W. B. Shearn

W. B. Shearn

W. B. Shearn in 1907

William Benjamin Shearn (1869 – 1951) was a prominent figure in the early 20th-century fruitarianism movement in the United Kingdom. He was known for his advocacy of a fruit-based diet and his establishment of one of the first fruitarian stores in London.

Early Life

William Benjamin Shearn was born in 1869 in London, England. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he developed an interest in alternative diets and health practices at a young age. This interest eventually led him to explore fruitarianism, a diet that consists primarily of fruits.

Fruitarian Advocacy

Shearn became a vocal advocate for fruitarianism, promoting the diet as a means to achieve optimal health and well-being. He believed that a diet consisting solely of fruits was the most natural and beneficial for humans. His advocacy was part of a broader movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries that explored various vegetarian and vegan diets.

Shearn's Fruitarian Store

Shearn's Fruitarian Store

In 1907, Shearn opened a fruitarian store in London, which became a hub for those interested in fruitarianism and other alternative diets. The store offered a variety of fresh fruits and fruit-based products, catering to the growing interest in health foods during that era. Shearn's store was not only a place to purchase fruitarian products but also served as a meeting place for like-minded individuals to discuss and promote the fruitarian lifestyle.

Influence and Legacy

Shearn's work in promoting fruitarianism contributed to the broader vegetarian and health food movements in the UK. His store and advocacy efforts helped to raise awareness about the potential health benefits of a fruit-based diet. Although fruitarianism remained a niche dietary choice, Shearn's influence can be seen in the continued interest in plant-based diets today.

Later Life and Death

William Benjamin Shearn continued to promote fruitarianism throughout his life. He remained active in the health food community until his death in 1951. His contributions to the fruitarian movement are remembered by those who continue to explore and advocate for alternative diets.

Related Pages

• Fruitarianism
• Vegetarianism
• Veganism
• Health food store