Rutherford – Simple Genius

Abstract

From a superficial glance, it might be thought that men of science are barely represented in Westminster Abbey, among the kings, courtiers, naval and military men, poets, statesmen and heroes of Empire. This is not so. One of the most splendid works of sculpture of the 18th century is the monument, adjacent to his grave, to Sir Isaac Newton. Many Fellows of the Royal Society are there as well, though this might be coincidental as they were also bishops or deans. Not all might be buried in the Abbey, but physicians, astronomers, and engineers are commemorated by marble statues or tablets, in stained glass, by monumental brass, or, like the Herschels, only by their gravestones. It is true that some have had to wait a long time for a memorial: Edmond Halley's stylised comet appeared only four years ago. These are, however, in good company, for even Shakespeare (buried at Stratford-on-Avon) had no memorial in the Abbey until well over a century after his death. Nor should men of science feel that they have been overlooked, because of all the country's architects, only one or two are represented, and only one painter is commemorated, and he is not John Constable.