Did Beatrix Potter Self-publish Her Books?

Indeed she did – well at least the first couple of books she wrote. Born Helen Beatrix Potter on July 6th 1866, Beatrix paid for 250 copies of her children's book, Peter Rabbit, to be printed in December 1901. Two months later, a second edition of 250 copies were printed, again at her own cost. Later in 1902, Beatrix published again, The Tailor of Gloucester, but this time she paid for 500 copies to be printed.
In 1903, the publishing company owned by Frederick Warne asked if he could publish further books by Beatrix.
Beatrixs' fame was assured and a long series of books all written and illustrated by herself followed. Johnny Townmouse was the last of her little animal books, but Beatrix continued to produce other books, but none were as successful as her animal books.
Beatrix was a child to wealthy parents and never attended school. She taught herself to draw and write. In 1905 she bought Hill Top Farm at Sawry in the English Lake District and specialised in breeding sheep.
Up until her death on 30th April 1943, Betirix continued to draw and write.

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