VOL. IV - CHAPTER 8

Jonathan Veness and Mary Deness

Johnathan Veness, son of Joseph and Francis Veness was baptised on 2 May 1819 at Wartling Parish Church (Chapter 4).

In 1841 census, 20 year old Jonathan was living with his parents at Mill Farm Cottages, Wartling. No occupation is given.

On 20 July 1844 Jonathan, a labourer of full age, son of Joseph Veness, labourer, married Mary Deness, aged 19, daughter of William Deness, labourer at Ashburnham Parish Church. The marriage was witnessed by William Veness and Mary Veness, Jonathan's brother and sister.

Jonathan and Mary had seven children baptised at Wartling Parish Church:

  • Joseph Veness. Baptised 15 December 1844.
  • Johnathan Veness. Baptised 21 March 1847.
  • James Veness. Baptised 4 March 1849.
  • William Veness. Born 1 August 1850. Baptised 8 September 1850.
  • Mary Veness. Baptised 15 February 1851.
  • Sarah Veness. Baptised 23 January 1854.
  • Jason Deness Veness baptised 8 April 1856.

And two children born in Westham.

  • Fanny Veness. Born 1861 (Reg Gen March 1861 Eastbourne 2b 46)
  • Lissey (Lizzy) Veness. Born 1861 (Reg Gen March 1861 Eastbourne 2b 46)

When their son Joseph was baptised, Jonathan and Mary were living at Montague House, Boreham, but by the time the 1851 census was taken they had moved and were living at Poisey Green, where 32 year old Jonathan was an agricultural labourer. Also lodging with them was Isaac Smith, widower, a clerk to the miller. Montague House was now occupied by Jonathan's older brother George and his family (Chapter 6).

Poisey Green (now Posey Green) is one of 2 former hamlets making up Windmill Hill in the parish of Wartling. It consists of little more than what is now the Horseshoe Inn with Comphurst Cottages (Chapter 7) next door and the school house next to that and a row of cottages opposite.

Windmill Hill was presumably so named because of its mill that seems to have been there since Elizabethan times, when a survey of Herstmonceux Castle estate mentions "Wyndmylhyll". It was probably built to provide flour for the iron foundry workers at Warbleton and Ashburnham . In 1769, the windmill was tenanted by John Edwards, and is on Yeakell and Gardner's map of 1783. In 1814 the mill which was then owned by John Pocock (no known relation!) was demolished and replaced by the current windmill which is one of the largest post mills in Sussex, and possibly throughout Britain. In 1893/4 the sweeps were removed, and a steam engine was installed by Neves of Warbleton to provide power. In 1913 the mill ceased to mill corn, but was left as a landmark for shipping in the channel to use. This mill is the last in England to possess the remains of a centrifugal governor system for controlling the sail area.

Poisey Green is also the given name of the cottages opposite the Horseshoe Inn, and the census indicates that this was where Jonathan and his family were living. 

In 1861 the family were living at Glenly Cottage, Westham. 43 year old Jonathan and his sons Jonathan Veness, aged 14, and James Veness, aged 12 were all agricultural labourers. The twins Fanny and Lizzy were only two months old.

Jonathan and Mary's daughter Sarah Veness died in 1862.

In 1871 the family were living at Handcomb, Westham where 52 year old Jonathan was an agricultural labourer. His son James aged 22 and Jason, aged 14 were also described as agricultural labourers. daughters, Mary, aged 19, and Fanny and Lizzie, aged 9 were both living at home, the latter two described as "scholars". 

Mary Veness died in 1880 and in 1881, Jonathan, a widower is living at no 3 Brewery Cottages, Junction Road, Eastbourne. Aged 62 and described as a bricklayers labourer, he was living with daughter Mary, aged 29 and two boarders, Thomas Aldridge, and John Fraser. Living at the same address, but in a separate household was daughter Lizzy (see below)

Jonathan Veness aged 67 died on 22 March 1886 at 3 Brewery Cottages, Eastbourne. He was 67 years old and a jobbing gardener. He died from, what looks like "spinal selerosis", but should this be "spinal stenosis"? The informant was his son Joseph resident at 11, Bexhill Road, Eastbourne.  

The little that is known about Jonathan and Mary's children and their descendants and this is detailed below:

Joseph Veness and Annie

Joseph Veness was baptised on 15 December 1844 at Wartling, the son of Jonathan Veness and Mary Deness.  

By 1871, 26 year old Joseph was living and working in Eastbourne. He was employed as a groom, a domestic servant and was living with gardener Joseph Smith, Sarah Smith, his wife and George Dickinson, stableman at 3 Prentis Street, Eastbourne. I assume all three men worked together.

In 1881, still single, 37 year old Joseph H Veness is a hotel servant at the New Inn, South Street, Eastbourne. The original description of his occupation is "boots" but someone has overwritten "hotel servant". The census confirms that he was born in Wartling. The 52 year old inn keeper was Harry B Winchester, born Herstmonceux.

The former New Inn, rebuilt in 1880, now the Bibendum is pictured below

When his father died in 1886, Joseph was resident at 11, Bexhill Road, Eastbourne. 

By 1891 47 year old Joseph had married and was living at 2 Surbiton Mews, Eastbourne with his 35 year old wife Annie, although the census shows this Joseph was born in Eastbourne. He is employed as a luggage porter. Annie was born in Ireland. He is still there and still so employed in 1901. The couple do not appear to have had any children. 

In 1911 Joseph and Annie were living at 1 Surbiton Mews, Langney Road, Eastbourne. Joseph, now 66 was still a luggage porter and 62 year old Annie was a domestic. Annie had been born in Ireland. 

Joseph Veness died on 21 November 1913 at Surbiton Mews, Langney Road, Eastbourne. He was, aged 69 years, and a luggage porter The course of death was emphysema of the lungs, bronchitis and dilatation of the heart. The informant was W Veness, his brother (see below) of 2, New Cottages, Beachy Head Road, Eastbourne.   

In 1921 Annie was still at no 1, Surbiton Mews. Aged 67, born Tipperary, Ireland, she was a charwoman with no particular place of employment.  

Annie Veness of 1 Surbiton Mews, Eastbourne died on 16 December 1931. She was 76 years old and is described as the "widow of Joseph Veness, luggage porter and formerly a coachman". She died of cachesia, abdominal tumour ? ovarian carcinoma, chronic bronchitis and myocarditis. The informant was Sarah Ann Rogers, of 2 Surbiton Gardens, who was present at death. 

Jonathan Veness and Harriett Dennis

Jonathan Veness was baptised on 21 March 1847 at Wartling, son of Jonathan Veness and Mary Deness. 

On 17 January 1867 Jonathan Veness married Harriett Dennis at Westham. Jonathan is described as a blacksmith of under age (he would have been 20 at the time). Harriet was a spinster of full age (she would have been 24 years old), daughter of James Dennis, labourer, The witnesses were Joseph Veness (his brother?) and Elizabeth Dennis., 

I can find no trace of the couple in the 1871 census. In 1881 the family was living at 10 Waterloo Place, Lewes where Jonathan was a 34 year old blacksmith.

Jonathan and Harriett had nine children:

  • Agnes Harriett Veness. Born 3 October 1867 in Brighton 
  • James Veness. Born 24 September 1869 in Brighton. 
  • Joseph Veness. Born 27 April 1872 in Brighton. 
  • Caroline Hannah Veness. Born 1874 in Lewes (Reg Gen Dec Qtr 1874 Lewes 2b 173)
  • George Veness. Born 9 September 1876 in Lewes 
  • Albert Veness. Born 30 October 1879 in Lewes (Reg Gen Dec Qtr 1879 Lewes 2b 190).
  • Charles Veness. Born 1882 in Lewes
  • Ellen Elizabeth Mabel Veness. Born 1 February 1884 at Waterloo Place, Lewes
  • William Veness. Born 1886 in Lewes

In 1891  "John Venus", a 44 year old blacksmith, his wife Harriett and children, Agnes, aged 23, Joseph, aged 18, a printers compositor, "Carrie", aged 16, George, aged 13, Albert, aged 11, Charlie, aged 9, "Mabel", aged 7 and Willie, aged 5 were living at 10 Waterloo Place, Lewes.  

Johnathan Veness of Waterloo Place, Lewes, smith died on 24 July 1899 aged 52 years old. Probate was granted to his widow Harriett. His effects were worth £214. 8s. 6d. 

In 1901 his widow Harriett is living at 9, Frome Walk, Westham. Aged 58 she is described as "living on her own means". Only Charles, Mabel and William are living with her.

In 1911, 68 year old Harriett was living at 3 Southdown Road, Brighton. She states that she is "kept by sons". Sons Charles and William remain at home as do daughters Caroline and Mabel. Benjamin Dawe, a 26 year old chauffeur (domestic) was visiting (see below)  

Harriett Veness of 6 Dorking Road, Tunbridge Wells died on 14 November 1919. Probate was granted to Joseph Veness, journalist. 

  • Agnes Harriett Hemsley nee Veness

Agnes Harriett Veness was born on 3 October 1867, the daughter of Jonathan Veness and Harriett Deness. 

