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 launches Around the Bays in 80 Days fundraising challenge for 2023
Swimmers of all abilities are being urged to take part in the Lake District Calvert Trust’s Around the Bays in 80 Days challenge.
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The TWA Dogs pub in Keswick has raised £275 for Calvert Stables.
Autistic 10-year-old inspires his mum to fundraise for the Lake District Calvert Trust
An autistic 10-year-old boy has inspired his mum to run the London Marathon in aid of the Lake District Calvert Trust.
