Arthur John Allmand, 1885-1951

Abstract

This biography of Arthur John Allmand is compiled from the personal record he left with the Society, from appreciations of pupils and friends, and from the recollections of the author who worked side by side with him in Liverpool and maintained a life-long friendship with him. The plan of the biography is first to take the reader through the answers to the Society’s questions followed by an appreciation of his work and character. Allmand’s favourite dictum on a professor of one of the natural sciences was that he might be a great researcher, a great administrator or a great teacher. Sometimes he might shine in two of these categories but to do so in all three was unattainable for most people. This should be borne in mind, as it was undoubtedly the pattern to which his life conformed. Allmand’s father, Frank Allmand, was a flour miller of Wrexham, a quiet pale man like his son, who attained the great age of ninety years. His mother’s maiden name was Thomas and her father was a timber merchant of Wrexham.