Thomas Payne

Thomas Payne "Honest Tom Payne" (1719 - 1799) (not to be confused with Thomas Paine author of the Rights of Man) was a well-known bookseller in 18th century London. His premises were notoriously small, but exceptionally popular with the literati of that period. His shop became a sort of club during the day for discussions on all subjects. He retired to Finchley in 1790 leaving the business in the hands of his son, also Thomas Payne (1752 - 1831), and died in 1799. He is buried at St Mary’s church in Finchley