Clarence Dutton's geology

Abstract

AbstractClarence Edward Dutton (1841–1912), a Yale University graduate, served in the Civil War and, as a captain in the United States Army, was detailed for duty with John Wesley Powell's US Geographical and Geological Survey of the Rocky Mountain Region and, later, the US Geological Survey. He spent 10 years in geological research in the Colorado Plateau region, studying its geomorphological and stratigraphic evolution, and coined the term ‘isostasy’. His monographTertiary History of the Grand Cañon Districtis renowned for its particular charm, with sublime landscape descriptions and superb illustrations. Dutton later undertook studies in volcanic geology in Hawaii, the Cascades and on the Colorado Plateau. Dutton studied the effects of the catastrophic Charleston earthquake of 31 August 1886 and later engaged in irrigation research in the American West. Dutton critically reviewed many major geological concepts, including the causes of volcanism, earthquakes and, especially, orogeny. His pioneering work on stratigraphy, geomorphology, isostasy and seismology place him at the forefront of nineteenth century researchers and reflects his ability to generalize from field observations and formulate principles that constitute explanations of the observed facts.