Julius Brenchley Collection - Maidstone's New World Explorer

Julius Brenchley, seen by history as a “Gentleman Explorer” was born at Kingsley House in Maidstone. Educated at Maidstone Grammer School, Brenchley then went on to study at Cambridge.

Brenchley’s travels began in 1845 when he accompained his father on a European Tour. Between 1845 – 1867 he travelled the world c0llecting, recording and sending material home. Julius Brenchley died February 24th 1873 at the age of 56.

Brenchley’s Native Art collection was one of the first major donations to Maidstone Museum. The majority of Brenchley’s collection was donated to Maidstone Museum, the rest split between the British Museum, the Pitt Rivers Museum and Exeter Museum Register. Brenchley also provided for a new wing in the museum to house his collection and purchased Brenchley Gardens for the town.

As well as ethnological objects, Brenchley collected a wide variety of fine and decorative art, and natural history specimens. He chose traditional designs from whatever culture he was exploring. The majority of pieces in the collection were obtained by direct exchange or gift; but for high prestige items, Brenchley must have used his connections, with missionaries, governors and other Europeans in the area.

- Text courtesy of Maidstone Museum