Peter Orlando Hutchinson is subject of Sid Vale Association talk

WHEN he arrived in Sidmouth, Peter Orlando Hutchinson, the son of a doctor, was in his 28th year.

While not wealthy, he had independent means which allowed him to indulge in a typical Victorian insatiable curiosity about almost everything.

His diaries are full of his observations and experiments. The former were often beautifully recorded in sketches, water-colours, and by crayon. Some of them could be regarded as works of art.

In a talk at Sidmouth’s Manor Pavilion Theatre on Wednesday, February 22, from 2.30 pm, Dr. Bob Symes, curator of the Sid Vale Association’s Sidmouth Museum, will illustrate Hutchinson’s remarkable interest in the local geology of Sidmouth and East Devon. This will appeal to many, including those who have no more than a passing interest in the subject. In the context of his contemporaries, Hutchinson might be said to have been a ‘genius’ for the understanding he brought to the local geological scene.

Before he retired, Dr. Symes was a keeper at the Natural History Museum, London. His talk is part of the SVA winter series of talks, which is open to all. There is a small admission charge which includes refreshments.