Tea exporting company head's likeness gifted to Jersey Society

Joseph John Walker's Portrait Bequeathed to Societé Jersiaise

A significant piece of Jersey's history has found a new home, as the oil portrait of businessman Joseph John Walker has been given to the Societé Jersiaise. The portrait was presented by Nicolette Westwood, a former President of the organization, on behalf of three families: the Le Quesne, Stuart-Williams, and Walker families.

Born in Halifax, Yorkshire, Walker moved to Jersey in 1880 to work in tea packing and export. He later took over management of the Jersey business in 1884, following his brother-in-law's death in 1890. Walker's great-great-granddaughter, Nicolette Westwood, expressed her pleasure that her ancestor's portrait and life story are now safeguarded by the Societé Jersiaise.

Walker, a Quaker, was a much-loved family man and employer. According to Societé Jersiaise, he used his fortune to repay his creditors, and tokens of thanks from them were prominent at his home, Rockvale. His wife and nine children joined him in Jersey, and together they played a significant role in the development of Jersey's tea export trade.

Walker set up business in Cheapside, Jersey, and exported Chinese tea under the brand name TE SOL. In 1890, he used his wealth to repay his creditors, a gesture that was met with appreciation and admiration in the community.

Stuart Fell, the current president of the Societé Jersiaise, accepted the bequest on behalf of the organization. The Societé Jersiaise commits to researching, disseminating information about their collections, and preserving these important records for the Island community.

Ms. Westwood suggested that the bequeathed oil portrait may be one of several produced for Walker's children. Societé Jersiaise is interested in hearing from anyone who might have one of the other portraits. For more information or to get in touch, visit [email protected].

Walker's life and legacy continue to resonate in Jersey, as his business acumen and philanthropic spirit left a lasting impact on the Island. The Societé Jersiaise is always delighted to receive notable bequests that help develop their existing collections and shed light on the Island's rich history.