Geometry and Astronomy have long been studied at New College, Oxford.

Right from the foundation of the college in 1379, William of Wykeham (c. 1324–1404) made provision for the study of science—an unusual move at the time. In the College Statutes, he stipulated that two of his seventy fellows would study medicine, and a further two astronomy. This was the first time that such statutory provision had been made in Oxford.

Over two centuries later, the study of both Geometry and Astronomy in the university became more established. Sir Henry Savile (1549–1622), Warden of Merton College and Provost at Eton, founded two chairs in Oxford, one for each of the two subjects. At first they were not associated with New College, but from the late seventeenth century this began to change. First, the two Savilian Professors began to live in property belonging to New College, before the Oxford and Cambridge Act of 1877 led to the chairs being formally tied to professorial fellowships at New College.

This exhibition aims to highlight this rich history of astronomy and geometry in college throughout its history. To begin with, we delve into the history of the Savilian professorship itself, exploring the discoveries made by holders of the two posts. Afterwards, we highlight some treasures from New College Library relating to both geometry and astronomy—as New College became a centre for the study of these subjects in Oxford it is possible to trace the development of both disciplines throughout our collections. To end our exhibition, our focus turns to the future, as we discuss the more recent work of the Savilian professors and highlight the current cutting-edge research that is taking place. 

We hope you enjoy discovering more about these two subject areas—click on the boxes below to start exploring.