Lyell in America

A pioneering geologist from Scotland, Charles Lyell (1797-1875) was one of the nineteenth century's most important and controversial scientists. In Lyell in America, Leonard Wilson blends detailed scientific observations with colorful travelogue to continue his study of Lyell's life and works with this chronicle of Lyell's extensive travels throughout America. Lyell first came to America in 1841, remaining for more than a year and touring widely. His immediate reason for the journey was to deliver the prestigious Lowell lectures in Boston. His larger purpose was to study the geology of North America, hoping that the vast scale of the continent - its mountain ranges, plains, Great Lakes, and rivers - would confirm his belief in the uniformity of geological history. Over the course of this tour and three subsequent trips to North America (twice for extended periods), Lyell observed both America's geological phenomena and its social landscape. Through the eyes of Charles and Mary Lyell, Leonard Wilson provides a vivid portrait of antebellum America and of Lyell's contributions to American geology.