George Romney : One of South Lakeland's most famous sons

The Romney Society was formed in Kendal in 1993. Its purpose is to explore the art of the eighteenth century and particularly that of George Romney. Romney was born at Beckside near Dalton in Furness in 1734. He set up a studio in Kendal and this began a career which brought him fame and fortune.
He moved to London and during a very busy career he painted many notable people. Some of his work is on show at Abbot Hall and Sizergh Castle. He was a leading painter of his day in company with Reynolds and Gainsborough.
He retired through ill health to Kendal in 1799 and died there in 1802.

The Activities of the Society include:
Lectures ,Meetings and Travel to sites of 18th century interest
Publications including annual Transactions
Offering a Bursary to students studying Romney and his time (see details on 3rd page)
Establishing Kendal as a centre for Romney studies. The Society has recently purchased the DAVID CROSS ARCHIVE and placed it in the Kendal Record Office for all to study.The Society plans to add to the Romney archive.
The Society welcomes new members and visitors to its lectures which are usually held in the Shakespeare Centre in the middle of Kendal. Annual subscription is £7.50. All members receive Newsletters and an annual copy of Transactions containing original articles on Romney and his times. Please email your details to the Society address.