The Darwin Family of Elston

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The Darwin family of Elston is renowned for its significant contributions to science, literature, and society. The family's association with Elston began in the late 17th century and has left a lasting legacy in the region[1][2].

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Early History

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The Darwin family's connection to Elston started with William Darwin of Cleatham, who married Anne Waring, the stepdaughter of George Lascelles of Elston, in 1680[2]. William Darwin died in 1682, leaving two sons, William and Robert[2]. Anne Darwin and her sons lived with her mother, Anne Lascelles, at Elston. When Anne Lascelles died in 1708, the estate should have passed to the Lascelles family. However, Robert Darwin (1682-1754), a lawyer and the second son of William Darwin and Anne Waring, bought out the interests of the Lascelles family, securing the estate for the Darwins[2].

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Notable Members

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• Robert Darwin of Elston (1682-1754): An English lawyer, scientist, and physician, Robert was instrumental in bringing the attention of the Royal Society to the first remains of a Jurassic reptile found in Elston[1]. He married Elizabeth Hill, and they had several children, including Robert Waring Darwin of Elston and Erasmus Darwin[1].

• Erasmus Darwin (1731-1802): A physician, poet, and philosopher, Erasmus was a key figure in the Enlightenment and a founding member of the Lunar Society[1]. He was the grandfather of Charles Darwin[1].

• Robert Waring Darwin (1766-1848): A physician and the father of Charles Darwin, Robert Waring Darwin was known for his contributions to botany and medicine[2].

• Charles Darwin (1809-1882): The most famous member of the family, Charles Darwin is renowned for his theory of evolution by natural selection, as presented in his seminal work "On the Origin of Species"[1].

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Contributions and Legacy

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The Darwins made several charitable bequests to the parish of Elston. Anne Darwin's will of 1722 left money to build an almshouse for four poor widows, which was erected in 1744 and still stands today[2]. The family also contributed to the scientific community, with Robert Darwin's work in botany and Erasmus Darwin's contributions to medicine and natural philosophy[1][2].

Impact on Newark

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The Darwin family's impact on Newark is evident through their scientific and charitable contributions. Robert Darwin's work in botany and his publication "Principia Botanica" were printed by Hage of Newark[2]. The family's legacy in science and their charitable efforts have left a lasting mark on the region, contributing to its cultural and intellectual heritage[2].

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References

[1] Robert Darwin of Elston - Wikipedia

[2] The Elston Heritage Project - The Darwins and Elston Hall