A Ventnor photographer dynasty

For some ninety years, the name Digweed became synonymous with beach photography in Ventnor. George Digweed came to Ventnor from Southsea in 1887 and at one time had a kiosk on the pier. When George died in 1929, he was succeeded in the business by his son Bernard (1900-1971), aided for a time by George’s widow, Mabel.

According to the Isle of Wight Mercury, George Digweed was the first photographer on Ventnor’s beach, which probably means that he was the first to be licensed as such by the Local Board, later the Council. In July 1926, George gained the title ‘Royal Photographer’, however, he was using the appellation ‘Royal’ on some of his photographic postcards over ten years before.

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