Sir Roderick

The geologist of profound influence is Sir Roderick Impey Murchison who was born on 19 February, 1792 in Tarradale, Scotland. The transition from a militant job to scientific expedition can be said to have signified the beginning of geology as a discipline. Notably, his contribution to the study of Russia as well as when he established and named the Silurian period after the ancient Wales Silures tribe.

This was followed by the publishing of “The Silurian System” in 1839 where Murchison strived to combine the concept of strata with those of the geological times as he marked himself in the history of geology. His work was not limited to Russia but also covered Wales and Scotland adding to the geological knowledge of the British isles significantly.

Murchison was granted many accolades, some of which are; knighted in 1846 and awarded the Wollaston Medal. He was also a two term President of the Geological Society and The Royal Geographical Society.

Personally, Murchison got married to Charlotte Hugonin in the same year that he recorded his marital status as married in the year 1830. He was considered a very sociable person, who actively cooperated with other researchers and had numerous friends among them.

The effects of Sir Roderick Impey Murchison in the field of geology cannot be underestimated and were long-lasting. These principles are used in more current research and teaching in geology today, which originated in the Silurian System. His creation best portrays curiosity and the Amazing work of one’s research in gaining knowledge on the earth history.