Henry Willett
British brewer, philanthropist and collector
About Henry Willett
Lived 1823 – 1905 (aged 81–82). Henry Willett was a British and English brewer, philanthropist, art collector and entrepreneur.
Henry Willett (1823–1905) was a wealthy Brighton brewer, and noted collector of ceramics, paintings and fossils. He supported numerous charities and was one of the founders of Brighton Museum. He was an admirer and acquaintance of John Ruskin.
Willett was the son of William Catt (1776–1853), a farmer and miller who owned and managed the tide mill near Bishopstone. He was raised by his eldest sister Elizabeth Willett Catt (1797–1863) after the death of his mother; he adopted the surname Willett under the terms of his sister's will.
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Important facts
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Frequently asked questions
Who was Henry Willett?
British brewer, philanthropist and collector (1823–1905)
When was Henry Willett born?
Henry Willett was born in 1823.
When did Henry Willett die?
Henry Willett died on 24 February 1905 in Brighton.
What was Henry Willett's occupation?
Henry Willett was a brewer, philanthropist, art collector and entrepreneur.
What nationality was Henry Willett?
Henry Willett was British and English.
Sources & further reading
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Henry Willett. https://biography.guide/henry-willett/
MLA: "Henry Willett." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/henry-willett/.
Chicago: "Henry Willett." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/henry-willett/.
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