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At the Circulating Library

A Database of Victorian Fiction, 1837–1901

A Database of Victorian Fiction, 1837–1901

Author: Edward Augustus Ryder

Author: Edward Augustus Ryder (1837–1888)

Biography: Edward Augustus Ryder was born on 18 July 1837 in Liverpool, the son of merchant James Ryder and his wife Anna Maria Oldham. He came from a large family with commercial interests in South America. Notably, his brother Stephen died in 1878 climbing the El Misti Volcano in Peru. He followed the family business for a time. In 1875, he married Bessie Flora Burton and the couple had nine children. In the 1870s, the family moved to London where Ryder became a journalist and publisher of a newspaper (unclear exact paper). In addition, he wrote three novels. His last years ended sadly. He was charged with vandalism after smashing windows in a newspaper office claiming he worked there. After he exhibited odd behavior at the arraignment, the charges were dropped and he was committed to an asylum. He died there on 1 July 1888 in Barnet.

Author Tags:

References: British Census (1851, 1871, 1881); Evening News (30 April 1887)

Fiction Titles:

  1. The Wheel of Fortune: A Story of Modern Life.  3 vol.  London: Chapman and Hall, 1875.
  2. Though Broken, Brave: A Novel.  3 vol.  London: Chapman and Hall, 1877.
  3. The Marble Queen: A Novel.  3 vol.  London: Chapman and Hall, 1879.