A LIFE OF SERVICE AND INNOVATION
THOMAS DRUMMOND MEMORIAL AT MOUNT JEROME CEMETERY [A LIFE OF SERVICE AND INNOVATION]
Thomas Drummond (1797-1840) was a Scottish-born officer, civil engineer, and public servant who made significant contributions to both engineering and Irish history. He is best known for his invention of the Drummond Light, a powerful limelight used in surveying, and for his impactful tenure as Under-Secretary for Ireland. This article delves into Drummond's life, explores his family history, and examines his lasting legacy within the context of Irish history.
The Thomas Drummond Monument in Mount Jerome Cemetery
Drummond's final resting place is in Mount Jerome Cemetery in Dublin. His dying wish was to be buried in Ireland, "the land of my adoption," a testament to his deep affection for the country he served. His grave is marked by an impressive monument, constructed of granite with a marble book atop a granite vault, situated prominently on the East Walk. This monument stands as a lasting tribute to Drummond's enduring impact on Ireland.
Early Life and Career
Born in Edinburgh in 1797, Drummond showed an early inclination towards mathematics. He received his early education at Musselburgh grammar school, then through private tutoring and at a small Edinburgh school. He continued his studies at Edinburgh High School and later at the University of Edinburgh, demonstrating a natural talent for the subject. In 1813, he enrolled at the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich and joined the Royal Engineers in 1815, where he quickly earned a reputation as a skilled surveyor. During this early part of his career, he was involved in public works in Edinburgh and participated in the trigonometrical survey of Great Britain and Ireland.
In the early 1820s, Drummond was assigned to a survey of the Scottish Highlands, a challenging project that further developed his surveying expertise. It was during this time that he began experimenting with limelight, having learned about its discovery through lectures by Sir Michael Faraday. This early work laid the foundation for his later invention of the Drummond Light.
While working on the boundary commission to redraw parliamentary boundaries for the Reform Act of 1832, Drummond's skills and growing reputation brought him to the attention of Lord Brougham. He gave a private demonstration of his light to the Lord Chancellor, and this connection led to further opportunities. In 1831, he even dined with the King at the Royal Palace in Brighton, a sign of his increasing recognition in society. He was subsequently appointed to head the boundary commission, where he worked with Lord Althorp, the chancellor of the exchequer, and eventually became his private secretary in 1833.
The Drummond Light and the Ordnance Survey of Ireland
In 1824, Drummond joined the Ordnance Survey of Ireland, where he continued to refine and utilise the Drummond Light. This innovative device, created by directing an oxyhydrogen flame at a block of lime, produced an intensely bright light source. It proved invaluable for surveying, enabling accurate measurements over long distances, even in challenging conditions and at night. Drummond reported that the light could be seen from 68 miles away and cast a strong shadow at a distance of 13 miles. While he did not invent limelight itself, he was the first to recognise and harness its potential for surveying and cartography.
During his time with the Ordnance Survey, Drummond also collaborated with Colonel Thomas Frederick Colby to produce self-compensating measuring bars, further enhancing the accuracy of their surveying work. He had aspirations to adapt his limelight for use in lighthouses, but the high cost proved to be a barrier.
Under-Secretary for Ireland: A Legacy of Reform
Drummond's most significant contribution to Irish history came during his tenure as Under-Secretary for Ireland from 1835 to 1840. This position placed him at the centre of the British administration in Dublin Castle, where he was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the government. He was widely respected for his impartiality and his dedication to improving the lives of the Irish people.
Before assuming the role of Under-Secretary, Drummond had temporarily left Ireland prior to the Reform Act 1832. Upon his return, he brought with him a wealth of experience and a commitment to reform that would shape his approach to governance.
One of Drummond's key achievements was the establishment of the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) in 1836. This professional police force replaced the existing system of local watchmen, which was often inefficient, partisan, and corrupt. Prior to establishing the RIC, Drummond had already taken steps to improve the Dublin police force, replacing 400 watchmen with 1,000 more capable constables. He firmly believed that peace in Ireland could be best achieved by trusting and fairly treating the Irish people, a radical notion at the time. The RIC, composed primarily of Catholic peasants, proved to be a more effective and impartial force, contributing to a period of relative stability.
Drummond also advocated for land reform and challenged the prevailing view that property rights were absolute. In a now-famous letter to Tipperary magistrates in 1838, he asserted that "property has its duties as well as its rights". This statement, which sparked public controversy and debate, argued that landlords had a responsibility to their tenants and should not use their power to unjustly evict them. This stance, while controversial, reflected Drummond's commitment to social justice and his belief in fair treatment for all.
In 1839, Drummond further demonstrated his commitment to Ireland by defending the government's Irish policy before a select committee of the House of Lords. This appearance highlighted his deep involvement in the political landscape of the time and his dedication to promoting policies that would benefit the Irish people.
Drummond's tireless work ethic and dedication to reform took a toll on his health. He died prematurely in 1840 at the age of 42, likely due to overwork and stress. His death was deeply mourned by many in Ireland, with Daniel O'Connell, a prominent Irish nationalist leader, serving as chief mourner at his funeral. A statue in his honour, sculpted by John Hogan, was erected in Dublin's City Hall in 1843 as a lasting tribute to his contributions.
