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Mary Somerville was an exceptional individual. Although self-educated and, as a woman, barred from membership in scientific societies, her books sold well and were used as textbooks for many decades. Allan Chapman relates her achievements to the context of 19th century science in Britain.

Mary Somerville and the World of Science – book

Three interesting facts about Mary Somerville:

1. Somerville College, Oxford is named for her.

2. Although Mary Somerville couldn't be a "fellow" of the Royal Society because she was a woman, there has been a bust of her in Royal Society premises since the 18th century.

3. Neither Caroline Herschel nor Mary Somerville could be fellows of the Royal Astronomical Society or attend meetings - but were made honorary fellows. (They still couldn't attend meetings.)

Somerville College, which is part of Oxford University, was named for Mary Somerville. Mary was a science writer; a mathematician, astronomer and geographer; and a wife and mother. She also had social concerns, including that of votes for women and education for women. In 1868 John Stuart Mill petitioned Parliament in support of women's suffrage, and Mary Somerville's name was the first one on the petition.

Mary Somerville will be the first woman to appear on a Scottish banknote. It was announced yesterday that she will appear on the £10 note.