Hugh Miller: Stonemason, Geologist, Writer

Hugh Miller was a Scottish geologist, journalist, and social commentator who was born in 1802 in Cromarty, North East Scotland. He was a successful fossil collector and a keen interest in geological history. He later became a social commentator and crusader, condemning the Highland Clearances. His work was mined by historians and anthologists for its acute observations, and geologists continued to love his writings. However, his thoughts on evolutionary biology were obsolete in the 20th century. A recent revival in Scots history and culture has led to a fuller appreciation of his work and writings, and his biography follows the 2003 facsimile edition of his The Cruise of the Betsey and Rambles of a Geologist.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 04 August 2022
Publisher: NMSE - Publishing Ltd

Hugh Miller was born in 1802 in Cromarty, North East Scotland, and began his career as a stonemason's apprentice. His keen interest in fossil collecting led to his successful efforts in raising public awareness of geological history. Over time, he evolved into a social commentator and crusader, notably condemning the Highland Clearances. Additionally, his role as a serious religious journalist was highlighted in his discussions on the Disruption of the Church of Scotland and its consequences. As Hugh Miller, a tall man with a shepherd's plaid over his rough tweed suit, walked about Edinburgh, he was proudly pointed out. His name was a household sensation not only in Scotland but also across the English-speaking world during his lifetime. After his passing in 1856, his work continued to be mined by historians and anthologists for its keen observations, and geologists continued to appreciate the spirit that imbued his writings, as did the Free Church. However, in the 20th century, his thoughts on evolutionary biology became outdated. Nevertheless, a recent resurgence in Scots history and culture, as well as a reevaluation of the 19th-century debates in science, geology, and religion, has led to a greater appreciation of Hugh Miller's rich and complex stories and of the man himself. This biography follows the 2003 facsimile edition of Hugh Miller's The Cruise of the Betsey and Rambles of a Geologist, edited by Michael Taylor. With the benefit of recent research for the 2002 centenary conferences, the book fully honors a neglected figure whose work and writings continue to provide enjoyment and inspiration.

Dimension: 234 x 153 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910682357
Edition number: 2 Revised edition