Born in Bolton on 26 August 1809, the son of a successful counterpane manufacturer, James Lever was a man of strict morals and firm judgement. He condemned drinking, smoking and gambling, and was an active member of the Congregational Church. 

James married Eliza Hesketh in 1839, the daughter of a local cotton mill manager, and had ten children, of whom William Hesketh Lever was the eldest son. Lever later wrote of his parents:

'My father and mother were a model father and mother, and whatever position I have got to in life is due to their influence and example, without which I should be worse than nothing.'

There is a bronze version of this bust in Port Sunlight Museum.

Mr James Lever, Senior | National Museums Liverpool

title

Born in Bolton on 26 August 1809, the son of a successful counterpane manufacturer, James Lever was a man of strict morals and firm judgement. He condemned drinking, smoking and gambling, and was an active member of the Congregational Church. James married Eliza Hesketh in 1839, the daughter of a local cotton mill manager, and had ten children, of whom William Hesketh Lever was the eldest son. Lever later wrote of his parents: 'My father and mother were a model father and mother, and whatever position I have got to in life is due to their influence and example, without which I should be worse than nothing.' There is a bronze version of this bust in Port Sunlight Museum.

Mr James Lever, Senior

Information