George Fergusson Wilson facts for kids
George Fergusson Wilson (born March 25, 1822 – died March 28, 1902) was a clever English chemist who worked in factories. He helped make candles and other products better and cheaper.
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Early Life and Family
George Wilson was born in Wandsworth Common on March 25, 1822. He was one of thirteen children! His father, William Wilson, used to be a merchant in Russia. Later, he started a candle-making company called E. Price & Son in Battersea. George went to school in Wandsworth. For a short time, he even worked in a lawyer's office.
Innovations in Business
In 1840, George joined his father's candle business. He was very interested in trying new things. In 1842, he and W. C. Jones invented a new way to make candles. They found a way to use cheaper, smelly fats instead of expensive tallow. They used sulphuric acid to clean and remove the bad smell from these fats. Then, they heated the fats with super-heated steam. This invention made the company a lot of money.
Starting Price's Patent Candles
Because the invention was so successful, the business was sold in 1847 for a huge amount of money (£250,000). A new company was then started, called Price's Patent Candles Ltd.. It had a lot of money to invest (£500,000). George and his older brother, James, became the main directors. They both kept looking for new and better ways to make products.
In 1853, George created "New Patent Night Lights" from coconut oil. These were special molded candles. The brothers also improved a French invention. This led to many English companies using their "oleine," which was a type of oil used for cloth.
Pure Glycerine Discovery
In 1854, George Wilson made a very important discovery. He found a way to make pure glycerine. Glycerine is a clear, thick liquid. Before his discovery, the glycerine available was not very clean. George's method involved separating glycerine from fats and oils at high temperatures. Then, he cleaned it using steam. This made glycerine much purer and more useful.
Life After Business
George Wilson stopped being a managing director in 1863. He then moved to Wisley, Surrey. There, he spent his time on a big passion: experimental gardening. He was especially good at growing lilies. The amazing garden he created at Wisley was later given to the Royal Horticultural Society. Today, it is known as the famous RHS Garden.
George Wilson passed away in Weybridge Heath on March 28, 1902.
Achievements and Recognition
George Wilson was a member of several important groups. In 1845, he joined the Society of Arts. He often wrote for their magazine and gave talks. He also became a member of the Royal Society in 1855, which is a very respected group for scientists. In the same year, he joined the Chemical Society.
He was also a member of the Horticultural Society and even a vice-president. He suggested that the society offer smaller, "guinea" subscriptions to make it easier for people to join. In 1897, he received the Victoria Medal of Honour. This is a very special award for people who have done great things in gardening. In 1875, he also became a member of the Linnean Society, which focuses on natural history.
Family Life
George Wilson married Ellen Barchard on August 13, 1862. She was the oldest daughter of R. W. Barchard. George and Ellen had two sons and one daughter. One of their sons was Scott Barchard Wilson.
