Born March 17, 1832, in Percy, Northumberland. Joseph Skipsey was a colliery worker at seven years of age. He made himself educated, publishing verse in local newspapers until he was gradually able to leave harsh labour behind him. He earned a living as caretaker to schools and colleges. He and his wife Sara Ann Fendley, married in 1854, had eight children. Of the 8 children, only the last three, Elizabeth, Joseph and Cuthbert survived to adulthood and old age.
Skipsey had several literary positions: Assistant Librarian, Newcastle Literary and Philosophical Society (1863), and custoldian of Shakespeare's birthplace at Stratford-on-Avon (1889-91). He was awarded a annual civil list pension in 1880 for his literary work, which included preparing popular editions of important poets.
Skipsey died at Gateshead on Sept. 3, 1903, and was buried in Gateshead Cemetery.
Poems by this Poet
Poem | Post date | Rating | Comments |
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Meg Goldlocks | 29 November 2013 |
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Mother Wept | 31 July 2013 |
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Nanny to Bessy | 29 November 2013 |
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Not as Wont | 19 May 2014 |
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Not the Bird | 29 November 2013 |
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Poor Rose | 19 May 2014 |
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Stanzas | 5 September 2014 |
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The Bridal Gift | 5 September 2014 |
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The Butterfly | 31 July 2013 |
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The Collier Lad | 5 September 2014 |
(2 votes) |
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