John Higson (antiquary)
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John Higson | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | 1825 |
| Died | 1871 (aged 45–46) |
| Occupation | Antiquarian |
John Higson (25 July 1825 – 13 December 1871) was an English antiquary and topographer associated with Gorton, Droylsden and Lees (Lancashire).[1][2] Employed by the Springhead Cotton Spinning Company, he produced local-historical writing alongside full-time work; he wrote in a letter that, despite twelve-and-a-half-hour shifts as a secretary (Monday to Friday, with a half-day on Saturday), he “managed to do a good deal of writing”.[3]
Higson was born at Whiteley Farm, Gorton, on 25 July 1825, and was baptised at the Manchester Collegiate Church on 30 October 1825.[1] A contemporary obituary described him as the son of poor parents who received little formal education, and as largely self-taught.[2]
For some years he lived in Droylsden, and later at Lees (near Oldham).[2] At the time of his death he was employed by the Springhead Cotton Spinning Company (described in the local press as a cashier).[2] He was active in local civic life, including support for the Droylsden Mechanics’ Institute and work at Leesfield Church.[2]
Higson died at Lees on 13 December 1871, after a sudden collapse at home; heart disease was reported as the cause.[2] The local press reported that he left a widow and seven children.[2] (Crofton later recorded six sons and two daughters, with one son dying in infancy.)[1]
