William Bowyer (printer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Bowyer (printer)
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An engraving of William Bowyer from John Nichols' Anecdotes of William Bowyer
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| Born | 19 December 1699 |
| Died | 13 November 1777 |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Printer and publisher |
| Years active | 1722-1777 |
William Bowyer (born December 19, 1699 – died November 13, 1777) was a famous English printer. People often called him "the learned printer" because he knew so much. He helped create many important books and documents during his lifetime.
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Who Was William Bowyer?
William Bowyer was born in London. He went to St John's College, Cambridge for his education. In 1722, he joined his father's printing business. His father was also named William Bowyer.
Becoming a Printer for Important Groups
William Bowyer quickly became a very important printer.
- In 1729, he started printing the official votes for the British House of Commons. This is a big part of the British government.
- In 1736, he became the printer for the Society of Antiquaries of London. This group studies old things and history. He even became a member himself in 1737.
- He also printed for the Society for the Encouragement of Learning. This group helped people learn new things.
When his father passed away in 1737, William took over the whole printing business. It was called the Bowyer press.
Working with Others
William Bowyer worked with many people.
- In 1759, a young man named John Nichols became his apprentice. An apprentice learns a trade from a master. John Nichols later took over the business and wrote about William's life.
- William also worked closely with Andrew Millar. He was a well-known bookseller in London.
Later Career and Legacy
William Bowyer continued to print for important groups.
- In 1761, he became the printer for the Royal Society. This is a famous group for science.
- In 1767, he started printing for the House of Lords and the House of Commons. These are both parts of the British Parliament.
In 1767, he moved his printing business to a bigger building in Red Lion Passage, Fleet Street. He died before finishing some big projects, like reprinting the Domesday Book. This is a very old record of England.
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William Bowyer was buried in Leyton parish church. There is a special monument there to remember him.
What Books Did William Bowyer Print?
William Bowyer printed many important works. His most famous project was a special edition of the New Testament in Greek. This version also included his own notes.
Before this big Greek New Testament, he printed several versions of the Textus Receptus. This was a common Greek text of the New Testament. He also wrote many short articles and booklets. He helped edit and publish many other books too. For example, he edited a Greek-Latin dictionary by Schrevelius.
How Did William Bowyer Help Others?
William Bowyer was a very generous person. He left money in his will to help printers who were in need. The Stationers' Company managed this money. He had been a member of this company since 1738.
Inside their main hall, there is a statue of William Bowyer's head. There is also a painting of his father. This shows how much they respected his contributions.
