John Wheeley Lea

Who was John Wheeley Lea?

John Wheeley Lea was born on a farm and had three brothers and four sisters and had wanted to be a chemist since he was a young child. In 1823 he partnered with William Henry Perrins, opening a drug store in Worcester. The two are known for creating the Lea & Perrins brand of Worcestershire sauce.

Lea was also an alderman and was elected mayor of Worcester in 1834 but served only three months in office. He died of acute dyspepsia on 23 March 1874 at Stanfield House, Upper Wick, Worcestershire, and was buried in the family tomb at St Peter's, Powick.