William Scoresby Routledge

William Scoresby Routledge %7E1910

William Scoresby Routledge (1859–1939) was a British ethnographer and anthropologist known for his extensive fieldwork and contributions to the study of indigenous cultures. He is particularly noted for his work with the Kikuyu people of Kenya and the Easter Island inhabitants.

Early Life and Education

William Scoresby Routledge was born in 1859 in England. He was educated at Oxford University, where he developed an interest in anthropology and ethnography. His academic background provided a strong foundation for his future fieldwork.

Career and Fieldwork

Routledge's career in anthropology began with his marriage to Katherine Routledge, who was also an accomplished anthropologist. Together, they embarked on several significant expeditions.

Kikuyu Expedition

In 1902, Routledge and his wife traveled to Kenya to study the Kikuyu people. They spent several years living among the Kikuyu, documenting their customs, social structures, and rituals. Their work provided valuable insights into Kikuyu culture and contributed to the broader understanding of East African societies.

Easter Island Expedition

One of Routledge's most notable achievements was his expedition to Easter Island in 1914. The Routledges were among the first Europeans to conduct a comprehensive study of the island's inhabitants and their famous moai statues. Their research included detailed surveys, photographs, and ethnographic records, which remain important resources for scholars studying Easter Island.

Publications

Routledge authored several influential works based on his fieldwork. His publications include detailed accounts of the Kikuyu and Easter Island cultures, which have been widely cited in anthropological literature.

Legacy

William Scoresby Routledge's contributions to anthropology and ethnography have had a lasting impact on the field. His meticulous documentation and analysis of indigenous cultures have provided valuable resources for future researchers. His work continues to be studied and referenced by anthropologists and historians.

Personal Life

Routledge was married to Katherine Routledge, with whom he collaborated on many of his expeditions. The couple's partnership was instrumental in their successful fieldwork and publications.

See Also

• Kikuyu people
• Easter Island
• Katherine Routledge
• Moai