Our collectors
The Earth Sciences Collection reflects the long and distinguished history of teaching geology at the University of Bristol. Some of the oldest donations go back to 1876 when geology was first taught at the University College of Bristol.
Heads of School
Main contributors in the late 19th and early 20th century.
Early Years
The years between 1876 and 1909.
The extent of the collection is largely due to the efforts of four people; Professor S.H. Reynolds, T.R. Fry, Professor W.F. Whittard and Professor R.J.G. Savage who purchased, actively collected and exchanged samples and specimens with the intention to build up a comprehensive university teaching collection.
From the 1950s onwards the focus shifted from educational to research specimens. Material gathered during field expeditions to 'far-flung' places entered the collection. At the same time, local amateur collectors were encouraged to donate their rock samples and fossils, not only to safeguard them for future generations but also to open them up to the scientific community.
Collection timeline
Our timeline below gives an overview of some of the collectors. This tool is currently being reviewed and you can find out more about work related to collecting and collecotrs here on our blog: