Alfred Tylor

Born in London on January 26, 1824, Alfred Tylor was an English geologist and brassfounder. Raised in a Quaker family, he entered the family business while continuing his scientific interests, and he later became known for work on river erosion, valley formation, sea-level change, and the effects of post-glacial climates.

Much of his geology focused on recent Earth history. He wrote about what he saw as a wetter period following the last glacial age and helped develop ideas in hydraulic geology and geomorphology. Alongside his scientific writing, he also took a strong interest in technical education and industrial progress.

Tylor was the elder brother of the anthropologist Edward Burnett Tylor. He died on December 31, 1884, leaving a reputation as a careful observer of landscapes and a thoughtful advocate for applying scientific knowledge to practical life.