antique English safe John Port

Made by

John Port

History: John Port from Manchester was a prominent safe maker active in the 19th century. There are documents that record his work dating back to at least 1840. His safes were highly regarded for their fire-resistant properties and were made with hand-formed steel, contributing to both their safety and durability.

The safes of John Port were often fitted with brass plates bearing the coat of arms of the city of Manchester – particularly the lion and unicorn motif – which became a hallmark of his craftsmanship. His workshop was located on Mill Street in Ancoats, Manchester.

Although he was not as large as the leading national safe manufacturers, John Port was recognized as one of the important regional safe makers of the Victorian era. His products are now valued for their historical charm and as collectibles of early British safemaking.