This week, Scott and Chad from the Munday Scientific and Microscope Marketplace team had the pleasure of meeting Carol Smithwick for lunch at her favorite spot in Chapel Hill, NC. It was a warm and nostalgic gathering, filled with memories of Carol’s late husband, Ed Smithwick—a man who left an indelible mark on our team and the world of microscopy.
A Life Well-Lived
Ed Smithwick wasn’t just another member of our community; he was one of our favorites. A brilliant mind with a life rich in travel, experiences, and an unyielding passion for microscopes, Ed’s presence was always a highlight in our shop. He would visit us monthly, not just to tinker with microscopes, but to share stories, insights, and a deep love for the microscopic world.
Ed had a particular fascination with pond water 🧪🔬. He delighted in searching for organisms, spending countless hours peering through his microscopes, uncovering the hidden wonders in a drop of water. His excitement was contagious, and every conversation with him left us more inspired and eager to explore.
A Master Tinkerer and Innovator
Ed wasn’t just a user of microscopes; he was a true innovator. In his workshop, he made several modifications to his collection, including crafting his own phase and Hoffman annuli—no small feat for even the most seasoned microscopists. His ability to improve and adapt his tools to better suit his needs spoke to his deep understanding and mastery of the craft. For Scott and Chad, Ed’s ingenuity was a source of inspiration, pushing them to think creatively and approach their work with the same curiosity and passion.
When Ed passed away, it was a great loss to all of us who knew him. Carol, knowing how much Ed’s collection meant to him and to us, reached out for help. It was an honor to assist with the collection, preserving the legacy of a man who had given so much to our community.
A Visit to Ed’s Home
After lunch, Scott and Chad visited Carol’s home, a place they had been to many times before, visiting Ed in his element. It was bittersweet to walk through those familiar doors without him there, but the spirit of Ed’s passion was very much alive. His daughter, Alexis, was there as well, painting as she often does. Alexis is in the process of recreating her father's work, carrying on the artistic and scientific legacy he left behind. The painting she’s working on is absolutely beautiful 😍—a fitting tribute to a man who saw beauty in both the natural world and the man-made.
A Lasting Influence
Did any of you know Ed? He was a regular on microscopy blogs, always eager to share his knowledge and learn from others. His influence on Scott, Chad, and many others in the microscopy community cannot be overstated. He taught us to look closer, to question, and to never stop exploring.
We’re grateful for the time we had with Ed and for the opportunity to continue sharing his love of microscopy with the world. If you have memories of Ed or stories to share, we’d love to hear them. Let’s keep his spirit alive, one microscopic discovery at a time.