Detailed documentation of the Great Fire of London in 1666 serves as a primary historical lens into the seventeenth-century English capital. John Evelyn maintained this extensive personal chronicle for over six decades, providing modern historians with critical insights into political shifts, cultural developments, and the seismic events that defined the Kingdom of England during his lifetime.
Early Life and Continental Travels
Born in 1620 at Wotton, Evelyn attended Lewes Old Grammar School and later Balliol College. Following his father's death in 1640, he traveled extensively across Europe. His itinerary included visits to the Roman ruins at Fréjus and an attendance at anatomy lectures in Padua in 1646. During these journeys, he commissioned the John Evelyn Cabinet in Florence and acquired an ancient Egyptian stela later referenced in scholarly works.
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Evelyn navigated the instability of the English Civil War while maintaining his commitment to Anglican practices, specifically the Book of Common Prayer, despite its legal prohibition. He briefly served as a volunteer in Holland and later aligned himself with the Royalist cause. By 1653, he established his home at Sayes Court in Deptford, where he focused on developing his estate and gardens while keeping secret communication with Charles II.
Scientific and Horticultural Contributions
As a founding Fellow of the Royal Society, Evelyn actively influenced the scientific discourse of his era. He published Sylva, or A Discourse of Forest-Trees in 1664 to advocate for forest conservation. His observations on urban environments led to the publication of Fumifugium, which addressed London's rising air pollution. Furthermore, his encounter with Grinling Gibbons at Sayes Court facilitated the wood-worker's introduction to Sir Christopher Wren.
Public Service and Late Life
Following the Restoration, Evelyn accepted several minor government roles, including service as a commissioner on the Sick and Hurt Board during the Second Anglo-Dutch War and the Great Plague of 1665. He managed charitable foundations and, in 1695, became the treasurer of the Greenwich hospital for retired sailors. He laid the foundation stone for the hospital on 30 June 1696, continuing his public duties until his death in London in 1706.
Fast facts
- Born: 1620, Wotton
- Died: 1706, London
- Education: Lewes Old Grammar School, Balliol College
- Notable work: Sylva, or A Discourse of Forest-Trees (1664)
- Professional affiliation: Founding Fellow of the Royal Society
- Key residence: Sayes Court, Deptford
- Languages: English, Ancient Greek
Questions readers ask
Why is John Evelyn's diary considered significant?
It provides a rare, detailed account of life and major historical events, including the Great Fire of London and the execution of Charles I, from 1640 until his death.
What was Evelyn's role in the Royal Society?
He was a founding Fellow of the organization and contributed to scientific and environmental discussions, such as his work on forest-tree preservation and air quality.
