Albert Charles Peale facts for kids

Albert Charles Peale (born April 1, 1849 – died December 5, 1914) was an American scientist. He studied the Earth's rocks, minerals, and ancient plants. He was known as a geologist, mineralogist, and paleobotanist.

Discovering Earth's Secrets

Albert C. Peale was born in Heckscherville, Pennsylvania. His family had a history of famous artists. His great-grandfather was the well-known painter Charles Willson Peale.

Early Life and Education

Albert Peale went to the Central High School in Philadelphia. He graduated in 1868. Later, he studied medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. He earned his medical degree in 1871. But even with a medical degree, he chose a different path. He decided to explore the natural world instead of practicing medicine.

Exploring the American West

From 1871 to 1879, Peale worked for the United States Geological and Geographical Survey of the Territories. This was a government group that explored and mapped the western parts of the United States. He traveled on several trips led by Ferdinand Vandeveer Hayden. These trips helped map out new areas and discover important geological features.

In 1875, Albert Peale married Emilie Wiswell. Her father was a minister in Philadelphia.

A Career in Science

After his work with the survey, Peale continued his scientific career. From 1882 to 1898, he was a geologist with the United States Geological Survey. This group studies the Earth's surface and resources.

Later, from 1898 until his death in 1914, he worked for the United States National Museum. Here, he focused on paleobotany. This is the study of ancient plants found as fossils. He wrote many reports and books about his discoveries. He also served as Secretary of the Chemical Society of Washington for many years.

Places Named After Peale

Albert Peale's work was so important that several places were named in his honor.

• Peale Island is the southernmost island in Yellowstone Lake.
• Mount Peale is the highest mountain in the La Sal Mountains in Utah.
• The Peale Mountains are located in eastern Caribou County, Idaho.

These names remind us of his important contributions to understanding the geology and geography of the American West.