A Life in Books: Sir Francis Leicester of Tabley

When Sir Francis Leicester (b. 1674) inherited Tabley in 1684 it included thousands of books, and he spent his life collecting even more books. They were still being delivered to Tabley Old Hall as he died in 1742. In this 60 minute presentation we will examine the ‘good library’ of books that shaped Sir Francis; his fascination for history, his love of languages and travel and how he negotiated his Tory and Royalist sympathies during the dangerous times in which he lived. His best friend was the Jacobite Peter Legh XII of Lyme. Together they discussed politics, borrowed each other’s books and compared libraries. As one acquaintance remembered, Sir Francis never stopped asking questions. Through his book bills, library catalogue and his surviving books we will explore the fascinating tale of Sir Francis Leicester and his many books. Refreshments (tea, coffee and cake)included. Ticket prices: £17.00 Adult £15.00 Friends of Tabley and Tabley Volunteers £4.50 Child or student Pay by cash on the door or in advance by cheque Please make cheques payable to the Friends of Tabley and post to: David Dean Fontainbleau Farmhouse New Platt Lane Cranage Cheshire CW4 8HS