Jane S Poole

Frances Rolleston Jane S Poole

What kind of woman perseveres for fifty years to produce one book? A woman convinced of its value to the world. Indeed, that book, Mazzaroth: The Constellations, has continued more than 150 years as an important resource on the names of the stars and their meanings. Yet, up to now the writer's own fascinating story has not been told. This book introduces Frances Rolleston, anti-slavery activist, pioneer of infant schools, painter, poet, linguist, and member of a prominent family. She rubbed shoulders with men of science and letters, kept abreast of developments in astronomy and geology, nursed cholera sufferers, and gave to the relief of famine victims so generously as to imperil her own financial well-being. She was a woman of compassion and intelligence who refused to fit into the role expected of a Victorian woman and who triumphed through faith and perseverance. After her passing, Frances' letters were collected and edited by her friend Caroline Dent. That rich resource is the source for this life story. This biography differs from most by its personal voice and thematic presentation. Generally chronological, each chapter focuses on one character trait, activity, interest or event, portraying Frances Rolleston as the author has come to know her.