Agnes married Louis Hemsley on 30 April 1892 in All Saints, Lewes. Louis was a 26 year old carpenter, son of Charles William Hemsley, lighterman. Agnes was 23 years old, the son of "John" Veness, blacksmith.  The witnesses were John and Carrie Veness, , 

Agnes and Louis had one child Agnes Lena Hemsley, who was born on 15 July 1896 in Newhaven

In 1901 Louis and Agnes were living in 16 Lawes Avenue, Newhaven with their 5 year old daughter, Lena. Louis, 34 was a carpenter.

Louis Hemsley of 3 Lawes Avenue, Newhaven, carpenter and joiner, died on 21 June 1902 aged 36. Probate was granted to Agnes Hemsley, widow.

In 1911 Agnes was a 37 year old widow working as housekeeper to George Thomas Sparkes, a single agricultural engineer at Yapton in Arundel, Sussex. Her daughter Agnes Lena Hemsley, aged 15 was also living with them.

In 1921, Agnes Hemsley, a 45 year old widow, of no occupation, born Brighton was visiting Helen Jane Sager, a 60 year old married woman, on home duties and her son Edwin Sager, aged 33, also married, who was a "Shorthand Typist" for the "Inland Revenue". Whilst her age appears wrong I think that this is probably "our" Agnes. Helen Jane Sager was the mother of Amy Sager who married Agnes Brother George Veness (see below). 

In 1927, 1928 she was living with her daughter at 17, Westbourne Park Road, Westbourne.  

In 1939 Agnes was living at 127, Holland Road, Kensington, with her daughter Lena A Hemsley. Both were on "unpaid domestic duties".  

Agnes Harriett Hemsley, widow of Louis Philip Hemsley, builder, of 127, Holland Road died aged 73 died on 16 August 1941. The cause of death was atheroma of the coronary artery and fibrosis of the heart muscle. The informant was her daughter Lena Harriett Hemsley of 12, Holland Road, Kensington. 

In 1921 Louis and Agnes's daughter "Lena Agnes" Hemsley, aged 25 years old, was a sick nurse working for St Georges Public Hospital, Grosvenor. She was registered as a nurse on 20 July 1923 at London. She qualified between 1917 and 1920 in St Georges Hospital. In 1923 she was living at 113, Earls Court Road, Earls Court. In 1927, 1928 Lena was living with her mother at 17, Westbourne Park Road, Westbourne. In 1934 the Nurses register she gives her address as 13, Tavistock Road, London. On 5 and 6 August 1937 "Lena Hemsley" of 25, Upper Addison Gardens, London W14, a 42 year old nurse arrived back in Plymouth and London from Brisbane on the "Maloja". Her intended place of future residence was England. In 1939 she was living with her mother at 127, Holland Road, Kensington. Lena Agnes Hemsley died in 1978 in Worthing. 

  • James Veness & Agnes Beatrice Barron

James Veness was born on 24 September 1869 in Brighton, the son of Jonathan Veness and Harriett Deness. 

James Veness married Agnes Beatrice Barron on 30 August 1897 at St Andrews, Stockwell Green, Lambeth. James is described as son of "John Veness", blacksmith. Later census returns confirm he was born in Brighton in 1869 so I believe this is "our" James. James gives his address as 113 Park Lane, Stoke Newington. Agnes Beatrice Barron was a 30 year old spinster of 127 Hubert Grove, the daughter of John Barron, plumber.  

In 1901 James and Agnes were living at 19 Piercefield Street, St Pancras, where 31 year old James was a farrier and shoeing smith (blacksmith). 

Records suggest that James Veness was baptised on 6 April 1906 in St Peter's, Eastbourne, aged 36 years old!!

In 1911 James and Agnes were living living at 1 Leavale Cottage, Wormley, Herts, where 41 year old James was a blacksmith, born Brighton, Sussex.  

By 1921 James had been widowed. He was boarding, along with three others at the home of William Smith, aged 69,  "bath chairman" working on his own account. James, aged 51, was a farrier working for M Preen, blacksmith at West Yard, Carshalton.  

In 1939 James, a widower and retired blacksmith, living at 14, Muir Road, Maidstone with Esther R Ruck, a divorcee and on "unpaid domestic duties".  

James Veness of 48, Ocklynge Road, St Michael's, Eastbourne died aged 85 years old and was buried on 18 March 1953 in St Michael's, Eastbourne.  

  • Joseph Veness & Louisa Maria Caroline Mattin

Joseph Veness was born on 27 April 1872 in Brighton, the son of Jonathan Veness and Harriett Deness.

In 1901 Joseph Veness, aged 28 was a newspaper reporter boarding with William and Alice Walford, a sub post master at 69 High Street, Walton Le Soken. 

Joseph married Louisa Maria Caroline Mattin on 8 August 1908 at the Congregational Church, Southernhay, Exeter. Joseph was a 36 years old bachelor living in Bromley Kent. His occupation is "journalist". Louisa was 25 years old and gives her address as 9 West Grove Road, St Leonards, Exeter. Her father was Leonard Mattin, an iron moulder. Both parties signed the marriage register. The witnesses were Kathleen Mattin, Louisa's sister and Charles Veness, Joseph's brother. The marriage was reported in the Western Times on 11 August 1908.  

In 1911 Joseph and Louisa were living at 36 Morgan Road, Bromley, Kent. Joseph, aged 38 was a journalist. 

They had a daughter Marjorie Harriett Veness, born 18 December 1915.  

Joseph Veness is listed at 'Scoop' an internet site providing details of journalists, but no further information is given.

In 1921 Joseph and Louisa were living at 36A Saxon Road, Bromley, Joseph, aged 49 was a journalist/newspaper reporter for the Kentish District Times Ltd, 39 East Street, Bromley, Kent. .Their daughter was 5 years old. Louisa's father Leonard Mattin, aged 60, an iron moulder for Lennox Foundry Company Ltd, Glenville Grove, New Cross, London was living with them. 

In 1939 Joseph, Louisa and Marjorie were living at 82, Bubbacombe Road, Bromley. Joseph was a journalist  and his daughter Marjorie, a shorthand typist. 

In 1948 Joseph, Louisa and Marjorie Veness were living at 3 Llandudno Villas, Cheltenham. 

Joseph Veness of 6 Merrivale Road,  Cheltenham died on 15 March 1950 at 6 Merrivale Road, Cheltenham. Probate was granted to Louisa Maria Caroline Veness, widow. 

Louisa Maria Caroline Veness of 6 Merrivale Road, died on 13 October 1953. Probate was granted to Majorie Harriett Veness, spinster. 

In 2004, their daughter Marjorie Harriett Veness was living at Southwater Residential Home, 2-4, Conway Crescent, Paignton, TQ4 5LG. Marjorie died the same year. 

  • Caroline Hannah Veness

Caroline Hannah Veness was born in 1874 in Lewes, the daughter of Jonathan Veness and Harriett Dennis.  

In 1901 Caroline Veness was boarding at 69 Catherine Street, Westminster, London with John Hardiman and his family. She is employed as a shop assistant in a clothiers.

By 1911 she is back living with her widowed mother at 3 Southdown Road, Brighton. Aged 35 she is employed as a "costume show room salesman".

Caroline never married. 

Caroline Hannah Veness of 3 Southdown Road, Brighton, spinster, died on 16 January 1916 aged 39. Administration was granted to Joseph Veness, journalist. 

  • George Veness & Amy Sager

George Veness was born on 9 September 1876 in Lewes, the son of Jonathan Veness and Harriett Dennis.

In 1891 he was 13 years old, living with his parents "John Venus" and Harriett at 10 Waterloo Place, All Saints, Lewes, Nothing more is known about George with any certainty. 

Other researchers have suggested that George married Kate Elizabeth Upton in 1900, but .later censuses suggest her husband was George Thomas Veness who had been born in Tunbridge WellsKent.

George Veness married Amy Sager in 1915 in Brighton (Reg Gen Sept 1915 Brighton 2b 679). Amy had been born on 28 July 1882 in Staleybridge, Lancashire, the daughter of William Sager and Helen Jane. Both William and Helen had been born on the Isle of Man, they had initially lived in Lancashire, but by 1911 were living in Southwick, Hove and Amy was a telephone operator.   

In 1921, George Veness, aged 42, born Lewes was living with his wife Amy, aged 37 at 126, Ditchling Road, Preston, Brighton. George was a grocer running his own business. His wife was on home duties.  

In 1939 they were living at 37, Old Shoreham Road, Brighton. George was a retail grocer and provisions shop assistant. Amy was on unpaid domestic duties. 

George Veness of 37, Old Shoreham Road, died on 4 April 1946 aged 68 years old, a grocer's assistant.  The informant was his widow Amy. 

Amy Veness of 37, Old Shoreham Road, Brighton died on 8 January 1968 aged 85 years old (Reg Gen Jan 1968 Brighton 5h 246). 

  • Albert Veness

Albert Veness was born on 30 October 1879 in Lewes, the son of Jonathan Veness and Harriett Dennis.

