It isn’t a secret to anyone that scientists are completely dedicated to their work. As a rule, they can’t think about anything else but science while working on their research. Of course, such self-sacrifice is characteristic of all people who sincerely love what they do. However, it seems that scientists are the most vivid examples in this regard. Learn more at london1.one.
Lucas Barrett is remembered in the world scientific community as an English naturalist and geologist. He headed the Jamaican Geological Survey from 1859 to 1862. Later, thanks to his scientific achievements, he was offered the position of England’s Government Geological Inspector.
Unfortunately, the scientist’s life turned out to be very short. He didn’t die of some disease or the hand of a murderer. The cause of his death was his favourite activity. Intrigued? Then get comfortable and let’s learn more about the most talented geologists in London’s history. His numerous successes are proof of true talent. The high positions that he was offered testify to the great respect on the part of the government.
However, such a brilliant career couldn’t save the scientist from an early death. There is a popular opinion that really talented people don’t live long. They burn with their work and sometimes forget about themselves and their safety. We don’t know whether it is true or not. However, life shows that truly gifted people dive headlong into the sphere they are engaged in. Unfortunately, such dedication often plays a cruel joke on them. Lucas Barrett’s story was no exception.
Beginning of the story
Lucas Barrett was born in London on November 14, 1837. His father was George Barrett, an iron founder. He designed iron structures for the London Kings Cross Railway Station. Unfortunately, nothing is known about the mother of the future scientist.
Young Lucas attended University College School.
In 1853, he left for Ebersdorf to study botany and chemistry.
Research
On May 2, 1855, when Lucas was only 18 years old, he became a member of the Geological Society.
In 1855, along with Robert MacAndrew, he conducted dredging in Norway and Finland.
Later, Lucas made scientific cruises to Greenland and Spain.
Thanks to those expeditions, the young scientist acquired great knowledge.
Valuable find
Around 1858, while in Norway, Lucas discovered a massive deep-sea sponge Geodia barretti.
Interesting offer
It’s important to note that Barrett was invited to work in the Woodwardian Museum in Cambridge. Then he also began to give lectures. Around the same time, the scientist started to work on a geological map of Cambridge.
Director
In 1859, when Lucas was 22 years old, he was offered to head the Jamaican Geological Survey.
In the course of it, he managed to determine the Cretaceous age of some rocks containing Hippurites. In addition, he found fossils from the Miocene and newer layers.
Leader of the new survey
Speaking about Lucas’ career development, we have to mention the West Indian Geological Survey.
We should start with the fact that its foundation took place in 1857 at the initiative of the Colonial Office in London. The first task of the newly created survey was the study of the island of Trinidad. At that time, the survey was headed by George Parks Wall. After his resignation, Barrett replaced him and excelled in the new position.
Death at work
Unfortunately, Barrett’s earthly path turned out to be very short. He died at the age of 25 while conducting research on the seabed of Port Royal.
Photo source: wikipedia