George Laurence Gomme

George Laurence Gomme was an English folklorist, historian, and civil servant born in 1853. He became one of the key early figures in British folklore studies and is especially remembered for helping shape the Folklore Society, serving as its director and later as president.

His books explored traditional customs, village communities, children's games, and the survival of old beliefs in everyday life. He wrote widely on folklore and local history, including studies such as Primitive Folk-Moots, The Village Community, and The Traditional Games of England, Scotland, and Ireland.

Alongside his writing, Gomme built a substantial career in public administration in London. He worked for the Metropolitan Board of Works and later the London County Council, eventually becoming clerk of the council. He died in 1916, leaving a legacy in both civic life and the early academic study of folklore.