Albert joined the Royal Navy and in 1901 he is a 20 year old cooks mate listed as on "vessels at sea". 

In 1911 Sergeant Albert Veness, aged 31 is still in the military, serving as a farrier with the 6th Dragoon Guards in "Mauritius and South Africa".   

It is possible that Albert may have married Rose and in 1921 they were living at Shufield Mill, Shufield, Romsey. Albert was a 41 year goods clerk for the S.E & C Railway Company, but was currently out of work. The census confirms that he was born in Lewes. Rose was 45 years old. both were shown as married. William George White, an 80 year old retired civil servant from Woolwich Arsenal was boarding with them. Also living there was Henry William Wotton, aged 11, Albert's stepson.  Henry was born in Herne Bay, Kent and it is noted that his father was dead.

I have been unable to establish conclusively who Henry's father was.

Other researchers suggest Albert married Koreszenz Venus on 14 November 1933 in the Catholic Church, Effingham, Surrey. Kreszenz had been born on 11 November 1900, some suggest in Bavaria. In 1939 they were living in 72, Belle Vue Road, Albert was a hotel porter and "Centa" was on unpaid domestic duties. Also listed is Anna Veness, born 18 September 1911 and on unpaid domestic duties. The next two entries are closed and thereafter the following are listed 

  • Levi M Ellisden. Born 29 July 1909. Unpaid domestic duties.
  • Alice Stewart. Born 9 February 1873. Blind evacuee.
  • Mary E Gibbs. Born 16 August 1868. Blind evacuee.
  • Emma Neame. Born 22 June 1866. Blind evacuee.
  • Mary Meade. Born 28 October 1856. Blind evacuee. 

Albert Veness is believed to have died in 1953 in Southampton (Reg Gen Sept 1953 Southampton 6b 437). 

Koreszenz Veness remarried on 26 February 1955 at St Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, Southampton, to William Dicks. William Dicks of 45, Welbeck Avenue, Highfield, Southampton died on 31 August 1983.  Kreszenz otherwise Kreshnenz Dicks of 3, Brookfield Road, Portswood, Southampton died on 22 February 1991. 

  • Charles Veness

Charles Veness was born in 1882 in Lewes, the son of Jonathan Veness and Harriett Dennis. 

In 1911, he was a 29 ledger clerk at a corn merchant, he was still single and living with his widowed mother at 3 Southdown Road, Brighton. 

Charles Veness of the Royal Horse Artillery and Royal Field Artillery died on 26 August 1916 in India. He was a BDR in the Territorial Force. 

  • Ellen Elizabeth Mabel Dawe nee Veness

Ellen Elizabeth "Mabel" Veness was born on 1 February 1884 at Waterloo Place, Lewes, the daughter of Jonathan Veness and Harriett Dennis 

In 1911 "Mabel" was a 27 year old, "shop clerk" living with her widowed mother and brothers. Benjamin Dawe, a 26 year old chauffeur (domestic) was visiting. (see below

Later that year, on 7 November 1911 at St Augustine's, Preston Ellen Elizabeth Mabel Veness, aged 27, daughter of Jonathan Veness, smith (deceased) married Benjamin Owen Dawe, aged 27, an engineers fitter, son of Eli Dawe, flour miller. The witnesses were William Ewart Henry Veness, Catherine Deness and Robina Wakeham. Benjamin had been visiting Mabel's family at the time that the 1911 census was taken.   

In 1921 Benjamin and "Mabel Ellen" were living at 6 Dorking Road, Tunbridge Wells. They had one son, 

  • David Veness Dawe. Born 6 January 1920 in Tunbridge Wells. 

Benjamin was 36 years old, a motor engineer for Rock Thorpe and Co, Engineers, Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells. Their son David was 1 year 5 months old. Also at the address was Stanley Cubitt Ovenden, a 35 year old chauffeur and his wife Emily Maude Ovenden, also 35 years old, both visitors. 

In 1939 Benjamin and "Mabel" were living at 30, Elm Grove, Maidstone where Benjamin was a centre lathe turner. 

Ellen E M Dawe died in 1940 in Maidstone. Benjamin remarried the following year. His second wife was Rose Ashman formerly Johnson nee Hudson. Rose was a granddaughter of Jonathan Veness and Mary Deness (see below) as was his first wife Ellen Elizabeth Mabel Veness, so Benjamin's wives were cousins. 

Benjamin Owen Dawe of 19, Dorking Road, Tunbridge Wells died on 17 January 1957. Probate was granted to widow Rose Dawe. 

In 1939 Benjamin and Ellen's son David Veness Dawe was single and living with Herbert W Barker, a chauffeur and his wife at 62b Sinclair Road, Hammersmith. He was an electrical fitter to A M and W D Contractor. David may have married Anna Lucy Norton.   He died in 1988 in Chatham, Kent.  Lucy Anna Dawe died on 24 June 2009 in Chatham, Kent.

  • William Veness

William Veness was born in 1886 in Lewes, the son of Jonathan Veness and Harriett Dennis. 

In 1911, William was 25 year old grocers assistant at the Co-operative Society, living with his widowed mother and siblings.

I can find no trace of William in the 1921 census. 

Nothing more is known about William. 

James Veness 

James Veness was baptised was 4 March 1849 at Wartling, the son of Jonathan Veness and Mary Deness.

In 1871 James was 22 years old and an agricultural labourer. He was still living with his parents at Handcomb, Westham. 

Nothing further is known about James Veness.  

William Veness and Rhoda Ann Waymark

William Veness was born on 1 August 1850 and baptised on 8 September 1850 at Wartling, the son of Jonathan Veness and Mary Deness.

William married Rhoda Ann Waymark on 26 August 1876 in Eastbourne. William, aged 26 was the son of "John" Venness, gardener. Rhoda Ann Waymark, aged 24 was the daughter of Eli Waymark, labourer. 

William and Rhoda are pictured on their wedding day. These photographs and that of William below were posted on Ancestry.co.uk by M Windmill. 

William and Rhoda had nine children:  

  • Ada Elizabeth Veness. Born 1878 in East Grinstead.
  • William Veness. Born 17 January 1879 in East Grinstead
  • Joseph Veness. Born 4 May 1880 in Eastbourne.
  • Edith Veness . Born 16 July 1881 in Eastbourne
  • Henry Veness. Born 11 November 1882 in Eastbourne
  • Mary Ann Veness. Born 24 March 1884 in Eastbourne. Mary died on 25 November 1885 aged 1 in Eastbourne
  • Rhoda Ann Veness. Born 1887 in Eastbourne
  • Charlie Waymark Veness. Born 8 December 1891 in Eastbourne 
  • Amelia Milton Veness. Born 18 March 1895 in Eastbourne

In 1881 the family were living in Bourne Street, Eastbourne where 30 year old William was a gardener. The census confirms that he was born in Wartling. Their youngest son at the time Joseph was just 11 months old. When most of the children were born and in 1881 and 1891 censuses the family's surname is consistently spelt "Venness"

1n 1891 they were living at 9 Dennis Cottages, Lower Grove, Eastbourne. William was still a gardener.

In 1901 the family were still at Dennis Cottages, Eastbourne and 50 year old William was still working as a domestic gardener. His son Henry, aged 18 was a plumber. Only Henry, Rhoda, Charlie and Amelia remained at home.

In 1911 William and Rhoda were living at Beachy Head Road, Eastbourne, Sussex. 60 year old William was still a gardener. Only daughter Amelia, aged 16 remained at home, but William and Rhoda's grandson, six year old William Gillam was staying with them at the time. The census shows that they had 9 children of which 7 were still listed. 

In November 1913 William Veness of 2, New Cottages, Beachy Head Road, Eastbourne was in attendance at the death of his brother Joseph Veness (see above) at Surbiton Mews, Langney Road, Eastbourne. 

In 1918 William and Rhoda were still living at 2, New Cottages, Beachy Head Road, Eastbourne.

In 1921 William and Rhoda were living at 2, Beachy Head Road, Eastbourne. William was 70 years old and a road foreman for the Duke of Devonshire on the "Compton Place Estate". Rhoda was 69 years old and on "home duties".  

Rhoda Ann Veness of 2 New Cottages, Beachy Head Road, Eastbourne (wife of William Veness) died on 26 August 1921. Administration was granted to William Veness, bridge repairer and Amelia Milton Veness, spinster. 

In 1939 William Veness, a retired gardener was at 2 Beachy Head Road, Eastbourne. His daughter Amelia, aged 44 remained at home. Also listed was Mabel B Veness who was married to William's son Henry (see below).  

William Veness died on 5 November 1942 in Eastbourne.

The following is known about William and Rhoda's surviving children. 

  • Ada Elizabeth Gillam nee Veness

"Ada Elizabeth Venness" was born in 1878 in East Grinstead, the daughter of William and Rhoda' Venness. 

Ada married John Henry Gillam in 1902 (Reg Gen Dec Qtr 1902 Eastbourne 2b 220).

They had a son William Henry Gillam, born on 10 April 1904 at 28, St George Road, Eastbourne Father John was a cycle mechanic. 

