A remarkable collection of scientific papers belonging to Alan Turing, the renowned Second World War codebreaker and pioneer of computer science, has been discovered in a loft and is set to be auctioned next month. The archive, which includes a signed personal copy of Turing's 1939 PhD dissertation 'Systems Of Logic Based On Ordinals' and his seminal 1937 paper 'On Computable Numbers', was nearly shredded before its historical significance was recognized.
The papers, described as the first programming manual of the computer age, were originally gifted to Turing's friend and fellow mathematician Norman Routledge by Turing's mother, Ethel. After Routledge's death in 2013, the documents were stored in a relative's loft, where they remained unnoticed until recently. The discovery was made when Routledge's nieces and nephews were sorting through his belongings and considered discarding the papers, unaware of their value.
Rare Book Auctions in Lichfield, Staffordshire, which is handling the sale, has valued Turing's PhD dissertation alone at between £40,000 and £60,000. The collection also includes letters from novelist EM Forster and a telegram from Turing to Routledge, adding to its historical and academic significance. The papers, known as 'offprints', were produced in limited quantities for academic circles, making them rare finds in today's market.
Alan Turing's contributions to computer science and his role in breaking the Enigma code during the Second World War have cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures of the 20th century. The upcoming auction offers a unique opportunity for collectors and institutions to own a piece of this legacy, shedding light on the personal and professional life of a man whose work continues to impact the world today.
In a somber discovery that has shaken the tight-knit community of Millisle, a body was found on the beach in the Donaghadee Road area on Wednesday afternoon. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) swiftly cordoned off the area, urging the public to steer clear as forensic teams began their meticulous work. The discovery, made by a local dog walker, has cast a shadow over the serene coastal village, known for its peaceful surroundings.
Local representatives have expressed their condolences and concern for the bereaved family, emphasizing the need for privacy and respect during this difficult time. Ulster Unionist Party councillor Peter Wray and DUP MLA Stephen Dunne both highlighted the impact of the incident on the community, with Dunne noting the distressing week the village has endured. The identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding the death remain under investigation, with authorities yet to release further details.
The PSNI has assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to understand the events leading to the tragic discovery. Forensic officers in protective gear were seen scouring the area, a stark contrast to the usual tranquility of Millisle Beach. The community, while reeling from the news, has been praised for its solidarity and support for the authorities as they conduct their investigations.
As the sun set on Millisle, the reality of the day's events began to sink in for residents. The discovery of a body on their doorstep has prompted an outpouring of sympathy for the unknown individual's family and friends. In the coming days, the focus will remain on the police investigation, with hopes for answers that may bring some closure to a community united in grief and shock.