Refractory. Established in 1857 by James Towers, operating from Grahamston Fire Brick Works. On the death of James Towers in 1890 the firm passed to his son, Alexander. Alexander died in 1909 and the firm was run temporarily by a Mr Howie and then passed on to Alexander's son, James. During the First World War the firm was mainly involved with the production of component parts for heating ranges and slow combustion stoves. The business prospered with the growing demand for domestic firegrates during the housing expansion between the wars. James's daughters both worked in the firm. Helen supervised technical developments and production until her death in 1967, while Winifred dealt with administration and sales. James died in 1970 and the firm transferred to Winifred. The works were closed in May 1972 and the business wound up.