Ada Elizabeth Gillam died on 26 November 1905 at 25, St Georges Road, Eastbourne, aged 28 years old. She died following a stillbirth. This picture of Ada Elizabeth Gillam and her death certificate were posted on Ancestry.co.uk by M Windmill. 

In 1911 John Henry Gillam, a 31 year old widower, a motor engineer was living with his widowed mother, Rebecca Gillam at 30 Junction Road, Eastbourne. His son William, aged 6 was staying with his grandparents, William and Rhoda. 

John Henry Gillam remarried on 25 September 1912 at All Saints, Eastbourne. John was a 32 year old widower, a mechanic. His second wife was Edith Caroline May Sinden, a 26 year old spinster, daughter of Thomas Sinden, deceased. 

John and Edith had two children.  

In 1921 John and Edith were living at 9, Motcombe Road, Eastbourne. John was a 41 year old motor engineer working for L G Ford at 12 & 13 Station Road. His wife was 35 years old. John and Ada's son, William, aged 17 was a general labour on the Duke of Devonshire's Estate. John and Edith's eldest son was 2 years old.   

In 1939 they were living at 6, Parkfield Avenue, Eastbourne where John was a motor engineer. One of their children from the second marriage remained at home.  

John Henry Gillam of 6 Parkfield Avenue, Hampden Park, Eastbourne died on 4 November 1945 at Princess Alice Hospital, Eastbourne. Probate was granted Edith Caroline May Gillam, widow. 

Edith Caroline M Gillam died in 1976 in Eastbourne, aged 90 years. 

John Henry and Ada Elizabeth's son William Henry Gillam married Pheobe Pettitt on 20 March 1926 in St Phillips, Alkington, Sussex. William was a 21 year old motor engineer. Phoebe was 19 years old, daughter of John Henry Pettitt, labourer.

In 1939 they were living at 9, Stanhope Stanton Road, Southampton and William was a car and commercial vehicle motor fitter. William Henry Gillam of 34 Meadowmead Avenue, Southampton died on 2 January 1966 in Royal South Hants Hospital, Southampton. Phoebe died in 1994 in the New Forest.  

  • William Veness & Emily Annie Knight.

William "Venness" was born on 17 January 1879 in East Grinstead, the son of William and Rhoda' Venness.

William married Emily Annie Knight on 27 February 1898 in Cuckfield (Reg Gen March Qtr 1898 Cuckfield 2b 245) following banns at St Wilfred's, Haywards Heath. 

They had five children:

  • William Knight Veness. Born 1 May 1898 in Lindfield. Baptised 9 March 1902 at St Wilfred's, Haywards Heath. 
  • Emily Annie Veness. Born 22 June 1900 in Lindfield. Baptised 9 March 1902 at St Wilfred's, Haywards Heath.
  • Frederick Henry Veness. Born 2 June 1902 in Lindfield. Baptised 31 August 1902 in St Wilfred's, Haywards Heath.  
  • Edith Mary Veness. Born 24 February 1905 in Haywards Heath. Baptised 18 October 1906 at St Wilfred's, Haywards Heath.
  • Ernest Walter Veness. Born 6 January 1908 in Lindfield. Baptised 22 June 1910 in Haywards Heath. 

In 1901, the family were living at Mill Green Road, Cuckfield and 22 year old William was a handy-man in an engineering department. Son William was 2 years old and daughter Emily just 9 months. 

In 1902 when his eldest three children were baptised, William is described as a labourer from Lindfield.

In 1906 when daughter Edith was baptised, William is described as a storeman for L.B.S.C.R and they were living at College Road, Lindfield.

In 1910 when their youngest son was born William is described as a motor driver for L.B.S.C.R. They were at 12, College Road, Lindfield.

In 1911 they were still living at 12 College Road, and William was a "handy-man" in an engineers department. All five children are listed. 

In 1921 William and Emily were still living at 12, College Road. William was 42 years old, employed by the Engineers Department of L and LC Railway. Emily was 47 years old. Their daughter Emily Annie Veness, aged 20 was a clerk for L.B.C.S.C.R. Their daughter Edith, aged 16 was a despatch clerk for Elliott & Co, cake manufacturer. Son Ernest, aged 13 was a "whole time" scholar. 

In 1939 they were still at College Road and William was a bridge repairer in the Engineers Dept. of Southern Railway. Only daughter Edith remained at home. 

Emily Annie Veness of 12 College Road, Haywards Heath (wife of William Veness), died on 16 December 1957. Administration was granted to William Veness, retired railway worker.  

William and Emily's son William Knight Veness joined the army as a private in the Manchester Regiment. William Knight Veness was killed in Flanders on 21 March 1918. 

He was awarded the Victory and British medal. The Victory Medal 1914-1919 was awarded to all eligible personnel who served on the establishment of a unit in an operational theatre. The British War Medal 1914-1920, was awarded to eligible service personnel and civilians alike. The basic requirement for army personnel and civilians was that they either entered a theatre of war, or rendered approved service overseas between 5 August 1914 and 11 November 1918

William and Emily's daughter Emily Annie Veness married Horace George Wood on 10 December 1921 at St Richard's, Haywards Heath. Horace was a 24 year old railwayman, son of Ernest Wood, gardener.  

 They had two children: 

  • Doris Emily Wood. Born 6 August 1923 in Brighton. Doris married Richard John Lilley in 1947 in Sittingbourne, Kent. Richard John Lilley of 43, Stokes Road, London, E6 died on 3 December 1971 in Havering. Doris Emily Lilley died in 1993 in Ashford, Kent. 
  • John D Wood. Born 1929

Horace and Emily divorced in 1939 (National archives J 77/3803/5844).  In 1939 Horace George Wood was living at 5, Niederwald Road, Lewisham with Mr & Mrs Chamberlain. He was a railway signalman and shown as married.   Emily A Castle (born 22 June 1900) is living at Southcot, Cobbles Lane, Horsham seemingly with her husband Edward Castle. She is working as  bookkeeper and P.O. assistant. Emily's children are not listed. However Edward and Emily did not marry until 1946 (Reg Gen Sept 1946 Sittingbourne 5b 1889). Edward Castle died in 1985 in Ashford, Kent. His wife died the same year. 

William and Emily's son Frederick Henry Veness became a porter at Balcombe Station on 22 April 1918. Frederick married Doris Beatrice May Wheale in 1924 in Uckfield. They had two children 

  • Leonard William Maurice Veness. Born 1924 in Uckfield. Leonard married Ruth M Berry in 1949. They had two children. In 1962 they were living at 55, Bowley Road, Hailsham. Ruth died in 1988. Leonard remarried in 1989 in Lewes. Leonard William Maurice Veness died on 8 September 2011 in Peacehaven. 
  • Kenneth E Veness. Born 7 February 1926 in Uckfield. Kenneth married Audrey R Wheale in 1958.  Kenneth E Veness died in 2015

Doris Beatrice May Veness of 11, Theobalds Green, Heathfield died aged just 25 and was buried on 18 March 1931 in Heathfield. In 1939 Frederick was living at Oaktree Cottage, Hailsham with his two sons. seemingly at the home of his in-laws. He was a railway signalman, son Leonard was an ironmongers errand boy and Kenneth was still at school. Frederick Henry Veness of 50, Hailsham Road, Polegate died on 3 April 1981.  

In 1939 William and Emily's daughter Edith Mary Veness was living with her parents at 12 College Road, Cuckfield. She is described as "area supervisor of cashiers and book-keepers for a retail and grocery distributor" Edith married Percy Andrews in 1949 in Hove. Percy Andrews of 12, College Road, Haywards Heath died on 11 December 1972. Edith Mary Andrews of 12, College Road, Haywards Heath died on 4 March 1975.  

William and Emily's son Ernest Walter Veness married Hilda Margaret Pryor in 1928 in Cuckfield. In 1931 they were living at 14, College Road, Lindfield, next door to Ernest's parents. In 1932 they were at 53, Ifield Road, Ifield. In 1939 they were at 240, Ifield Road Ernest died in 1976. Hilda Margaret Veness died in 1997 in Crawley.  I have corresponded with relatives of Ernest and Hilda. Ernest was the great great grandson of Joseph Veness and Fanny Hook as was my grandfather William Douglas Veness. They were third cousins.

  • Joseph Veness

Joseph Veness was born on 4 May 1880 in Eastbourne, the son of William and Rhoda Veness. 

In 1891 he was living with his parents at 9 Dennis Cottages, Lower Grove, Eastbourne. He was a 10 year old scholar. 

It is possible that Joseph was admitted to Brighton Asylum on 12 June 1911 where he died on 28 December 1918. 

  • Edith Veness

Edith Veness was born on 16 July 1881 in Eastbourne, the daughter of William and Rhoda Veness

In 1918 (when her brother Charles died) Edith was living at Goffs House, The Goffs, Eastbourne. 

In 1921 Edith was 39 years old, a caretaker working for Colonel Donnet, at Goffs House, Eastbourne. Her sister Amelia Veness. aged 26, cook for Mr Church at Belmont, Baslow, near Eastbourne. Also listed are Jane Richards, aged 57, domestic cook, currently out of work. 

