Thomas Gann facts for kids
Thomas William Francis Gann (born May 13, 1867 – died February 24, 1938) was a medical doctor. However, he is best known for his work as an amateur archaeologist. He spent many years exploring the ancient ruins of the Maya civilization.
Early Life and Education
Thomas Gann was born in Murrisk Abbey, County Mayo, Ireland. His father, William Gann, was from Whitstable, England. His mother, Rose Garvey, was from Murrisk Abbey. Thomas grew up in Whitstable, where his parents were well-known in the community. He later studied medicine in Middlesex, England, to become a doctor.
Exploring Ancient Maya Sites
In 1894, Thomas Gann became a medical officer in British Honduras. He lived there for about 25 years. During this time, he became very interested in the ancient Maya ruins in the area. Before him, not many people had studied these sites. He also traveled around the Yucatán Peninsula to explore more ruins.
Gann found several new Maya sites. These included Lubaantun, Ichpaatun, and Tzibanche. He was also the first to write detailed descriptions of ruins like Xunantunich and Lamanai. He did important early research at places such as Santa Rita, Louisville, and Coba. At Tulum, he found buildings that earlier explorers had missed. One special find was a temple with an ancient Pre-Columbian idol still inside.
In 1908, Gann became a special lecturer at the University of Liverpool. He taught about ancient Central American history. The university helped fund some of his trips to the Maya region until 1912.
Later Years and Legacy
Thomas Gann retired as a medical officer in British Honduras in 1923. After retiring, he wrote several books about his travels and discoveries. In 1924, he sold many of the ancient objects he had collected to the British Museum. His work helped us learn a lot about the fascinating Maya civilization.
See also
In Spanish: Thomas Gann para niños
