As a master machinist, William Jones started making sewing machines in 1859[5] and in 1860 formed a partnership with his fellow lodger and master machinist, Thomas Chadwick. As Chadwick & Jones they manufactured sewing machines at Ashton-under-Lyne until 1863.[6] Their machines used designs from Howe and Wilson, produced under licence.[7][8] Thomas Chadwick later joined Bradbury & Co.[9] William Jones joined his brother to continue the business, opening a factory in Guide Bridge, Manchester in 1869.[10] In 1893 a Jones advertising sheet claimed that this factory was the "Largest Factory in England Exclusively Making First Class Sewing Machines".[11] The firm was renamed as the Jones Sewing Machine Co. Ltd and was later acquired by Brother Industries of Japan, in 1968.[12][13] The Jones name still appeared on the machines till the late 1980s.