Henry Jenner

Henry Jenner was a prominent British scholar and cultural activist known for his pivotal role in the revival of the Cornish language. Born in St Columb Major, he was immersed in a family with strong ecclesiastical ties, which influenced his early education and career. After serving as a clerk in the Probate Division of the High Court, he transitioned to the British Museum, where he worked in the Department of Ancient Manuscripts. His scholarly pursuits were deeply intertwined with his passion for Cornish culture, leading him to advocate for the recognition and revitalization of the Cornish language and heritage. In 1904, Jenner's efforts culminated in Cornwall's inclusion in the Celtic Congress, marking a significant step in the acknowledgment of Cornish identity. He co-founded the Old Cornwall Society in 1920, which aimed to promote and preserve Cornish culture, and in 1928, he was instrumental in establishing the Cornish Gorsedh, a cultural festival celebrating Cornish language and traditions. Through his writings and activism, Jenner not only contributed to the preservation of the Cornish language but also inspired future generations to embrace their cultural roots, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of Celtic studies and Cornish identity.