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George C. Shattuck Observatory records

 Collection
Identifier: DA-9
DA-9

  • Staff Only

Description

The Dartmouth College Observatory Meteorological Records, 1827 - 2008 [bulk 1853 - 1966], contain mechanical recording charts, compiled daily and monthly data forms, voluntary observers' reports, monthly meteorological registers, off-site observations, and a small amount of correspondence and administrative records. The latter documents the planning, construction, and equipping of the George C. Shattuck Observatory. Most of the meteorological observations are of temperature, barometric pressure, humidity, wind, precipitation and sunshine. The combination of written observations, mechanical recording charts, and voluntary observers' monthly reports to the U.S. Weather Bureau/National Weather Service make these Records one of the most complete and continuous collections of meteorological and climatological data in the United States. The Records demonstrate the evolution of meteorological data-collecting at Dartmouth College. The Records detail little about the Observatory's administrative functioning.

Dates

  • 1827 - 2023

Creator

Conditions Governing Access

Unrestricted.

Conditions Governing Use

Permission from Dartmouth College Required for Publication or Reproduction.

Extent

46.5 linear ft. (73 boxes)

126 Digital File(s)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Construction of the observatory at Dartmouth College was made possible by a gift from Dr. George C. Shattuck, Class of 1803, in 1852. Although the intended use of the observatory was for observations and instruction in astronomy, Professor Ira Young also convinced Dr. Shattuck to provide for additional equipment which would make the building useful for courses in natural philosophy and meteorology as well. Young began sending meteorological observations to the Smithsonian in the fall of 1853. The records consist primarily of meteorological observations taken at the observatory, but also contain a small amount of correspondence and administrative documentation, and some observations and studies conducted at Dartmouth prior to the construction of the building.

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