Daniel Lysons (antiquarian) facts for kids
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Daniel Lysons (1762–1834) was an English historian and mapmaker. He was known for studying old places and writing about the geography of areas. One of his most famous works was a four-volume set called Environs of London, published between 1792 and 1796. He often worked with his younger brother, Samuel Lysons (1763–1819), on historical projects.
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About Daniel Lysons' Life
Daniel Lysons was born in 1762. His father, Reverend Samuel Lysons, was a church leader in Rodmarton, Gloucestershire. Daniel went to Bath Grammar School and then to St Mary Hall, Oxford University. He earned his Master's degree in 1785.
Following in his father's footsteps, Daniel became a curate (a type of church assistant) in Putney, west London. He worked there from 1789 to 1800. While in Putney, Lysons started his big project of mapping and describing the area around London. A famous writer named Horace Walpole encouraged him and even appointed him as his 'chaplain'.
In 1800, Daniel inherited family lands near Gloucester from his uncle, also named Daniel Lysons.
Daniel's First Marriage and Children
Daniel Lysons married Sarah Carteret Hardy (around 1780–1808) in Bath on May 12, 1801. Sarah was the daughter of Lt Col Thomas Carteret Hardy.
Just before their wedding, a famous artist, Sir Thomas Lawrence, was asked to paint a portrait of Sarah and her sister Charlotte. The painting was started in 1801. However, it wasn't finished even by 1806, as a friend noted it was still in the artist's studio.
Daniel and Sarah had three children:
- Daniel Lysons, born on May 9, 1804.
- Samuel Lysons, born on March 17, 1806.
- Charlotte Lysons, christened on September 6, 1807. She later married Sir James Carnegie, 5th Baronet (1799–1849).
Sadly, Sarah passed away in 1808.
Daniel's Second Marriage
In 1813, Daniel Lysons married Josepha Catherine Susanna Cooper (around 1781–1868).
Daniel Lysons' Major Works
Lysons' most important work is The Environs of London. This book is a historical account of the towns, villages, and small communities within twelve miles of London.
He also started another large project with his brother Samuel. This was called Magna Britannia. It was meant to be a detailed account of the different counties in Great Britain. They published the first six volumes, covering counties from B to D. However, after Samuel died, the project was stopped.
Daniel Lysons also drew pictures and illustrations for other books. He also wrote several short books on religious and historical topics.
