Adams, Frank Dawson, 1859-1942

Frank Dawson Adams was born on September 17, 1859, in Montreal, Quebec.

He was a well-known geologist, educator, and author who had a long association with McGill University. After graduating from Montreal High School, he completed his B.Sc. in 1878 and M.A. in 1884 at McGill University, and later earned a PhD at Heidelberg University. He began lecturing at McGill in 1889 and held several prominent positions there, including Logan Professor of Geology, Dean of Applied Science, Director of the Redpath Museum, Acting Principal, Vice-Principal, and Dean of Graduate Studies. He was also employed as a chemist and petrographer for the Geological Survey of Canada from 1913 to 1914, was Deputy Director of Khaki University in Britain, and actively participated in several national and international geological organizations, including the Geological Society of Canada. Adams retired from McGill in 1924 and traveled widely while continuing his geological research and study. A recognized leader in his field, he was awarded the Flavelle Medal in 1937 and held honorary degrees from the University of Toronto, Queen’s, Mount Allison, Bishop’s, and Tufts. His articles were printed in American and Canadian journals, and he authored the well-regarded book "The Birth and Development of the Geological Sciences" in 1938.

He died on December 26, 1942, in Montreal, Quebec.