Ruth Graisberry facts for kids

Ruth Graisberry (who passed away in early 1842) was an important Irish printer. She held a special job as the official printer for Trinity College Dublin, a famous university in Ireland.

Life Story of a Printer

Ruth Graisberry was born with the name Ruth McCormack or McCormick. In May 1797, she married Daniel Graisberry. His family were also well-known printers. Ruth and Daniel had five daughters together.

Starting the Business

The Graisberry family worked in the printing business with Daniel's brother-in-law, Richard Campbell. Their printing shop was located on Back Lane in Dublin. In 1807, they received a very important role: they became the official printers for Trinity College Dublin. This meant they printed books and materials only for the university.

Taking Over the Family Business

When her husband, Daniel, passed away in February 1822, Ruth faced a big challenge. She wanted to continue the family printing business. She asked the university if she could take over her husband's role. Many important people in Dublin's printing world supported her. Ruth explained that she needed to keep the business running to support her daughters and her elderly mother. The university agreed, and she successfully continued as their printer.

New Partnerships and Later Years

Before 1824, the printing partnership moved from Back Lane. In 1833, Ruth Graisberry teamed up with Michael Gill. Michael had started as an apprentice at the firm when he was 19. He later managed the college press from 1827 and became a full partner in 1833.

In 1837, Michael Gill bought the printing business from Ruth. Ruth Graisberry had been unwell for a long time. She passed away sometime before July 1, 1842, in Dublin.

Some of the old record books from Graisberry & Campbell, dating from the late 1700s and early 1800s, are kept safe at the Library of Trinity College Dublin. They show how the business operated.