Anne Maxwell (printer)

Anne Maxwell (fl. 1646-1680s) was a prominent printer in London during the mid-17th century. She operated her printing house from premises in the Old Bailey, and later near Fleet Street, following the death of her husband, John Maxwell, in 1646. John Maxwell, a Scottish printer, had originally established the business, which Anne inherited and successfully managed for several decades.

Maxwell was known for printing a wide variety of materials, including newsbooks, pamphlets, sermons, and political tracts. Her work often involved printing material relating to the political and religious controversies of the English Civil War period and the Restoration. She printed for both Royalist and Parliamentarian factions, demonstrating a willingness to engage with diverse viewpoints in order to maintain her business. She was particularly active during the Interregnum, printing official documents for the Commonwealth government.

Anne Maxwell's career reflects the important role that women played in the printing trades during this era. While often overlooked in historical accounts, female printers like Maxwell were vital to the dissemination of information and the functioning of the book trade. Her work provides valuable insights into the social, political, and religious landscape of 17th-century England.