Thomas Green Clemson - Paris, France

Paris, France

Not much is documented from the beginning of his trip to Paris that started in 1826. A letter that he wrote to his Mother did not include anything about his scientific study but did vaguely reference that he had a particular interest in expanding his knowledge. In addition, the letter states that if he were to die he wants all of his wealth to be left to his mother and then after she passes it be left to any sister who is not married. Later on in 1829, Clemson wrote a letter to Benjamin Silliman, M.D., about his research of Iron Ore. In 1826-27, he expanded his knowledge of practical laboratory chemistry while working with chemist Gaultier de Clowbry. He soon furthered his chemistry study by working with other Parisian chemists. Following his time there he further trained at Sorbonne and the Royal School of Mines. He received his diploma as an assayer from the Royal Mint.

Upon his return to the U.S., he co-authored significant legislation to promote agricultural education. With knowledge of both French and German, he served as U.S. charge d'affaires to Belgium from 1844 to 1851. Because of his education, historians have called Clemson "a quintessential nineteenth-century Renaissance man.”