The Joys of 'Urban Geology'
2 days ago
- #history
- #urban-geology
- #fossils
- Urban geology involves studying building stones, tiles, and pavements to uncover hidden geological and historical features.
- Geologist Ruth Siddall specializes in urban geology, identifying fossils and unusual rocks in city environments.
- Fossils found in urban settings, such as those in Portland Stone, can be millions of years old and include shells, bones, and even potential dinosaur remains.
- Urban geology enthusiasts worldwide share discoveries through hashtags like #urbangeology, showcasing fossils in buildings from New York to Tokyo.
- Portland Stone, a historically significant limestone from Dorset, was widely used in London after the Great Fire of 1666 and features abundant fossils.
- Urban geology reveals both Earth's history and human history, showing how stones are repurposed over time, such as rubble from the old St Paul's Cathedral being reused in the plaza.
- Human choices in building materials reflect changing fashions, politics, and practical needs, like Victorian pubs using durable granite.
- Historical events, such as the American Civil War, can be seen in urban geology, like the color change in the Washington Monument's marble.
- Urban geology encourages people to see cities differently, noticing prehistoric worlds and hidden histories in everyday surroundings.