The changing face of Johnson’s Birthplace
2022 will see some small but important changes at Johnson’s Birthplace. This year, new displays in Michael Johnson’s Workroom will … Read More
Johnson’s Times
Sam’s School Days
Samuel Johnson was born in September 1709 on Breadmarket Street in Lichfield. His home provided his first school, at “his … Read More
“I was bred a bookseller”: the Johnson Family Bookshop
Samuel Johnson’s Birthplace was not only a family home, it was also a family business. This month’s blog post highlights … Read More
The Muse of Johnson’s Willow: Elizabeth Graeme Fergusson
This month we welcome John Winterton, Johnson Society of Lichfield council member and editor of ‘Transactions’, who gives insight into … Read More
Foody: Eatable; fit for food
September is a month of celebration and commemoration at Johnson’s Birthplace, as we prepare to mark Johnson’s 312th Birthday on … Read More
Samuel Johnson and Robert Burton: The Anatomy of Melancholy at 400
In 1621 Robert Burton published The Anatomy of Melancholy. Often cited as Samuel Johnson’s favourite book, the work has engaged … Read More
Johnson’s Willow: The Story Continues…
If you have passed the Museum recently you may have noticed our current willow-themed window display. The creation is in … Read More
Hester Lynch Piozzi
May 2nd marks the 200th anniversary of the death of Hester Lynch Piozzi in 1821. Known to Johnson as Hester … Read More
Samuel Johnson: a social anthropologist?
A large part of Samuel Johnson’s writing was concerned with contemporary society. In 1773 he had the opportunity to observe … Read More
“There are few ways in which a man can be more innocently employed than in getting money”: Johnson on coinage
15th February 2021 marks the 50th anniversary of Decimal Day in the UK – when the system of pounds, shillings … Read More