Alabama’s first State Geologist, appointed 2 January 1848. His 1849 Geological Map of Alabama and 1850 First Biennial Report of the Geology of Alabama were the first works to scientifically document the coal and iron ore deposits that would later drive Birmingham’s rise as an industrial center. His survey covered Blount County, working in cooperation with George Powell.
Full story: Michael Tuomey and the Survey Behind Blount County’s Coal and Iron.