George Parker, 2nd Earl of Macclesfield, English astronomer and politician (b. 1695)

An influential English peer and dedicated astronomer, George Parker, 2nd Earl of Macclesfield, PRS, was born around 1695 or 1697 and lived until 17 March 1764. While briefly known as Viscount Parker from 1721 to 1732 and serving as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Wallingford between 1722 and 1727, his true interests lay far from the political arena, deeply rooted instead in the meticulous observation of the cosmos.

A Life Dedicated to Science

Parker's scientific inclination became evident early in his career, marked by his election as a fellow of the prestigious Royal Society in 1722. He largely dedicated his time to astronomical observations conducted from his Oxfordshire estate, Shirburn Castle, which his father had acquired in 1716. This historic seat was transformed under his tenure into a hub of scientific inquiry; here, he established his own state-of-the-art observatory and a chemical laboratory, underscoring his profound commitment to empirical study and intellectual exploration.

The Pivotal Role in Calendar Reform

Perhaps his most enduring legacy in public life stems from his instrumental advocacy in Parliament for the revolutionary Calendar (New Style) Act 1750. This monumental legislation orchestrated Great Britain and its vast colonial empire's transition from the ancient Julian calendar to the more accurate Gregorian calendar in 1752, aligning the nation with much of Catholic Europe and rectifying centuries of accumulated calendrical discrepancies. This significant reform, however, was not universally understood or accepted. When his son ran for Parliament in 1754, Tory opponents shrewdly leveraged the calendar change, fueling the popular misconception immortalized by the "Give us our eleven days" myth, playfully satirized in one of William Hogarth's famous election paintings from 1755.

Leadership in Scientific and Charitable Endeavors

From 1752 until his passing, Macclesfield served with distinction as president of the Royal Society, a testament to his esteemed standing within the scientific community of his era. During his presidency, he notably contributed insightful observations following the devastating 1755 Lisbon earthquake, further demonstrating his unwavering engagement with natural phenomena. Beyond his scientific pursuits, the Earl also embraced a significant philanthropic role. In 1750, he accepted the honorary position of vice president of the Foundling Hospital, a vital charitable institution established a decade earlier dedicated to saving London's abandoned children. He clearly took this responsibility seriously, commissioning the celebrated artist Benjamin Wilson to paint a full-size portrait of him, which he then generously donated to the hospital. This remarkable portrait remains a cherished part of the Foundling Hospital Collection and is proudly displayed at the Foundling Museum today.

International Acclaim and Recognition

Parker's scientific contributions were recognized far beyond the British Isles, earning him international renown. In 1755, he was elected a foreign member of the esteemed Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. Furthermore, he maintained a corresponding membership with the renowned Académie des sciences in France, solidifying his respected status among the leading intellectuals and scientists across Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions about George Parker, 2nd Earl of Macclesfield

Who was George Parker, 2nd Earl of Macclesfield?
He was an influential English peer and a prominent astronomer in the 18th century, best known for his significant role in the adoption of the Gregorian calendar in Great Britain.
What was his main contribution to science?
Beyond his extensive astronomical observations at his private observatory at Shirburn Castle, his most impactful scientific contribution was championing the Calendar (New Style) Act 1750, which transitioned the British Empire from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar.
What was his connection to the Royal Society?
George Parker became a fellow of the Royal Society in 1722 and later served as its esteemed president from 1752 until his death in 1764, solidifying his position as a leading scientific figure of his time.
Did he have any philanthropic roles?
Yes, he served as the honorary vice president of the Foundling Hospital from 1750 until his death, taking an active interest in the charity dedicated to London's abandoned children. He even donated a portrait of himself to the institution.
What was the "Give us our eleven days" myth?
This popular myth arose after the 1752 calendar change, suggesting that people believed eleven days had been "stolen" from their lives. It was often used by political opponents to stir public sentiment against the reform, as famously depicted by Hogarth.