Herbert. E. Balch

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Herbert Ernest Balch (1869-1958) was an archaeologist, naturalist, caver and geologist who explored the Mendips' underground labyrinths and pioneered many of the techniques used by modern cavers. Balch was born in Wells, Somerset on November 4th 1869, and gained a scholarship to the Wells Blue School.[1]

In 1893 Herbert Balch founded Wells Museum. Balch's fine collection of local artefacts and memorabilia still form the core of the Museum's displays, which retains the best qualities of a private Victorian collection.[2] He rose to become president of the Wells Natural History and Archaeological Society. Balch conducted excavations in conjunction the Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society such as Chelmscombe Cave in Cheddar Gorge. The most famous site that Balch excavated was Wookey Hole.[3]

Balch was a member of caving clubs such as the Wessex Cave Club. He was a serious speleologist and often made ten-hour trips wearing cloth cap, old suit and tie.[4] Balch Cave near Stoke St Michael is named after him.

[edit] Bibliography

  • Mendip: its swallet caves and rock shelters (1948)
  • Mendip: the great cave of Wookey Hole
  • Mendip: Cheddar, its gorge and caves
  • Netherworld of Mendip (with Dr. E.A.Baker)
  • Wookey Hole, its caves and cave dwellers
  • Caves of Mendip

[edit] References

  1. ^ Hooper, James (7th June 1994). To he who lit the Stygian caves. Depth through thought -OUCC News. Oxford University Cave Club. Retrieved on 2008-05-02.
  2. ^ History of Museum. Wells Museum bebsite. Retrieved on 2008-15-04.
  3. ^ A Brief History of Archaeological Research in Somerset. Somereset County Council bebsite. Retrieved on 2008-15-04.
  4. ^ Stanton, Willie (06 January 1990). A caver's centenary / Review of 'A Man Deep In Mendip, The Caving Diaries of Harry Savory 1910-1921' edited by John Savory. New Scientist. Retrieved on 2008-05-02.
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