Pub history

The Colombia Press

Named after the printing press imported from Colombia by John Peacock in 1823. During the 20th century, printing overtook brewing as Watford’s main trade. By the 1960s, thousands were employed in the industry, especially at Odhams and the Sun Engraving Company, owned by Robert Maxwell. Printing here was established by John Peacock, who opened a printing works in 1820. His printing press, imported from Colombia and used to print the first edition of the Watford Observer, is in Watford Museum.