The History of Geology Group

As Auguste Comte (1798-1857) stated: “To understand a science, it is necessary to know its history.”

The History of Geology Group (HOGG) was inaugurated in October 1994      in order to advance the study and understanding of the history of geology.

HOGG is open to anyone interested in the heritage and development of geology and geoscience.

HOGG is affiliated to the Geological Society of London but it is not necessary to be a Fellow or associated with that Society to be a member of HOGG.

HOGG Members are from a wide range of backgrounds and levels of interest.

Variously, they are inspired by or curious about and enjoy learning or finding out about the events, personalities and achievements that have influenced the way geology has been understood, studied, represented and practised.

HOGG organises a programme of regular meetings, events and activities each year, including online talks, field meetings, symposia and workshops.

 

 

History of Geology Group field party at Babbacombe Beach, on a field meeting to south Devon, June 2025, examining a ‘trap’ (basalt) intrusion mapped by Henry de la Beche in the 1820s.

 

HOGG publishes a members’ magazine, GeoHistories, twice a year and we issue a HOGG Bulletin about every six weeks.

HOGG advocates for and offers support for history of geology in the wider community.

HOGG has strong links with the global history of geology community and is the U.K. representative of INHIGEO (International History of Geology Organisation).

HOGG contributed to the UNESCO IUGS 200 designated Global Geoheritage Sites, specifically, the geo-historical site of Cavansham Ferry and Llanstephan Quarries in mid-Wales, where the Silurian System was ‘discovered’ by Roderick Murchison in 1831.