The ‘Original’ Calvert Legacy
In 1794, orphaned and without anywhere to live, William and Dorothy Wordsworth were given their first home, just outside Keswick, rent free, by the Calvert Family. Raisley Calvert was a childhood friend of Wordsworth and believed in Wordsworth’s potential as a poet.
Raisley died, aged 21, of tuberculosis. In his Will, he left Wordsworth the legacy of £900 that was to give him the independence that would allow him to devote himself entirely to poetry and become the Poet Laureate we know today.
Wordsworth immortalised his friend’s legacy in published word:
‘Calvert! It must not be unheard by them who may respect my name,
that I to thee owed many years of early liberty’
Sonnet to the memory of Raisley Calvert
Thus was born, the spirit of Calvert Giving. Over two centuries later, we are so very grateful that it is still alive and well.
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Latest news
Lake District Calvert Trust appoints Martin Mullin as Chair of Trustees
The Lake District Calvert Trust has appointed Martin Mullin as its new Chair of Trustees. Martin takes over the role from Giles Mounsey-Heysham, who has served as Chair of Trustees since 2013.
Much-loved Calvert Stables pony Queenie gives birth to beautiful bay filly foal
Calvert Stables’ much-loved ride and drive pony Queenie has given birth to a beautiful bay filly foal.
Edwin Thompson ‘sold’ on Lake District Calvert Trust and names them official charity partner
Edwin Thompson has named the Lake District Calvert Trust as its official charity partner for the next 12 months. The partnership will see staff at Edwin Thompson’s Keswick office take part in a range of fundraising initiatives with an overall target of £10,000.
