Background
EDWARDS, John Passmore was born on March 24, 1823 in Black water, Cornwall. Father a Cornish carppnter.
EDWARDS, John Passmore was born on March 24, 1823 in Black water, Cornwall. Father a Cornish carppnter.
Studied at village school.
Began work as agent for the Sentinel in Manchester. Became a journalist in London, 1846, and took great interest in public questions, especially in co-operation with Cobden and Bright. Delegate to International Peace Conference in Brussels, 1848.
Also delegate to similar congresses in Paris, 1849, and Frankfort-on-tlie-Main, 1850. Founded The Public Good, a monthly magazine, 1850. Proprietor of Mechanics’ Magazine and Building News.
Bought the Echo, 1876, and edited it for about twenty years. Contested Truro, 1868. Founded more than seventy public institutions, including hospitals, homes, and libraries.
Name chiefly associated with free libraries, of which twenty-five owe their foundation to him. Lias presented upwards of eighty thousand volumes to public libraries, hospitals, convalescent homes, reading-rooms, and other institutions. Has erected eleven drinking fountains, and placed thirty-two marble busts of eminent men by eminent artists in public buildings.
Has been presented with the honorary freedom of West Ham, Falmouth, Truro, Liskeard, and East Ham. Has on two occasions most respectfully declined the honour of knighthood, offered lirst by Queen Victoria and several years afterwards by King Edward. He derives his best recreation from his daily work.
Member of Parliament Salisbury, 1880-1885. Formerly proprietor of the Echo.