James Leakey 1775 - 1865

[Richard Leakey]

James Leakey was born in Exeter and died there. He was an artist, painting miniatures and landscapes around the city and down to Torbay. In 1803 he was registered on the Militia List as an artist for the parish of St Lawrence and by 1850, by which time he had with his wife/wives had several children (11 in total) were living at 9 East Southernhay. Does this address still exist? I am interested in locating Leakey paintings and also to find out more about the life of James and his large family.
Regards
Richard a Leakey

[AlanSmith]

I have done a little research into James Leakey and his painting as he completed 2 oil painting of my house in Nadderwater (previously the Royal Oak pub).

I have been unable to find the exact location of his house in Exeter but have a rough idea of its location.

I also have the location of one of his sons houses in Topsham.

I do have a copy of one of his paintings of Nadderwater and the original is in the Exeter museum.


Regards

Alan

[dick passmore]

The 1850 White's directory shows James Leakey, artist at 9 East Southernhay. White's 1878 shows 9-10 Southernhay Street as a hotel, but at No 26 it shows the Misses Caroline and Emily Leakey. The interesting thing is that the directory states Southernhay Street (Sidwell Street). Billing's Directory for 1857 shows James Leakey at 9 East Southernhay. Later directories do not show any James Leakey. I had never heard of Southernhay Street, and Sidwell Street does not link with Southernhay, so a bit of a mystery for me, so will make further enquiries. We still have Southernay East and Southernhay West in Exeter.