Market Place, Olney, Buckinghamshire MK46 4AJ, UK England
Telephone: 01234 711516
Open March 1 to December 23, Tuesday - Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.; 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Closed on Good Friday, Christmas, New Year, January and February; however, OPEN Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day). Admission is charged.
This spacious brick dwelling began in the 17th century, or earlier, as two stone houses. In the 18th century, the brick facade was added, connecting the two buildings. English hymn-writer and poet William Cowper lived in the western portion of the house from 1768 to 1786.
Behind the house is a small building that Cowper called Summer House. Here he wrote many of his poems and hymns.
Built by Cowper's neighbor, apothecary Thomas Aspray, Summer House began as a smoking room. Customarily, men did not smoke in their living quarters during the 1700s, so Aspray built this small building, "not much bigger than a Sedan chair" according to Cowper, for his evening smoke. When it was no longer used for a smoking retreat, Cowper arranged to make it his writing retreat.
Cowper was an avid gardener. Records indicate that he planted vegetables, colorful flowers, and even an orange tree. Much of his poetry includes references to plants and wildlife. Museum visitors are invited to tour the beautiful garden area where Cowper received inspiration. Summer House is occupied by the museum's custodian. A gift shop is open for the convenience of tourists.
William Cowper (1731-1800)
In 1754, after spending several years working with a solicitor and learning the trade, William Cowper embarked upon a legal career. Soon he suffered from a severe case of melancholy, self-doubt, and depression. The illness affected his performance of duties so much that he resigned his job and never returned to legal work.
During the process of recovery, Cowper became influenced by Christianity and began recording his thoughts and writing poetry. Through the encouragement of family and friends, Cowper recovered from the severe depression, but was continually disturbed with lesser bouts throughout his life.
Hymn-writer and Poet
William Cowper wrote about nature and the quiet pleasures of everyday life. In the 19th century, people who read and discussed the poetry of William Cowper were said to be sensitive. Even today romantic readers seek out his poetry. The Task, published in 1785, was perhaps his most popular work. Although threaded with complex themes, this lengthy unrhymed poem was accepted by all levels of society including the Royal Family. It is also credited with having influenced the writing of William Wordsworth.
Go To Page: 1 2
