Finding W. H. Hudson: The Writer Who Came to Britain to Save the Birds

This book explores the life and legacy of William Henry Hudson (1841-1922), an unschooled naturalist from Argentina who founded the RSPB and had a profound influence on the conservation movement. It reveals his deep influence on the creation of the Bird Society by its founding women and the rise of the conservation movement.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 362 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2023
Publisher: Pelagic Publishing

The Man Above the Fireplace: The Quest to Rediscover William Henry Hudson

In the heart of England, nestled within the RSPB's base, stands an imposing, life-size oil painting that captivates the attention of all who enter the main meeting room. Titled "The Man Above the Fireplace," this portrait has remained a constant presence, rarely mentioned in passing. Intrigued by the figure depicted in the painting, the author embarked on a quest to uncover the life and legacy of William Henry Hudson ({PHONE}). What began as a simple curiosity soon transformed into a passionate mission of restoration, aimed at stitching back together the faded tapestry of Hudson's remarkable life and re-coloring it in places, while also adding new threads from the testimonies of his closest friends.

This captivating book takes readers on a journey through the unassuming field naturalist's remarkable life, spanning a dramatic and turbulent era. From Hudson's journey to Britain from Argentina in 1874 to the unveiling of a monument and bird sanctuary in his honor 50 years later, in the heart of Hyde Park, a place where the young immigrant had once slept rough, the story unfolds. At its core, this extraordinary tale reveals Hudson's profound influence on the creation of his beloved Bird Society by its founding women and the rise of the conservation movement. It delves into the strange magnetism of this mysterious man from the Pampas, who was unschooled, battle-scarred, and once penniless, yet managed to achieve extraordinary accomplishments that left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

By the end of his life, Hudson had garnered the attention of Hollywood studios, with his work being sought after. His luminous and seminal nature writing had made him a household name, and the Bird Society had finally reached the pinnacle of a 30-year campaign, working tirelessly to create the first global alliance of bird protectionists. A century after Hudson's passing, this tribute is long overdue, recognizing perhaps our most significant and most neglected writer-naturalist and wildlife campaigner. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate us to protect and conserve the natural world, just as he did during his remarkable life.

Weight: 582g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784273286