David Britton's lifelong passion for history, meticulous research, and collecting rare books is set to take centre stage in our forthcoming timed sale of Books and Maps from 18-27 October. From his early love of cycling and navigation to his later years as a published local historian, David’s journey is reflected in his impressive collection of antiquarian books, which offers a unique glimpse into his dedication to uncovering the past.
17 October 2024
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David Britton’s journey began in southwest London in the 1930s and 40s, where his love for cycling took him across south London and the scenic Surrey hills. Even as a young cyclist, David's meticulous note-taking and passion for maps hinted at the deep curiosity and attention to detail that would shape his later life.
Picturesque Views of Seats of Noblemen and Gentlemen (6 vols.) William Mackenzie, no date, (1880). (£150-250)
After graduating from Cambridge University, David’s career initially took him into industrial research as a chemist. However, his focus shifted toward management, finance, and strategy, roles that would eventually lead him to Belgium, where he spent the latter half of his career. Upon his retirement in the 1990s, he returned to England, settling into a quieter, yet equally productive, phase of life.
Picturesque Views of Seats of Noblemen and Gentlemen (6 vols.) William Mackenzie, no date, (1880). (£150-250)
David’s extensive travels, both in Europe and the United States, were often shared with his wife, Shelagh. These experiences enriched his worldview and added a global dimension to his ever-growing collection of books. His interest in English local history truly began when he researched their Cotswolds home, delving into the lives of its previous owners. This research would ultimately result in three published books over the next 30 years, with a local co-author joining him for the second and third instalments.
Trophees du Duche de Brabant. 4 volumes (including 2 supplement vols.) (£600-900)
David’s devotion to detail, especially his insistence on primary sources and contemporaneous accounts, became the foundation of his impressive personal library of antiquarian books. His passion for history, research, and storytelling is an enduring testament to his lifelong pursuit of knowledge and the joy of uncovering the past.
Castella & praetoria nobilium Brabantiae [and] L'érection de toutes les terres. 2 works in one volume. (£2,000-3,000)
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