Daphne du Maurier’s secret life
On this day in 1907 the English novelist Daphne Du Maurier was born. Her books Rebecca and Jamaica Inn still remain among the nation’s best loved... Read More
Florence Nightingale’s Rejected Suitor
On this day in 1820 English nurse and administrator Florence Nightingale was born in Florence. She worked in nursing in London and was sent with... Read More
Salvador Dali’s surreal lifestyle
On this day in 1904 Spanish painter Salvador Dali was born. Dali’s work was matched by his extraordinary behaviour. As befitted a surrealist, his publicity... Read More
Monica Dickens, a thoroughly nice Samaritan
On this day in 1915 English writer Monica Dickens was born. The unconventional daughter of a well to do family, and a great granddaughter of... Read More
Dante Alighieri’s courtly love for Beatrice
On this day in 1265 Italian poet Dante Alighieri was born in Florence. Dante’s family were caught up in the fighting between various factions at... Read More
John Meade Falkner, war weapons manufacturer and novelist
On this day in 1858 the English author and businessman John Meade Falkner was born. Apart from writing the much loved novel Moonfleet and several... Read More
Robert Browning finds the Pied Piper of Hamelin
On this day in 1812 English poet Robert Browning was born. He was brought up by strict but loving parents and well educated – by... Read More