John Horrocks, the son of a Quaker, was born in Edgeworth, near Bolton, in 1760. In 1786, John built a textile mill in Preston, where he used a new power loom that had been invented by a relative. Trade improved dramatically after the East India Company awarded Horrocks the right to become the sole manufacturer of cotton goods exported to India.

In 1802 Horrocks became the Tory MP for Preston. William Pitt, frequently consulted Horrocks about issues concerning manufacturing and trade. John Horrocks, who lived at Penwortham Lodge in Preston, died on 1st March, 1804. At the time of his death, Horrocks was worth £750,000.