Charles Corker Owen (c.1809-1885) was a Britannia metal smith, who was born in Hardcastle, Yorkshire.   In 1841, he was living in Arundel Street; by 1849, he was listed in a directory as a white metal smith in Suffolk Road.  Soon afterwards he launched Owen & Levick, silver-plate and Britannia metal wares manufacturer, 92 Wellington Street.  His partner was William Levick.  According to the Census enumeration for Owen, they employed four men, six women, and two apprentices.  Owen & Levick displayed at the Great Exhibition (1851).  However, the partnership was dissolved in 1853.  William Levick died on 16 September 1884, aged 70, and was buried in City Road Cemetery.

Charles Owen was next based in West Street.  In 1863, his firm was styled ‘& Co’, and moved to Eldon Street.  In 1876, he was bankrupt.  However, two of his sons by his wife Martha – Charles Owen Jun. and James Owen – formed Owen Bros, silversmith, electro-plater, and Britannia metal manufacturer, Baker’s Hill.  An establishment date of 1849 was claimed, though its significance is unclear (it may refer to the start of their father’s business).  In 1882, Owen Bros was dissolved, though Charles and James continued to work as silversmiths independently.   Charles C.  Owen, gentleman, Asline Road, died on 14 July 1885, aged 76.  He was buried in the General Cemetery.  Charles Owen Jun., retired silversmith, Cherrybank Road, died on 15 October 1914, aged 69.  He was buried in the General Cemetery’s unconsecrated section.   James Owen died at his son’s residence at Fawcett Street on 21 June 1917.  He was interred in the General Cemetery.