Sir Henry Cole CB
(1808-1882)

Died aged c. 74

Sir Henry Cole FRSA (15 July 1808 – 18 April 1882) was a British civil servant and inventor who facilitated many innovations in commerce and education in the 19th century in the United Kingdom. Cole is credited with devising the concept of sending greetings cards at Christmas time, introducing the world's first commercial Christmas card in 1843.

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Commemorated on 3 plaques

Sir Henry Cole 1808-1882 campaigner and educator, first director of the Victoria and Albert Museum lived here

33 Thurloe Square, South Kensington, Kensington and Chelsea, SW7, London, United Kingdom where they lived

Sir Henry Cole lived here 1879-1880. He originated the custom of sending Christmas Cards and was largely responsible for the foundation of the Kensington Museum. He was also a great postal reformer.

Elm Row, Hampstead, London, United Kingdom where they lived

In memory of Jim who died aged 15 faithful dog of Sir Henry Cole of this museum

Central courtyard, Victoria and Albert Museum, London, United Kingdom where they worked