Philip James Yorke facts for kids
Philip James Yorke was a British Army officer and a brilliant scientist. He was born on October 13, 1799. He was also a member of the important Royal Society. Yorke helped start the Chemical Society in the United Kingdom.
Contents
A Look at Philip James Yorke's Life
Early Life and Education
Philip James Yorke was born on October 13, 1799. He was the oldest son of Philip Yorke and Anna Maria. His family had important connections. For example, one of his great-grandfathers was the Earl of Hardwicke.
When he was nine, Yorke began studying with Dr. Pearson in Surrey. At age 12, he went to Harrow School in London. This was a well-known school.
Military Career
In 1810, Yorke left Harrow School. He joined the Scots Fusilier Guards as an officer. He stayed with the Guards until 1852. He eventually became a Lieutenant-Colonel.
Later, during the Crimean War, Yorke became a Colonel. He led the Herefordshire militia for three years.
Family Life
On April 27, 1843, Yorke married Emily Clifford. She was the youngest daughter of William Morgan Clifford. They lived in Perrystone, Herefordshire. Philip James Yorke passed away on December 14, 1874.
Philip James Yorke's Scientific Work
Contributions to Science
Philip James Yorke was a very talented scientist. He wrote thirteen scientific papers. These papers showed he was skilled in many areas. He was a chemist, studying how different substances react. He was also a meteorologist, someone who studies weather. And he was a mineralogist, studying minerals and rocks.
His first scientific paper was about how lead reacts with water. This was published in 1834. He was also very active in the Royal Institution of Great Britain. He often helped manage its activities.
Founding the Chemical Society
In 1841, Yorke was one of the first members of the Chemical Society. This group is now known as the Royal Society of Chemistry. It is a very important organization for chemists.
Yorke was chosen to be a member of the Royal Society in 1849. This is a famous group of scientists. He became the Vice-president of the Chemical Society in 1852. Then, he served as its President from 1853 to 1855.