B.H. Renkioi in May 1856. Albumen print, Getty Museum. Public domain photograph.

He was a Scottish physician, naturalist and explorer who played a key role in the establishment of the British Central African Protectorate (later known as Nyasaland and now Malawi). He served as British consul in several African countries and was instrumental in negotiating treaties with local rulers. Kirk was also a prolific writer, and his works include several books on African flora and fauna, as well as his memoirs. He was knighted in 1917 for his services to British colonialism in Africa.