296 Josiah Wedgwood CHAP. 



developed to the utmost extent the commerce of the 

 district, and took the lead, with the cordial approval 

 of his neighbours, in all measures for the spread of the 

 productions of Staffordshire. 



He made a fortune, but he used his wealth nobly. 

 He supported all measures connected with the educa- > 

 tion of the people. As early as 1760, when he was in 

 comparatively straitened means, he strongly supported 

 the proposal to found a school in Burslem, and sub- 

 scribed 10 for its erection. He induced his eldest 

 brother, Thomas, of the Overhouse, and his distant 

 cousin, Burslem Wedgwood, to do the same. The 

 school was erected on the piece of ground on which the 

 Maypole formerly stood. It was afterwards pulled 

 down, and the Town-Hall of Burslem was erected on 

 the site. Another more complete school was sub- 

 stituted for the former. 



To his own workmen he was the kindest friend. A 

 free library and sick fund were instituted at the works 

 for the benefit of all. He subscribed liberally for every 

 good work that wanted support, for Clarkson and the 

 Abolition of the Slave Trade, for the help of the Polish 

 patriots, for the relief of the British residents in 

 America, for the support of the emigrant French clergy 

 residing in this country, and for most philanthropic and 

 benevolent societies. 



We have already referred to his annuity to Leslie 

 (afterwards Professor) for his assistance in the education 

 of his sons ; and to the delicate manner in which he, 



