Lichfield
Lexicographer and Three Spires
Lichfield as well as possessing a magnificent three-spired Gothic cathedral called the ladies of the vale, can also boast about its famous sons, Dr Johnson and Elias Ashmole.
Dr Samuel Johnson the famous poet, critic, wit and lexicographer was born and educated here his most notable work being the Dictionary of 1755 he was a champion of common sense and all his qualities were well documented by his biographer James Boswell.
Johnsons birthplace in the cobbled market place is now a museum and there is statue of the him facing the building. Nearby the swan inn was a meeting place for Johnson and his friends.
Elias Ashmole was responsible for the founding in 1677 of the Asmolean museum in oxford; it is Britain’s oldest public museum. Other notable residents included Erasmus Darwin grandfather of Charles.
Lichfield cathedral built in the 13th century like Truro has three spires the central one was replaced after damage sustained in the civil war; the west front has over 100 statues. The cathedral close has some fine well-preserved 14th and 16th century houses including the bishop’s palace, the cathedral was built in stages from 1200 to 1350.
The nave is enormous and when viewed from the end appears slightly out of line with the choir; civil war damage is also evident inside as some of the statues bear marks where soldiers have sharpened their weapons on them. The chapter house has a beautiful illuminated manuscript the Chad Gospels, written about 730 there is also the famous Lichfield angel which is an Ornate Anglo Saxon bas-relief.
Outside the church, the Erasmus Darwin house contains some personal artifacts of the Grandfather of Charles, Erasmus was offered the job of physician to George III but turned it down luckily, especially when you consider the kings mental history. Darwin was a member of the lunar society and regularly debated with such famous people as Boulton, Watt and Wedgwood. There is also a nice garden to the rear.
The Samuel Johnson birthplace museum is not far from Darwin’s house this is a particularly interesting place where you can find masses of information on this pioneering man, there is also a film which narrates his life.
Lichfield heritage centre, which is in the old St Marys church presents a great series of exhibits covering its 1300 years history, afterwards you can climb the tower for great views of the city.
Activities in Lichfield
Museums
The Peel Museum - Police Museum and Peel Society
Remembrance Memorial
National Memorial Aboretum - Living centre of Remembrance
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