Our History | Dr Johnson's House

Samuel Johnson

Son of a Lichfield book seller, Johnson rose to become one of the greatest literary figures of all time.

Our Collection contains books, manuscripts, artwork, and objects of art relating to Johnson and his circle.

An untouched time capsule of the Age of Enlightenment and home of the first modern dictionary.

Dr Johnson's cat, the house's most famous quadruped resident.

Since 1911, the Trust has preserved 17 Gough Square for the public.

The key points in Johnson's life noted in sequence.

From giants of the Enlightenment to Johnson's intriguing household, meet Johnson's Circle.