The Fothergills are an ancient family from Normandy with their name listed in the Domesday Book of 1086. In 1668 Alexander and Ann Fothergill bought property at Semer-Water in Wensleydale, Yorkshire, and built Carr End (called Scar Foot in Fothergill’s 1881 novel
Kith and Kin).
From thence would come a long line of distinguished scientists, doctors, lawyers and writers. They were Quakers who shared the conviction that Christians are called to be politically active and involved in making the world a better place. The most eminent relative was John Fothergill (1712-1780), a medical doctor, biologist, philanthropist and writer. Besides concocting effective drugs and treatments for numerous ailments, he implemented reform in several prisons, insane asylums, education, and sewage and road…
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Citation: Ayres, Brenda. "Jessie Fothergill". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 19 July 2010 [https://www.litencyc.com/php/speople.php?rec=true&UID=12806, accessed 31 October 2024.]
