John Lee (1783-1866), British astronomer. Lee, born John Fiott, was educated as a mathematician and travelled widely in his youth. In 1815 and 1827, he inherited several properties. From 1830, he built a private observatory (Hartwell Observatory) at his home, and carried out numerous astronomical observations. He was also involved with several other London societies, including the Society of Antiquaries, the Philological Society, and the Royal Meteorological Society. He was President of the Royal Astronomical Society from 1861 to 1863, and was made a barrister in 1863 at the age of 80.