The Heroine of Lyme Regis - Tourism p.5

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The level of tourism in Lyme Regis grew dramatically during Mary Anning's lifetime. Here we read that many Lyme houses 'had their best room arranged for letting, with...decorations in the front windows of groups of seaweeds and little shell figures with limpets for hats.' Mary, we are told, 'rather despised these doll-like ornaments.'

About The Heroine of Lyme Regis

‘The Heroine of Lyme Regis’ tells the story of Mary Anning, the legendary Lyme fossil hunter. In 1808, at just 10 years of age, Mary discovered the bones of the icthyosaurus whilst fossil hunting in Lyme. This was one of the first icthyosaurus specimens ever to be found, and Mary won the respect of scientists all over Britain . During her lifetime Mary would find many more remarkable specimens, providing a small income for her family who lived in relative poverty. Mary's findings were eagerly sought by scientists and collectors around the world. However, over time the scientific community has forgotten her, even though many of her findings take pride of place in museums.

This short book, published in 1925, was written for children. Although it was based on a true story, the author employs the romantic style of an adventure story.