Samuel Best facts for kids

Samuel Best (1738–1825) was an English man who believed he had special abilities to see the future. He was known for his unique way of life and his strong beliefs.

Early Life and Beliefs

Samuel Best was born in England in 1738. At one point, he worked as a servant in London. Later, some accounts suggest he might have been a weaver in Spitalfields, an area known for its textile industry.

Around 1787, Samuel Best faced difficult times. He moved into the Shoreditch workhouse, a place that provided shelter and work for poor people. One of his daughters helped support him by contributing money each week.

Becoming 'Poor-help'

Samuel Best decided to change his name to 'Poor-help'. He chose this name to show that he believed he had a special mission to help people with his unique abilities.

He would meet visitors in a room decorated with interesting symbols. He would look at the palms of their hands and then claim to tell them about their past, present, and future. He would often use verses from the Bible when he spoke.

Life in London

As more people became interested in his claims, 'Poor-help' moved to a house on Kingsland Road. Many wealthy people from London came to him for advice, and he also visited them in their own homes.

Samuel Best had some unusual habits. He claimed to eat only bread and cheese. He also said that he didn't need to sleep at night to get energy. Instead, he believed he gained strength by talking with heavenly powers.

For the last 30 years of his life, Samuel Best strongly believed that he was meant to lead the people of Israel to rebuild the city of Jerusalem.

He passed away on March 7, 1825, at the age of 87.