James Ward Usher

[1] Usher's father, also James, opened a Jewellers and Watchmakers in High Street, Lincoln in 1837.

[2] Usher was an enthusiastic collector of fine clocks, watches, porcelain and paintings.

His personal collection became the basis for the Usher Gallery which was founded after his death using a legacy he left for the purpose.

In 2005 the Usher Gallery was merged with Lincoln's City and County Museum to form The Collection, combining Lincoln's art and museum collections.

[2][3][4][5] Usher was a successful businessman, who acquired in the late 19th century the rights to reproduce in jewellery the Lincoln Imp,[1] using the image on tie clips and spoons which sold in huge numbers.