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William Herbert (botanist) facts for kids

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William Herbert
Born (1778-01-12)12 January 1778
Died 28 May 1847(1847-05-28) (aged 69)
London
Nationality British
Alma mater Eton College
Christ Church
Exeter College
Merton College
Known for Early taxonomy of bulbous plants
Scientific career
Fields Botany
Author abbrev. (botany) Herb.

William Herbert (born January 12, 1778 – died May 28, 1847) was a very talented British man. He was a plant scientist (called a botanist), an artist who drew plants, a poet, and a church leader (clergyman). He also worked in politics as a Member of Parliament. He is best known for his important studies of a group of plants called Amaryllidaceae, which include beautiful flowers like daffodils and amaryllis.

William Herbert's Early Life and Education

William Herbert was born on January 12, 1778. He was the third son in a large family, with his father being the first Earl of Carnarvon. He went to a famous school called Eton College. After that, he studied at several well-known universities in Oxford, including Christ Church, Exeter College, and Merton College. He earned several degrees during his time there.

A Career in Politics and the Church

William Herbert had a busy career that included both politics and religion. He was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Hampshire in 1806. An MP is someone chosen to represent people in the government. Later, he became an MP for Cricklade in 1811. He also worked as a lawyer for a short time.

After leaving politics in 1812, William Herbert decided to become a clergyman. In 1814, he became a priest and was given a church in a place called Spofforth in Yorkshire. He stayed there until 1840, when he was promoted to a very important position: the Dean of Manchester.

William Herbert passed away suddenly in London on May 28, 1847.

His Family Life

William Herbert married a woman named Letitia Emily Dorothea on May 17, 1806. They had four children together, including a son named Henry William Herbert.

How William Herbert is Remembered

William Herbert's work with plants, especially those with bulbs, was very important. To honor his contributions, the International Bulb Society gives out a special award called The Herbert Medal. This medal is given to people who have done amazing things to help us learn more about bulbous plants.

See also

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