Frederic A. Lucas, also known as Frederic Augustus Lucas, was an American zoologist and taxidermist who played a significant role in the development of American natural history museums [Wikipedia]. Here's a summary of his life and achievements:
Career Highlights
- Curator of birds and osteology at the National Museum of Natural History (1882-1904) [Wikipedia]
- Curator-in-Chief of the Brooklyn Museum (1904-1911) [Wikipedia]
- Director of the American Museum of Natural History (1911-1923) and Honorary Director (1924-1929) [Wikipedia]
Expertise
- Lucas was an expert on the anatomy and skeletons (osteology) of birds [Wikipedia].
Contribution to Science Education
- Pioneered popular science writing in the US, particularly about prehistoric life in North America [Linda Hall Library]
- Collaborated with famous illustrator Charles Knight to bring prehistoric creatures to life in his book "Animals of the Past" (1901) [Linda Hall Library]