Two early 20th century steel mortars, Rochester, England, circa 1902-1904.

One with makers mark: AVELING & PORTER ENGINEERS ROCHESTER

5 and 7 inch bores.

Width: 50 cm.

Depth: 59 cm.

Height: 54 cm.

Aveling and Porter, established in 1862. The Works, Rochester, Kent. 72 Cannon Street, London. 43, Exchange Place, New York. 9, Avenue Montaigne, Paris. Was a traction engine, steam roller and showman’s engine manufacturer.  By the early 1900s the company had become the largest manufacturer of traction engines and steamrollers in the world.

Aveling & Porter entered in to a partnership in 1901 with Vickers Sons & Maxim to build a steel casting facility. Details were finalised and the plant was constructed the following year. By 1903 Vickers were reporting poor results due to insufficient orders (in particular field guns) and in March 1904 pulled out, the works subsequently closing in October 1904.