William Hutton (1797–1860) facts for kids

William Hutton (born July 26, 1797 – died November 20, 1860) was an important British geologist. He spent his life studying rocks and fossils, especially those found in coal mines. He helped us understand more about the Earth's history.

A Life Exploring Rocks

William Hutton was born on July 26, 1797, in Sunderland, England. His father managed coal mines, which might have sparked William's early interest in geology. By 1827, William had moved to Newcastle-on-Tyne. He worked as an agent for the Norwich Fire Insurance Company, but his real passion was studying the Earth.

Becoming a Geology Expert

William quickly became known as a skilled geologist. He was especially good at understanding the rock layers where coal is found, called 'coal measures'. He also loved collecting fossils found in coal. People said he was the first person to truly explain the fossils from Britain's coal fields. A man named John Buddle, who was important in the coal industry, helped William a lot with his research.

From 1829, William was a key person at the Newcastle Natural History Society. He was an honorary secretary until he left Newcastle in 1846. He wrote many scientific papers for the society's 'Transactions' (which are like scientific journals) between 1831 and 1838.

Important Achievements

In June 1840, William Hutton was chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very high honor for scientists in Britain. He also helped start 'mechanics' institutes' in northern England. These were places where working people could learn about science and technology.

William was also a fellow of the Geological Society of London, another important group for geologists. He wrote papers for their 'Transactions' in 1846.

Later Life and Legacy

After living in Malta for a while, William returned to Newcastle in 1857. He then moved to West Hartlepool, where he passed away on November 20, 1860.

A portrait of William Hutton, painted by Carrick, can be seen at the North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers in Newcastle-on-Tyne. After he died, Professor G. A. Lebour used William's notes and drawings to create a book called 'Illustrations of Fossil Plants' in 1877. This book included a picture of William.

William Hutton had a very valuable collection of fossils. These fossils were given to the Mining Institute. Today, parts of his collection are kept at the Museum of the Natural History Society in Newcastle and at the Museum of the Durham College of Physical Science in the same town. His work helped many people understand the ancient plants and animals that lived when coal was forming.