William Mackay Mackenzie

Edward Gibbon

James Hutton (1726-1797) is considered to be the founder of modern Geology. His studies of the rock formations of his native Scotland helped him to formulate his most famous work, "Theory of the Earth". This work was interpreted and used by many as the basis for geological theory. Hutton made many observations about rock formations and how they were effected by erosion. His terminology and rock formation theories became known as "Huttonian" Geology. Several of the watercolors on this page are reproductions of works that he did while in the field.