William Henry Flower

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WilliamFlowerKCB

William Henry Flower (30 November 1831 – 1 July 1899) was a prominent British comparative anatomist and zoologist. He made significant contributions to the fields of mammalogy and museum curation, and he was a key figure in the development of the Natural History Museum, London.

Early Life and Education

William Henry Flower was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England. He was the son of Edward Fordham Flower, a successful brewer, and Celina Greaves. Flower was educated at University College School and later attended University College London where he studied medicine.

Medical Career

Flower began his medical career as a surgeon in the Crimean War, serving with distinction. After the war, he returned to London and worked at the Middlesex Hospital, where he developed an interest in comparative anatomy.

Contributions to Zoology

Flower's work in zoology was extensive. He was particularly known for his studies on the anatomy of mammals, including primates and cetaceans. His research helped to advance the understanding of mammalian evolution and classification.

Natural History Museum

In 1861, Flower was appointed as the Conservator of the Hunterian Museum at the Royal College of Surgeons of England. He later became the Director of the Natural History Museum, London in 1884, where he played a crucial role in reorganizing the museum's collections and exhibits.

Publications

Flower authored several important works in the field of zoology, including:

• "An Introduction to the Osteology of the Mammalia" (1870)
• "Mammals, Living and Extinct" (1891)
• Numerous scientific papers on the anatomy and classification of mammals

Legacy

William Henry Flower's contributions to comparative anatomy and museum curation have had a lasting impact on the field of zoology. His work laid the foundation for future research in mammalian anatomy and helped to establish the Natural History Museum, London as a leading institution for scientific study.

Personal Life

Flower married Georgiana Rosetta Smyth in 1858, and they had several children. He was known for his dedication to his work and his contributions to the scientific community.

Death

William Henry Flower passed away on 1 July 1899 in South Kensington, London.

See Also

• Comparative anatomy
• Mammalogy
• Natural History Museum, London
• Hunterian Museum