Edward Wedlake Brayley

Edward Wedlake Brayley (1773- September 23, 1854), was an English antiquary and topographer.

He was born at Lambeth, London. He was apprenticed to the enamelling trade, but developed an early interest in literature. His close friendship with John Britton lasted for sixty-five years. They entered into a literary partnership, and after minor success with songs and plays, they became joint editors of "The Beauties of England and Wales", themselves writing many of the volumes.

Long after he had become famous as a topographer, Brayley continued his enamel work. In 1823 he was elected a fellow of the Society of Antiquaries. He died in London.

His other works include "Sir Reginalde or the Black Tower" (1803); "Views in Suffolk, Norfolk and Northamptonshire, illustrative of works of Robt. Bloomfield" (1806); "Lambeth Palace" (1806); "The History of the Abbey Church of Westminster" (2 vols., 1818); "Topographical Sketches of Brighthelmstone" (1825); "Historical and Descriptive Accounts of Theatres of London" (1826); "Londiniana" (1829); and a "History of Surrey" (5 vols., 1841-1848).

He is the father of Edward William Brayley, who was a well-known geographer, librarian, and science author.

References

*1911