The Reverend Dr William Henry Dallinger, F.R.S. (1839-1909)

William Dallinger illustrates a social outsider concerned with the application of science to the physical, intellectual and spiritual health of his homeland, who forced his way into the scientific life of his nation. His path was encouraged by mentors such as William McKenny who steered him into the Methodist ministry, James Drysdale who helped him get established as a scientist and John Tyndall, Thomas Huxley and Charles Darwin who encouraged his scientific efforts and smoothed his way into his nation's highest scientific circles. The shadowy figures of John Wesley and John Ray played a role in affirming the validity of his scientific interests and concerns for science education.