Remembering Anne Peregrine Fuller: A Dedicated Scholar and Cherished Alumna

We were recently made aware of the passing of alumna, Anne Peregrine Fuller (née Dobson), Class of 1963,  who passed away on the 19 March 2023.

Anne was born in London (Hornsey) in 1945 and was the only child of John Henry Dobson (then serving with the British army in Cairo) and his wife, Eveline. Anne was educated at Leeds Girls’ High School and Lady Eleanor Holles School, from 1960 to 1963. Anne studied A levels in English Literature, History and Latin. In the 1963 Prize Giving Day programme records show that Anne achieved A grades in History and English Literature which led to a special telegram from the Headmistress, Ruth Garwood Scott, to congratulate Anne on her results. Anne was also awarded a prize for History. On the court, Anne was known as an exceptional sports woman and loved games, even becoming Captain of the Basketball team.  

Anne’s academic excellence won her a place at Westfield College, University of London, to study History, where she was inspired by leading scholars of the Italian Renaissance. A research studentship led her to pursue a PhD on the patronage of the church of Santo Spirito in Florence. Though Anne did not complete her PhD, this academic training provided a solid foundation for her later work. 

Anne's scholarly career took a decisive turn when she became an editor for the British Academy’s Calendar of Papal Letters (CPL) project. Initially appointed under informal terms, she later secured formal employment with UCL and Cambridge. Anne’s dedication and intellectual curiosity made her a pivotal figure in the CPL's development. 

Her editorial work was distinguished by her rigorous attention to the nature and origins of papal registers. She challenged prevailing assumptions by showing that many register entries derived not directly from final documents but from preliminary drafts. Though this insight was not fully integrated into the project’s official practices, it marked a significant scholarly contribution. 

Anne also revitalised the CPL’s visibility through initiatives like the centennial census and redesigned book jackets. Her editorial excellence and marketing acumen ensured wider recognition for the project.  

Anne's later years were overshadowed by Alzheimer’s disease, but her work endures. Her meticulous volumes remain vital tools for historians and are expected to outlast many contemporary historical writings. Through her contributions to the CPL, Anne Fuller achieved a form of scholarly immortality that continues to benefit future generations.