Potter's World

The Armitt Library was formed by the three talented Armitt sisters “to create a collection of books of scientific, literary or antiquarian value for the student and book lover”. Through the influence of the group of intellectual and gifted people who were living in the Ambleside area at that time, the library grew into a remarkable museum collection of unusual and valuable items.Beatrix Potter strongly approved of the Armitt sisters' aims and ideals, particularly their views on the study of natural history and countryside conservation.

Beatrix battled to have her work (click here to see scientific illustrations) recognised by the authorities of the day, and how the young Beatrix Potter "took on" the male-dominated scientific establishment makes a delightful story. For more on this read A Victorian Naturalist - Beatrix Potter's Drawings from the Armitt Collection.