Charles Dickens House Museum

Charles Dickens lived on Doughty St. in London from 1837 to 1839. His eldest children, Mary and Katey, were born there. As Dickens's fame grew he moved to bigger houses. Other places he lived have been demolished. This museum opened in 1925. Its point of pride is that it contains and cares for the National Dickens Library, which has all the author's works in various editions, translations, and adaptations locked up in what used to be Dickens's basement.


Other Highlights:






An 1835 map of London













A copy of Dickens's magazine in which he curiously chose to announce his separation from his wife.





The museum also houses some of Catherine Dickens's jewelry. I could not get a clear shot of her gold and diamond serpent ring. The Museum paid over 5,000 pounds for this item that is believed to have been a gift from the Count D'Orsay.

The video room showed a documentary on Dickens's life. Unlike many writers, Dickens was neither tortured nor anti-social, (though he may have been a bad man). He was friends with actors, fond of his children, and always had a sense of fun. Whereas his father spent 3 months in debtors prison (the museum showcases the grille), Dickens took good care of his money. Dickens fought for what he felt was rightfully his when he went to America and lobbied Congress to recognize the copyright of British authors. The American reaction to his copyright crusade soured his view of the country.

LOST may be over, but it is impossible to see a copy of Our Mutual Friend without thinking:

I'll see you in another life, Brotha!

Link to an incredible LOST rap video: We have to go back!