Powell, John Wesley

John Wesley (1834-1902), an American geologist. He was a native of Mount Morris, New York. He was a student at various institutions, including Oberlin. During the Civil War he served in an Illinois regiment, entering as a private and coming out a second lieutenant. Later he was made a professor of geology at Illinois Wesleyan University. He held various educational positions. In 1868 he explored the Grand Canon of the Colorado River. Two years later he was placed in charge of a survey of that wonderful region. When the United States geological survey was established he was made director, a position which he held until 1894. He wrote a number of scientific works. His account of the exploration of the Colorado region is of thrilling interest. His was the first party of white men ever to pass through the canon. He wrote also an introduction to the study of Indian languages. He died at Haven, Maine. See Colorado River