John Ives facts for kids
John Ives (born July 14, 1751 – died January 9, 1776) was a young English historian and expert on old objects. He was also an officer at the College of Arms in London, which deals with coats of arms and family histories. He was a member of important groups like the Royal Society (FRS) and the Society of Antiquaries of London (FSA).
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Early Life and Studies
John Ives was born in Great Yarmouth, England. His father, also named John Ives, was a rich merchant. John Jr. went to a Congregationalist church and was taught by a minister from that church when he was young. He planned to go to Gonville and Caius College for his studies. However, in 1767, he started working in his father's business office instead.
A Passion for History
Because his family was wealthy, John Ives didn't need to work for money. This allowed him to follow his growing interest in British history and old artifacts. On June 13, 1771, he became a member of the Society of Antiquaries of London. This group studies ancient times and historical objects.
Soon after, Ives started gathering information for a book about Lothingland. This is a part of Suffolk in England. He never published the book, but a handwritten copy called Collectanea Lothinglandia or The History and Antiquities of the Hundred of Lothingland can be found in the British Library.
Thanks to his father's money, Ives also spent time collecting historical items. Around 1772, he even got his own printing press. With this press, he printed a record of all the baptisms and burials in Great Yarmouth from the previous nine years. This was printed on September 5, 1772.
Officer of Arms
On March 25, 1773, John Ives became a member of the Royal Society. This is a famous group that promotes science. That summer, on July 16, 1773, he married Sarah Kett in Lambeth.
In October 1774, Ives was given a special job at the College of Arms. He became the Suffolk Herald of Arms Extraordinary. This meant he was an officer who helped with heraldry, which is the study of coats of arms and family histories. As a special officer, he didn't automatically get to see all the College's old records. However, he was friends with other officers, like John Charles Brooke. This shows he had good connections within the College.
Later Life and Legacy
Sadly, John Ives died young from a serious illness called consumption on January 9, 1776, in Great Yarmouth. He was buried with his family in Belton church. According to his will, his large collections of historical items were sold at an auction in London in the spring of 1777. The money from the sale went to his wife, Sarah.
See also
- Heraldry
- Pursuivant
- Herald
