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South Solihull

Visit to Acme Whistles

Event type: Meeting
Date: Thursday 23rd April 2026
Time: 11:00 - 13:00
Group: Local History (Group 2)
Cost: £15.50 + own transport
Booking: Note that booking is required.

We will be visiting Acme Whistles (J. Hudson & Co. Ltd) in Birmingham.

The company was established by Joseph and James Hudson in 1870, and has manufactured items such as the original Police Whistle and the classic Sports "Thunderer" for over 150 years.

Photo of an old Police whistle, made by the Acme Whistle company, Birmingham
Old Acme Police Whistle
Photo of a sports whistle, made by the Acme Whistle company, Birmingham
The Acme Thunderer

This is a super opportunity to visit an internationally renowned business, still using some machines dated 1860.  The factory is a 10-minute walk from the Jewellery Quarter train station., and the tour will include some refreshments.  A pub nearby can provide lunches afterwards.

Warning: the tour includes three steep flights of stairs, with no alternative route.

Booking is essential, since places are limited.  If you are interested in coming on this visit, kindly contact Tony R. by 16 April.