Drummond's Family and Legacy
Drummond's parents, James Drummond and Elizabeth Somers, had connections to the Scottish literary world. His father was a member of the Society of Writers to the Signet, a prestigious legal society in Scotland, and his mother was the daughter of Whig writer James Somers. Thomas was the third of four children, with two brothers and a sister. His father died in 1800, leaving the family in considerable debt, which forced his mother to sell their estates and move the family first to Preston and then to Musselburgh.
In 1835, shortly before assuming the role of Under-Secretary for Ireland, Drummond married Maria Kinnaird, a wealthy heiress and the adopted daughter of critic Richard "Conversation" Sharp. Maria was described as an "accomplished, attractive, and intelligent woman" who actively supported her husband's work. Together, they had three daughters: Emily, Mary, and Fanny.
Unfortunately, the research material provides limited information about the lives of Drummond's wife and daughters after his death. Further investigation into genealogical records or historical archives might reveal more information about their marriages, families, and any notable achievements.
Drummond's family history can be traced back to the Lundin family, who descended from Thomas de Lundin, a natural son of King William the Lion. His paternal grandparents were Robert Lundin and Anne Inglis, daughter of Sir James Inglis of Cramond.
Conclusion
Thomas Drummond's life was one of remarkable achievement and unwavering dedication to public service. From his early days as a skilled surveyor, he honed his talents and developed innovative solutions to the challenges he faced. His invention of the Drummond Light revolutionised surveying techniques, enabling more accurate mapping and contributing to advancements in cartography.
Drummond's legacy, however, extends far beyond his engineering achievements. His time as Under-Secretary for Ireland cemented his place in Irish history as a champion of fairness, justice, and reform. He challenged established norms, advocated for the rights of the Irish people, and implemented policies that aimed to create a more just and equitable society. His establishment of the Royal Irish Constabulary, a professional and impartial police force, marked a significant step towards greater stability and security in Ireland.
While the available research offers limited insight into the fate of his family after his death, their story remains an important area for further investigation. Uncovering more details about the lives of his wife and daughters would provide a more complete picture of this remarkable man and his lasting impact on those around him.
Drummond's papers are located in the National Library of Ireland. For those interested in learning more about his life and work, historical accounts and biographies provide valuable insights. John F. M'Lennan's "Memoir of Thomas Drummond R.E., F.R.A.S." (1867) and the entry in the Dictionary of National Biography offer detailed accounts of his life and career.
Thomas Drummond (1797-1840) was a Scottish-born officer, civil engineer, and public servant who made significant contributions to both engineering and Irish history. He is best known for his invention of the Drummond Light, a powerful limelight used in surveying, and for his impactful tenure as Under-Secretary for Ireland. This article delves into Drummond's life, explores his family history, and examines his lasting legacy within the context of Irish history.
The Thomas Drummond Monument in Mount Jerome Cemetery
Drummond's final resting place is in Mount Jerome Cemetery in Dublin. His dying wish was to be buried in Ireland, "the land of my adoption," a testament to his deep affection for the country he served. His grave is marked by an impressive monument, constructed of granite with a marble book atop a granite vault, situated prominently on the East Walk. This monument stands as a lasting tribute to Drummond's enduring impact on Ireland.
Early Life and Career
Born in Edinburgh in 1797, Drummond showed an early inclination towards mathematics. He received his early education at Musselburgh grammar school, then through private tutoring and at a small Edinburgh school. He continued his studies at Edinburgh High School and later at the University of Edinburgh, demonstrating a natural talent for the subject. In 1813, he enrolled at the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich and joined the Royal Engineers in 1815, where he quickly earned a reputation as a skilled surveyor. During this early part of his career, he was involved in public works in Edinburgh and participated in the trigonometrical survey of Great Britain and Ireland.
In the early 1820s, Drummond was assigned to a survey of the Scottish Highlands, a challenging project that further developed his surveying expertise. It was during this time that he began experimenting with limelight, having learned about its discovery through lectures by Sir Michael Faraday. This early work laid the foundation for his later invention of the Drummond Light.
While working on the boundary commission to redraw parliamentary boundaries for the Reform Act of 1832, Drummond's skills and growing reputation brought him to the attention of Lord Brougham. He gave a private demonstration of his light to the Lord Chancellor, and this connection led to further opportunities. In 1831, he even dined with the King at the Royal Palace in Brighton, a sign of his increasing recognition in society. He was subsequently appointed to head the boundary commission, where he worked with Lord Althorp, the chancellor of the exchequer, and eventually became his private secretary in 1833.
The Drummond Light and the Ordnance Survey of Ireland
In 1824, Drummond joined the Ordnance Survey of Ireland, where he continued to refine and utilise the Drummond Light. This innovative device, created by directing an oxyhydrogen flame at a block of lime, produced an intensely bright light source. It proved invaluable for surveying, enabling accurate measurements over long distances, even in challenging conditions and at night. Drummond reported that the light could be seen from 68 miles away and cast a strong shadow at a distance of 13 miles. While he did not invent limelight itself, he was the first to recognise and harness its potential for surveying and cartography.
