Humphrey Chetham (10 July 1580 – 20 September 1653) was an English textile merchant, financier and philanthropist, responsible for the creation of Chetham's Hospital and Chetham's Library, the oldest public library in the English-speaking world.

Life

Chetham was born in Crumpsall, Lancashire, England, the son of Henry Chetham, a successful Manchester merchant who lived in Crumpsall Hall and his wife, Jane (c.1542–1616), the daughter of Robert Wroe of Heaton. and in 1597 was apprenticed to Samuel Tipping, a Manchester linen draper.

thumb|left|Crumpsall Hall, The Birthplace of Humphrey Chetham

In 1605, he moved to London with his brother George and set up a partnership with him trading in various textiles. The business was successful, since the fabric was bought in London and sold for a higher price in Manchester. He acquired Clayton Hall in Manchester as his home, and in 1628 was also able to buy Turton Tower from William Orrell.

In 1631, he was asked to be knighted after his huge wealth became known to the Crown, but he declined the honour, and so was fined. In 1635, he became the High Sheriff of Lancashire , a job he was unable to refuse, and in 1643 he was forced into the position of General Treasurer of Lancashire, which he found very difficult for his age.

He also began to obtain debts, and he feared that on his death parliament would take his money. He therefore donated money to form a blue coat school for forty poor boys, which later became Chetham's Hospital and then Chetham's School of Music. He also left money to establish Chetham's Library, including funds to pay for books. More libraries were constructed later on from this money.

Chetham died on 20 September 1653, aged 72. He was buried in the Collegiate Church of Manchester,

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References

Notes

Bibliography

  • Official site of Chetham's Library