Scientist, writer on science. E.R.S. Attended school in Plymouth and in Penzance; studied medicine in London; acquired some knowledge of practical chemistry. Devoted himself to scientific research, particularly on chemical influence of solar rays and on electrical phenomena in mineral veins. Keeper of Mining Records, 1845-1883; during greater part of that time compiled Mineral Statistics of the United Kingdom, issued annually as a Blue Book. For some years lecturer on mechanical science and experimental physics, Royal School of Mines. Contributed largely to scientific journals; for many years wrote scientific columns in Athenaeum; contributed to Art Journal, also to general periodicals. Brought out three revised and enlarged editions of Andrew Ure's Dictionary of Arts, Manufactures and Mines. Author of A Popular Treatise on the Art of Photography, 1841; Researches on Light, 1844; Elementary Physics, 1851; British Mining, 1884; and many other works.

Author: Anne Lohrli; © University of Toronto Press, 1971.

Oxford Dictionary of National Biography