Pembrokeshire to celebrate life’s work of Tenby mathematician

The Tenby Museum has brought together a unique exhibition to celebrate the life and studies of a local Pembrokeshire man who helped create one of the standards for modern mathematics.

“Robert Recorde: All Angles Covered” has opened at the museum. Born over 500 years ago, Recorde has been credited with creating the “equals sign” in maths equations. He is also recognised for bringing algebra to Great Britain, and worked to develop the square root. Born and raised in Tenby, Recorde has been described as one of Wales’ most important yet unheralded residents. He was a Renaissance scholar, physician and mathematician.

According to historical records, he introduced the concept of the equals (=) sign in his book, The Whetstone of Witte, saying “bicause noe 2 thynges can be moare equalle.”

“This is such an exciting adventure, and we are so pleased to be involved in this national event of celebration,” museum collections manager Mark Lewis told local media. “The support of the London Mathematical Society, both financially and in an advisory capacity, has been invaluable and we hope that people get to learn a great deal more about this fascinating Tenby man who has had such influence on our everyday lives.”

Lewis said experts on Recorde will be giving talks at the museum in conjunction with the exhibition. The exhibition is being supported by the London Mathematical Society as part of its 150th anniversary Local Heroes programme, and it will be open to the public until October 31. The museum’s celebrations will include a series of bilingual interpretive panels, illustrated art works and mathematical artefacts.

The idyllic seaside village of Tenby is a Pembrokeshire gem. There are a number of beautiful holiday cottages in Tenby that can be the centerpiece of your next great holiday to Wales. With many just steps from the beach, they are perfect for exploring one of the finest coastal destinations in the UK.

For more information on the Recorde exhibition, visit www.tenbymuseum.org.uk

Image Credit: Richardjo53 (flickr.com)