Silvanus Bevan facts for kids

Silvanus Bevan (1691–1765) was a clever Welsh apothecary. An apothecary was like a pharmacist and doctor rolled into one. He started a famous company in London called Allen & Hanburys. He was also a member of the Royal Society, a group for top scientists.

Silvanus Bevan's Life Story

Early Years in Wales

Silvanus Bevan was born in 1691 in Swansea, Wales. His family was quite well-off and belonged to a religious group called the Quakers. His father was also named Silvanus.

Silvanus had a younger brother named Timothy. When he was a young man, Silvanus left Swansea. He moved to London, a much bigger city, to start his career.

Starting a Career in London

In 1715, Silvanus finished his seven-year training. He became a full member of the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries. This meant he was officially allowed to practice as an apothecary.

He opened his own pharmacy at Number Two Plough Court in London. This building was famous because the poet Alexander Pope was born there. One of Silvanus's students was William Cookworthy, who later became a well-known chemist.

Growing the Business

Silvanus's business did very well. In 1725, his younger brother, Timothy, joined him. Timothy later took over the pharmacy when Silvanus retired.

Later, the company became known as Allen & Hanburys. It grew into one of London's most important medicine companies.

A Member of the Royal Society

Silvanus was very smart and interested in science. In 1725, he was chosen to join the Royal Society. This is a very old and respected group for scientists.

The famous scientist Isaac Newton suggested him for membership. In 1743, Silvanus wrote an article for the Royal Society's magazine. It was about a strange medical case he had studied.

Hobbies and Interests

Silvanus was also a talented artist. He was very good at carving things from ivory. He made busts, which are sculptures of people's heads and shoulders. Some of his carvings are still around today.

After he retired, Silvanus became interested in Welsh history. He collected old books, paintings, and even fossils. He also loved gardening. Even though he didn't speak Welsh very well, he joined a Welsh cultural group in 1762.

Family Life

In 1715, Silvanus married Elizabeth Quare. Her father, Daniel Quare, made clocks for the King. Many important people attended their wedding. Sadly, Elizabeth died soon after, and their baby son also passed away.

Silvanus later married Martha Heathcote. She was the daughter of a doctor who worked for King William III of England. Silvanus and Martha did not have any children together.

Later Life and Death

Silvanus Bevan passed away in Hackney, London, on June 5, 1765. He was buried at a place called Bunhill Fields.