Cornish Studies Library hosts exhibition and talk to commemorate the legacy of John Passmore Edwards
Last updated: 03/05/2011
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How often have you seen the name John Passmore Edwards on public
buildings and wondered who he was? Many Cornish towns have a
Passmore Edwards building. It may be a library, a hospital or
school or even a gallery.
John Passmore Edwards is one of Cornwall’s forgotten heroes. In
his lifetime he funded the building of 65 public buildings,
including 20 in Cornwall. Born in Blackwater in 1823, the son
of a carpenter, he went on to make his fortune in publishing.
Determined to improve the lives of everyday people he used his
fortune to establish hospitals, convalescent homes, institutes, art
galleries, museums and libraries. This year marks the
100th anniversary of his death and many events are being
organised across Cornwall to celebrate his life and
achievements.
To find out more about this great benefactor, visit the Cornish
Studies Library in Alma Place, Redruth to see an exhibition
researched by author Dean Evans. The exhibition runs until
Thursday 3 June and is open from Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm and
Saturdays 10am to 4pm.
Mr Evans will also be giving a talk on the Legacy of
Passmore Edwards on Tuesday 17 May at 7.30pm at the Cornish
Studies Library. This free event is open to everyone.
Kim Cooper, Principal Librarian at the Cornish Studies Library
said “We are very pleased to be hosting the exhibition and
talk. Passmore Edwards’ life is fascinating and it is amazing
to see just how many buildings he established. He funded
eight libraries in Cornwall and seven of these are still busy
libraries today, providing important services to their
communities. Mr Evans has spent many years researching Mr
Passmore Edwards’ life and the exhibition and talk will be
extremely informative.”
For more information please contact Kim Cooper at the Cornish Studies Library on 01209
216760.
Story posted 03 May 2011