World of Disney: From Antiquarianism to Archaeology

Dr John Disney (1779-1857) was the benefactor of the first chair in archaeology at a British university and donated his significant collection to the University of Cambridge. The Disney family's origins trace back to the Norman invasion of England, and his father, Reverend John Disney, left the Church of England to become a minister at the Unitarian Essex Street Chapel in London. Disney inherited part of his uncle and father-in-law Lewis Disney-Ffytche's classical collection and was instrumental in creating the Chelmsford Museum and the Essex Archaeological Society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 154 pages
Publication date: 17 December 2020
Publisher: Archaeopress

Dr. John Disney (1779-1857) holds a significant place in the history of archaeology as the benefactor of the first chair in the field at a British university. Not only did he generously donate his extensive collection to the University of Cambridge, but his sculptures also remain on display at the Fitzwilliam Museum, showcasing his artistic talent and dedication to the field.

The Disney family, with its roots dating back to the Norman invasion of England, can be traced to its ancestral home in Norton Disney, Lincolnshire. Disney's father, Reverend John Disney DD (1746-1816), made a profound departure from the Church of England to become a minister at the Unitarian Essex Street Chapel in London. A notable patron of the chapel was Thomas Brand-Hollis of The Hyde, Essex, who, upon his passing in 1804, left his house and an impressive Grand Tour collection, formed in collaboration with Thomas Hollis, to the Reverend John Disney. Disney inherited a portion of his uncle and father-in-law Lewis Disney-Ffytche's renowned classical collection, which included treasures from the 18th-century pleasure gardens, Le Désert de Retz, located outside Paris. Additionally, Disney's brother-in-law held the prestigious position of Sir William Hillary, the founder of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). Disney played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Chelmsford Museum through his involvement with the Chelmsford Philosophical Society, and he also contributed to the formation of the Essex Archaeological Society. His profound contributions to archaeology and his unwavering dedication to the field continue to be celebrated and honored.

Weight: 354g
Dimension: 157 x 234 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789698275