Daniel Graisberry facts for kids

Daniel Graisberry (born around 1740 – died 1785) was an Irish printer. He was known for his printing work in Dublin during the 18th century.

Early Life and Training

Daniel Graisberry was born in Drumcondra, Dublin, Ireland, around the year 1740. His father, William Graisberry, was also a printer, and his mother was Elizabeth Graisberry.

Daniel followed in his father's footsteps. He learned the printing trade by completing an apprenticeship under Hugh Grierson. Grierson was known as the king's printer, meaning he was the official printer for the government. After finishing his training, Daniel became a member of the Guild of Saint Luke on August 24, 1775. A guild was like a club or association for people in the same trade, helping them learn and work together.

Printing Business

From early 1778 to March 1781, Daniel Graisberry worked with James Williams, who was a bookseller. They had a partnership where Daniel focused on the printing part, and James handled selling the books. Their business was located at 10 Back Lane in Dublin. Daniel rented the space for £45 a year.

One important book Daniel Graisberry helped print was A History of Earth and Animated Nature by Oliver Goldsmith. This book was printed in Dublin in 1776 and came in eight volumes.

Family Life

In July 1765, Daniel Graisberry married Mary Kennedy. They had a large family with at least 12 children.

In November 1772, the Dublin newspapers mistakenly reported that Daniel had died. However, he was still alive!

On February 6, 1782, Daniel was at a meeting for his guild at the Music Hall in Fishamble Street. During the meeting, the floor of the hall collapsed, and Daniel was injured.

Daniel Graisberry died on December 26, 1785. Sadly, his mother had also passed away just hours before him on the same day. A monument was built in his honor in the Drumcondra churchyard.

Family Business Continues

After Daniel's death, his wife Mary took over the printing business. She worked with their son-in-law, Richard Campbell, who was married to their daughter Elizabeth Graisberry. Mary retired from the business in 1797 and passed away in February 1822 at Back Lane.

Their son, also named Daniel, continued the family printing business after his mother. Later, his wife, Ruth, took over the business from him. This shows how the printing trade stayed in the Graisberry family for many years.

Historical Records

Daniel Graisberry kept detailed records of his business from 1777 to 1785. These records, called ledgers, were published in 1990. The original ledgers are kept safe in the archives of Trinity College Dublin, giving us a glimpse into how printing businesses worked in the 18th century.