Thomas Say

Born in Philadelphia on June 27, 1787, Thomas Say became one of the most important naturalists in early American science. He is widely remembered as a founder of American descriptive entomology and conchology, and he also helped found the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia.

His work focused on identifying and describing North American insects and shells at a time when much of the continent's wildlife was still poorly documented by scientists. He joined major expeditions in the American South and West, and his books American Entomology and American Conchology became landmark works.

Later in life, Say moved to New Harmony, Indiana, where he continued his research and writing. He died there on October 10, 1834, leaving behind a lasting reputation as one of the first great natural historians of the United States.