Elizabeth Caslon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Elizabeth Caslon
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by Leney
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| Born | 31 July 1730 |
| Died | 3 March 1795 (aged 64) |
| Nationality | Great Britain |
| Occupation | typefounder |
| Spouse(s) | William Caslon |
| Relatives | daughter in law Elizabeth Caslon |
Elizabeth Caslon (born Elizabeth Cartlich; 1730–1795) was a clever British businesswoman. She helped run a famous family business. This company made special metal letters for printing, called "type." After her husband passed away, she bravely took charge. She made sure the Caslon company kept making its famous typefaces.
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Elizabeth Caslon's Early Life
Elizabeth Caslon was born in London in 1730. Her parents were William and Elizabeth Cartlich. On July 25, 1751, she married William Caslon (II). His father, William Caslon (I), had started the family's type-making business. Both Williams were involved in this important work.
Elizabeth and William (II) had two sons. Their first son, William Caslon (III), was born in 1754. The next year, their second son, Henry Caslon, was born.
Running the Family Business
Elizabeth was very involved in the family business. Her father-in-law, William Caslon (I), died in 1766. Elizabeth and her husband continued to run the company together. They made and supplied Caslon type to the American colonies.
Did you know a famous historical document used Caslon type? The very first printing of the American Declaration of Independence in 1776 used type made by the Caslon company. This shows how important their work was!
Elizabeth Takes Charge
Elizabeth's husband died in 1788 without a will. His property was shared between Elizabeth and their two sons. Elizabeth then took over the business. She bravely ran it under the name Elizabeth Caslon and sons.
The Caslon company was well-known for its beautiful typefaces. Sadly, her son Henry (I) died in 1788. His share of the business went to his wife, who was also named Elizabeth. So, Elizabeth Caslon (the elder) worked with her daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Caslon. They also worked with her son, William Caslon.
In 1792, Elizabeth (the elder) and her son William had a disagreement. William decided to sell his part of the business. He then bought his own factory.
Death and Lasting Impact
Elizabeth Caslon died in London in 1795. Her will caused some confusion. The courts decided that the business should be sold at an auction. Her daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Caslon, bought it. Even though her daughter-in-law remarried and changed her name, she kept using the Caslon name for the business.
A famous artist named Charles Catton created a picture of Elizabeth Caslon. Another artist, William Satchwell Leney, made an engraving from this picture. You can see a copy of this artwork in the National Portrait Gallery in London.
