Daniel Gurney

Daniel Gurney (1791–1880) was an English banker and antiquary associated with the Gurney family of Norwich.

He was born on 9 March 1791 at Earlham Hall, located near Norwich. His father was John Gurney (1749–1809) of Earlham, Norfolk. Gurney was the youngest son in the family and had notable siblings, including Elizabeth Fry, a philanthropist; Louisa Gurney Hoare, a writer on education; Joseph John Gurney; and Samuel Gurney. His mother was Catherine, the daughter of Daniel Bell; she died in 1792.

Gurney traced his ancestry to a younger branch of the historic Gurney (or Gournay) family, which held manors in Norfolk during the reign of Henry II. After completing his education, he entered the family business, Gurney's Bank in Norwich. He eventually took on a leadership role and was a partner for more than 60 years. During his career, he authored several essays on banking that were circulated privately.

As the head of one of the first banks in the English provinces, Gurney gained social and political influence. His reputation was based on personal qualities such as amiability, courtesy, and generosity, which endeared him to his contemporaries. He participated in philanthropic efforts, notably playing a central role in the establishment of the West Norfolk and Lynn Hospital.

In addition to his banking activities, Gurney pursued antiquarian interests. He was a prominent fellow of the Society of Antiquaries and showed an active interest in genealogy. Among his scholarly works was an extensive two-volume "Record of the House of Gournay," published in 1848 for private circulation. He supplemented this work with an additional volume in 1858. His research was valued for its antiquarian depth and breadth.

Politically, Gurney was a conservative and held several public offices in Norfolk. He served as a justice of the peace and deputy-lieutenant for the county. In 1853, he held the office of High Sheriff of Norfolk.

In 1822, Gurney married Lady Harriet Jemima Hay (1803–1837), daughter of William Hay, 17th Earl of Erroll. The marriage produced nine children. Their son, Charles Henry Gurney, married a daughter of Henry Thoby Prinsep. Charles studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, and became a partner in Saunderson’s Bank in London.

Daniel Gurney died on 14 June 1880 at his residence near North Runcton, Norfolk.