Albert Smith Bickmore (1839-1914) was an American naturalist, educator, and museum director who made significant contributions to the field of natural history in the late 19th century. Born in New York City, Bickmore graduated from Columbia College in 1859 and later obtained a Ph.D. from the University of Göttingen in Germany.
Bickmore is best known for his work in the establishment and development of natural history museums. He served as the curator of the American Museum of Natural History in New York City from 1869 to 1874, and then as the director from 1874 to 1890. During his tenure, he expanded the museum's collections and worked tirelessly to promote public involvement and education in natural sciences.
Bickmore's most influential contribution was his advocacy for the conservation and preservation of natural resources. He actively campaigned for the creation of national parks and public lands, realizing their importance for future generations. Bickmore's efforts eventually led to the establishment of Yellowstone National Park in 1872, the world's first national park.
In addition to his work in museum administration and conservation, Bickmore was a prolific writer and lecturer. He authored several books and numerous articles on various topics related to natural history, anthropology, and popular science. He also initiated the first systematic lectures on natural history in American colleges, promoting the interdisciplinary study of the subject.
Overall, Albert Smith Bickmore was a prominent figure in the advancement of natural history and the establishment of institutions and initiatives for the conservation and dissemination of knowledge about the natural world. His dedication and contributions continue to have a lasting impact on the field.