During his time with the Ordnance Survey, Drummond also collaborated with Colonel Thomas Frederick Colby to produce self-compensating measuring bars, further enhancing the accuracy of their surveying work. He had aspirations to adapt his limelight for use in lighthouses, but the high cost proved to be a barrier.
Under-Secretary for Ireland: A Legacy of Reform
Drummond's most significant contribution to Irish history came during his tenure as Under-Secretary for Ireland from 1835 to 1840. This position placed him at the centre of the British administration in Dublin Castle, where he was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the government. He was widely respected for his impartiality and his dedication to improving the lives of the Irish people.
Before assuming the role of Under-Secretary, Drummond had temporarily left Ireland prior to the Reform Act 1832. Upon his return, he brought with him a wealth of experience and a commitment to reform that would shape his approach to governance.
One of Drummond's key achievements was the establishment of the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) in 1836. This professional police force replaced the existing system of local watchmen, which was often inefficient, partisan, and corrupt. Prior to establishing the RIC, Drummond had already taken steps to improve the Dublin police force, replacing 400 watchmen with 1,000 more capable constables. He firmly believed that peace in Ireland could be best achieved by trusting and fairly treating the Irish people, a radical notion at the time. The RIC, composed primarily of Catholic peasants, proved to be a more effective and impartial force, contributing to a period of relative stability.
Drummond also advocated for land reform and challenged the prevailing view that property rights were absolute. In a now-famous letter to Tipperary magistrates in 1838, he asserted that "property has its duties as well as its rights". This statement, which sparked public controversy and debate, argued that landlords had a responsibility to their tenants and should not use their power to unjustly evict them. This stance, while controversial, reflected Drummond's commitment to social justice and his belief in fair treatment for all.
In 1839, Drummond further demonstrated his commitment to Ireland by defending the government's Irish policy before a select committee of the House of Lords. This appearance highlighted his deep involvement in the political landscape of the time and his dedication to promoting policies that would benefit the Irish people.
Drummond's tireless work ethic and dedication to reform took a toll on his health. He died prematurely in 1840 at the age of 42, likely due to overwork and stress. His death was deeply mourned by many in Ireland, with Daniel O'Connell, a prominent Irish nationalist leader, serving as chief mourner at his funeral. A statue in his honour, sculpted by John Hogan, was erected in Dublin's City Hall in 1843 as a lasting tribute to his contributions.
Drummond's Family and Legacy
Drummond's parents, James Drummond and Elizabeth Somers, had connections to the Scottish literary world. His father was a member of the Society of Writers to the Signet, a prestigious legal society in Scotland, and his mother was the daughter of Whig writer James Somers. Thomas was the third of four children, with two brothers and a sister. His father died in 1800, leaving the family in considerable debt, which forced his mother to sell their estates and move the family first to Preston and then to Musselburgh.
In 1835, shortly before assuming the role of Under-Secretary for Ireland, Drummond married Maria Kinnaird, a wealthy heiress and the adopted daughter of critic Richard "Conversation" Sharp. Maria was described as an "accomplished, attractive, and intelligent woman" who actively supported her husband's work. Together, they had three daughters: Emily, Mary, and Fanny.
Unfortunately, the research material provides limited information about the lives of Drummond's wife and daughters after his death. Further investigation into genealogical records or historical archives might reveal more information about their marriages, families, and any notable achievements.
Drummond's family history can be traced back to the Lundin family, who descended from Thomas de Lundin, a natural son of King William the Lion. His paternal grandparents were Robert Lundin and Anne Inglis, daughter of Sir James Inglis of Cramond.
Conclusion
Thomas Drummond's life was one of remarkable achievement and unwavering dedication to public service. From his early days as a skilled surveyor, he honed his talents and developed innovative solutions to the challenges he faced. His invention of the Drummond Light revolutionised surveying techniques, enabling more accurate mapping and contributing to advancements in cartography.
Drummond's legacy, however, extends far beyond his engineering achievements. His time as Under-Secretary for Ireland cemented his place in Irish history as a champion of fairness, justice, and reform. He challenged established norms, advocated for the rights of the Irish people, and implemented policies that aimed to create a more just and equitable society. His establishment of the Royal Irish Constabulary, a professional and impartial police force, marked a significant step towards greater stability and security in Ireland.
While the available research offers limited insight into the fate of his family after his death, their story remains an important area for further investigation. Uncovering more details about the lives of his wife and daughters would provide a more complete picture of this remarkable man and his lasting impact on those around him.
Drummond's papers are located in the National Library of Ireland. For those interested in learning more about his life and work, historical accounts and biographies provide valuable insights. John F. M'Lennan's "Memoir of Thomas Drummond R.E., F.R.A.S." (1867) and the entry in the Dictionary of National Biography offer detailed accounts of his life and career.
A LIFE OF SERVICE AND INNOVATION