The descendants of Nobel Prize-winning physicist Lord Ernest Rutherford have donated the historic Barony of Rutherford scroll to The University of Manchester.
The scroll was formally presented to the University during a visit by two of Rutherford's great grand-daughters. The historic Rutherford gift has also inspired new named physics chair at Manchester
The gift strengthens the University's connection with one of the most influential scientists in history and the continuing leadership in the fields he helped create.
To mark the gift, the University has established the Ernest Rutherford Chair in Physics, a new named professorship within the Department of Physics and Astronomy. The chair will recognise leading researchers working in fields closely associated with Rutherford's scientific achievements, including nuclear, particle and accelerator physics. The new chair joins a distinguished group of named professorships in Physics at Manchester, including the Langworthy Chair, one of the oldest physics chairs in the world, the Regius chair in Physics established by royal patronage, and the Lovell Chair in Astrophysics.
Rutherford is widely regarded as the "father of nuclear physics". During his time at Manchester between 1907 and 1919, he transformed the University's Physics Laboratory into one of the world's leading centres of scientific discovery.
Among the breakthroughs achieved in Manchester were the discovery of the atomic nucleus, the identification of the proton and the first artificial nuclear reaction, which is often referred to as "splitting the atom". These achievements laid the foundations of our modern world, gave rise to the fields of nuclear and particle physics and led to innumerable technological, industrial and societal impacts
Professor Chris Parkes, Head of The University of Manchester Physics and Astronomy Department, said: "Rutherford's years in Manchester changed our understanding of the physical world forever, shaping our understanding of atoms. The discoveries made here have shaped our world today and continue to influence scientific research more than a century later.
"We are delighted that Lord Rutherford's descendants have chosen Manchester as the home for this important historical document. It is a powerful recognition of the University's role in preserving and celebrating Rutherford's remarkable legacy and our continuing world leadership in research in the fields of nuclear and particle physics"
Jenny Joy and Caroline Roberts descendants of Rutherford, added: "We wanted this scroll to be seen and used as part of his legacy as it has hardly ever seen the light of day, and it is a valuable stunning historical document in its own right"
During their visit, members of Rutherford's family took a tour of the Physics department, including seeing his original desk and visiting modern facilities that continue the Manchester tradition of cutting-edge research in his areas of interest.
It was in the University's former Physics Laboratory - now known as the Rutherford Building - that Rutherford led a team of pioneering scientists whose work revolutionised our understanding of the atom.
His influence extended far beyond his own discoveries. Rutherford's work established Manchester as an international centre of scientific excellence, allowing the University to attract many renowned scientists to continue his legacy. He is also well known for mentoring many of the leading physicists of the twentieth century. The historic scroll will be preserved within the University's collections, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn about the scientist whose discoveries in Manchester changed the world.
