--> A. O. Woodford: Successful Geologist, by Dorothy L. Stout; #91024 (1989)

Datapages, Inc.Print this page

A. O. Woodford: Successful Geologist

Dorothy L. Stout

A. O. Woodford was born in 1890 into a citrus-industry family in southern California. His schooling in the classics and interest in soil science led to a degree in chemistry from Pomona College in 1913. His pursuit of an advanced degree at Berkeley, while teaching chemistry at Pomona, was achieved in 1923, but by then his interest was geology and he completed a classic thesis, The San Onofre Breccia, Its Nature and Origin innovatively theorizing an upraised Miocene landmass offshore that shed sediment east and was subsequently eroded away.

The population growth and economy in southern California necessitated the development of a geological program, and Woodford's enthusiasm and insight into the opportunities available led to a successful program. His one-man department, with a few graduating geology students each year, revolved around personalized attention. Field trips and research projects led to lifelong friendships. The track record of his department indicates an unusually high percentage of students matriculating to major institutions and subsequently establishing themselves as prominent geologists. His influence is widespread throughout California and the United States because of the more than 60 years he has been involved in the discipline of geology.

His accomplishments as a researcher; his prominence on the local and national scene in professional organizations such as the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, Geological Society of America, and National Association of Geology Teachers; his publication of articles and textbooks; his rare book collecting; and his concern for the well being of his students paved the way for his many successes.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91024©1989 AAPG Pacific Section, May 10-12, 1989, Palm Springs, California.