David Scott Dunbar

David Scott Dunbar
Born	(1908-09-20)September 20, 1908 Alloa, Clackmannanshire
Died	November 6, 1987(1987-11-06) (aged 79) Uppingham
Nationality	British
Citizenship	United Kingdom
Alma mater	Clare College, Cambridge Alloa Academy Edinburgh University
Occupation	Mathematician School Teacher
Spouse(s)	Gertrude Dunbar
Children	3
Parents	John Dunbar (father) Susan Dunbar (mother)

David Scott Dunbar (20th September 1908 – 6th November 1987) was a Scottish mathematician who excelled in both his academic and teaching careers. He is known for serving as a member of the Home Guard and an ARP warden during World War II.

Early life and education[edit]

Dunbar was born in Alloa, Clackmannanshire to Susan and John Dunbar, a maker of chronometers. Dunbar attended Alloa Academy where he was the highest academic achiever, known as the Dux. He later studied Mathematics at Edinburgh University, graduating with a First-Class Honours degree.

To expand his mathematical knowledge, Dunbar enrolled in the Mathematics Tripos at Clare College, Cambridge in 1931. There, he excelled once again, becoming a Prizeman in 1932 and Senior Wrangler in 1934.^[1]

Career[edit]

Following his studies, Dunbar began his teaching career as a Master at Uppingham School in 1934. This appointment was one of the first made by Sir John Wolfenden, later Baron Wolfenden.

Dunbar was Housemaster of Highfield for two terms until Mr. Shaw was demobbed, after which he was appointed Housemaster of the Hall upon the retirement of V.T. Saunders. Together with Ted Kendall, another Wrangler, he headed 40 years of excellent Advanced Mathematics teaching at Uppingham School. This resulted in many Oxbridge Exhibitions and Scholarships. Among his students was the famous Statistician and Evolutionary mathematician, Prof Anthony W.F. Edwards FRS.

Wartime service[edit]

During World War II, Dunbar served as a member of the Home Guard and an ARP warden. He was also in charge of local potato production, which was cultivated on the dug-up playing fields.

Personal life[edit]

Dunbar died on November 6, 1987 in Uppingham. he was survived by his wife, Gertrude Dunbar, and three children: Joan, Alison, and Lan Dunbar.

References[edit]