Sir James Walker, 1863-1935

Chemistry in general, and physical chemistry in particular, suffered a great loss in the death of Emeritus-Professor Sir James Walker, which occurred at Edinburgh on May 6, 1935. Walker had retired from his occupancy of the Chair of Chemistry at the University of Edinburgh in 1928, but relinquished none of his interests in the science. Not only did he continue to function actively on many committees—such as the Advisory Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, the University Grants Committee, and the Carnegie Trust—but he maintained for several years an active connexion with his old department, visiting it almost daily, participating in a most stimulating way in its various research activities, and lightening the administrative load of his successor by wise and kindly advice whenever solicited.