Emma Darwin, Wife of Charles Darwin: A Century of Family Letters

This remarkable collection of private correspondence between Emma Darwin and members of her family, published in 1904, provides the reader with a delightful and informative account of life in the late nineteenth century, and a picture of an amusing, educated, and caring woman. Emma Darwin (1808-1896) was especially remembered for her patience and fortitude in dealing with her husband’s long term illness, which became apparent shortly after their marriage. In nursing and humouring Charles through his many ups and downs, she was a crucial factor in her husband’s scientific accomplishments. She was responsible for bringing up their large family, running their household, and hosting visits from relatives and scientists. This, the first of two volumes edited by her daughter Henrietta, focuses on Emma’s parents and relatives, up to 1839. Both volumes are organised chronologically, and include delightful illustrations from the family archives.