When Bristol in the 19th century was considered a major player in the clothing industry, Wathen Gardiner & Co was reputed to be one of the oldest operating companies in the city.
Wathen retired in 1887 from the business and went on to become a six times Mayor of Bristol, being knighted in 1889 for his accomplishments.
[3][4][5] Wathen Gardiner & Co under the stewardship of the Hill family made uniforms in both world wars for the armed forces, and started after the Second World War to supply uniforms to other organizations, including HM Customs and Excise, hospitals and water boards.
When William John Hill retired in 1964 as principal proprietor, uniforms represented a major part of the company business.
[6][2] Bristol Uniforms was incorporated on 15 November 1961 as a subsidiary of Wathen Gardner & Co, under the stewardship of William John Hill's son Patrick Seager Hill, who in 1965 became the sole proprietor & managing director.