Francis Fox Tuckett

The pioneering mountaineer Francis Fox Tuckett was born at The Old House, Frenchay Common, Gloucestershire, on 10 February 1834, the son of Francis Tuckett and Marianna née Fox. He acquired his love of the mountains on a visit to the Alps with his father in 1842, and for much of his adult life he devoted two to three months of each year to climbing. He became famous for his pioneering Alpine work (1856-1874), capturing 376 peaks (60 of them previously unconquered). His stamina, strength and skill became a legend. In 1865 the King of Italy created him a Knight of the Order of St Lazarus, in recognition of the services he had rendered to Italy by his 'geographical and scientific research in the Italian alps.' His diaries and letters show his appreciation of mountain scenery, his insatiable curiosity and the great joy he derived from extending himself to the limit, both physically and mentally.

His sister Charlotte wrote that 'He kept himself in good training for his beloved pursuit of mountaineering by his daily walks to and from Bristol, five miles each way. He used to get home for six, and for more years than I can say, the institution existed of an apple tart served with his tea.'

He married Alice Fox (1858-1928) in New Zealand on 17 January 1896.

He died on 20 June 1913 at The Old House, Frenchay, and was buried in the graveyard of the Friends’ Meeting House, Frenchay.

Photographed on 13 June 1862 by Camille Silvy of London.