One of the obsessions that apply to our awardee, Mary Virginia Orna, is her love of color.  When I think of the 19<sup>th</sup> century, the person that intrigues me the most with regard to color is John Mercer, FRS, FCS.  His personal story is inspiring; his personal knowledge of the craft of calico printing was revered throughout the civilized world; and his detailed knowledge of inorganic chemistry was unmatched in England during his lifetime.  I will briefly discuss his biographical details, but I will focus on his research into both inorganic pigments and his development of the mordants needed to manufacture colored textiles.  Although his birth legacy placed him low on the social scale, his best friend in England was Lord Lyon Playfair.  They shared a love of chemistry and an appreciation of the value of producing the best calico prints in the world.  Playfair introduced him to the Royal Society and Mercer was soon proposed for membership.  He was also lionized in the Chemical Society.  Chemistry elevates all those who are serious about worshipping at the altar of Vulcan.

John Mercer, the most colorful chemist of the 19<sup>th</sup> century

ACS Spring 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.

John Mercer, the most colorful chemist of the 19th century

John Mercer, the most colorful chemist of the 19^th century