Sir Joseph Banks (1743–1820) was raised at Revesby Abbey, on the edge of the Lincolnshire Fens.

He is one of the most influential men in Georgian England and was involved in not only the development of the county but the development of the world.

It was during his schooling at Eton that the explorer firt began to show an interest in nature, ultimately leading to his further education in botany at Oxford University.

With the sudden death of his father in 1761, Banks was thrust into property and land management as he inherited numerous Lincolnshire estates.

His interest in exploration led to his voyage on the infamous ship, the Endeavour, to assisit Captain Cook on his travels to the South Seas and Australia.

Did you know?

• Known as the ‘Father of Australia’ Banks’ report started the deportation of petty criminals to the country.
• He was close personal friends with King George III and was an unofficial director of the Royal Gardens at Kew
• Elected president of the Royal Society at just 23, he held his position for 42 years.
• He organised his first sheep to be sent to Australia

 Find out all about this great man in the leaflet 'On the Trail of Sir Joseph Banks'