John Armitage (manufacturer)

Armitage worked in the woolen business for many years as a laborer, spinner, and weaver before becoming a partner in Edward Pranker & Co. in 1857.^[4][6][7] In 1860, the company built a two-story, 125 by 60 foot, mill opposite their existing mill that contained four sets of wool manufacturing equipment.^[7][8][9] Armitage remained with the company until Pranker's death in 1865.^[10] He was also a director of the Saugus Mutual Fire Insurance Company.^[11]

Armitage held various political offices in Saugus. In 1870 he represented the 20th Essex District, which comprised the towns of Saugus, Lynnfield, Middleton, and Topsfield.^[6]