Thomas Parr

This print portrays Thomas Parr who purportedly lived from 1453-1635. It is derived from a print by Cornelis van Dalen of 1635 which was frequently reproduced. The inscription reads 'Old, Old, very old man, or thomas Parr, the son of John parr of Winningto of Shroshere; who was borne in the raigne of King Edward the fourth, Being aged 152 yeares and odd monthes, and now lies buried at Westminster.'

Born in Winnington in Shropshire Parr was an agricultural labourer whose great age brought him to the attention of the lord of the manor, Thomas Howard, Earl of Arundel. He introduced Parr to the King, Charles I and Parr became a celebrity but died shortly afterwards in 1635 and was buried in Westminster Abbey.