The publication of "List of the Birds of Essex County" in 1856 marked the start of a prolific scientific career for Frederic Ward Putnam. Raised in Salem, Massachusetts, he transitioned from early studies in ornithology and zoology to become a central figure in American anthropology and archaeological fieldwork, eventually shaping institutional preservation and academic standards across the United States.
Academic Foundations and Scientific Divergence
Putnam began his formal scientific training at the Lawrence Scientific School of Harvard University, studying under Louis Agassiz at the Museum of Comparative Zoology. He eventually broke with Agassiz over the theory of evolution, leading an academic revolt with fellow students Edward Sylvester Morse, A. S. Packard, and Alpheus Hyatt. Together, they founded the American Naturalist in 1867. While his early work focused on zoology and ichthyology, his publication of "An Indian Grave and its Contents, on Winter Island, Salem, Massachusetts" in 1865 signaled a transition toward archaeology.
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In 1864, Putnam helped convince George Peabody to fund the Peabody Museum of Salem, becoming its first director. By 1874, he assumed the role of curator at the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology at Harvard, a position he held until 1909. His fieldwork was extensive, encompassing archaeological digs in 37 U.S. states. Between 1880 and 1895, he led an archaeological survey of Ohio, where he successfully advocated for the preservation of the Great Serpent Mound. He also conducted significant surveys throughout New Jersey.
Expositions and Professional Societies
In 1891, Putnam was named lead curator of the anthropology department for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. He directed global expeditions to gather ethnographic items for the event. Following the exposition, he campaigned for a permanent home for the collection, contributing to the 1893 incorporation of the Field Museum of Natural History. Throughout his career, he held leadership roles in numerous organizations, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Folklore Society, and the American Anthropological Association.
Professional Legacy
Recognized for his development of scientific methodology in archaeology, Putnam mentored numerous students, including Arthur C. Parker. His academic contributions led to his election to the National Academy of Sciences, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the Royal Swedish Academy of Letters, History and Antiquities. He died in 1915 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and is buried at Mount Auburn Cemetery. The species of Mexican snake, Manolepis putnami, is named in his honor.
Fast facts
- Born: 1839, Salem, Massachusetts
- Died: 1915, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Education: Harvard University, Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
- Key Role: Curator, Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology (1874-1909)
- Professional Presidency: American Association for the Advancement of Science (1898)
- Burial Site: Mount Auburn Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What was Frederic Ward Putnam's primary contribution to archaeology?
He is recognized as the 'Father of American Archaeology' for his introduction of rigorous scientific methods and his leadership in large-scale archaeological surveys across the United States.
Did Putnam succeed in his goal of directing the Field Museum of Natural History?
No, although he was instrumental in the organization and incorporation of the museum in 1893, he was unsuccessful in his bid to become its first director.
Achievements
- Trained at Harvard University and Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
