Sir Clements R. Markham

Clements Robert Markham was born on 20 July 1830 in Stillingfleet, United Kingdom, to David Frederick Markham. His early life was shaped by a strong family heritage, with grandparents Elizabeth Bowles and William Markham, and great-grandparents including Sarah Goddard, Mary Elton, and Oldfield Bowles. Markham developed a deep interest in exploration and geography, which led to a distinguished career in those fields. He became a fellow of several learned societies and served as secretary of the...See more

Clements Robert Markham was born on 20 July 1830 in Stillingfleet, United Kingdom, to David Frederick Markham. His early life was shaped by a strong family heritage, with grandparents Elizabeth Bowles and William Markham, and great-grandparents including Sarah Goddard, Mary Elton, and Oldfield Bowles. Markham developed a deep interest in exploration and geography, which led to a distinguished career in those fields. He became a fellow of several learned societies and served as secretary of the Royal Geographical Society from 1863 to 1888, later becoming its president for twelve years. Markham s influence extended into British polar exploration, where he played a key role in promoting Antarctic expeditions and encouraging the development of young naval officers. A prolific writer, he produced numerous historical and geographical works, combining scholarship with vivid narrative. His literary output included translations, biographies, and historical novels, many reflecting his broad intellectual interests. In 1857, he married Minna Chichester. He died on 30 January 1916 in London at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy that intertwined discovery, national service, and historical inquiry. See less