Surname: Miller Forename(s): Thomas b. 31 August 1807. d. 5 October 1874. Nationality: English. VIAF.
Prolific working-class poet, novelist, children’s writer, studies on history and the
countryside, and other miscellaneous books. Known as the “Basket Maker”. Moved to
London in c. 1835. Lady Blessington became his patron after he sent her a gift of
poems in one of his baskets, but he complained of exploitation by Blessington and
other publishers and editors of his work. Received payments from the Royal Literary
Fund, but still struggled with extreme poverty. Biographical information: ODNB, Lohrli 367-8. (AC).