I developed an interest in the Medomsley Road, Consett photographer Venice Dunn as his name features on several photos of my own family. I am intrigued by him because his name is so unique. I have started a small collection of his photographs and I am trying to learn more about him. One of my first discoveries was his obituary:

DEATH OF A CONSETT PHOTOGRAPHER

The death has just occurred, after a long illness, of Mr. Venice Dunn, photographer, on Medomsley Road, Consett at the age of 56 years. The deceased went to Consett as a poor lad, joined the Wesleyan body and rose to the position of Sunday school superintendent and class leader, and also held other offices. For some years Mr Dunn sat on the Lanchester Board of Guardians, but owing to ill health he relinquished this work. Mr Dunn was a staunch advocate of temperance and a Liberal in politics. For many years he carried on business as a photographer. He leaves a widow and grown-up family (Newcastle Evening Chronicle – Friday 25 January 1907).

Venice Dunn family tree

Photograph of my Gt Gt Uncle William Hedley Charlton

(1872 - 1902).

Stood outside the family farm at Milkwell Burn, Chopwell, Durham.

This is also the photo which triggered my interest in Venice Dunn, simply because I was intrigued by the unusual name of 'Venice'.

If you would like to use any of these images, please cite the source. These are from my own private collection of originals.

Thank you. Alison - 'Family History Hunter'

Click on the photo to view a gallery of my collection to date.