This picture of Edith was posted on Ancestry.co.uk by M Windmill.

Edith Veness of 2 Beachy Head Road, spinster, died on 14 November 1927. Administration was granted to William Veness, gentleman. 

  • Henry Veness and Mabel Blanche Russell

Henry Veness was born on 11 November 1882 in Eastbourne, the son of William and Rhoda' Venness.  

Henry Veness joined the Royal Navy first serving on the Duke of Wellington on 9 May 1902 and last serving on Fishguard on 8 May 1924. His detailed service record is below, 

Henry Veness married Mabel Blanche Russell in April 1909 in Eastbourne. 

In 1918 (when brother Charles died) Henry was living at 50 Agincourt Road, Portsmouth!!. 

In 1921 they were still living at 50 Agincourt Road, Mile End, Portsmouth. Henry, aged 38 years old, was a chief plumber for Royal Navy on the H.M.S Queen Elizabeth. Mabel, aged 36 years old was on "home duties". 

In 1939 Mabel B Veness was living with Henry's father William Veness, a retired gardener  at 2 Beachy Head Road, Eastbourne. It is not clear where Henry was.

In 1960 Henry and Mabel Blanche Veness were listed in the electoral register at 46 Vanston Place, Samuel Lewis Trust Dwellings, Fulham, SW6.  Samuel Lewis was born in Birmingham in 1837, he became a salesman of steel pens, opened a jewellers shop and then moved into money lending. When he died in 1901 he left an endowment of £670k to provide housing for the poor and Vanston Place was one of the first to be built between 1920 and 1922

However the electoral register was not entirely accurate, for Henry Veness of 46 Lewis Trust Buildings, Vanston Place, Fulham Broadway had died on 9 December 1959. Administration was granted to Mabel Blanche Veness, widow. 

Mabel Veness died in 1980 in Chelsea, London. 

  • Rhoda Ann Veness

Rhoda Ann Venness was born in 1866 in Eastbourne, the daughter of William and Rhoda Venness.  

Previously living with her parents, in 1911 Rhoda was a 25 year old cook, living with Arthur Moleworth Case, a retired china merchant and his family at Holmbury, Eastbourne. 

In 1918 Rhoda was living with her parents at 2 New Cottages, Beachy Head Road, Eastbourne.

Rhoda had a son born outside wedlock (Reg Gen March 1920 Eastbourne 2b 171). Maurice Douglas Veness, son of Rhoda Ann Veness, single woman from 123, Church Street, Eastbourne was baptised on 17 March 1920 at the same time as three other children of "single women" all who gave 123, Church Street as their address. It seems this may have been Eastbourne Union Workhouse. 

In 1921 Rhoda Veness was a 34 year old domestic servant living with Thomas Longley, aged 57, a clerk in Holy Orders and his wife Emma. Also at the address was "Douglas" Veness, aged 1 year. 

In 1939 Rhoda was a cook living and working at Brighton C B Mental Hospital, Cuckfield.

Rhoda Ann Veness died in 1946 in Cuckfield. 

Other researchers suggest Rhoda Ann Veness' son Douglas Maurice Veness Forth married Doris Turner in 1940 in Oxford. In 1951 Douglas and Doris were living at Windrush Caravan, Rosslyn, Reddings, Badgeworth. Douglas M Forth died aged 35 years old in 1956 in Cheltenham (Reg Gen March 1956 Cheltenham 7b 481). Douglas is pictured below in a photograph posted on Ancestry.co.uk by Deborah Collins 

Doris Forth died in 2004 in Oxfordshire. 

  • Charlie Waymark Veness  

Charlie was born 8 December 1891 in Eastbourne, the son of William and Rhoda Venness. 

In 1901 Charlie was living at home with his parents. I can find no trace of Charlie in 1911. 

Charles Waymark Veness of Christchurch, Eastbourne enlisted in the army on 5 January 1909. He was an 18 year old plumbers mate. He became a Lance Sergeant in the "2nd Battalion Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consort's Own)". He was killed in Flanders on 7 November 1918 and was buried at Etapes Military Cemetary.

Charlie was posthumously awarded the Victory and The British War Medal, received by his mother in June 1921. 

  • Amelia Milton Veness

Amelia Milton Veness was born on 18 March 1895 in Eastbourne, the daughter of William and Rhoda' Veness.

In 1918 (when her brother Charles died) Amelia, aged 24 was living at 13, Storne Court, Chelsea. 

In 1921 Amelia. aged 26 and a cook for Mr Church at Belmont, Baslow, near Eastbourne was living with her sister Edith, a 39 years old, a caretaker working for Colonel Donnet, at Goffs House, Eastbourne. 

In 1934 through to at least 1939 Amelia was living with her widowed father at 2 Beachy Head Road, Eastbourne.  

Amelia appears to have never married. 

Amelia Milton Veness of Firwood House, Brassey Avenue, Eastbourne died on 7 December 1986 aged 91 years old (Reg Gen Dec Qtr 1986 Eastbourne 18 451). 

Mary Veness

Mary Veness was baptised on 15 February 1852 at Wartling, the daughter of Johnathan Veness and Mary Deness.

In 1881, Mary was living with her widowed father at 3 Brewery Cottages, Junction Road, Eastbourne. She was 29 years old and gives her occupation as housekeeper. 

In 1891 she was lodging (two rooms in a shared house) with her brother in law and her sister Alfred and Lizzie Hudson and their family at 24 Ashford Road, Eastbourne and was working as a dressmaker (see below). Mary was one of four lodgers listed. 

In 1901 Mary was living alone (in two rooms in a shared house) in 42, Ashford Road, Eastbourne.  She was 49 years old and a dressmaker. 

By 1911, now aged 59 she is back living with sister Lizzie at Rossway Street, Leonards Road, Eastbourne. No occupation is given. 

In 1921 Mary Venness, aged 69, retired was living at 39, Cavendish Avenue, Eastbourne with her friend Mary Holmes. aged 79. Both were single. 

Mary Veness, aged 81 died in 1933 in Eastbourne. 

Jason Deness Veness and Phoebe Collins

Jason Deness Veness was baptised on 8 April 1856 at Wartling, the son of Johnathan Veness and Mary Deness.

Jason married Phoebe Collins on 10 May 1876 at Holy Trinity, Eastbourne, after banns (Reg Gen June Qtr 1876 Eastbourne 2b 113)

In 1881 they were living at 58, Bourne Street, Eastbourne where 25 year old Jason was a general labourer. Two children were listed

  • Agnes Mary Veness. Born 15 November 1876 in Eastbourne
  • Frederick Charles Veness. Born 1879 in Eastbourne 

Also listed was Robert Johnson a 33 year old joiner who was lodging with them. 

In 1891, Jason, aged 35, a bricklayers labourer and his wife Phoebe, aged 33, were living at 127 Ashtead Road, Eastbourne. They had five more children: 

  • Alice Edith Veness. Born 17 May 1881 in Eastbourne
  • Albert Jason Veness. Born 1884 in Westham
  • Annie Laurie Veness. Born 1887 in Eastbourne
  • Elizabeth Veness. Born 28 March 1889 in Eastbourne
  • Arthur Veness. Born 1890 in Eastbourne. 

Their eldest daughter Agnes was no longer at home. Their son Frederick was 14 and already an errand boy. The remaining children were at school or were pre school age. Arthur Veness was only 7 months old. 

By 1901 three further children had been born, 

  • Nellie Veness. Born 1894 in Eastbourne
  • Lily Veness. Born 1896 in Eastbourne
  • George Ernest Veness. Born 1898 in Eastbourne

but their father Jason had died in 1898, aged 42 yearsThe family were living at 12 New Road, Eastbourne. Phoebe is listed as "Ann", aged 43, a laundress, born Bexhill. Her sons Frederick, aged 22 and Albert Veness, aged 17 are both employed as bricklayers. Also still at home are 12 year old Lizzie, 10 year old Arthur, 7 year old Nellie, Lily, aged 5 and George, aged 2. 

In 1911 "Annie" is living at 16 New Road, Eastbourne. Her sons Frederick, now a 32 year old bricklayer, Albert, a 27 year old general labourer, Arthur, a 20 year old milkman and George, a 13 year old errand boy for a newsagents are all at home. Nellie and Lily, aged 17 and 15 are also still at home. Visiting at the time was 66 year old widow Mary Simons. 

In 1921, Phoebe Veness was still at 16, New Road, Eastbourne. Aged 63, a widow, she is described as "invalid". Her son Frederick, a 42 year old bricklayer for Bodlen's Builders, Eastbourne, son Albert, a 37 year old labourer for Bainbridge's Builders, Eastbourne, son Arthur, a 30 year old self employed dairyman, daughter Nellie, aged 27 years old, on "home duties", daughter Lily, aged 25 was an out of work domestic servant and son George, aged 23 years old was a sculleryman working for Mr T A Almond, the manager of the Queens Hotel, Eastbourne.

Phoebe Veness died in 1929 in Eastbourne. 

