THE COLORADO SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY
Samuel Emmons was the geologist in charge of the Rocky Mountain Division of the United States Geological Survey (USGS) in Denver in 1882. He perceived a need for like-minded people to meet to exchange scientific observations and ideas. They represented professions that were in great demand, geologists, metallurgists, mining engineers, chemists, assayers, as well as an Episcopal minister who wrote papers on these subjects. Some of these members became officers in the CSS; some became well-known business leaders and political leaders. Some – Brunton (Compass), Ainsworth (Balance), Wilfley (Table), and Dorr (Classifier)- were famous for their inventions.
Between 1911 and 1947 there were intervals when the CSS was not active. However, since 1947 the CSS usually has had monthly meetings and later, biannual field trips. In 1984, the CSS established memorial funds for graduate students in earth science. Each fund has been named in memory of distinguished, deceased members. One fund was established in Ed Eckel’s memory; the money in his fund is awarded to graduate student applicants who pursue engineering geologic studies in the U.S.
On the 25th anniversary of the Society in 1906, the CSS was given a gavel of 6 Troy oz of silver from a mine in Aspen, CO, now on display at the CSM Museum. On the 100th anniversary, we celebrated with a field trip to China and one to Aspen, CO.
Eckel, the Society’s historian for many years, worked as a geologist, administrator, and editor for the USGS, and as an editor and Executive Secretary of GSA. During his long career (1930-1984), he wrote books and papers on many subjects. Ed received many honors for his contributions to science including the Distinguished Service Award from the Department of the Interior. He was president of CSS in 1950 and 1951 and a Fellow of GSA for which he wrote a comprehensive history.
The CSS topical session will focus on the geologists of yesteryear like Ed Eckel, who served both CSS and GSA in many ways.