David Humphreys Storer

American physician and naturalist

David Humphreys Storer (March 26, 1804 – September 10, 1891) was a prominent American physician and naturalist known for his contributions to ichthyology and herpetology. He was a key figure in the scientific community of the 19th century, particularly in the study of New England's fish and reptiles.

Early Life and Education

David Humphreys Storer was born in Portland, Maine, on March 26, 1804. He was the son of Woodbury Storer and Mary Green Storer. Storer pursued his early education in Portland before attending Bowdoin College, where he graduated in 1822. He then studied medicine at the Harvard Medical School, earning his medical degree in 1825.

Medical Career

Storer began his medical practice in Boston, Massachusetts, where he quickly gained a reputation as a skilled physician. He was appointed as a professor of obstetrics and medical jurisprudence at the Harvard Medical School, a position he held for many years. His work in medicine was highly regarded, and he was known for his dedication to teaching and advancing medical knowledge.

Contributions to Natural History

David Humphreys Storer

In addition to his medical career, Storer was deeply interested in natural history. He was a member of the Boston Society of Natural History, where he served as president from 1847 to 1856. Storer's work in ichthyology was particularly notable; he authored "A Synopsis of the Fishes of North America," which was a significant contribution to the field.

Storer's research extended to herpetology, where he studied the reptiles and amphibians of New England. His publications on the subject were among the first comprehensive studies of the region's herpetofauna.

Legacy and Honors

David Humphreys Storer's contributions to both medicine and natural history left a lasting impact. He was a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and a member of several other scientific societies. His work laid the groundwork for future studies in ichthyology and herpetology in the United States.

Storer passed away on September 10, 1891, in Boston, Massachusetts. His legacy continues through his scientific publications and the influence he had on his students and colleagues.

Related Pages

• Ichthyology
• Herpetology
• Harvard Medical School
• Boston Society of Natural History