author
Frederick W. (Frederick William) True
1858–1914
A pioneering American biologist and museum leader, he helped shape the Smithsonian’s early study of mammals and became especially known for his work on whales and dolphins. His writing brings together careful science, curiosity, and a deep interest in the natural world.
1 Audiobook
The Beaked Whales of the Family Ziphiidae An Account of the Beaked Whales of the Family Ziphiidae in the Collection of the United States Museum...
by Frederick W. (Frederick William) True
About the author
Born in Middletown, Connecticut, in 1858, Frederick William True studied at the University of the City of New York and began his career with the United States Fish Commission. In 1881 he joined the Smithsonian, where he served in several important roles, including librarian, curator of mammals, head curator of biology at the United States National Museum, and later assistant secretary in charge of the library and International Exchange Service.
True became one of the leading American authorities on marine mammals, especially cetaceans such as whales and dolphins. He also worked broadly in mammalogy and museum science, helping build collections and organize research during a formative period for the Smithsonian and the National Museum.
He died in 1914, but his name remains closely tied to early American zoology and the study of marine life. Readers coming to his work today will find the voice of a careful observer who wrote at a time when natural history, exploration, and museum research were rapidly expanding.