Nothing more is known about Arthur or Lily Veness after 1921. 

A little is known about her other children and this is detailed below. 

  • Agnes Mary Veness

Agnes Veness was born on 15 November 1876 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Jason Deness Veness and Phoebe Collins. 

In 1891, aged just 14, Agnes was a general servant, living with and working for Ann Rowlatt, a 37 year old widow "living on her own means" and her children at 1 Cornfield Terrace, Cornfield Road, Eastbourne. 

In 1901 Agnes was 24 years old and a general domestic servant living with and working for Richard B Brotheress, 47 year old schoolmaster (drawing) and his family at 48 Upperton Gardens, Eastbourne. 

In 1921 Agnes M Veness was a boarding house keeper working on her own account at 61, Langney Road, Eastbourne. Her sister Elizabeth and her husband Percy E Dawe were living with her. Also listed are six seemingly unconnected people described as "visitors", but presumably paying guests. 

In 1939 Agnes was living at 61, Langney Road, Eastbourne. She was an apartment house keeper. Also at the address was her sister Alice, a boarding house keeper.  

By 1959 Agnes Mary Veness was living with her brother Albert Jason Veness and sister Nellie May Veness at 16 New Road, Eastbourne. 

Agnes Mary Veness of 16 New Road, spinster died on 1 April 1961 at All Saints Hospital, Eastbourne. Probate was granted to Albert Jason Veness, retired builder. 

  • Frederick Charles Veness

Frederick Charles Veness was born in 1877 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Jason Deness Veness and Phoebe Collins. 

In 1911 Frederick, a 32 year old bricklayer was still living with his mother at New Road, Eastbourne. 

In 1914 he enlisted in the Royal Sussex Regiment. He was a 35 year old bricklayer, living with his mother in Christchurch, Eastbourne. 

In 1921 Frederick was a 42 year old bricklayer for Bodlen's Builders, Eastbourne, He and his brother Albert, a 37 year old labourer for Bainbridge's Builders, Eastbourne living with his mother at 16, New Road, Eastbourne. 

I can find no trace of Frederick in the 1939 census at the current time, but the 1937-38 electoral register shows he and his siblings were still at 16, New Road.  

Frederick C Veness died aged 76 years old in 1955 in Eastbourne (Reg Gen March 1955 Eastbourne 5h 274). . 

  • Alice Edith Veness

Alice Edith Veness was born on 17 May 1881 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Jason Deness Veness and Phoebe Collins.

 In 1901 19 year old Alice was a general servant, living with and working for Henry B Jennings, a 49 year old sailor and his family at 63, Langney Street, Eastbourne. 

In 1911, Alice Edith Veness, aged 29 was a cook to Robert Herbert Scotter, civil engineer and his family at 22 Elm Grove, Southsea, Hants. Her sister Elizabeth, now 22 was a housemaid in the same house (see below). 

In 1921 Alice Edith Veness, still single was a boarding house keeper at 23, Elphinstone Road, Southsea. Also listed. and boarding at the time were James Frank Meredith, aged 28, a manager at A B Sparrow Chemists, 143 Highland Road, Eastney and Ada Greenyer, aged 42, a cafe manageress at Messrs Price brothers, confectioners, 60 Osborne Road, Southsea.

In 1939 Alice, a boarding house keeper, was living with her sister Agnes at 61 Langney Road, Eastbourne.  The next two entries are closed. 

Alice Edith Veness of 16, New Road, Eastbourne died on 12 July 1969

  • Albert Jason Veness

Albert Jason Veness was born in 1884 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Jason Deness Veness and Phoebe Collins.

In 1911 he was a general labourer and aged 27 years old was still living with his widowed mother at 16, New Road, Eastbourne.  

in 1921 Albert was a general labourer for Messrs Bainbridges, Builders. He was still living with his widowed mother at 16, New Road, Eastbourne.

I can find no trace of him in the 1939 register at the present time but the 1937-38 electoral register shows him and his siblings still at 16, New Road, Eastbourne. 

Albert was still living at 16, New Road, Eastbourne in 1959 along with his sisters Nellie May Veness and Agnes Mary Veness. 

Albert Jason Veness of 16 New Road died on 2 June 1963 at St Mary's Hospital, Eastbourne. Administration was granted to George Ernest Veness, hotel porter, his brother (see below). 

  • Annie Laurie Quartermaine nee Veness

Annie Laurie Veness was born in 1887 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Jason Deness Veness and Phoebe Collins.

In 1901 Annie L Veness was a 14 year old general servant, living with and working for Emily Bays, a 53 year old widow "living on her own means", and her family at 103, Ashford Road, Eastbourne.  

In 1911 Annie Laurie Veness, aged 24 was a cook to John Patrick Goode, a dealer in mines and estates and his family at Darley Lodge, Darley Road, Eastbourne. 

Annie married Walter Charles Quartermaine on 28 October 1916 at Holy Trinity and St Peter's Church, South Wimbledon.   Walter was a 39 year old butcher the son of Alfred Quartermaine, butcher. His address was 9 Congreene Road, Eltham. Annie was a 30 year old spinster, living at 27 Stanley Road, Wimbledon. Her father is stated as Jason Veness. builder, even though he had died by the time of the marriage. Her sister Alice Edith Veness was one of the witnesses. 

In 1919 Walter and Annie were registered at 17 Prince Rupert Road, Eltham. 

In 1921 they were living at 193, Seaside, Eastbourne. Walter, aged 43 was a butchers shop man working for E J Berry, Butcher, 80 Seaside. Annie was on home duties, Their son was 3 years and 7 months old. Walter's father Alfred Quartermaine., aged 70, a part time butcher was living with them. Sophia Brown, aged 60 of no fixed abode and partially invalided was visiting them. They also had two female boarders, Elizabeth Richardson, aged 24, a drapers assistant at E Duke's, 132 Seaside Road and Mabel Florence Green, aged 32, a barmaid for Mr Brown at the Devonshire Baths, etc, Winter Gardens, Devonshire Park.  

Walter and Annie appear to have had two children

  • Leslie Charles Quartermaine. Born  13 November 1917 in Eastbourne. Baptised 9 June 1918 in  All Soul's, Eastbourne. 
  • Doris Phoebe Quartermaine. Born 15 October 1924 in Eastbourne. 

In 1939 they were living at 163, Seaside, Eastbourne. Walter was a butchers shopman. Son Leslie was a shop man, but described as incapacitated, The next two entries are closed. There are also four seemingly unconnected individuals living at the same address, two brothers living on "private means" and a husband and wife, the husband working as an engine driver, presumably boarders?

In 1946 and 1948 they were still living at 163, Seaside, Eastbourne. 

Walter Charles Quartermaine died on 28 November 1953 at Eastbourne. 

Annie Laura Quartermaine of 163 Seaside, Eastbourne, widow died on 9 December 1958 at Princess Alice's Hospital, Eastbourne. Probate was granted to Doris Phoebe Quartermaine, spinster and Leslie Charles Quartermaine, picture framer. 

In 1946 through to 1954 Walter and Annie's son Leslie Charles Quartermaine was still living with his parents at 163, Seaside, Eastbourne. Leslie Charles Quartermaine of 19, Mill Road, Eastbourne died on 6 November 1991.   

It appears Walter and Annie's daughter Doris Phoebe Quartermaine never married. In 1946 through to 1954 Doris was still living with her parents at 163, Seaside, Eastbourne. In 1959 she was living at 31 Kings Avenue, Eastbourne with Terence and Margaret Carmody, presumably boarding. In 2003 was living at 6, Cuckmere House, 18, Upperton Road, BN21 1EU. Doris P Quartermaine died on 18 February 2022 in Eastbourne, aged 98 years old.   

  • Elizabeth Dawe nee Veness

Elizabeth Veness was born on 28 March 1889 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Jason Deness Veness and Phoebe Collins.

In 1911, Elizabeth Veness, aged 22 was a housemaid to Robert Herbert Scotter, civil engineer and his family at 22 Elm Grove, Southsea, Hants. Her sister Alice Edith, aged 29 was a cook in the same household. 

Elizabeth married Percy Edward Dawe on 12 March 1917 at All Souls, Eastbourne. They were both 27 years old. Percy was a soldier, son of William Charles Dawe, chef. The witnesses were Elizabeth's sister Alice Edith Veness and Alfred Saunders. 

In 1921 Percy and Elizabeth were living with Elizabeth's sister Agnes at 61, Langney Road, Eastbourne (see above). Percy was a private chef with no fixed place of work. They had two children 

  • Phyllis Betty Dawe. Born 6 May 1920. Baptised 14 July 1920 at All Souls, Eastbourne. Phyllis died later that same year in 1920
  • Peggy Elizabeth Dawe. Born 24 September 1921. Baptised 18 December 1921 at All Souls, Eastbourne. 

In 1939 they were living at 15, Willowfield Square, Eastbourne. Percy was a cook. Elizabeth was on unpaid domestic duties. Daughter Peggy was still at home and was a milliner's apprentice. 

Percy Edward Dawe died in 1973 in Eastbourne. 

