John Thurston (1777–1850) was an inventor who developed the use of slate beds and rubber cushions for billiard tables.
He was dubbed "the father of the billiards trade.
"[1] In 1799, he founded a business to make billiard tables as well as general cabinet making.
The company, Thurston & Co. Ltd, continues in business.
[2][3] Thurston's Hall