Tunley might be another familiar name to local people. This firm of builders’ and decorators’ supplies had a town centre shop for more than a hundred years.
Albert Edward Tunley was born in 1873, the first of William and Matilda Tunley’s family to be born here in Swindon. Albert married Eliza Snell in Swindon in 1892 and by 1901 they were living at 73 Gloucester Street.
William, a plumber and decorator, opened his shop on the corner of Milford and Cheltenham Street in 1880. Although the business was established by William the shop bore the name A.E. Tunley, the initials of William’s son and later that of his grandson as well. This photo dates from around 1890.
The Tunley’s business continued to expand, as did their shop. In 1900 they applied for planning permission to build a stable and warehouse on Milford Street. Further additions were made in 1905 and 1910. By 1929 their premises stretched into Gloucester Street.
The business moved to 40-41 Fleet Street where it remained until relatively recently.
This distinctive monument is the final resting place of Albert Edward Tunley and his wife Eliza. Albert died on December 12, 1924, not at his home, 8 Wellington Street, but at 7 Mandeville Place, Manchester Square in London. His wife Eliza had died just six weeks previously.
Radnor Street Cemetery 