James Purdy Rennoldson
James Purdy Rennoldson (1821-1878) of J. P. Rennoldson and Sons
1821 Born at Jesmond
1861 Living at Wellington Street, Westoe, South Shields: James P. Renoldson (age 40 born Jesmond), Engine Builder employing 31 men and 4 boys. With his wife Jane Renoldson (age 35 born South Shields) and their eight children; Mary Renoldson (age 14 born South Shields); Joseph M. Renoldson (age 13 born South Shields); George Renoldson (age 11 born South Shields); John R. Renoldson (age 9 born South Shields); James H. Renoldson (age 7 born South Shields); Alfred Renoldson (age 5 born South Shields); Charles Renoldson (age 3 born South Shields); and Jane S. Renoldson (age 1 born South Shields).[1]
1878 June 16th. Died at South Shields. 'It is with regret that have to the death of Mr James Purdy Rennoldson, a gentleman who took active interest in all public matters relating to the welfare of South Shields and the River Tyne. Mr Rennoldson was well known as marine engineer, steamboat builder, end slipway proprietor, and has built and engined many powerful steam tugs for passenger and towing services in all parts of the world. The deceased gentleman was very enterprising and successful man of business, and during all the prevailing depression in the iron trade he has had orders on band, and his workmen have been fully employed. By all to whom Mr Rennoldson was known as man of business he was esteemed for his straightforward and conscientious dealings, while his genial disposition won for him the respect of all with whom he associated. About three weeks ago Mr Rennoldson was in Greenock transacting some business, and was then in apparently good health. On his way home, however, he became unwell, and gradually became worse. His ailment was congestion of the brain, to which he succumbed early yesterday morning. The deceased gentleman was, about twelve years ago, a member of the South Shields Town Council.....'[2]
Buried in Jesmond Cemetery.