Elizabeth Dawe of 15, Willowfield Square, Eastbourne died on 9 February 1976. 

It appears that Percy and Elizabeth's daughter Peggy Elizabeth Dawe never married. In 1959 and 1962 she was living at 53, Willowfield Square with her parents. She died aged 49 years old in 1971 in Eastbourne. She predeceased both her parents. 

  • Nellie May Veness 

Nellie Veness was born 1894 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Jason Deness Veness and Phoebe Collins. 

in 1911 she was 17 years old, but unlike her elder sisters who were all in service by that age, she was still living at home with her widowed mother, at 16, New Road, Eastbourne. 

In 1921 Nellie aged 27 years old, was still living with her mother at 16, New Road, Eastbourne. She was on "home duties",

I can find no trace of Nellie in the 1939 register, but the 1937-38 electoral register shows Nellie and her siblings at 16, New Road, Eastbourne. 

In 1959 Nellie is still at 16, New Road with her brother Albert Jason Veness and her sister Agnes Mary Veness. 

Nellie May Veness of 16, New Road died on 29 November 1972

  • George Ernest Veness

George Ernest Veness. was born in 1898, the son of Jason Deness Veness and Phoebe Collins.

On 14 November 1916 George Ernest Veness of 16, New Road, Eastbourne, an  18 year old news vendor, enlisted in the Grenadier Guards. He was wounded in the abdomen in 1918 and was discharged on 31 March 1920.

In 1921, George, aged 23 years old was a sculleryman working for Mr T A Almond, the manager of the Queens Hotel, Eastbourne. He was still living at 16, New Road, Eastbourne with his widowed mother. 

I can find no trace of him in the 1939 census at the present time, but the electoral register for 1937-38 shows he and his siblings were still living at 16, New Road, Eastbourne. 

Fanny Veness

Fanny Veness was born in 1861, the  daughter of Johnathan Veness and Mary Deness. 

In 1871 she was a 9 year old living with her parents at Handcomb, Warbleton. 

Nothing more is known about Fanny. 

Lizzy Hudson nee Veness

Lissey (Lizzy) Veness was born in 1861, the  daughter of Johnathan Veness and Mary Deness. Although shown as Lissey in the 1861 census return, Jonathan and Mary's youngest daughter was registered as Lizzy (Reg Gen March Qtr 1861 Eastbourne 2b 46).Presumably she and Fanny were twins. 

In 1871 she was a 9 year old living with her parents at Handcomb, Warbleton.  

In 1879 Lizzy married Alfred Hudson at Eastbourne (Reg Gen Dec Qtr 1879 Eastbourne 2b 169).

In 1881 Alfred Hudson, aged 24, bricklayer and Lizzie Hudson, aged 20 were living at 3 Brewery Cottages, Junction Road, Eastbourne. Living with them was Alfred's 13 year old brother, Albert Hudson, an errand boy at a printing office. Also at the same address, but shown as a separate family, was Lizzy's widowed father Jonathan Veness and her sister Mary Veness.

Alfred and Lizzie had ten children:

  • Florence Hudson. Born 25 April 1882 in Eastbourne.
  • Lizzie Hudson. Born 1883 in Eastbourne (Reg Gen Sept Qtr 1883 Eastbourne 2b 82)
  • Edith Mary Hudson. Born 6 July 1886 in Eastbourne. 
  • Ernest Charles Hudson. Born 1890 in Eastbourne (Reg Gen March Qtr 1890 Eastbourne 2b 72)
  • Caroline Hannah Hudson. Born 24 January 1891 in Eastbourne 
  • Lily Hudson. Born 1892 in Eastbourne (Reg Gen Sept Qtr 1892 Eastbourne 2b 93)
  • Rose Hudson. Born 1 January 1896 in Eastbourne (Reg Gen March Qtr 1896 Eastbourne 2b 71). Baptised 4 March 1917 at St Philip's, Eastbourne
  • Albert Edward Hudson. Born 31 August 1897 in Eastbourne 
  • Harold James Jason Hudson. Born 31 December 1898 in Eastbourne 
  • Charles Hudson. Born 15 January 1904 in Eastbourne.

In 1891 the family were living at 24 Ashford Road, Eastbourne. Alfred Hudson, aged 34 was a bricklayer. Also at the same address were lodgers

  • Benjamin Wood, aged 34, music seller assistant
  • Mary S Fife, aged 64. Living off own means
  • Mary Veness, aged 39, dress maker, born Herstmonceux
  • Mary J Thompson, aged 28, dress maker.

Mary Veness was Lizzie's elder sister (see above).

In 1899 they were living at 32, Terminus Place, Eastbourne. 

By 1901, the family were living at Rossway Street, St Leonards. Alfred was still working as a bricklayer. Their 18 year old daughter Florence was working as a dressmaker and 14 years old Edith as a Milliners assistant. All the other children were at home.

In 1911 the family are still at Rossway Street, Leonards Road, Eastbourne. Alfred aged 54 is a builder and contractor. Daughters Edith Mary , aged 24 and Caroline aged 20 were dressmakers. Son, Ernest, aged 21 was a decorator. Daughter Caroline, aged 20 was a dressmaker. The younger children were at school. Alfred's mother, Hannah Hudson, a 88 year old widow was also living with the family, as was Lizzie's sister Mary Veness. The census shows they had twelve children of which ten survived.

In 1921 Alfred and Lizzie were living in 13, St Leonards Road, Eastbourne. Alfred, aged 64 was a jobbing builder. Daughter "Betty", aged 37 was "on home duties" (presumably this was Lizzie), son Albert, aged 24, was a self-employed painter and decorator, son Harold, aged 22, was a plumber and fitter working for his brother, and Charles, aged 17, was a self employed cycle repairer. 

Lizzy Hudson died in 1938 in Hailsham. 

In 1939 Alfred Hudson, retired bricklayer was living at Peartree Cottage, Vicarage Lane, Hailsham with Fanny Goldsmith, aged 78, widow.

Alfred Hudson died on 9 January 1943 in Hailsham. 

Nothing more is known about Ernest Charles Hudson or Lily Hudson, but the following is known about the remaining children.

  • Florence Coates nee Hudson

Florence Hudson was born on 25 April 1882 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Alfred Hudson and Lizzy Veness. 

Florence married William Edgar Coates in 1906 in Eastbourne (Reg Gen June Qtr 1906 Eastbourne 2b 185). 

In 1911 they were living at 97 Ruskin Avenue, Manor Park, Essex where 31 year old William was a "ticket and show card writer". The couple had two children:

  • William Hudson Coates. Born 23 December 1907 in Manor Park. 
  • Constance Florence Coates. Born 6 August 1910 in Manor Park.

In 1921 William and Florence were at 39 Cavendish Avenue, Eastbourne. William was a 41 year old "show card writer". Florence, aged 39 was on home duties. Son William was 13 years old and daughter Constance was 10 years old. Walter Edward Bishell, aged 31, an order clerk for Briscol & Co Ltd, coal and oil merchant, Edith Ann Pettigrew, aged 47, on home duties, James Edward Pettigrew, aged 19, a civil servant for H M Customs and Excise, William John Pettigrew, aged 17, insurance agent for National Provincial Plate Glass Insurance Company and Mary Edith Pettigrew, aged 11 were all visiting. 

In 1939 William and Florence were living at 18, Milton Road, Eastbourne and William was a "show card and sign writer". 

Florence Coates died on 15 September 1962 in Eastbourne. 

William Edgar Coates of Manor Nursing Home, Lelant St Ives, Cornwall died on 11 March 1973.  

William and Florence's son William Hudson Coates married Ethel May Wright on 7 December 1929 in Westham. William was a 21 year old signwriter, son of William Edgar Coates, signwriter. Ethel was the 21 year old daughter of Charles Edward Wright, deceased. 

They had at least one son

  • William A Coates. Born 15 February 1932 in Hailsham. William married Lilian Margaret Edwards in 1953 in Eastbourne. Lilian Margaret Coates died on 10 May 2009 in Eastbourne. William A Coates died on 13 January 2017 in Hastings.  

In 1939 Ethel and her son William were living at  Montbrelia, St Anthony's Avenue, Eastbourne. Ethel is shown as married and a "daily domestic". Her husband William is not listed. It seems that they divorced. Ethel remarried in 1955. Her second husband was Walter Frederick Kendall. Ethel May Kendall died on 14 December 1992 in Eastbourne. Walter Frederick Kendall died on 26 February 1994 in Eastbourne. William Hudson Coates remarried in 1962 in Paddington. His second wife was Marion R Wrightson . He died in May 1987 in Cornwall 

William and Florence's daughter Constance Florence Coates married  Harley Frank Brewster on 24 February 1934 at St Philips, Eastbourne. Harley was a 22 year old publican's assistant, son of Harry Harley Brewster, publican. 

In 1939 Harley and Constance were living at 29, Latimer Road, Eastbourne. Harley was licenced victualler. Constance was on domestic duties. Frank Harley Brewster of The Ocean Way, 29, Latimer Road, Eastbourne died on 7 November 1966 at St Mary's Hospital, Eastbourne. Constance Florence Brewster died on 1 May 2002 in Eastbourne. 

