Peter Crosthwaite (1735-1808)
Peter Crosthwaite established himself at the forefront of the burgeoning tourist industry in the Lake District. He was a guide, museum owner, and also participant, co- organiser and advertiser of the Keswick Regatta.
An eccentric egotist with a talent for self-promotion, Crosthwaite had a deep seated antipathy towards his rival Thomas Hutton and associates, whom he described in his journal as “the junta”, convinced they were devoted to destroying his businesses and reputation.
Before moving to Keswick, Crosthwaite spent many years at sea working for the East India Company; as an admiral he had been in charge of protecting cargo ships from pirates. This experience was to prove fruitful both in securing exhibits for his museum and in making contacts with other travellers who would provide further exhibits once Crosthwaite was settled in the Lakes.
Crosthwaite initially worked as a guide for visitors to Keswick, leading them on foot, by pony or boat around the area — his past as the master of a gunboat within the East India trading Company an obvious selling point. Crosthwaite’s services proved popular, leaving the more established climbs of Skiddaw to his rival guide Hutton; he led his patrons on more challenging treks which demonstrated his superior skills in navigation and his detailed knowledge of the area.
In 1781 Crosthwaite established his museum — or Cabinet of Curiosities — in Keswick’s main street. A highlight of the museum’s collection was an albatross with a ten feet wing span, a gift to Crosthwaite from Capt. John Wordsworth (William Wordsworth’s first cousin). From the museum he would sell his self-produced maps and surveys of the district, Claude glasses and Aeolian harps.
Crosthwaite was also involved in the organisation of the Keswick Regattas after being invited by Joseph Pocklington to take the part of Admiral and Commander of the fleet “attacking” Pocklington’s Island. Crosthwaite took such responsibility seriously. He used his seafaring experience to plan the siege to the minutest detail, choreographing gun and cannon fire by a flag raising system.
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