On 3rd September, a group of humanist pilgrims from Dorset Humanists in Bournemouth set out for the long drive by coach to visit the home of the naturalist Charles Darwin. The trip had been organised by Simon Whipple who is a member of Dorset Humanists committee. Dorset Humanists celebrate Darwin Day every year on or around Darwin's birthday of 12th February. They have a lunch prepared by committee members followed by a talk which is usually linked in some way to evolution or the life of Darwin. Darwin Day lecturers have included Professor A. C. Grayling and Ariane Sherine.
Darwin and his family moved to Down House in 1842 and it remained his home until his death in 1882. The surrounding gardens and grounds were particularly important for his scientific observations and experiments. He converted parts of the garden into research areas, where he studied plants, earthworms, and the behaviour of pigeons, among other subjects. Darwin often referred to the Sandwalk, a gravel path he created near the house, as his “thinking path” where he would walk daily and ponder his scientific ideas. Several of the Dorset pilgrims followed in Darwin’s footsteps on the Sandwalk during their visit.
The house itself is a large Georgian house that Darwin expanded and adapted to suit the needs of his growing family and his scientific endeavours. The interior of the house is preserved much as it was during Darwin’s time, with his study, the dining room, and other rooms reflecting their 19th-century appearance. Darwin’s study, in particular, is arranged with his original furniture and scientific instruments, offering a glimpse into the environment in which he worked. The whole site has been recognised as a place of outstanding historical importance. It was nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its global significance in the history of science and natural history.
Darwin’s family tree was of particular interest. His paternal grandfather was Erasmus Darwin (1731–1802) – an English physician, natural philosopher, physiologist, poet, and inventor. He was a founding member of the Lunar Society of Birmingham, a group of prominent scientists, inventors, and industrialists who met regularly to discuss ideas and advancements in science, technology, and industry. This group included figures like James Watt and Joseph Priestley. Charles Darwin’s maternal grandfather was Josiah Wedgwood, the famous English potter and industrialist.
The long drive back to Bournemouth was broken up by a welcome visit to the Otter pub at Otterbourne near Winchester where we enjoyed good food and good beer. By all accounts, it had been a very successful and enjoyable day.
Although this trip didn't grab my interest, it is great to see a Humanist group taking a coach party out and about on ventures. We can get very much bogged down in the routine of the month, with regular monthly talks, which as good as they are, only attract a very narrow sector of the community. Trips out, walks, picnics and missions like this one, are vital at giving a heartbeat to an otherwise weak pulse.