Record

RefNoMS/583/22
Previous numbersMS/585
LevelFile
TitleCopy diary of John Frederick William Herschel, transcribed by Louisa Gordon
Date1 January-31 December 1853 [1910]
DescriptionFamily transcription of Sir John Herschel's original diary. The volume describes Herschel's scientific and social life, largely in London, where he had a town residence in Harley Street. Notes on Royal Mint business, increasingly despairing, throughout. On 25 January, Herschel sends a glass plate coated with gluton to Mr Derdgear [?] as a collodion substitute. He attends the Institution of Civil Engineers on 15 February to hear Erickson [John Ericcson] on the caloric engine, which leaves the audience 'mystified'. As entertainment, he praises Mrs Charles Kean's Lady Macbeth, seen on 18 April; and reads Baron Munchausen on 1 May. He visits and notes the behaviour of the 'Aztec children', Maximo and Bartola, on 6 August. Herschel describes (and draws) a double halo seen around a candle flame on 28 August. On dining at the Literary Club, he hears an anecdote about clairvoyance narrated by the Bishop of Oxford. Visiting Lady Lyell briefly on 18 November, Herschel remarks: 'The meeting with Men of Science is now accompanied to me with feelings too painful to prolong more than absolute good-breeding requires'. Occasional marginal drawings are copies of the originals.

With a note on the cover page '1853. See also for notes of other events (not entered in this copy of this diary) a small (black) Lett's diary, kept in the same drawer 1853. 18 June 1910 W.J.H.' [William James Herschel].
Extent31p.
FormatManuscript
PhysicalDescriptionOn paper, loosely bound with dark blue yarn
AccessStatusOpen
Add to My Items

    Collection highlights

    Browse the records of some of our collections, which cover all branches of science and date from the 12th century onwards. These include the published works of Fellows of the Royal Society, personal papers of eminent scientists, letters and manuscripts sent to the Society or presented at meetings, and administrative records documenting the Society's activities since our foundation in 1660.

    The Royal Society

    The Royal Society is a Fellowship of many of
    the world's most eminent scientists and is the
    oldest scientific academy in continuous existence.
    Registered charity number 207043

    Website design ©CalmView



    CONTACT US

    + 44 207 451 2500
    (Lines open Mon-Fri, 9:00-17:00. Excludes bank holidays)

    6-9 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AG

    Email Us →

    SUBSCRIBE

    Subscribe to our newsletters to be updated with the
    latest news on innovation, events, articles and reports.

    Subscribe →

    © CalmView