William Buckland, born in Axminster, Devon, in 1784, was a prominent English paleontologist, geologist, and clergyman in early 19th-century science. His work significantly shaped the understanding of Earth’s ancient past. He served as Oxford University’s first reader in geology and later held a similar position in mineralogy. His contributions helped establish the scientific framework for geological study.
Pioneering Geological Discoveries
Buckland made groundbreaking scientific contributions to geology and paleontology. In 1824, he provided the first scientific description of a dinosaur, naming it Megalosaurus (“great lizard”) from fossil bones found at Stonesfield. This marked a significant moment in recognizing extinct, large reptiles.
His 1821 investigations into Kirkdale Cave in Yorkshire also yielded insights into ancient ecosystems. He discovered fossil bones of extinct animals like hyenas, elephants, hippopotamuses, and rhinoceroses, concluding the cave had been a prehistoric hyena den. This work earned him the Royal Society’s Copley Medal in 1822.
Buckland also pioneered the use of fossilized feces, coining the term “coprolites” in 1835. He recognized their importance for reconstructing ancient diets and understanding prehistoric animal behavior. His early work included the “Diluvial Theory,” which interpreted certain geological formations as evidence of a universal flood. While later modified, this theory reflected his early efforts to understand surface deposits and geological time. He later embraced Louis Agassiz’s glacial theory, which offered a better explanation for many geological features.
Bridging Science and Faith
Buckland occupied a unique position as both an ordained Anglican priest and a leading scientist during a time of intellectual debate between emerging scientific theories and religious doctrine. He actively sought to reconcile geological findings with biblical accounts, particularly his interpretations of the Genesis flood. His book, Reliquiae Diluvianae (1823), proposed that prehistoric hyenas had dragged prey into their cave, an “anti-deluvial” time. He advocated for the “Gap Theory,” which posited a long period between the initial creation in Genesis and subsequent events, allowing for deep geological time.
Buckland believed that geology supported divine creation, rather than contradicting it. He explained the fossil record’s faunal succession through a series of successive divine creations, preparing Earth for humans. His efforts helped influence the acceptance of geological time within religious circles. He also served as Canon of Christ Church and later as Dean of Westminster.
The Eccentricities of a Victorian Scientist
Buckland was known for his unusual personality and unconventional methods. He gained notoriety for his habit of eating various animals, driven by scientific curiosity. His culinary experiments included consuming crocodile, mole, panther, and even the mummified heart of a French king.
His home often resembled a natural history museum, filled with geological specimens and fossils. He kept a pet hyena and other animals, which sometimes roamed freely. At Oxford, his lectures were energetic and unconventional; he frequently brought live animals or fossils directly into the classroom to illustrate his points, making his teaching memorable for students.
Enduring Influence on Geology
Buckland’s lasting legacy is significant in establishing geology as a respected scientific discipline in Britain. He played a role in channeling emerging geological knowledge into a structured scientific framework. His work helped professionalize science through his involvement with institutions such as the Geological Society of London, where he served as president in 1824.
His contributions, particularly in defining deep time and identifying extinct life forms, paved the way for future scientific advancements, including evolutionary theories. Buckland’s rigorous approach and collaborative spirit influenced subsequent generations of geologists and paleontologists. He also supported and championed the work of fossil hunters like Mary Anning.