Stromness in Orkney, Scotland, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)
Fitzroy Fisheries Barometer
Photographed By Michael Herrick, August 29, 2018
1. Fitzroy Fisheries Barometer Marker
Vice Admiral Robert Fitzroy RN
(5 July 1805 — 20 April 1865)
Fitzroy is also famous as the Captain of HMS Beagle during Charles Darwin's voyage of discovery. One of the shipping forecast sea areas, 'Fitzroy' is named after him.
Around 100 of these barometers were placed around the coast, funded by philanthropic donations. Ours, here in Stromness, is number 98. The barometer was still read, and readings displayed in this cabinet, until about 2005. This barometer reads in inches of Mercury rather than the modern Millibars.
( photo captions )
- In 1860 Fitzroy’s forecasts began to appear in The Times and he went on to develop a system of gale-warning signals for use in harbours.
- For more information there are two books, Fitzroy and his Barometers and the Operators Manual on view in the Stromness Library.
this page online
- Readings were taken from the barometer and if bad weather was imminent the storm cone would be raised to warn ships at sea, or going to sea (oil lamps were used at night).
- If a gale was approaching from the north the cone would be raised pointing upwards; if from the south it would be reversed. Wind coming from more than one quarter would be shown by hoisting the 'drum' signal.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Science & Medicine • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical date for this entry is April 20, 1865.
Location. 58° 57.672′ N, 3° 17.991′ W. Marker is in Stromness, Scotland, in Orkney. Marker is at the intersection of Victoria Street and Graham Place, on the right when traveling south on Victoria Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Stromness, Scotland KW16 3BY, United Kingdom. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Alexander Graham (a few steps from this marker); Eliza Fraser (within shouting distance of this marker); RNLI Lifeboat Station (about 120 meters away, measured in a direct line); The Haven (about 210 meters away); Mrs Humphrey’s House (approx. 0.3 kilometers away); a different marker also named Alexander Graham (approx. 0.3 kilometers away); Stromness Lifeboat Station (approx. 0.3 kilometers away); Dr John Rae (approx. 0.3 kilometers away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Stromness.
Photographed By Michael Herrick, August 29, 2018
2. Fitzroy Fisheries Barometer
Also see . . . Robert FitzRoy on Wikipedia. (Submitted on December 19, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.)
Photographed By Michael Herrick, August 29, 2018
3. Fitzroy Fisheries Barometer Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on January 27, 2022. It was originally submitted on December 19, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut. This page has been viewed 318 times since then and 33 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on December 19, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.
