Palgrave, Francis Turner (1824–1897)

English poet and anthologist. He was the author of several volumes of poetry and essays, but is best remembered for his anthology The Golden Treasury of Songs and Lyrics 1861. In its compilation Palgrave used his wide knowledge of literature and fine, if somewhat conservative, judgement; the anthology is still regarded as one of the best works of its kind.

He was born in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, son of Sir Francis Palgrave. Educated at Charterhouse and Balliol College, Oxford, in 1846 he became private secretary to William Gladstone, and two years later entered the Education Office, where he became assistant secretary. After retiring from the service he was professor of poetry at Oxford 1885–95.