
William Davison was born at Alnwick, Northumberland, on 16th November 1781. He was the youngest son of William & Mary Davison. After leaving school William junior entered into an apprenticeship with Mr. Hind, a chemist in Newcastle. It is believed William returned to Alnwick in 1802, setting up business as a pharmacist. In 1803 he entered into a short partnership with Joseph Perry, a local printer in Alnwick. William continued to work in the town as an apothecary, pharmacist, and printer until his death in 1858. His printed material remains a unique illustration of the business and social activities present in the Alnwick area during the early and mid-nineteenth century.
