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James Ernest Richey

MC FRS FRSE FGS
James Ernest Richey, Geological Survey group.jpg
James Ernest Richey
Born (1886-04-24)24 April 1886
County Tyrone, Ireland
Died 19 June 1968(1968-06-19) (aged 82)
Coleshill, Warwickshire
Citizenship Irish
Spouse(s) Henrietta Lily McNally
Awards Fellow (Royal Society of Edinburgh), Lyell Medal (Geological Society of London), Clough Medal (Edinburgh Geological Society), Neill Prize and Medal of the Royal Society of Edinburgh

James Ernest Richey (born April 24, 1886 – died June 19, 1968) was an important Irish geologist. He spent his life studying rocks and the Earth's history.

The Life of James Richey

Early Life and Education

James Ernest Richey was born in Desertcreat, County Tyrone, Ireland, on April 24, 1886. His father, John Richey, was a church leader in the area.

James went to St Columba's College near Dublin. In 1904, he earned a spot at Trinity College, Dublin. There, he studied Natural Sciences, which includes subjects like geology. He earned his first degree in 1908. He then studied engineering for another year, finishing in 1909.

Starting His Career

In 1910, James Richey worked at Oxford University. He was a "Demonstrator," which means he helped professors with their lessons and showed students how things worked.

After a year, he left the university to work in the field. He joined the Scottish Geological Survey. This group studies the rocks and land of Scotland. His first job was on the Isle of Mull. He quickly became the top expert on the geology of that island.

Serving in World War I

Like many people, James Richey's career was paused by the First World War. He joined the Royal Engineers, a part of the army that deals with building and engineering. He fought on the western front, which was a major battle area.

He was in many battles and was hurt at least once. He was given the Military Cross for his bravery. In 1919, he left the army as a captain.

Return to Geology

In 1922, James Richey returned to the Geological Survey of Scotland. He became a Senior Geologist. By 1925, he was promoted to District Geologist, a very important role.

Awards and Recognition

James Richey received many honors for his work.

  • In 1927, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. This is a group of top scientists. He later served as their general secretary and vice president. He also won their Neill Prize.
  • In 1932, he led the Glasgow Geological Society as its president.
  • In 1933, the Geological Society of London gave him the Lyell Medal. This is a very important award for geologists.
  • In 1934, he received an honorary doctorate, which is a special university degree.
  • In 1938, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of London. This is one of the oldest and most respected science groups in the world.

Later Life

James Richey retired from his work in 1946. He passed away in Coleshill, Warwickshire, on June 19, 1968.

Family Life

In 1924, James Richey married Henrietta Lily McNally.

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