What famous englishmans experiments with freezing meat in 1626 caused his death from exposure

The famous Englishman whose death was related to his experiments with freezing meat was Sir Francis Bacon (born January 22, 1561, York House, The Strand, London, England).

Although the accuracy of this tale has been questioned, the story goes that in March of 1626, while traveling in a coach during a snowy day in London, he was inspired to try using snow as a preservative for meat.

He obtained a chicken, and stuffed it with snow with his bare hands; apparently catching quite a chill. The ailing Bacon was placed in a cold and musty guest room at Lord Arundel's home in London.

He soon developed a case of bronchitis, and one week later died on April 9, 1626.

Updated on Saturday, August 04 2012 at 05:53PM EDT
Collection: death