A selection of 425 volumes from the library of Ernest Lionel Allhusen (1875-1943). He was born in Gateshead, a relative of the German-born businessman and chemical manufacturer Christian Allhusen who had made his fortune with a chemical works in the town. After graduating from Durham University, Allhusen became a HM Inspector of Factories in 1900. In his spare time he was a collector of books and prints, and as a young man he corresponded with the novelist George Gissing. He spent the final years of his life in Edinburgh, having previously worked in Ireland. The selection of books reflects his interests in 19th- and 20th-century French literature and fine art. There are also 16 pre-1801 books, including copies of Edward Topsell's 'The historie of foure-footed beastes' and 'The historie of serpents', printed by William Jaggard (printer of the first folio edition of Shakespeare's plays) in London in 1607-1608.

Organisation

The books have been catalogued individually and have the shelfmark 'Aln.'.

Acquisition

The collection was purchased by the Library in 1944.