We are thrilled to announce that each month, we will showcase a Book of the Month from the esteemed collections housed at the Maria Edgeworth Centre. This special feature will highlight rare and remarkable works, offering a glimpse into the literary treasures that shaped the intellectual world of Maria Edgeworth and her family.
A rare 1815 first edition, that tells the moving story of the Irish priest who stood beside King Louis XVI in his final hours., written by Maria’s half-brother, C. Sneyd Edgeworth.
Interested in exploring it for yourself?
Last Month
Book of the Month
Samuel Johnson’s A Dictionary of the English Language, is widely regarded as one of the most significant achievements in the history of English lexicography. Though more than 20 English dictionaries preceded it, none matched its depth, literary richness, or scholarly ambition. Johnson catalogued over 42,000 words, supported by 114,000 literary quotations from writers such as Shakespeare, Milton, and Dryden.
Its impact was so profound that the dictionary remained the standard reference for over a century, until the publication of the Oxford English Dictionary began in 1884.
The copy of Johnson’s Dictionary held at the Maria Edgeworth Centre is especially significant. It once belonged to Richard Lovell Edgeworth, father of author Maria Edgeworth, and is signed by him. This rare 1768 Dublin edition shows the spread of Johnson’s influence beyond London and England.
Even more intriguingly, Richard Lovell Edgeworth used this very dictionary to compile the codebook for his Optical Telegraph
Book of the Month
A revolutionary voice from one of Europe’s most brilliant minds.
Considerations quickly became a cornerstone of liberal political philosophy in post-revolutionary Europe. Staël’s call for constitutional government, civil liberties, and political moderation influenced generations of thinkers — all the more remarkable given Napoleon’s efforts to silence her through censorship and exile.
Her voice remains vital in the history of revolutionary thought and feminist theory.
Maria Edgeworth, one of Ireland’s most important novelists, shared a warm friendship and deep intellectual admiration with Madame de Staël. The Edgeworth family were guests at Staël’s famous literary salon in Coppet, Switzerland, where political discourse met literary brilliance.
Our copy of Volume I is signed by Maria Edgeworth herself.
It’s a proud piece of literary and historical heritage in our care.
Book of the Month
This rare 1854 volume gives a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century education at the Whitelands Training Institution — one of Britain’s oldest colleges for women.
It focuses on practical knowledge, morality, and domestic skills.
Students were tested on everything from sick-room care to the moral implications of clothing choices.
Example questions:
How would you teach the importance of self-respect through dress?
What advice would you give on handling medicines in a sickroom?
Practical advice included:
The book’s preface, Women in the Home, was written by Charles Dickens himself — once published anonymously until rediscovered in his handwriting.
He also helped edit the entire volume.
Book of the Month
…signed by Richard Lovel Edgeworth
A rare gem that explores the origins of civilization from the Bible to Greek mythology.
William Williams wanted to bring together ancient myths and the Christian timeline.
His goal was to create one complete history of humanity.
The book is split into three parts:
Dive into the stories of Egypt, Greece, Babylon, and even the Celts.
Explore the Greek Titans and the biblical Flood!
Book of the Month
…signed by Maria Edgeworth!
Known as the “father of the computer,” Charles Babbage (1791–1871) was a mathematician, inventor, and engineer. He designed the first mechanical computer, paving the way for modern computing.
This book, published in 1837, was Babbage’s response to the official Bridgewater Treatises, exploring science and theology. He argued that God created natural laws, which could be studied mathematically—just like a programmer designs an algorithm.
Our museum holds a copy signed by Maria Edgeworth, a renowned Irish writer and advocate for women’s education. This connection between science and literature makes it truly unique!
His ideas led to the development of modern computers, and his Difference Engine was an early mechanical calculator. Without Babbage, the digital world might look very different today!
Stay tuned for our latest selection and experience these literary gems up close!
Join us on this exciting journey of rediscovery, where literature, history, and culture come to life. Whether you are a passionate reader, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about Maria Edgeworth’s legacy, the Book of the Month is your gateway to a fascinating world of knowledge and storytelling.
We welcome visitors from around the world. Families, groups and school tours are all welcome and catered for. Children and adults of all ages can enjoy our interactive tours and fascinating displays. Book ahead to avoid disappointment.
If you are a tour operator, get in touch today to find out how our team can cater to your tour group needs.
We invite visitors to bring a picnic to enjoy in our adjoining park. Amenities include free parking and wheelchair accessible toilets. Wheelchair access is restricted in the Centre.
