University of the State of New York Bulletin 
Entered as second-class matter August 2, 1913, at the Post Office at Albany, N. Y., 
under the act of August 24, 1912 
Published fortnightly 
NO. 557 ALBANY, N. Y. DECEMBER 15, 1913 
New York State Museum 
JoHn M. CrarKke, Director 
Museum Bulletin 168 
THE GEOLOGICAL HISTORY OF NEW YORK 
STATE 
BY 
WILLIAM Jf. MILLER Ph.D. 
PREFACE 
The researches and truths of any modern science if they are 
properly to fulfil their mission, should be brought within the reach of 
laymen. In this bulletin the purpose is to present in a simple, read- 
able form, an outline of the wonderful story of the physical develop- 
ment of New York State. No knowledge of physiography or 
geology is presupposed. Any person who possessed of intelli- 
gence and a willingness to learn is fully prepared to read these pages. 
When the reader has gained a fair understanding of the principles 
here set forth, he will be much better prepared to use intelligently 
the publications of the New York State Museum which deal with 
the geology and geography of many portions of the State. In short, 
this volume may be considered as a “first book” for all who are 
interested in the physical features of our State and it is believed 
that teachers and older pupils in geography and physical geography 
may receive helpful suggestions from it. 
It must be clearly understood that scarcely more than a sketch 
of such a large subject can be given in so brief a space. Local 
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