author
Frederic Brewster Loomis
1873–1937
An American paleontologist who spent his career at Amherst College, he helped build the study of fossil vertebrates through teaching, fieldwork, and widely read popular science books. Many of the fossils he collected are still associated with Amherst’s natural history collections.
2 Audiobooks
Field book of common rocks and minerals : for identifying the rocks and minerals of the United States and interpreting their origins and meanings
by Frederic Brewster Loomis
The Deseado Formation of Patagonia
by Frederic Brewster Loomis
About the author
Born in Brooklyn, New York, on November 22, 1873, Frederic Brewster Loomis grew up with a strong interest in natural history and went on to study at Amherst College, graduating in 1896. After a year as a research assistant, he continued his studies in Germany at the University of Munich, earning a Ph.D. before returning to Amherst, where he spent his full professional career.
Loomis became known as a vertebrate paleontologist and teacher whose work combined classroom science with active field collecting. He took part in expeditions in places including the western United States and Patagonia, and his research focused on fossil mammals and other ancient vertebrates. Over the years he served Amherst as a professor and museum leader, helping shape the college’s scientific collections.
He also wrote for general readers as well as specialists. Books such as The Evolution of the Horse, The Origin of the Vertebrates, and Creation by Evolution show his interest in explaining big scientific ideas in clear language. He died on July 28, 1937, but he remains a memorable figure in Amherst’s scientific history.