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Born in the reign of Elizabeth I, his life extended through the reign of
Charles I, through the Commonwealth and into the reign of Charles
II.
Against this background, Izaak Walton's life story is quite
incredible.
Many sources are available should you wish to read
of it in greater detail but a short history of his life is attached
(Click here)
In summary:
- He was born in Stafford in August 1593.
- He became an apprentice in London when about sixteen years
old.
- He was a literary man from an early age and a poem written
by a friend, when Walton was only 26, praised his skill with
words.
- Walton was a London haberdasher or was in what is known as 'the rag trade'.
Both he and his brother-in-law, had premises in Chancery Lane and Fleet Street.
Confusion often arises because both were members of the Ironmongers' Livery
Company giving many status benefits in the City.
- Walton had lifelong friendships with that great writer and
clergyman, Dr. John Donne and with Dr. George Morley, Bishop of Winchester.
- After the Battle of Worcester in 1650 (a failed attempt by the future CharlesII
to reclaim the English throne), the "Jewel of the Order of the Garter"
which had belonged to his father, was rescued by Colonel Blague, and,
after several adventures, it came into the possession of Izaak Walton
at Stafford and was eventually restored to the future King Charles II in France.
- Walton lived through the Great Fire of London, although his
house was destroyed.
- On the restoration of the monarchy, Walton's friend, Dr George Morley,
became Bishop of Winchester.
He invited Walton to make his home with him there. Walton accepted and
died in Winchester in December 1683.
His last will was written in August of that year and makes a marvellous
read. To see it, click on
Izaak Walton's
Will.
He maintained his many friendships in Staffordshire and Derbyshire
and often visited them there. A particular friend, Charles Cotton,
lived near Hartington at Beresford Hall. Cotton built a
fishing temple, still standing, to acknowledge their friendship
and was author of the fly-fishing section of Walton's great book.
Recent research at The National Archive in Kew has revealed another aspect
of Walton's life which was previosly unknown. He was a part-time Tax-Collector.
If you wish to read more about this,
Click Here.
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