Jacob Behrens

Sir Jacob Behrens was an Anglo–German textile merchant. His company, Sir Jacob Behrens & Son Ltd., was established in 1834 and still operates today. Behrens was Jewish and was a prominent member of the Anglo-Jewish Association.

Biography

Early life

Born in Bad Pyrmont, Germany, into a family of merchants, Sir Jacob Behrens settled in Leeds in 1834, establishing his business there. He then moved to Bradford in 1838, opening a factory in Thornton Road.

The businessman

Behrens helped to establish the Bradford chamber of commerce. Behrens was knighted by Queen Victoria in 1882 for his work in strengthening trade relations between Britain and France.

The educator

Behrens helped to reorganise Bradford Grammar School in 1871, and he helped establish the Great Horton Road Technical College in 1882.

The philanthropist

Behrens was a prominent member of the Bradford Philosophical Society, and founded the Eye and Ear Hospital in Bradford.