New York State Science Service State Geologist's and Assistant State Geologist's Correspondence Files

Chronological by year, then alphabetical by name of correspondent.

This series contains correspondence, memoranda, and occasional reports of the state geologist, assistant state geologist, and occasionally other members of the geological staff. During the period 1904 to 1925, the state geologist also held the positions of state paleontologist and museum director. This series contains correspondence of the assistant state geologist for those years, and primarily of the state geologist thereafter.

Correspondence is with scientists, mineral producers, private citizens, and State Museum staff and concerns the following subjects: acquisition of specimens for Museum collections; identification of mineral specimens submitted by private citizens and firms; requests for information on the geology of specific localities in New York; requests for information on the various mineral industries of New York; compilation of annual mineral production statistics; geologic mapping of the state; preparation of scientific papers; participation of staff in professional conferences and meetings; preparation of geological exhibits in the State Museum; loans of specimens to scientists at other institutions; annual reports to the museum director of accomplishments and activities; and distribution of state publications on geology and mineral industries.

The bulk of the series consists of the correspondence of David H. Newland (assistant state geologist, 1905-1919; state geologist, 1927-1940), Chris A. Hartnagel (assistant state geologist, 1920-1940; state geologist, 1940-1944), and John G. Broughton (assistant state geologist, 1943-1947; acting state geologist, 1948-1949; state geologist, 1949-1968).

B0571-90: This accretion of scattered correspondence files and copies of geological publications may fill gaps in previous accessions.

B0571-94: This accretion of correspondence includes copies of catalogues, notes on publications and bulletins, and expansive letters providing information on various geologic phenomena. Correspondents include Winifred Goldring, George Chadwick (President of the New York State Geological Association), Rudolf Ruedemann, and other notable state officials, geologists, and natural scientists. Among the topics addressed are: glacial lakes; the Great Lakes; a Medina County, Texas geological survey; specimens loaned to various institutions; and report data on the physical geography of upstate New York.

Series B0561, State Museum Director's, State Geologist's, and State Paleontologist's Correspondence Files, contains correspondence of the state geologist prior to 1925.

There are no restrictions regarding access to or use of the material.