Geological Pioneers of the Jurassic Coast

Abstract

Abstract The Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site displays within its bounds some of the most important geological and geomorphological sites in the world. Its geology, which ranges in age from the Triassic through to the Cretaceous, has been fundamental in the development of geological thought. In particular, it has a remarkable fossil record, which includes the remains of dinosaurs. Dating back to the late seventeenth century, geologists have explored such themes as uniformitarianism and catastrophism, the age of the Earth, and evolution and extinction. It has become a mecca for all those interested in the Earth Sciences. Many of the leading figures of the discipline have worked in the area, including Robert Hooke, Mary Anning, William Buckland, William Conybeare, Henry De La Beche, W. J. Arkell, Joseph Prestwich, and Michael House. In addition, the area has some remarkable landforms, including huge landslips, raised beaches, dry valleys, shingle barriers, and coastal lagoons. This book describes the basic geology of the area before examining the lives and achievements of some 41 scientists, some of whom were fossil collectors, some of whom constructed geological maps, some of whom were gifted stratigraphers and palaeontologists, and some of whom were accomplished amateurs.