Alfred Wainwright Archivist & Author
It was a lifelong love of the outdoors and the walks of Alfred Wainwright that led Chris Butterfield, a Yorkshire-born engineer, to become the famous author's most dedicated archivist. Assisted by his wife Priscilla, he has amassed what is probably the most extensive collection of Wainwright material held in private ownership.
He has also built a thriving Facebook group - Alfred Wainwright Books & Memorabilia - and a website dedicated to Wainwright- alfredwainwright.co.uk.
Chris has had numerous Wainwright-related magazine and newspaper articles published in the local and national press and has done various radio and TV interviews, sharing his reflections on Alfred Wainwright and his legacy. He has just published his first book - Wainwright Memories - a pictorial account of three little-known stories involving the celebrated guidebook author.
Chris Butterfield, the 'Wainwright Aficionado', is not only Alfred Wainwright's most dedicated archivist but also a great modern-day ambassador of AW's legacy, with the enthusiasm and passion for helping keep the interest in Wainwright alive for the next generation.
The Armitt: Museum, Gallery, Library in Ambleside is pleased to announce a collaborative exhibition for 2025, co-curated with ‘Alfred Wainwright Books & Memorabilia’ on the legendary Alfred Wainwright. Starting in February and running throughout the year at the museum in Ambleside, Cumbria, this exhibition will be an unmissable event for Wainwright aficionados and those new to his work.
As it approaches the 70th anniversary of Wainwright’s book, The Eastern Fells, his first Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells, this exhibition will provide a detailed exploration of his life and publishing journey. From his modest beginnings after relocating to Kendal from Blackburn in 1941 to his lasting influence in Cumbrian literary history — alongside luminaries such as John Ruskin, William Wordsworth, and Beatrix Potter — Wainwright’s story is one of inspiration and dedication.
Ambleside holds a special significance in Wainwright’s story. It was here, in 1952, that he began his fieldwork for his first guidebook, starting with Fairfield. The route to Dove Crag, the first fell he described, is just a short walk from The Armitt, situating the museum at the heart of Wainwright’s iconic journey.
Thanks to Titus Wilson of Kendal, archivist Chris Butterfield oversees a vast collection of original Westmorland Gazette Wainwright book printing materials and other special objects collected over many years. Enhanced by generous contributions from other museums, archives, and individuals closely linked to Wainwright, this unique exhibition will chronicle his history across different aspects of his life, showcasing original artwork, book printing negatives, plates, gold blocking, and an original manuscript and objects owned/used by Wainwright. The exhibition will also feature materials from his various projects during his later years, providing a comprehensive look at his creative process.
The Armitt’s Manager and curator, Faye Morrissey, said, “Wainwright is such an important individual for the Lakes, and the timing of the exhibition makes it even more appropriate to acknowledge his legacy here in Ambleside. We’re delighted to be working with Chris to showcase, for the first time, many of his privately collected objects that show an alternative side to Wainwright. Building on the success of the co-curated “Running Int’ Fells” exhibition, we are looking forward to developing a stronger connection with our community.”
Chris Butterfield, Wainwright archivist and co-curator, said, “It’s a privilege to be part of an exhibition that celebrates Wainwright’s extraordinary contribution to Cumbrian literary and cultural history. This exhibition at The Armitt is not just a tribute to Wainwright’s work but an invitation to rediscover the landscapes he loved through his eyes. Whether you’re a lifelong admirer or new to his work, you’ll find something inspiring and uniquely personal in this collection”.
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore Alfred Wainwright’s life and legacy at The Armitt from February to December 2025.
Opening date: Wednesday 12 February, 10:30 am
Closing date: Saturday 20 December, 4 pm
Opening days/times: The museum will have different opening days/times during the year, so please check the Armitt’s website
Admission: £7 adults, £4 students, free for under 16s
Telephone 015394 31212
The Armitt Museum, Rydal Road, Ambleside, LA22 9BL
Chris has created an extensive archive of Wainwright books and memorabilia, including all editions and print variations of every Alfred Wainwright book, printing negatives and more.
Chris founded this community group for those interested in Wainwright and his work; it is supplemented by a blog and a website covering the publishing & printing history of Wainwright's books.
Chris organised this gathering of Wainwright luminaries as a thank you for their support and an opportunity to reminisce about how the great guidebook author had touched each of their lives.
Chris writes magazine & newspaper articles about Wainwright and is regularly published in the local & national press and in online blogs.
Chris has done film, TV, radio interviews & podcasts to discuss his archive, his love of fellwalking and Wainwright and his work.
See what people are saying about Chris as Alfred Wainwright's most dedicated archivist and legacy champion.
Andrew Nichol
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