Charles H. Bennett (1828-1867)

Charles Henry Bennett was an illustrator and cartoonist. He illustrated many children's books and contributed around 200 drawings and cartoons to the satirical magazine 'Punch' from 1865 until his death in 1867. Some of his best known drawings were his shadow series which first appeared in the 'Illustrated Times' in 1853. Bennett died at the age of 38. He had been well liked and, following his death, several of his friends and colleagues organised two benefit performances and made successful public appeals for financial support for his bereaved family. 

"Three of my children insist on being the company"

In this personal letter dated the 26th of December 1864, Charles H. Bennett accepts an invitation to visit the recipient (possibly Sampson Low) over the Christmas period when he will read his newly published book 'Noodledoo' to the gathering. Published by Sampson Low, Son & Marston, its full title was 'The sorrowful ending of Noodledoo, with the fortunes and fate of her neighbours and friends'. A review of the book in 'The Publishers' Circular' dated 15 December 1864 describes the book as, "A capital book of wise nonsense, one in which children will find a rich fund of amusement".  

At the head of his letter, Bennett includes a delightful cartoon in his traditional caricaturist style, which appears to be of himself as a bird reading from a book at a table.  

View Charles H. Bennett's letter [opens in a new window]

Image Rights: © National Portrait Gallery London. By John & Charles Watkins albumen carte-de-visite 1860s 3 1/2 in. x 2 1/4 in. (88 mm x 57 mm) image size Given by Katharine Ada Esdaile (née McDowall) 1932 cc-by-nc-nd