Henry Royce

Early Life and Background

Henry Royce was a British engineer and entrepreneur, who was instrumental in the establishment of the Rolls-Royce company alongside Charles Rolls in 1904.

Renowned as a trailblazer in the automotive industry and a mechanical engineering genius, Royce’s contributions were far-reaching.

Royce was born in 1863 in Alwalton, Cambridgeshire. Royce was the youngest of five siblings. He was also the son of James and Mary Royce. Royce’s father worked as a miller, and Royce experienced a modest upbringing.

At the tender age of nine, he had to begin working as a newspaper boy and a telegraph messenger. Following this, he embarked on an apprenticeship at the Great Northern Railway works in Peterborough.

Career Beginnings

Royce relocated to London to work for the Electric Light and Power Company. Royce’s fascination with electricity and machinery led him to establish his own business, specializing in the production of electric cranes, dynamos, and motors.

Passion for Automobiles

Simultaneously, his interest in automobiles grew, prompting him to purchase his first car, a French Decauville, in 1901. However, dissatisfied with its quality, Royce resolved to construct his own vehicle.

In 1903, within the confines of his Manchester workshop, he meticulously designed and crafted a two-cylinder car that he christened the Royce 10.

Partnership with Charles Rolls

In the following year, he encountered Charles Rolls, a wealthy nobleman and automobile enthusiast, who possessed one of the initial automobile dealerships in the United Kingdom.

Rolls was highly impressed by Royce’s vehicle and agreed to market them under the brand name Rolls-Royce. The two individuals formed a partnership and established the Rolls-Royce company in 1904.

They manufactured various car models, including the Silver Ghost, the Phantom, and the Wraith, which became synonymous with opulence, dependability, and distinction.

Contributions to Aviation

Royce also played a significant role in the advancement of aircraft engines, particularly during World War I. He designed the Eagle engine and also developed the R engine, which achieved the world air speed record in 1931.

Awards and Recognition

In recognition of his contributions to aviation, Royce was knighted in 1930.

Personal Life

Royce was married to Minnie Punt in 1893. The couple set up home together in Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester.

Royce and his wife separated in 1912. He remained unmarried after the separation and had no children.

Death and Legacy

Unfortunately, after enduring years of poor health, Royce passed away in 1933 at the age of 70.