The Diary of John Longe, vicar of Coddenham, 1765-1834

Pocket-books and other documents of a gentleman-parson bring the Georgian era vividly to life. An affluent and clubbable gentleman-parson of the Georgian age, for forty years John Longe contributed extensively to society in rural mid-Suffolk, heading a household which included ten domestic servants, plus farm staff. He enjoyed the company of his peers, both as host and guest, and travelled throughout the region, to Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds and his native Norwich. Besides preaching and leading worship, Longe trained young curates; marshalled his parishioners under threat of Napoleon's invasion; and fulfilled the onerous responsibilities of a magistrate, including supervision of the local House of Industry and turnpike trusts. John Longe recorded his activities, relationships and possessions in pocket-books and inventories, leaving a rich archive for posterity. It is these documents which are presented and transcribed here. They are accompanied by an extensive introduction, setting them in context; notes on the many individuals encountered; and full apparatus. The volume also includes plates and maps.