Hans Sloane, 1660-1753

Should we, in Northern Ireland, not be even more proactive - viz. tourism and marketing authorities - in generating enthusiasm and knowledge about one of our greatest sons?

• Born at Killyleagh, County Down, in 1660 
• Lived in a thatched house close to Killyleagh Castle 
• Credited for introducing drinking chocolate to the British Isles 
• Founded the British Museum 
• Pre-eminent royal physician 
• President of the Royal Society 
• Baronet 
• Sloane Square, Hans Crescent and other places named after him.

I am, of course, alluding to Sir Hans Sloane Bt.

The Hans Sloane website contains a wealth of fascinating information about Sir Hans and his numerous accomplishments.

Let us rejoice and remind those whom we ever encounter at the British Museum that it was founded by an Ulsterman.

First published in September, 2011.