John William Hensman was born in Pinchbeck in 1867, the son of a tailor.

By 1891 he was a baker living at 7 Red Lion Square with his wife Louise and employing 2 bakers.

He was living over the business, which was the usual custom then.
In 1911 he was described as a baker and confectioner.

In 1919 it was advertised as refreshment rooms as well as a bakery.

By 1927 he had moved to 1 St Peter's Vale where he lived for the rest of his life, dying in 1963.