Enjoy highlights from our collections, focusing on important figures in the history of geology
One of the most popular and important figures in the history of geology is the fossil collector and dealer Mary Anning (1799-1847). Her extraordinary discoveries, mainly found within a relatively small geographical area, were paramount to our understanding (and reconstruction) of life 200 million years ago. Anning was never a member of the Geological Society, however this exhibition uncovers her presence and influence in our collections through her direct and indirect relationships with our Fellows.
The civil engineer and geologist William Smith (1769-1839) is best known today for producing the first ever geological map of a country in 1815. Bringing together the Society's rare and unique William Smith items, this exhibition is a celebration of his achievements in the field of geology which laid the basis of the science we know today – and led to him rightfully being known as ‘The Father of English Geology’.
The following exhibitions are currently being worked on to improve their content, relevance and appearance. Please bear with us while these are being improved.
George Bellas Greenough’s (1778-1855) mapping of the British Isles
How the search for a clean water supply in London led to the birth of hydrogeology
Brunel's Tunnel and the two previous attempts to build a tunnel under the Thames
The importance of Brixham Cave in proving the Antiquity of Man
A celebration of the centenary of Female Fellowship in 2019
The life and work of the amateur geologist and fossil collector Charles Moore (1815-1881)
The contributions of women to the science of geology in the early 19th century.
Geological Society Fellows who lost their lives in World War One
The diary of Sir Lewis Leigh Fermor's (1880-1954) first seasons in India, 1902-1904
Introduction to the major portraits and busts which can be found around the Geological Society's apartments.
