The industry dates back to at least the 17th century, however brickworks really took off in the 19th century. A key date is 1851 when the Joseph Hamblet brickworks were founded in West Bromwich, which became one of the largest producers of Staffordshire blue bricks.
The history of brick production spans back to at least the 17th century, but its development accelerated during the 19th century. The establishment of Joseph Hamblet's brickworks in West Bromwich in 1851 was a significant event that propelled the industry forward and made it one of the leading producers of Staffordshire blue bricks.