Richard Battley facts for kids

Richard Battley (1770–1856) was an important English chemist. He made many useful changes to how medicines were prepared. He also helped teach new medical students.

Early Life and Education

Richard Battley was born around 1770 in Wakefield, England. His father was an architect. Richard went to the Wakefield Grammar School. After school, he trained with a physician in Wakefield.

Starting His Career

Later, Battley became a medical helper for collieries (coal mines) near Newcastle upon Tyne. He then moved to London to study more at medical schools. After finishing his studies, he joined the Royal Navy. He worked as an assistant surgeon and was part of several battles with Sir Sidney Smith.

Contributions to Medicine

After a few years, Richard Battley returned to London. He started his own business as an apothecary. An apothecary is like a pharmacist who prepares and sells medicines. He had shops first in St. Paul's Churchyard, then in Fore Street, Cripplegate.

Helping the Community

When the London Eye Infirmary was created, Battley helped a lot. He gave them medicines for free for some time. He also worked as the secretary for the infirmary.

Improving Pharmacy

Battley made many important improvements in how medicines were prepared. He also created a special museum at his home in Fore Street. This museum had a collection of materia medica. This means it had samples of plants, animals, and minerals used to make medicines. This museum was open for free to students from all the medical schools.

Later Years and Death

Richard Battley died in Reigate on March 4, 1856.