Theodore Thomson Flynn facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Theodore Thomson Flynn
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| Born | 11 October 1883 Coraki, New South Wales, Australia
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| Died | 23 October 1968 (aged 85) Liss, Hampshire, England
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| Spouse(s) |
Lily Mary (Marelle) Young
(m. 1909) |
| Children | Errol Flynn |
| Scientific career | |
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Theodore Thomson Flynn (1883–1968) was an important Australian scientist. He was a zoologist, which means he studied animals. He was also a marine biologist, meaning he focused on sea life. Professor Flynn taught at universities in both Tasmania, Australia, and the United Kingdom. He was the father of the famous actor Errol Flynn.
Contents
Life and Work
Early Life and Education
Theodore Thomson Flynn was born on October 11, 1883, in Coraki, New South Wales, Australia. His parents were Jessie B. and John Flynn. He loved studying living things from a young age.
Teaching Career in Australia
In 1909, Flynn started working at the University of Tasmania. He began as a lecturer in biology. By 1911, he became a full professor. He taught many students there until 1930.
Family Life
On January 23, 1909, Theodore Flynn married Lily Mary Young. They had one child together, their son Errol Flynn. Errol later became a very well-known film actor.
Move to Northern Ireland
After his time in Tasmania, Flynn and his family moved to Northern Ireland. In 1931, he became the Chair of Zoology at Queen's University Belfast. He also took on the role of director at the marine station in Portaferry. This station was a place where scientists could study sea creatures.
Service During Wartime
During World War II, the city of Belfast faced air raids. These events were known as the Belfast Blitz. Professor Flynn helped the city during this difficult time. He was the chief casualty officer, which meant he was in charge of helping people affected by the bombings. For his important service, he received an award called the Order of the British Empire on January 1, 1945.
Naming a New Species
Professor Flynn discovered a new type of sub-tropical fish called a kelpfish. He named this new species Gibbonsia erroli. He chose this name to honor his son, Errol.
Later Life
Theodore Thomson Flynn passed away on October 23, 1968. He died in Liss, Hampshire, England.
Legacy
A lake on Macquarie Island was named Flynn Lake in his honor. This shows how important his work was.
