A. K. Hamilton Jenkin facts for kids
Alfred Kenneth Hamilton Jenkin FSA (born October 29, 1900 – died August 20, 1980) was a British historian. He was especially interested in the history of mining in Cornwall. His book, The Cornish Miner, published in 1927, is considered a very important book on the subject. He was also known as A.K.H. Jenkin. He was a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London (FSA), which means he was recognized for his knowledge of old things and history.
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Early Life and Education
Alfred Kenneth Hamilton Jenkin was born in Redruth, Cornwall. This was on October 29, 1900. His parents were Alfred Hamilton Jenkin and Amy Louisa Keep.
He went to University College, Oxford for his studies. In 1919, he became good friends with the famous author, C.S. Lewis. Both of them were members of a group called the Martlets Literary Society. Jenkin earned two degrees from the University of Oxford: an M.A. (Master of Arts) and a B.Litt. (Bachelor of Letters).
His Work in Cornwall
Jenkin played a big part in Cornish culture and history.
- Founder of Gorseth Kernow: In 1928, he helped start the Gorseth Kernow. This is a special group that celebrates Cornish culture and language. He became a "bard" and took the bardic name Lef Stenoryon. This name means 'Voice of the Tinners'.
- Cornwall Record Office: In the 1950s, he helped convince the Cornwall County Council to create the Cornwall Record Office. This office keeps important historical documents safe. He served on its committee until he passed away.
- Federation of Old Cornwall Societies: He was elected President of the Federation of Old Cornwall Societies in 1959. He held this role again in 1960. In 1962, he became its first life President. This means he was president for the rest of his life.
- Royal Institution of Cornwall: He also served as President of the Royal Institution of Cornwall. He held this position in 1958 and 1959. Later, in 1977, he was a vice-president.
Recognized as a Historian
Alfred Jenkin was highly respected for his historical work.
- In 1954, he was elected a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London. This is a very old and respected group for people who study history and old objects.
- The University of Exeter gave him an honorary degree in 1978. This was a Doctor of Letters degree. It recognized his important contributions to history.
Personal Life
Alfred Jenkin was married twice. His first wife was Luned Marion Jacobs. She was the second daughter of W. W. Jacobs, a well-known writer of funny stories. They had two daughters named Jennifer Hamilton Jenkin and Honor Bronwen Jenkin. Later, his second marriage was to Elizabeth Lenton.
Death
Alfred Kenneth Hamilton Jenkin passed away on August 20, 1980. He died at Treliske Hospital in Truro, Cornwall.
