Robert Fitzroy, Vice-Admiral,
Governor of New Zealand (1805-1865)
Born 15 June 1805 Ampton Hall
Died 30 April 1865 Norwood (suicide)
Married (1) 27 December 1836
Mary Henrietta O'Brien, daughter of Edward James O'Brien
Born 1812
Died 5 April 1852 Hammersmith
Married (2) 22 February 1854
Maria Isabella Smyth, daughter of John Henry Smyth and Lady
Elizabeth Ann Fitzroy
Died 29 December 1889 Hampton Court Palace
He joined the navy and surveyed the coasts of Patagonia and Tierra del
Fuego (1828-1830). In 1831 he was re-appointed to the 'Beagle' and on this
voyage was accompanied by Charles Darwin. In 1839 they jointly published
"Narrative of the Voyages of H.M.S. 'Adventure' and 'Beagle'". From 1843
until 1845 he was Governor of New Zealand.
In 1854 he was attached to the metereological department of the Board
of Trade. The 'Fitzroy barometer' was invented by him; and he instituted
the storm warnings that developed into today's weather forecasts. In 1857
he was promoted rear-admiral and in 1863 vice-admiral. Worn out by overwork,
he committed suicide.
Source: Leo van de Pas
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