James Gordon MacGregor facts for kids
James Gordon MacGregor was a smart Canadian physicist. He was born in Halifax, Canada, on March 31, 1852. He passed away in Edinburgh on May 21, 1913. He was known for being very bright and energetic.
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His Life and Work
James Gordon MacGregor was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on March 31, 1852. His father was Rev Peter Gordon MacGregor. James went to school at the Free Church Academy in Halifax.
His Education Journey
After school, he studied at Dalhousie University. He earned his MA degree there. He then traveled to Europe for more studies. He attended universities in Edinburgh, Leipzig, and London.
Teaching Physics
In 1876, James returned to Nova Scotia. He taught physics for a year at Dalhousie University. In 1877, he moved to England. There, he became a science teacher at Clifton College in Bristol.
In 1879, he went back to Dalhousie University. He became a physics professor. He stayed in this important role for 21 years.
Joining Important Societies
Even while in Canada, James kept strong connections with Britain. In 1880, he became a fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. This is a group for top scientists. In 1900, he also became a fellow of the Royal Society of London. This is another very important science group.
Return to Edinburgh
In 1901, James moved back to Britain. He took over a special physics job at the University of Edinburgh. This job was previously held by the famous scientist Peter Guthrie Tait. James found this new role very appealing. It offered a better salary and good equipment.
His Final Years
James Gordon MacGregor passed away at his home in Edinburgh. His house was at 24 Dalrymple Crescent. He died on May 21, 1913. He is buried in Morningside Cemetery in south Edinburgh.
His Family
In 1888, James married Marion Miller Taylor. She passed away in 1938. She was buried next to him. Their son, Archibald Gordon MacGregor, was also a well-known scientist. He became a geologist.
