John Roby

John Roby
John Roby (1793–1850) was an English writer best known for his work on folklore and legends. His most famous book, "Traditions of Lancashire," published in two series (1829 and 1831), compiled regional tales and historical legends from the county of Lancashire. Roby also contributed to the literary genre of historical fiction with "Legendary and Romantic Tales of Lancashire" (1843). His writings are celebrated for preserving local folklore and giving insight into the region's rich cultural heritage.

Author's Books:


by: John Roby
INTRODUCTION TO THE SECOND SERIES. No method has yet been discovered for preserving the recollection of human actions and events precisely as they have occurred, whole and unimpaired, in all their truth and reality. Time is an able teacher of causes and qualities, but he setteth little store by names and persons, or the mould and fashion of their deeds. The pyramids have outlived the very names of... more...

by: John Roby
THE FAIRIES' CHAPEL. Farewell, rewards and fairies!Good housewives now may say;For now foule sluts in dairies,Doe fare as well as they:And though they sweepe their hearths no lessThan mayds were wont to doe,Yet who of late, for cleaneliness,Finds sixe-pence in her shoe?" —Percy's Reliques. The ancient mansion of Healey Hall was a cumbrous inconvenient dwelling of timber; but the spirit... more...