Lonely Planet - EARTH

People tend to ignore things which are of no interest to them. But, there are more interesting things in this world which we fail to see. How of you know what is geology? Geology is the study of solid and liquid components that compose the earth. William Smith is known as the “father of English geology”. His work was not recognized at the early stages as he was from a humble family. He was born at Churchill, Oxfordshire in 1769. He was quick to learn about trade and went to somerset for working at the somerset coal canal in 1791. There he observed the pattern of rocks and found that they are same everywhere. He lost his job in 1799 and traveled across the country to study about the rock formation and their strata. He then found out the type of soils and vegetation possible around the town of “Bath” and published a map based on it with colored illustrations. He then made an approximate prediction of England’s location and drew a colored map of it along iwth the rivers, tramways, roads,etc. His maps were sold at cheaper price and he ended in debt and was put in debtor’s prison in 1817. He was then released in 1819. Sir John Johnstone appreciated his talent and took him to scarborough where he was responsible for building the Rotuda, geological museum. Then he traveled to dublin where he received the Doctorate of Laws from Trinity College. In 1838 he was appointed the commisioner for selecting the building stone for westminster palace. He died in Northampton and was burried near the St.Peter’s church,Marefair.