Father & Son
The Beginning of Knell and Son: A Legacy Built on Skill and Dedication
Introduction:
Starting a business with a parent is a uniquely powerful experience, especially when that parent has built something from the ground up with nothing but determination and self-taught skill. For me, that journey began in 1989, when I had the privilege of working alongside my father to establish Knell and Son Builders in Hampshire, UK.
What made it particularly meaningful wasn’t just the creation of a new business—it was the continuation of a legacy built entirely on my father’s self-taught expertise. He never had formal training, but he had an incredible ability to learn and master his craft, and that tenacity and passion were passed down to me. In joining him, I wasn’t just stepping into a business; I was becoming part of something that had been shaped through years of trial, error, and relentless self-improvement.
The Path to Stonemasonry:
Before I joined the family business, my father had already been working in the trade for over a decade. He held a high standard to the industry. He also believed that bringing in the best trades would greatly benefit my understanding of quality. By surrounding ourselves with skilled craftsmen, he knew we'd elevate our work and deepen my appreciation for true excellence.
When I decided to pursue stonemasonry and the building industry, I was determined to learn as much as I could. With my parents' support, I enrolled in a 3 year apprenticeship and City & Guilds program, and successfully passed qualifications 1, 2, and 3. The sense of pride my dad felt when I completed that journey was overwhelming—not just because I had finished the course, but because he knew his son was now equipped with the skills to carry on the family name and contribute to the business he had built.
The Big Decision: Knell and Son
When the time came for us to start working together, my parents made a significant decision that would shape the future of our business: my mum and dad decided that I would be the lead artisan, and my father would take on the role of my laborer.
At first glance, this might seem like a strange arrangement—after all, my dad had been the business owner for over ten years. But for him, it was a moment of pride and support. He had always been the artisan, but now, as a father, he wanted to make sure I had the chance to step up and make the business part of me.
For me, it was humbling. To know that my father, with all his years of expertise, was willing to step back and let me take the reins showed his incredible faith in me and my abilities. It wasn’t just about skill; it was about trust and the bond we shared.
The Importance of Family and Legacy:
There’s something truly special about working with family, especially a son working alongside his father. I feel incredibly fortunate that my dad and I had the opportunity to build something together. There’s a unique bond that forms when you're not just colleagues, but family members who share the same history, values, and work ethic.
Over the years, I’ve come to realize just how significant my dad’s decision was. It wasn’t just about business—it was about passing down the craft, the knowledge, the values, and the pride of doing things the right way. His decision wasn’t just for us—it was about laying the foundation for the future growth of becoming a Master Builder, which is my life’s goal.
Looking Back and Moving Forward:
Today, even though Knell and Son is just a memory, it stands as a testament to my father’s guidance and wisdom. He taught me so much about life and building—the importance of quality, integrity, and a deep respect for the craft.
Looking back on the years spent working side by side with my father, I realize how much I learned from him—not just as a mentor, but as a father. His dedication to the business, his work ethic, and his quiet confidence shaped me, not only as a tradesman but as a person.
As I carry my own business forward, I feel a profound responsibility to continue the legacy my father and mother began. It’s a legacy rooted in craftsmanship, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to doing things the right way—no matter how challenging the path may be.