William Hutchinson

William James Hutchinson was an English lawyer, antiquary, and topographer. He was born in Barnard Castle, County Durham, England, in 1732. He studied law at the University of Oxford, and was admitted to the bar in 1758. He practiced law in Durham for many years, but he was also deeply interested in history and antiquities.

Hutchinson was a founding member of the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle upon Tyne, and he served as its president from 1783 to 1814. He was also a member of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of London.

Hutchinson wrote extensively on the history and antiquities of Durham and Northumberland. His most notable works include:

• A View of the History and Antiquities of the County of Northumberland (1778)
• The History and Antiquities of the County Palatine of Durham (1785-1794)
• An Historical Account of the Episcopal See of Durham (1787)
• A Treatise on the Offices of Sheriff, Coroner, Constable, and Overseers (1793)

Hutchinson was a highly respected historian and antiquary. His works are still valued by scholars today. He died in Durham in 1814 at the age of 82.

Philosophy

Hutchinson's philosophy was based on the belief that the study of history and antiquities could provide valuable insights into the present day. He believed that by understanding the past, we can better understand the present and make informed decisions about the future.

Notable Works

• A View of the History and Antiquities of the County of Northumberland (1778)
• The History and Antiquities of the County Palatine of Durham (1785-1794)
• An Historical Account of the Episcopal See of Durham (1787)
• A Treatise on the Offices of Sheriff, Coroner, Constable, and Overseers (1793)

Interesting Facts

• Hutchinson was a close friend of the poet William Wordsworth.
• Hutchinson's son, William, was also a historian and antiquary.
• Hutchinson's library was one of the largest and most important private collections of books on history and antiquities in England.

Conclusion

William James Hutchinson was a highly respected historian and antiquary. His works are still valued by scholars today. He was a man of great learning and integrity, and he made significant contributions to the study of history and antiquities in England.