The Rusty King of All Metals

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The knowledge of Geology seems to be requisite in all states and pursuits of life. The artisan and the mechanic, are benefited by the mineral products of the earth; without Iron alone, (the rusty king of all metals,) man could not exist in a civilized state, for, from the weighty hammer and the delicate needle comes most of the power, that man possesses in the mechanical arts. The agriculturalist is assisted by a knowledge of the rocks, which compose the base of the material of the soil which he is cultivating - practical men have often found out that soil which is the most congenial to the plants they intend to raise, but with the knowledge of Geology, their strength would be supported, and their practice made more perfect. [...]

Even to the well-digger, a certain knowledge of the dip and make of the rock is requisite, that he may know how deep he must descend, and whether water can be obtained, and if attainable at all, at what spot. [...] To the miner, as it gives him the dip and the strike of the rocks, and may show him when the mine will be flooded, the knowledge of this science is of the foremost importance, whether it is intended to mine for coal, the ores of metals, or even in quarrying stone. Many more instances might be adduced, to show the usefulness of Geology; but as it expands the mind, being a matter of fact study, this alone, is sufficient to recommend it more generally.

-- Issachar Cozzens, Jr., 1843, A Geological History of Manhattan or New York Island

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