News
Part 2
January 14, 2009
Although determined to become a doctor, when Charles arrived at college he was sickened at the very sight of blood. Obviously, this precluded him from entering the medical profession! Like many young people at the time, he changed his major with the understanding he'd ultimately become an Anglican parson. This heartened his father, who had instilled the teachings of the church in his son from a young age. It was Charles' educational background that made FitzRoy certain they would have wonderful conversations about the beauty and power of Christianity.
FitzRoy himself was a strange duck indeed! He was very private and although he dined with Charles nearly every evening, for what turned out to be five years, he never mentioned to Charles he was engaged to be married upon his return! (Perhaps this is the reason the trip ran an extra three years? Pure speculation of course.)
Charles' and Robert's scientific adventure lasted from 1831-1836. In five years, the pair circumnavigated the entire world. During this worldwide odyssey, Charles collected fossils, studied coral reefs, became a trained taxidermist, and kept meticulous records, observations, sketches, and notes. In fact, his work promoted him to celebrity status upon his return home to England.
Interestingly, post-voyage he spent many years studying barnacles - yes, the fascinating world of mollusks. Possibly the most important scientific work he published was on the study of earthworms and how they effect the land. He was the first to observe, conceive, and document the immense contribution the lowly earthworm makes to our soil. This was to be the last of his work published.
Charles settled down and married his cousin Emma, who was also part of the Wedgewood clan. They had 10 children together, many who followed in their father's footsteps. Unfortunately, Charles' fascination with his work drove him to near insanity and he began having intense physical symptoms that manifested under stress. Emma was truly the backbone of the family and carried the burden of raising the children and running the household.
Do you know who Charley is yet? Click here to find out!