Geology and Chicanery

August 1, 2024 8:35 AM

The Swindling Geologist, as he came to be called, first appeared in the news in 1884, following his arrest on February 9, in Philadelphia (Part 1). Pretending to be W. R. Taggart of the Ohio Geological Survey, he had befriended Ferdinand V. Hayden, of the United States Geological Survey, and stolen one of his rare books and made off with $20. Of course he was innocent, he said. Someone acting as an imposter and smearing his good name was responsible for the charges of swindling attributed to him. (Part 2) . By David B. Williams (substack)
posted by bq (2 comments total)

The Swindler claimed that he hoped to reform and told a reporter that he “never stole anything for the profit there was in it, but because in the presence of rare geologic specimens or works he experiences an overmastering desire to possess himself of them.”

Folks, you have no idea what rock nerds will do for more rocks. I've helped my geologist wife illegally trespass and even do some light B&E in order to get some of those sweet, sweet minerals. I only wish she would resort to crime to get her books, too, since I don't know if we're going to run out of space or money first.
posted by charred husk at 9:54 AM on August 1 [6 favorites]

“Cannot something be done to throttle this nuisance before he scandalizes every geologist in the country.”

Curiously, I’ve head this sentiment directed at colleagues by many a geologist.
posted by GenjiandProust at 10:05 AM on August 1 [3 favorites]