A History of British Birds

The Rev. Francis Orpen Morris’s A History of British Birds is one of the most beloved and widely published ornithological works of the Victorian era. Originally issued in monthly parts beginning in 1850 and later compiled into six volumes, the work was published by Groombridge & Sons in its initial editions (1851–1857). It became popular for its superb hand-coloured lithographic plates, drawn by Alexander Francis Lydon and printed by Benjamin Fawcett, whose collaboration set a high standard for natural history illustration. The fifth edition, published by John C. Nimmo, Ltd. appeared in the 1890s, reflecting the enduring appeal of Morris’s work. This edition retained the full set of finely coloured plates and was produced with the same care and aesthetic quality as earlier versions. A History of British Birds remains a landmark in popular ornithology, combining scientific detail, commentary, and Victorian design into a work of lasting charm.