In 1872, he purchased the patent from German Eugen Langen on a method of making sugar cubes, and in the same year built a new refinery in Liverpool.

In addition to his donations which eventually gave rise to the Tate Gallery, his anonymous and discreet gifts included £42,500 for Liverpool University, £3500 for Bedford College for Women, and £5000 for building a free library in Streatham; additional provisions were made for libraries in Balham, South Lambeth, and Brixton.

He is buried in nearby West Norwood Cemetery, the gates of which are located opposite a public library that he endowed.

Mr Sidney R. J. Smith was employed as the architect for the Streatham and Lambeth Central (Brixton) Libraries.

Streatham Library has 28 public computers, with access to the internet, and various common software products for word processing, spreadsheets, etc.

Six of these computers are in the Junior and Teenage sections, and reserved for younger library members, while the remainder are open to adults.

Regular events at Streatham Library include a weekly Parent & Toddler Group, on Tuesdays at 1:30 pm, which features stories and music for children, aged up to two.

We welcome beginners or those seeking to improve their skills on computers, tablets or smart phones, Book a free one-to-one training session with a member of library staff by phone on 020 7926 6768 or email StreathamLibrary@lambeth.gov.uk You can also play casual Chess at the Library every Tuesday at 4:30 pm–7:30 pm throughout the year.

Our Over 50's club meets on the last Friday of the month, and features activities such as talks, music, table quizzes, and gentle exercise classes.