These are John Cowper Powys (1872-1963), Theodore Francis Powys (1875-1953) and Llewelyn Powys (1884-1939).

Dorset features in the writings of all three of the brothers to a great extent, and all of them lived in the county for considerable periods of time. The Dorset History Centre has copies of all the main published works including many first editions. There are also published writings by the lesser-known members of the family - Philippa, Albert Reginald and Littleton Charles Powys. Some of Llewelyn Powys's books are illustrated with woodcuts and engravings by his sister Gertrude. The wives of two brothers were also published authors whose works are included in the collection because of their close association with the family. They are Elizabeth Myers, the second wife of Littleton Charles Powys, and Alyse Gregory, wife of Llewelyn Powys. Two members of the younger generation also feature - Littleton Alfred, son of John Cowper Powys, who became a Roman Catholic Priest, and Francis Llewelyn, son of Theodore Powys who published poems under the name of Laurence Powys.

The Powys Collection also includes works of biography, criticism and appreciation, bibliographies, theses, periodical articles and journals of the Powys societies.

Access to the collection

The Collection may be consulted at any time that  Dorset History Centre is open, without prior appointment. All material is for reference only, although copies of many of the books are available for loan in libraries throughout the county. The staff are pleased to help with enquiries.

Photograph of the Powys family by kind permission of  Dorset County Museum.