Symons, George James (1838-1900), a meteorologist, started the collection of British rainfall statistics in 1860. His researches provided data for engineers engaged in the construction of water-supply and sewerage works. Symons was born in London on Aug. 16, 1838, and educated at the Royal School of Mines. He was secretary of the Royal Meteorological Society for 23 years and served twice as its president. He died on March 10, 1900.
