Ben Marks 1889 - 1968

Generally considered to be the 'business' half of the partnership.

Some time in the early 1920's he married Dorothy 'Dolly' Joseph (born 1897) daughter of Emmanuel Joseph, proprietor of E. Joseph of 48a Charing Cross Road. Ben's father-in-law helped him & Mark Cohen to set up Marks & Co.

By all accounts Emmanuel's sons, Jack and Sam, were reluctant to have their new brother-in-law join the family firm, Emmanuel however wanted to ensure some security and stability for his daughters future and so provided the finance to get Marks & Co started.

Ben Marks was an active Freemason for most of his adult life

The clock pictured on the right, a 1960 Jaeger-le-Coultre Swiss made in-line train "Skeleton" clock was presented to him in recognition of long service to his lodge.

The inscription engraved on the top reads:
Presented to - W.Bro. Benjamin Marks. P.A.G.St.B. L.G.R. by the Brethren of the Love and Unity Lodge No.5354 in appreciation of his services as First Master and Director of Ceremonies 1932-1960.

(L G R = London Grand Rank
P.A.G.St.B = Past Assistant Grand Standard Bearer)