The weather book : a manual of practical meteorology

by

Robert Fitzroy
Title PagePlate Opposite p. 351Plate 8Plate 9Plate 10Plate 11

This is the first edition of Fitzroy's important meteorological work, which includes some of the first weather charts produced. Fitzroy was the first meteorologist to issue regular weather forecasts, a term he helped to popularize. This work inaugurated a distinct advance in the study of weather. Rear Admiral Robert Fitzroy (1805-1865), Commander of the Beagle during the historic expedition with Charles Darwin, turned his attention to the study of weather after his retirement from naval duties. Appointed director of the newly formed Meteorologic Office in 1855, Fitzroy established a series of weather stations which telegraphed information to London, enabling him to produce weather charts and issue storm warnings. By the end of 1860, the Times began printing daily weather predictions and Fitzroy rose to a prominent, though controversial, position as a consequence of his forecasts. A serviceable and inexpensive barometer, designed by him, is still known as the Fitzroy barometer.