A Compendium of Irish Biography/Wood, Robert
Wood, Robert, known as "Palmyra Wood," a distinguished archaeologist, was born at Riverstown, County of Meath, in 1716. Having passed through Oxford, he continued to apply himself with ardour to the study of the classics, and in particular to Greek literature. He visited Italy more than once, in 1742 voyaged in the Greek Archipelago, and in 1750, with his friends Bouverie and Dawkins, undertook an archaeological expedition across Asia Minor and Syria, which the Italian architect Borra accompanied as draughtsman. Before reaching Palmyra, Bouverie died of fatigue, but Wood and his two remaining companions continued their researches with success. Shortly after his return he gave to the world the results of his travels, Ruins of Palmyra, illustrated with 57 plates, 1753; and the Ruins of Baalbec, with 46 plates, in 1757; his Ancient and Present Slate of the Troad appeared in 1768. Lord Chatham gave him the post of Under-Secretary of State, which he held during three administrations. He died at his seat at Putney, near London, 9th September 1771, aged 55. His Essay on Homer, published after his death, has been translated into most of the European languages. "Wood's works are profusely and splendidly illustrated, and are marked by great accuracy. Horace Walpole speaks of his "classic pen;" and Gibbon bears ample testimony to the value of his researches. [1] [2]
- Authorities
- ↑ Authors, Dictionary of British and American: S. Austin Allibone. 3 vols. Philadelphia, 1869–'71.
- ↑ Biographie Générale. 46 vols. Paris, 1855–'66.
An interleaved copy, copiously noted by the late Dr. Thomas Fisher, Assistant Librarian of Trinity College, Dublin.