Explore Harpenden’s Lydekker Legacy at New Museum Exhibition
A new exhibition at Harpenden Museum highlights the significant contributions of Richard Lydekker, a renowned naturalist. Active during the Victorian era, Lydekker’s work in zoology, paleontology, and biogeography had a lasting impact on the scientific community.
Discovering Richard Lydekker’s Legacy
Richard Lydekker, who lived from 1849 to 1915, is celebrated for his extensive research on fossil vertebrates. His family resided at Harpenden Lodge, which has historical significance in the area. Lydekker’s studies, particularly in India, enriched the understanding of prehistoric fauna.
Contributions to Science and Geography
- Catalogued new species and fossil records.
- Published a 10-volume series on fossil mammals, reptiles, and birds.
- Identified significant biogeographical boundaries, notably Lydekker’s Line.
Lydekker’s Line marks the division between Wallacea and Australia-New Guinea, emphasizing geology’s role in biodiversity. This line illustrates how different environments affect animal and plant species.
Legacy in Harpenden
The exhibition features stunning illustrations from Lydekker’s books, many of which are now enlarged and displayed. Curator Pamela Doran noted, “Lydekker traveled extensively, producing vital works on the flora and fauna of the Victorian age.”
Additionally, the Lydekker family is commemorated through Lydekker Park, which was once part of the grounds of Harpenden Lodge. The Lodge, established in 1803, was acquired by the Lydekker family in 1857. Hilda Lydekker, the last family member residing there, preserved the surrounding land as a memorial for her relatives lost in World War I.
Visiting the Exhibition
Harpenden Museum, located at the Eric Morecambe Centre, is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 11 AM to 3 PM. This exhibition serves as a tribute to Lydekker’s enduring legacy in both the scientific community and the local area.
