Jonas Moore, born in 1617 in Whittle-le-Woods, emerged as a central figure in seventeenth-century English engineering and mathematics. Educated at Burnley Grammar School, he balanced a career as a surveyor with high-level administrative roles, eventually securing a knighthood in 1663 and becoming a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1674 for his significant contributions to the sciences.
Surveying and Mathematical Practice
Moore established himself as a prominent mathematician early in his career, notably publishing Moores Arithmetick by 1650. His professional expertise as a surveyor led to significant commissions, including the mapping of the River Thames in 1662 and his critical work on the Great Level of the Fens. His detailed 16-sheet map of the Fenland landscape remained an unmatched standard of cartographic precision until the late nineteenth century.
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In 1665, Moore entered the Ordnance Office as Assistant Surveyor, rising to the position of Surveyor-General of the Ordnance in 1669. His responsibilities involved the management of military supplies and infrastructure. He served as the Resident Governor of the Tower of London from 1675 until 1679. During the Third Anglo-Dutch War, he oversaw the logistical distribution of ammunition and powder to the fleet.
Scientific Patronage and Legacy
Moore was a vital influence on the establishment of the Royal Observatory at Greenwich, personally funding essential equipment, including clocks by Thomas Tompion. He supported astronomer John Flamsteed and served as a governor of the Royal Mathematical School starting in 1676. At the time of his death in 1679 in Godalming, he was working on A New Systeme of the Mathematicks, which was later completed by his associates.
Fast facts
- Born: 1617, Whittle-le-Woods
- Died: 1679, Godalming
- Education: Burnley Grammar School
- Surveyor-General of the Ordnance: 1669-1679
- Knighted: 1663
- Fellow of the Royal Society: 1674
- Burial site: Church of St Peter ad Vincula
Questions readers ask
What were Jonas Moore's primary professional roles?
He worked as a mathematician, land surveyor, ordnance officer, and administrator.
What was his contribution to the Royal Observatory?
He served as a patron and provided foundational equipment, including two clocks, for the Greenwich facility.
Achievements
- Fellow of the Royal Society — 1674
- knight — 1663
- Held posts at Royal Mathematical School
