Eugene Eisenmann facts for kids
Eugene "Gene" Eisenmann (born February 19, 1906 – died October 16, 1981) was an American and Panamanian lawyer who became a famous bird expert. He loved studying birds, especially those found in Central and South America. Gene worked closely with important groups like the Linnaean Society of New York (LSNY) and the American Ornithologists' Union (AOU). He also had a long connection with the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH).
About Gene Eisenmann
Gene Eisenmann was born in Panama. Even though he lived most of his adult life in New York City, he often went back to Panama. He loved to visit his family there and study the amazing birds.
He could speak both English and Spanish very well. In 1930, he earned a law degree from Harvard Law School. For many years, he worked as a partner at a law firm in New York.
His Love for Birds
Gene Eisenmann had a deep passion for birds. From 1947 to 1949, he was the President of the Linnaean Society of New York. Later, he was chosen as a special member, called a Fellow.
In 1956, he decided to leave his law career. He wanted to spend all his time studying birds, especially those in Central America. The next year, he joined the American Museum of Natural History as a Research Associate. He held this important job until he passed away.
Gene also helped lead the American Ornithologists' Union (AOU). He was the editor of their bird journal, The Auk, for a few years. He also served as the AOU's vice president. He helped create the official list of birds for the AOU. Gene wrote more than 150 papers about birds. He also wrote important books like The Species of Middle American Birds. He even co-wrote The Species of Birds of South America.
His Lasting Impact
After Gene Eisenmann passed away in 1981, his friends wanted to honor his work. The Linnaean Society of New York created the Eisenmann Medal. This award celebrates great bird experts and encourages new amateur birdwatchers. The first medal was given to Ernst Mayr in 1983.
In 2000, a group of bird lovers started the Eugene Eisenmann Bird Foundation in Panama. Their goal is to protect Panama's birds and their homes. In 2003, the foundation helped create the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center. This center is in the Soberanía National Park and helps people learn about the rainforest and its birds.
