Science Culture, Geological Investigation, and the Contribution to the Cultural Diversity of Saint John
Dr. Randy Miller, Curator of Geology & Palaeontology, New Brunswick Museum
New Brunswick, in particular Saint John, has a long history in the development of geological sciences in Canada dating back to the work of Saint John resident Abraham Gesner. Gesner was the first provincial geologist in New Brunswick (1838-1842) and the first to hold such a position in the British Empire. Much of the early work was conducted in and around Saint John through the work of the Steinhammer Club and the Natural History Society of New Brunswick. G.F. Matthew and C.F. Hartt were two of the geologists who built impressive careers on their scientific studies of the local geology. Few cities can compare to the Saint John region when it comes to the complex geological diversity seen here. Neither can most cities claim such a long history of geoscience investigation dating back more than 150 years. Saint John has attracted an impressive list of scientists to unravel its geological past. It has a history of scientific study and public education unmatched by most Canadian cities its size. Scientists still visit Saint John to research and study the geology and visit rock outcrops on our shorelines and streets. The New Brunswick Museum conducts public tours of geological sites and maintains a large collection of fossils that support decades of scienctific research.
This project starting in 2004 will begin to assess and document the significance of heritage geological and palaeontological sites in the Saint John region. It will include both field work and literature and archival research. The project will look at the influence of the region’s geology in developing a vibrant science culture in Saint John in the late 1800’s. The research team will further prepare a risk assessment plan for site protection or rehabilitation and develop files and site narratives to be used for interpretation plans and to develop material for geotourism