William Penny Brookes

William Penny Brookes 1875

William Penny Brookes (13 August 1809 – 11 December 1895) was an English surgeon, magistrate, botanist, and educationalist, best known for founding the Wenlock Olympian Games and for his influence on the modern Olympic Games.

Early Life and Education

William Penny Brookes was born in Much Wenlock, Shropshire, England. He was the son of William Brookes, a local physician, and his wife, Penelope. Brookes was educated at the local school in Much Wenlock before studying medicine in London and Paris. He returned to Much Wenlock in 1831 to take over his father's medical practice.

Career

Brookes was a prominent figure in Much Wenlock, serving as a surgeon, magistrate, and botanist. He was deeply involved in the community and was a strong advocate for physical education and the benefits of exercise.

Wenlock Olympian Games

In 1850, Brookes founded the Wenlock Olympian Society and organized the first Wenlock Olympian Games. The games were designed to promote physical fitness and were open to all classes of society. They included a variety of athletic events, such as running, jumping, and throwing, as well as cultural competitions in music and literature.

Influence on the Modern Olympic Games

Brookes' work with the Wenlock Olympian Games had a significant influence on the revival of the modern Olympic Games. In 1890, Brookes invited Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the International Olympic Committee, to Much Wenlock to observe the games. Coubertin was inspired by what he saw and later credited Brookes with being a key influence in the development of the modern Olympics.

Legacy

William Penny Brookes is remembered as a pioneer of the modern Olympic movement. His efforts to promote physical education and his vision for an inclusive sporting event laid the groundwork for the global phenomenon that the Olympic Games have become today. The Wenlock Olympian Society continues to hold the Wenlock Olympian Games annually in his honor.

Death

Brookes died on 11 December 1895 in Much Wenlock, just a few months before the first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens in 1896. He is buried in the churchyard of Holy Trinity Church in Much Wenlock.

See Also

• Wenlock Olympian Society
• Olympic Games
• Pierre de Coubertin
• Much Wenlock