GBD: Difference between revisions

[[File:GBD-MRC.jpg|thumb|GBD Pipe with "MRC" band, Marechal Ruchon & Cie, courtesy [http://www.racineandlaramie.com/ Racine & Laramie Tobacconist]]][[File:GBDMeerschaum-2640&Case.jpg|thumb|An early [[GBD Meerschaum 2640|GBD Meerschaum]], courtesy Janise Mills]]In 1850 three gentlemen got together in Paris to establish a firm dedicated to the fabrication of Meerschaum pipes – a courageous step in politically restless times. '''G'''anneval probably came from the area of [[Saint-Claude]] where he had learned making wooden pipes. '''B'''ondier's family obviously came from Paris and had emigrated in 1789 to Geneva. He himself had worked as a wood turner in the clay and china pipe industry in and around Saint-Claude making stem extensions etc. '''D'''onninger was an Austrian or Swiss and had worked in Vienna, the world's center of the Meerschaum pipe. They agreed on the acronym '''GBD''' selecting the initials of their surnames. Bondier survived his partners for nearly 30 years. Their places were taken by others. Hence the property of GBD and therewith the company's official name changed several times.