A Bibliography of American Natural History: An annotated bibliography of the publications relating to the history, biography, and bibliography of American natural history and its institutions, during colonial times and the pioneer century, which have been published up to 1924; with a classified subject and geographic index; and a bibliography of bibliographies


Book Description




A Bibliography of American Natural History: An annotated bibliography of the publications relating to the history, biography and bibliography of American natural history and to institutions, during colonial times and the pioneer century, which have been published up to 1924; with a classified subject and geographic index; and a bibliography of biographies


Book Description

Subtitle; The role played by the scientific societies; scientific journals; natural history museums and botanic gardens; state geological and natural history surveys; federal exploring expeditions in the rise and progress of American botany, geology, mineralogy, palentology and zoology.




William Stimpson and the Golden Age of American Natural History


Book Description

William Stimpson was at the forefront of the American natural history community in the latter half of the nineteenth century. Stimpson displayed an early affinity for the sea and natural history, and after completing an apprenticeship with famed naturalist Louis Agassiz, he became one of the first professionally trained naturalists in the United States. In 1852, twenty-year-old Stimpson was appointed naturalist of the United States North Pacific Exploring Expedition, where he collected and classified hundreds of marine animals. Upon his return, he joined renowned naturalist Spencer F. Baird at the Smithsonian Institution to create its department of invertebrate zoology. He also founded and led the irreverent and fun-loving Megatherium Club, which included many notable naturalists. In 1865, Stimpson focused on turning the Chicago Academy of Sciences into one of the largest and most important museums in the country. Tragically, the museum was destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, and Stimpson died of tuberculosis soon after, before he could restore his scientific legacy. This first-ever biography of William Stimpson situates his work in the context of his time. As one of few to collaborate with both Agassiz and Baird, Stimpson's life provides insight into the men who shaped a generation of naturalists—the last before intense specialization caused naturalists to give way to biologists. Historians of science and general readers interested in biographies, science, and history will enjoy this compelling biography.




Thaddeus William Harris (1795-1856)


Book Description

Thaddeus William Harris first made his living as a physician and for many years thereafter as Harvard librarian. For six years, he also taught natural history in Harvard College - Henry David Thoreau was one of his students - but his desire for a full-time professorship was never realized.




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