John Witt Randall

Poems of Nature and Life - John Witt Randall Portrait

John Witt Randall (November 13, 1813 – January 6, 1892) was an American physician, naturalist, and poet. He is best known for his contributions to entomology and his extensive collection of art and literature.

Early Life and Education

John Witt Randall was born in Boston, Massachusetts, to a prominent family. He was the son of Dr. John Randall, a well-known physician, and Elizabeth Wells Randall. Randall attended the Boston Latin School and later graduated from Harvard College in 1834. He continued his education at Harvard Medical School, where he earned his medical degree in 1837.

Career

Although trained as a physician, Randall's interests extended beyond medicine. He was an avid naturalist and made significant contributions to the field of entomology. Randall was particularly interested in Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) and amassed a large collection of specimens. His work in entomology was highly regarded by his contemporaries.

Randall was also a poet and an art collector. He published several volumes of poetry and was known for his literary talents. His art collection included works by prominent artists of his time, and he was a patron of the arts.

Contributions to Entomology

Randall's contributions to entomology include the discovery and description of several new species of butterflies and moths. His collection of Lepidoptera specimens was one of the most comprehensive of his time and was used by other entomologists for research and study.

Personal Life

John Witt Randall never married and dedicated much of his life to his scientific and literary pursuits. He was known for his eccentric personality and his deep commitment to his work. Randall passed away on January 6, 1892, in Boston.

Legacy

Randall's contributions to entomology and his extensive collections of art and literature have left a lasting impact. His collections were donated to various institutions, where they continue to be studied and appreciated.

See Also

• Entomology
• Lepidoptera
• Harvard College
• Harvard Medical School
• Boston Latin School