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Hamlin’s Field Notes

Hamlin’s field notes. Charles Hamlin File, Colby College Special Collection.

The first image is a collection of field notes and calculations from Charles Hamlin from different studies in the field. (Far left) — calculating the composition of sodium chloride. (Middle left) — Drawing of a skull from his studies in the field. (Top Middle) — More calculations on sodium chloride composition. (Middle Right) — List of different species by their latin names and more field notes. (Bottom and Top Right) — More calculations from the field. I found these field notes to be very interesting, and also telling of the work that Hamlin had to do as a scientist in the 19th Century. Without modern technology, Hamlin had to resort heavily on on-the-fly calculations, jottings, and even sketches to ensure that he had enough information to elaborate on his field work when he returned home from his treks. Hamlin did not have access to cameras or video recorders, and relied on his memory and field notes to do research.

Curated by Ben Weisel

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