Overview

Robert Proctor is remembered among bibliographers for his rearrangement of the incunabula in the British Museum (known as 'Proctor order') and for the mystery which continues to surround his death. In 1899, Proctor started to keep a private diary, and this lasted until his death in 1903. One of the volumes is missing, but the remaining three are edited and published for the first time here. In the diary, we have a fascinating view of three overlapping worlds: Proctor's work at the British Museum, with references to many of his colleagues, and including contacts with other bibliographers at home and overseas; his life with his mother in Oxshott in Surrey; and, his membership of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings ('Anti-Scrape'). We also see his obsession with William Morris, as he constantly tries to acquire his works. Pervading everything is a sense of unremitting energy and restlessness. The diaries will be of interest to bibliographers, local historians, conservationists, and indeed anyone interested in middle-class life at the end of the Victorian period.

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9780773436343

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Reviews

The diaries offer a unique opportunity to share almost five years of the life and work of a scholar at the turn of the nineteenth century. Such an opportunity is rarely available. Fully annotated, as John Bowman is presenting it, it gives a new depth of dimension to the work Proctor has left us. - Dr. Lotte Hellinga Fomerly Deputy Keeper The British Library John Bowman's editorial work is impeccable and entirely in keeping with the highest scholarly standards to which Proctor himself would have adhered. The transcription is meticulous and notes are included with each day's entry to elucidate their content. - David Pearson University of London Research Library Services

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