Edmond Herbert Grove-Hills facts for kids

Edmond Herbert Grove-Hills (born August 1, 1864 – died October 2, 1922) was a British soldier and a brilliant astronomer. He was known for his important work in both the military and in studying the stars. He received special honors like the CMG, CBE, and FRS for his achievements.

Early Life and Military Career

Edmond was born in High Head Castle, Cumberland, England. His parents were Herbert Augustus and Anna Hills. He went to Winchester College until 1882. After that, he joined the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich, which is a famous military school. Later in his life, he changed his last name to Grove-Hills.

Joining the Royal Engineers

On July 5, 1884, Edmond became a lieutenant in the Royal Engineers. This is a special part of the army that deals with engineering and construction. He was promoted to captain on April 1, 1893.

Working as a Surveyor

Edmond first worked as an instructor at the Royal School of Military Engineering in Chatham. Later, he started working on surveying maps as part of the General Staff. In September 1900, he became a deputy assistant adjutant general at the War Office. He was promoted to major on July 25, 1901.

Helping with Borders

He helped with a special British group that settled a border disagreement between Chile and Argentina in 1902. For his important work, he was given the honor of being a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) in December 1902.

A Passion for Astronomy

Around 1905, Edmond left the army. He tried to get involved in politics, but it didn't work out.

Studying the Stars

Edmond had a strong interest in astronomy, which is the study of space and stars. He became a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, a group for people who study astronomy. He traveled to observe solar eclipses, which is when the Moon blocks the Sun. He saw one in Japan in 1896 and another in India in 1898.

World War I and Later Years

In 1914, when World War I began, he was called back from a trip to Russia. He was appointed Assistant Chief Engineer of Eastern Command. In 1918, he received another honor, the CBE.

From 1913 to 1915, he was the president of the Royal Astronomical Society. This shows how respected he was in the world of astronomy.

Family and Legacy

In 1892, Edmond married Juliet Spencer-Bell. Her father was James Spencer-Bell, who was a Member of Parliament.

Edmond Herbert Grove-Hills passed away on October 2, 1922, in London, England. He is buried in Kensal Green Cemetery in London.