Thomas Walker was a timber merchant employing 200 men at his sawmills in Mainsforth Terrace which had been established in 1851. He built Staincliffe House in 1869 & the four villas adjoining soon after. Thomas was also an amateur artist & a cupola at the top of the house served as his studio. The house was sold after his death &, after various uses, eventually became a hotel.
The M.I. on the headstone in Holy Trinity Churchyard reads; In Memoriam Thomas Walker of Staincliffe, Seaton Carew. Born October 22nd 1826 Died November 16th 1889.
Also Mary Jane Walker Wife of the Above. Born July 4th 1832 Died January 5th 1912.
More detail »Thomas Walker in his studio at Staincliffe House. Thomas was a timber merchant but, looking at this image, must have had a passion for art. The studio was in the cupola at the top of the building which was eventually removed due to storm damage.
Thomas died in November 1889 and was buried in Holy Trinity Church graveyard.
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