Edward Frankland: Chemistry, Controversy and Conspiracy in Victorian England

This is the first scientific biography of Edward Frankland, probably the most eminent chemist of nineteenth-century Britain. Frankland discovered the chemical bond and founded the science of organometallic chemistry. He was a leading reformer of chemistry teaching, and the government's close adviser on urban water purity. From an apprenticeship in a druggist's shop in Lancaster, he was to occupy the first chemical chair at Manchester, and become professor at what became Imperial College. He was knighted in 1897. Today an obscurity of reputation stems from the conspiracy of silence surrounding Frankland's origins as an illegitimate child. Recently, however, Professor Russell has gained access to a vast collection of his private papers. Russell's authoritative account discloses, amongst much else, this web of conspiracy in the scientific community, and will be of great interest to professional chemists, historians of science, and general readers concerned with the social fabric of Victorian England.

Table of Contents:
1. Lancastrian inheritance; 2. The road to discovery; 3. Queenwood; 4. New worlds in Germany; 5. Fundamental discoveries in chemistry; 6. Frankland and the development of valency; 7. Manchester: 'The educational and commercial utility of chemistry'; 8. Return to the metropolis; 9. Advances in organic chemistry; 10. The communication of chemistry; 11. The X-Club and beyond; 12. Family: years of crisis; 13. The analysis of water supply; 14. 'The wildest parts of nature'; 15. Power; 16. Retirement years; 17. The last journey.

Review :
'Russell's skilled handling of this material makes much of the book read like a good novel, displaying deep insights into the emotions and interactions of the characters ... at the same time ... he writes with authority on Frankland's contribution to chemistry ... a triumph ... it commands the reader's attention ... I commend it without reservation.' Fred Dainton, New Scientist 'Russell ... provides an overall account that can be understood and enjoyed by scientists from other disciplines, as well as by historians of science ... Such vivid details of Frankland's private life and fascinating insights into his relationships with other eminent Victorians make this a rich and rewarding read ... Frankland was undoubtedly one of Britain's most important and influential nineteenth-century scientists and it is good to see him properly honoured at last with a fine biography.' W. H. Brock, Nature 'Edward Frankland was arguably the most important British chemist of the 19th century ... his merits have not been appreciated, nor has his story been fully told. Until now ... This impeccably researched and beautifully written book will delight and enlighten not only professional historians of science, but also chemists who wish to learn more about how their field developed.' A. J. Rocke, Chemistry in Britain 'Russell's thoroughly researched and meticulously documented book ... considers in engrossing and fascinating detail every aspect of Frankland's life and career and is likely to prove to be a definitive biography. We heartily recommend it to both historians of science and chemists interested in the development of their science.' George B. Kauffman and Laurie M. Kauffman, Angewandte Chemie '... scholars will be grateful for this book.' R. N. D. Martin, Science and Christian Belief 'The full and unvarnished story of his life is told here for the first time in an eminently authoritative, meticulously documented and carefully crafted book. In spite of its enormous erudition, it is highly entertaining to read. The author has produced a work that is as near to perfection as books ever get.' Dennis H. Rouvray, Endeavour '... unrivalled.' John Hedley Brook, Ambix '... a fascinating book that is beautifully produced.' John Nicholson, Science and Christian Belief 'I thoroughly recommend this book to all with an interest in the history of science.' A. R. Butler, Education in Chemistry '... a splendid book ... written in an imaginative and engaging style.' Maurice Crosland, Metascience '... this is a rich and rewarding biography ... It is good to see Frankland properly honoured at last.' W. H. Brock, Chemical Heritage