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Evelyn Cheesman: The Insect Explorer
By Patrick Barlow, BBC News, South East
| Key Events | Details |
|---|---|
| Early Life and Inspiration | Evelyn Cheesman, born in Westwell, Kent, in 1881, developed a fascination for nature at a young age. Her love for insects began with hunting glow worms in her garden, often accompanied by her Collie dog, Shep. This early passion laid the foundation for her future career. |
| Career Beginnings | Cheesman faced significant obstacles due to her gender. She applied to the Royal Veterinary College but was rejected because she was a woman. Even when she applied under a male pseudonym, her handwriting gave her away. Despite these setbacks, she persevered and became the first keeper of insects at London Zoo in 1917. |
| Insect Collection | Cheesman’s insect collection was extensive, featuring 42,000 specimens. This collection inspired Sarah Lonsdale to write “Wildly Different,” a book that delves into Cheesman’s life and work. The book highlights her contributions, including her discoveries about the earth’s tectonic plates. |
| Adventures and Challenges | Cheesman’s expeditions were filled with thrilling and dangerous encounters. She became trapped in a giant spider’s web during an expedition in Gorgona Island, Colombia, and had to cut her way out using a nail file. She also made multiple solo trips to the South Pacific, showcasing her determination and bravery. |
| Royal Gifts | During her time in Malekula, Vanuatu, Cheesman was asked to select a gift for King George V. She chose a spear three times her length, but it was later found to be tipped with strychnine, a poison. The King refused to accept it, highlighting the unexpected challenges she faced. |
| Legacy and Determination | Cheesman’s legacy is one of unyielding determination and passion for her work. Even in her sixties, she was climbing cliffs in Papua New Guinea, wearing her old school lacrosse shoes. Her story is a testament to her extraordinary life and contributions to the field of entomology. |