Thanks to Suzanne and Alan for this report on the latest exhibition at Ventnor linrary. Ed
As most readers of OnTheWight will realise the current exhibition at Ventnor Library is based on the life of a Ventnor family in Victorian times.
This exhibition came about by Lesley Telford from Ventnor Library viewing the online collection of these Victorian photographs on the Website of Martin Warner, who had placed these fascinating photos of life in Victorian times on his website.
Family connection
Martin and his wife Catherine, who is a descendant of the family portrayed in the exhibition, had been left the album of photos. A number of the photos were in a poor state but with scanning expertise Martin was able to publish a large number of the collection. Recently Martin and Catherine made a visit to Ventnor Library to view the exhibition.
Catherine said, “I am very pleased to see our photos available to a wider audience” and Martin added that he had given Lesley carte blanche to use any photos from his Website.
Interest from afar
Since publication Martin had been contacted by someone from Wolverhampton Museum which has a large collection of spirit stoves in their collection, the stove having been manufactured in the town. This person was fascinated by the fact that one of the Victorian photographs depicted the Trueman family having a picnic and using one of the stoves.
This exhibition continues until the end of July but Mr and Mrs Warner hope that it may be retained in Ventnor Library until August so that other members of the Trueman family, who are planning to visit the Island at this time, can view it.
Image: © Suzanne Whitewood
