Online collection
Gain insight into Wallace's life and work by exploring the online collection using the themes below.
Architecture
Not only was Wallace a great naturalist, he also had superb draughtsman skills. His great attention to detail is revealed in these architectural drawings and plans.
Biography
Find out Wallace’s thoughts on the medals and degrees awarded to him, his work as a lecturer and his experiences while touring North America.
Collecting
What was the life of a nineteenth-century collector really like? Find out how Wallace survived a sinking ship, trekked through the rainforest, and made an epic journey across the Malay Archipelago.
Evolution
Wallace was the co-discoverer of the theory of evolution by natural selection. He went on to give lectures on natural selection and Darwinism, but what did he really think of Charles Darwin?
Family
Wallace’s letters reveal a devoted family man with a great sense of humour. You can also browse Wallace family photographs.
Naturalist
As the ‘father of biogeography’ Wallace’s letters share his ideas on animal distribution and reveal a general love of the natural world.
Social issues
Wallace was forthright in voicing his opinions, whether popular or not. His letters reveal a committed socialist, an advocate of land nationalisation and a man who opposed militarism.
Spiritualism
Wallace embraced spiritualism, as did many Victorians. His letters describe his experiences at séances, suggesting reasons why a scientific man would be attracted to such a movement.
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