  • Lizzie Hudson

Lizzie Hudson was born in 1884 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Alfred Hudson and Lizzy Veness. 

In 1921 "Betty" was still living at home with her parents and was "on home duties".  

It is possible that she never married and died in 1925 in Eastbourne. 

  • Edith Mary Barley nee Hudson 

Edith Mary Hudson was born on 6 July 1886 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Alfred and Lizzy Hudson. 

Edith married Owen Charles Barley in 1911 in Eastbourne. 

Owen Charles Barley had been born on 16 October 1869 in Stony Stratford, Buckinghamshire. In 1901 he was boarding with Jane Bignall and her family at 34 Cavendish Place, Eastbourne. In 1911 he was boarding with Ann Martin, boarding house keeper at 40, Langney Road, Eastbourne. He was 17 years Edith's senior. 

In 1921 they were living at 7 Hampden Terrace, Lationer Road, Eastbourne. Owen was a 51 year old printer and stationer. Edith, aged 34 was on "home duties". Herbert John Burrows, a 35 year old Chief Inspector of Taxes for the Inland Revenue at Somerset House and his wife Nellie Hayward Burrows, aged 34 were visiting them. 

Owen and Edith had two children 

  • Raymond George Barley. Born 19 July 1912 in Eastbourne
  • Joyce Muriel Barley. Born 6 September 1916 in Eastbourne

In 1939 they were living at 16, Charleston Road, Eastbourne.  Owen was a master printer and stationer. Daughter Joyce was a shop assistant (stationers), presumably working for her father? 

Owen Charles Barley of 13, Charleston Road, Eastbourne died on 16 February 1944. Probate was granted to his widow. 

On 28 December 1947, Owen and Edith's daughter Miss Joyce Barley sailed from Southampton to New Zealand on the Atlantis, arriving on 28 January 1948. She was a 31 year old nursing trainee from Aymond Grange, Eastbourne and she was intending to permanently reside in New Zealand. She returned to the UK arriving in Southampton in October 1950. She gives her address in the UK as 21 Baldwin Avenue, Eastbourne. She did not stay in the UK for in 1963 she is registered at 109 Upland Road, Remuera, Auckland. Also listed is her mother Edith Mary Barley, widow. 

Edith Mary Barley of 56, Westcombe Park Road, London, SE3 had sailed from London to Australia on the "Strathmore" on 29 March 1956. Could this have been Joyce's mother? If so, its not clear when she arrived in New Zealand. Edith Mary Barley arrived back in the UK from New Zealand on 16 December 1960. She was intending to stay at 18, Milton Road (with her sister Florence) for 8 to 10 months.  

Edith Mary Barley of 109 Upland Road, Remuera, Auckland died in 1971 and was cremated on 6 March 1971 at Purewa Cemetery. 

Owen and Edith's son Raymond George Barley married Minnie Palmer in 1945. Raymond died on 14 August 1995 in Essex

  • Caroline Hannah Jackson nee Hudson

Caroline Hannah Hudson was born on 24 January 1891 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Alfred and Lizzy Hudson.

She married George Douglas Jackson on 19 September 1918 at Eastbourne Primitive Methodist Church. 

In 1921 Caroline, aged 35 is listed at 12, St Leonards Road, Eastbourne. She is shown as "wife", but this is crossed out and replaced with "head". She is shown as married. It's not clear where George would have been. 

They had a daughter Diana Elena Jackson who was born on 7 November 1923 in England. 

In 1939 they were living at 77 Hangleton Crescent, Hove where George was a representative for P.O. telephones. 

The family emigrated in the 1940's, possibly firstly to New Zealand, but eventually to Australia. 

George Douglas Jackson died on 18 August 1975 at South Blackburn, Victoria, Australia. 

Carol Hannah Jackson died on 13 March 1986 in Victoria. The record confirms her parentage. She was buried at Templestowe, Manningham City, Victoria, Australia. 

George and Caroline's daughter Diana Elena Jackson married Lovel Blake Davis in 1955 in Victoria, Australia. In 1977 they were living in 42, Munro Avenue, Burwood, Chisholm. Lovel died on 27 July 1980 in Ashburton. Diana Davis, retired solicitor, died on 4 November 1989 in Ashburton, Victoria. 

  • Rose Dawe formerly Ashman formerly Johnson nee Hudson

Rose Hudson was born on 1 January 1896 in Eastbourne, the daughter of Alfred and Lizzy Hudson. 

She was baptised on 4 March 1917 at St Philip's, Eastbourne. She would have been 21 years old by that time.  

Rose married Harold George Johnson on 19 October 1918 in Eastbourne. 

They already had a daughter Joan May Johnson who had been was born on 25 July 1918 in Hove. 

Harold had enlisted in the Royal Army Medical Corps in 1915 and he died at home in Guildford on 1 November 1918 from wounds received.  He originated from Crewe and was buried there. 

In 1921 Rose and Joan were living at Wall Garden House, Stone Cross, Westham. Rose was a 25 year old widow on "home duties". Joan was 2 years old. 

Rose remarried on 23 March 1929 at St Anne's Church. Eastbourne. Her second husband was Percy George Emery Ashman. Percy was a 51 year old widower, a traveller, the son of George Ashman, watchmaker (deceased). Rose Johnson was a 33 year old clerk, aa widow, daughter of Alfred Hudson, builder.  

Percy had been married previously and had three sons. 

Percy George Emery Ashman of 85, Dillingburgh Road, Eastbourne died on 1 May 1939 at 44 Cliffe High Street, Lewes. Administration was granted to Rose Ashman, widow and Percy George Emery Ashman, builder.  He was buried on 5 May 1939 at St Mary's, Eastbourne. 

When the 1939 register was taken Rose was still at 85, Dillingburgh Road, Eastbourne. Also at the same address was Agnes E Denning (born 19 March 1868) and Marjorie E Denning (born 16 August 1903), an unemployed fashion artist. 

Rose remarried again in 1941 in Eastbourne (Reg Gen Dec 1941 Eastbourne 2b 167). Her third husband was Benjamin Owen Dawe. Benjamin had previously been married to Ellen Elizabeth Mabel Veness. Ellen Elizabeth Mabel Veness was a granddaughter of Jonathan Veness and Mary Deness (see above) as was Rose, so Benjamin's 1st and 2nd wives were cousins. 

Benjamin Owen Dawe of 19, Dorking Road, Tunbridge Wells died on 17 January 1957. Probate was granted to widow Rose Dawe.  

Nothing more is known about Rose. 

It is possible that Harold and Rose's daughter Joan Mary Johnson never married and died in Worthing in 1997. 

  • Albert Edward Hudson & Irene E Jamieson

Albert Edward Hudson was born on 31 August 1897 in Eastbourne, the son of Alfred and Lizzy Hudson. 

In 1921 Albert was still living with his parents at 13, St Leonards Road, Eastbourne.  Albert, aged 24, was a self-employed painter and decorator, 

Albert married Irene E Jamieson in 1923 in Eastbourne.  

In 1939 Albert and "Annie" were living at 20, Mill Road, Eastbourne where Albert was a building contractor, proprietor. 

Albert Edward Hudson of Lennox Lodge, 59, Carlisle Road, Eastbourne died on 21 January 1982. 

  • Harold James Jason Hudson & Winifred Alice Tonkyn

Harold James Jason Hudson was born on 31 December 1898 in Eastbourne, the son  of Alfred Hudson and Lizzy Veness.

In 1921 Harold was still living with his parents at 13, St Leonards Road, Eastbourne. Harold, aged 22, was a plumber and fitter working for his brother. 

Harold married Winifred Alice Tonkyn on 2 July 1928 in  St Mary's Church, Hampden Park,  Eastbourne. Harold was a 29 year old engineer, son of Alfred Hudson, builder. Winifred was a 27 year old clerk, daughter of George Kent Tonkyn, retired railwayman. 

In 1939 they were living at 89, Ringwood Road, Eastbourne where Harold was a manager of a motor repair workshop. They appear to have had two children. 

Harold James Jason Hudson of 89, Ringwood Road, Eastbourne died on 26 October 1971

Winifred Alice Hudson of Folkestone Nursing Home, 12, Jointon Road, Folkestone died on 3 December 1987

Charles Hudson & Mabel Knox

In 1921 Charles Hudson was still living with his parents at 13, St Leonards Road, Eastbourne. Charles, aged 17, was a self employed cycle repairer.


Charles married Mabel Knox on 31 December 1925 at St Anne's, Eastbourne, Charles was a 21 year old motor engineer, son of Alfred Hudson, builder. Mabel was 18 years old, daughter of William Wakenshaw Knox, house painter and decorator (deceased).

In 1939 they were living at 13 Upper Avenue, Eastbourne. Charles was an automobile instructor, Mabel was a motoring school proprietress. The next two entries are closed.

Mabel Hudson died in 1961 in Eastbourne, aged 53 years old. 

Charles Hudson died in 1964 in Eastbourne, aged 61 years. 

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