Mark Masterman-Sykes facts for kids
Sir Mark Masterman-Sykes, 3rd Baronet (born Mark Sykes) was an English landowner and politician who lived from 1771 to 1823. He was especially famous for his amazing collection of books.
Contents
About Sir Mark
Sir Mark was the oldest son of Sir Christopher Sykes, 2nd Baronet. His family lived at Sledmere House in Yorkshire. He went to Brasenose College, Oxford when he was 17 years old.
His Early Life and Public Role
In 1795, Sir Mark became the High Sheriff of Yorkshire. This was an important job, like being a top official for the county. In 1801, when his father passed away, Mark inherited his father's title and lands. He became the 3rd Baronet.
In 1807, Sir Mark was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for the city of York. This meant he helped make laws for the country. He kept this job until 1820, when he retired because he was not well. Sir Mark passed away in Weymouth and did not have any children. His brother, Sir Tatton Sykes, 4th Baronet, became the next Baronet.
A Passion for Collecting
Sir Mark Masterman-Sykes was well-known as a "bibliophile." This means he was a huge lover and collector of books! He had a very large private library. It was full of rare books.
Amazing Books and More
His collection included "editiones principes" (first printed editions of books). He also had "incunabula" (very old books printed before the year 1501). He even had special old poems from the Elizabethan era.
One of his most famous books was the very first printed edition of Livy's works. It was printed in Rome in 1469. This book was unique because it was printed on vellum (a special type of parchment). After Sir Mark's death, this rare book went to the British Museum.
Sir Mark was also a member of the Roxburghe Club. This was a special club for people who loved collecting books. He also collected other cool things. These included paintings, bronze statues, old coins, medals, and prints. He had a complete set of engravings by Francesco Bartolozzi.
After Sir Mark passed away in 1823, all his amazing collections were sold in 1824. His library of books sold for almost £10,000. His collection of pictures sold for nearly £6,000.
His Family Life
Sir Mark was married two times. His first wife was Henrietta Masterman. They married in 1795. When they married, he added "Masterman" to his name. Henrietta passed away in 1813. In 1814, he married his second wife, Mary Elizabeth. She lived longer than him, passing away in 1846.
