Thomas Chrowder Chamberlin

Biography

Thomas Chrowder Chamberlin was born in 1843 and grew into one of America’s pre-eminent geologists, rising through the ranks from teacher to trusted leader of the scientific community. After directing crucial surveys for the state of Wisconsin, he became president of the University of Wisconsin, championing rigorous fieldwork and expanding the university’s scientific departments.

He co-founded the Journal of Geology and developed the planetesimal hypothesis, offering a thoughtful alternative to planetary formation theories of his time while mentoring generations of students. His writing and research continued well into his later years, and when he died in 1928 the geological world mourned a visionary educator and researcher.