Claver Morris facts for kids
Claver Morris (1659–1727) was a clever medical doctor and a gifted amateur musician. He lived and worked in a town called Wells, in Somerset, England. He is famous today because of his interesting and honest diaries.
Who Was Claver Morris?
Claver Morris was the son of William Morris, a clergyman from Dorset. He went to New Inn Hall, Oxford University. He studied hard and earned several degrees, including one in medicine in 1685. He became a doctor in 1683.
Morris first worked as a doctor in Salisbury. Then, in 1686, he moved to Wells. This is where he spent most of his life.
His Amazing Diaries
Claver Morris kept detailed diaries from 1684 to 1726. These diaries tell us a lot about his life and times. They show how busy he was as a doctor in Wells and the areas around it.
His diaries also mention his land and properties. They even talk about how he helped with changes to land ownership in places like Baltonsborough.
There are three main books of his diaries and accounts. The most important one covers the years 1718 to 1726. It gives us a great look into daily life back then.
A Love for Music
Morris wasn't just a doctor; he was also a very good musician. He loved music so much that he started the Wells Music Club. This club met at the Close Hall, which is part of Wells Cathedral.
Claver Morris played a big part in making Wells known for its music. Today, Wells Cathedral School continues this musical tradition. His diaries tell us that many musicians would join the club, especially during special court sessions. He even wrote about public concerts, which he called 'musical gatherings.' People paid 2 shillings and 6 pence to attend these concerts!
The house that Claver Morris built in Wells in 1699 is still standing. It is now part of Wells Cathedral School and is called Claver Morris House.
His Family
Claver Morris was married three times. His first wife was Grace Greene, whom he married in 1685. They had a daughter named Elizabeth. Grace sadly passed away in 1689.
In 1696, he married Elizabeth Dawe. They had three children: Mary, William, and Hannah. Elizabeth died in 1699.
His third wife was Mary Bragge, whom he married in 1703. Mary passed away in 1725.
In 1701, Morris bought a very special toy for his daughter Elizabeth. It was a wax baby doll that could cry and move its eyes! Elizabeth later married John Burland. Their son, also named John, grew up to become a famous judge.
Claver's son, William, went to Sherborne School and Balliol College, Oxford. Sadly, William was often unwell and died at the age of 30 in 1739.
