Elias Ashmole
Elias Ashmole was a celebrated English antiquary, politician, officer of arms, astrologer, and student of alchemy. He was a solicitor, royalist, and freemason.
Political Figure
May 23, 1617
Gemini
May 18, 1692
74
Lichfield, Staffordshire, England
Elias Ashmole (1617-1692) was a prominent English antiquary, politician, and Freemason, renowned for establishing the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford. This extensive museum showcases a wide array of art and artifacts. As a member of the Royal Society, Ashmole authored numerous books on alchemy and astrology. He also served as a military officer during the English Civil War and held various political roles. An enthusiastic collector, Ashmole amassed a significant collection of books, manuscripts, and coins, which he later bequeathed to the University of Oxford. Notably, Ashmole was also a solicitor and a staunch royalist.