Henry Lester (1840–1926) was a British architect, merchant and philanthropist in Shanghai.
After finishing his university studies, he returned to Southampton with a bachelor's degree in architecture.
One doctor told him that he should leave his homeland, so Lester departed Southampton with sadness and disconsolation.
[2] Henry took a cargo ship to Shanghai with another Briton, Gordon Morris, who afterwards became his partner.
According to the stipulation of Shanghai Municipal Council, staff members could not participate in its main business services and trade activities.