Levi Stephenson, an old Cleethorper. A c1905, or earlier, postcard.

An important character from Victorian Cleethorpes. Levi Stevenson had an oyster stall by the entrance to Cleethorpes Railway Station. As well as oysters he sold tea, coffee, ginger beer and toys. He also offered sea trips in his boat ‘The Cambridge Lass’.

A popular guy with a big nose, Levi Stephenson is said to be the fisherman depicted on the Cleethorpes Borough Arms along with the Viking on the opposite side.

Levi was born c1815 and died in 1888, aged 71 (or 72). In 1881, aged 65, he lived with his wife and grandson in Wardle Street. His job is given as ‘coxswain of life boat’.

An Owlet Series postcard posted to Sheffield. Stamp removed. The handwriting on the back refers to “the man with the big nose who has been dead for about 8 years”.