# Francis Grose

## Biography

Francis Grose, born in London in 1731, was an English antiquary, draughtsman, and lexicographer. The son of a Swiss immigrant jeweler, Grose initially pursued a military career, serving in Flanders before obtaining a commission in the army. He later joined the Surrey Militia, rising to the rank of captain, a title by which he was commonly known. Grose exhibited a keen interest in medieval antiquities and drawing, publishing his extensive work, "The Antiquities of England and Wales," which began serialization in 1772. He also authored "A Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue" and "A Provincial Glossary." A notable encounter with the poet Robert Burns in 1789, while Grose was touring Scotland for his antiquarian work, famously inspired Burns's poem "Tam O'Shanter." Known for his corpulence and good humor, Grose died in Dublin in 1791 during a collecting expedition.

## Books

- [1811 Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue](https://samolit.com/books/96165)