Sir Joseph Banks British explorer and naturalist who, as long-time president of the Royal Society, London, became known for his promotion of science.
Joseph Banks studied at Oxford from 1760 to 1763, during which time he inherited a considerable fortune. After graduating, he travelled to Newfoundland and Labrador in 1766, collecting plant and other specimens.
In 1768 he led the Royal Society delegation on a voyage around the world with Captain James Cook, during which time they landed in New Zealand, at Poverty Bay, in 1769. While there, Banks described a great number of plants found in the area and wrote detailed descriptions of the Maori people who lived there. His scientific account of the voyage and its discoveries sparked considerable interest in Europe, encouraging European settlement near the Pacific islands.
Horncastle Connection
Although the achievements of Banks are widely acknowledged, both nationally and internationally, his affection for, and contributions to his home town of Horncastle is less well appreciated.
Through his endeavours the foundations were laid that would lead to the improved health, well being and prosperity to the people and businesses in and around Horncastle.
Sir Joseph Banks was the driving force behind:-
- The drainage of the Wildmore Fens to the south of Horncastle leading to the reclamation of fertile land for farming.
- The formation, and patronage, of Lincolnshire's first dispensary, in Horncastle, supplying medical treatment to the poor. This included free vaccinations against small pox.
- Annual fund raising balls, on behalf of the dispensary, held at the assembly rooms of the Bull Hotel.
- Replacing the Open Field system with Land Enclosure resulting in greater opportunities for individuals and families to farm and build houses on their own land.
- The establishment, patronage and construction of the Horncastle Navigation canal opening a trade route to the River Witham and beyond.
- The formation and patronage of the Medical Society of Horncastle and the Lincolnshire Benevolent Medical Society.
- Edward Harrison's crusade to bring about Medical Reform through a Parliamentary bill.
- The formation and patronage of the first British School in Horncastle built on his land with trees he supplied from Revesby Abbey.
Affectionately known by locals as "Cousin Joe", Banks dedicated much of his valuable time to the welfare and prosperity of the Horncastle townsfolk.
Until recently, the only trace of Banks in Horncastle is his Town House in the High Street adorned with a commemorative Blue Plaque.
But now, mainly due to the vision and determination of Paul Scott and Jean Burton, the Sir Joseph Banks Society and Sir Joseph Banks Centre are being established and opened here in his home town.
