Henry Coddington facts for kids

Henry Coddington was an important thinker and church leader from Ireland. He was born around 1798 or 1799 in Oldbridge, County Meath, Ireland. He passed away on March 3, 1845, in Rome, Italy. Henry was a natural philosopher, which means he studied science and nature. He also worked as a fellow and tutor at Trinity College, Cambridge in England, and was a clergyman in the Church of England.

A Look at Henry's Life

Henry Coddington was the son of Latham Coddington, who was a church leader (called a Rector) in Timolin, Kildare.

Henry started studying at Trinity College, Cambridge in 1816. He was a very bright student! In 1820, he earned his Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree. He was even named the "Senior Wrangler", which means he was the top math student in his year. He also won the first Smith's Prize, another award for excellent math and physics students.

Later, in 1823, he earned his Master of Arts (MA) degree. He then became a fellow and a sub-tutor at his college. This meant he helped teach students and was part of the college's leadership.

Henry later became the vicar (a type of church leader) of Ware, Hertfordshire from 1832 to 1845. Sadly, while doing his church duties, he became very ill. Doctors suggested he move to a warmer climate to help his health. So, he traveled abroad. He passed away in Rome on March 3, 1845.

Henry's Family

Henry Coddington married a daughter of Dr. Batten, who was the principal of Haileybury College. Together, they had seven children.

What Henry is Remembered For

Henry Coddington mostly wrote about optics. Optics is the study of how light behaves and how we see things. He wrote an important book called An Elementary Treatise on Optics.

He also helped make the Coddington magnifier popular. This is a special type of magnifying glass that helps you see small things more clearly.

In February 1829, Henry was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very old and respected group of scientists in the United Kingdom. Being a Fellow means you are recognized for your important contributions to science.

Awards and Groups Henry Joined

Henry Coddington was part of many important scientific groups. His name is on the first list of members of the British Association. He was also one of the first members of the Royal Astronomical Society, which studies stars and space. He was a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, which focuses on geography and exploration. As mentioned, he was also a fellow of the Royal Society and even served on its council (a leadership group) in 1831 and 1832.

Sources

• W. W. Rouse Ball, A History of the Study of Mathematics at Cambridge University, 1889, repr. Cambridge University Press, 2009, ISBN: 978-1-108-00207-3, p. 131