Alexander
Dallas
Bache

July 19, 1806 - February 17, 1867

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Graduated West Point in 1825 at the top of his class. Professor of natural philosophy and chemistry University of Pennsylvania. Appointed Superintendent of the Coast Survey by Pres. Tyler in 1843, a position he held until 1861. Bache introduced many new and innovative ideas into the Coast Survey including the involvement of many of the top scientific minds of the day. When President Lincoln established the National Academy of Sciences in 1863, Bache and about four dozen other scientists, many of whom had been associated with the Coast Survey, were charter members. From its founding until his death, Bache was President of the Academy.

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