This magazine was owned by James Short, who was was in charge of the astrographic telescope at Sydney Observatory's Red Hill Branch from July 1890 until his retirement in 1930. He made important contributions to the work of the Observatory while his turbulent relationships with the various Government Astronomers add colour to the Observatory's history. Items associated with Short are an important addition to the material documentation of the history of Sydney Observatory. There are many mentions of James Short in the Observatory's records, especially in connection with his poor relationship with the Government Astronomer WE Cooke.

James Walter Short was born on 11 November 1865. He was given a temporary appointment "In charge of Photographic Telescope" at Sydney Observatory on 3 July 1890. Six years later on 3 July 1896 he became the permanent "Astronomical Photographer". Short retired at the end of 1930 and died on 21 June 1943.

He had three sons:

Graham Gunther Short
Ron Short (killed during WWII)
Russell Short

Magazine, 'The Observatory', paper, used by James Short, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, published by the Royal Astronomical Society, London, England, 1908

Magazine titled 'The Observatory - A monthly review of astronomy' April 1908 issue, published by the Royal Astronomical Society, 186 pages, edited by T. Lewis and H.P. Hollis. Paperback cover is pale green with black text.

Published: Royal Astronomical Society; London, England; 1908


Used: Short, James Walter [1865 - 1943]; Sydney; 1908

Front cover, printed 'Printed and published by Taylor and Francis, Red Lion Court, Fleet Street E.C.'

2005/124/4

1908

218 mm

140 mm