Mathematical examiners at Trinity House: teaching and examining mathematics for navigation in London during the long eighteenth century

Abstract

• The early years of the Royal Mathematical School (f. 1673), and its relationship with Trinity House, have been explored in relation to the teaching and examining of mathematics for navigation. However, there has been confusion over who carried out the examinations and little or no consideration of the role of the examiner. This chapter shows how and when external mathematical examiners came to be employed by Trinity House and tracks the lives and careers of the men who applied for and took on the position in the long eighteenth century. As typical of mathematical practitioners, they built their careers from a range of activities: most were private teachers, several were authors, some had been mariners, while others were computers or astronomical observers. They include individuals who will be well known to historians of science and mathematics, and others who are obscure. Of varying social status, it is difficult to chart clear patterns of change over time but some are suggested, as are reasons for their decisions to take on the role, revealing networks of patronage, kinship, and association among mathematical practitioners in early modern London.