Geologist, educator, traveler, businessman and philanthropist, he was one of the most important personages in this Academy's history. While not a founder, he was elected president in 1817, which position he held until his death in 1840. During these 24 years he contributed greatly to its growth and development, giving generously to it financially, and collecting and purchasing many scientific specimens. His influence upon it was felt long after his death when he bequeathed his personal natural history library, of over 5,000 volumes. He made, almost singlehanded, the first geological survey of the United States - the results published in 1809.