About

Edward Doubleday, also known as “The Epping Naturalist” was born in Epping in 1810 and was educated at a local Quaker School. He and his brother, Henry, had a fascination with the natural world inspired by their exploration of Epping Forest. Edward went on to spend two years in America where he studied and collected insects, sending samples back home to the British Museum and reporting on them in the Entomological Magazine.

Upon his return to England Edward took up a position at the British Museum and built an unrivalled collection of butterflies. He remained working for the British Museum until his untimely death after a five month illness in December 1849 at the age of 39.

There is a tribute to Edward in the local Pizza Express in the High Street opposite Buttercross Lane, where Edward lived (and you will find a blue plaque high on the wall to your right as you enter from the main road). Look out for the information on the walls and the subtle butterfly shapes cut into some of the panelling around the seating.