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.
Date (of image) : 2007
Donor : Maureen Anderson
Creator : Maureen Anderson
Location
Holy Trinity Church, Seaton Carew opened in 1831.
The consecration of the church took place on the Festival of St Michael and All Angels, 29th September 1831, by Bishop Van Mildert. In the early days it was the chapel of Stranton Parish.
On the 21st October 1841 the Chapelry of Seaton Carew was created and licensed under the Bishop of Durham. This meant it could conduct baptisms, weddings and funerals/burials.
In 1842 a chancel and gallery were added, creating the building we know today. The burial ground was also extended.
This information was kindly provided by Julie Cordiner.
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.
More detail »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.