PREFACE 



In the valley of the Schoharie creek the earliest systematic 

 study of the paleozoic rocks of this State and the first successful 

 attempt to classify the strata according to their fossils were 

 made. While Amos Eaton was endeavoring to work out the order 

 of the strata, chiefly from their rock characters in the region ad- 

 joining the Erie canal, the John Gebhards, father and son, were 

 collecting fossils in the Schoharie valley and dividing the rock 

 masses according to differences and similarities in these organic 

 remains. 



When the geological survey was organized in 1836, Lieutenant 

 Mather, charged with the work in the first geological district 

 which included Schoharie, sought the assistance of John Geb- 

 hard jr, who thus had the opportunity to verify and complete his 

 classification. 



The region is classic to the student of geology. In the brave 

 days when Professor Eaton lectured on geology to the Legislature 

 of New York and Governor Dewitt Clinton collected fossils in the 

 leisure of his executive duties, the rocks of Schoharie were a 

 source of stimulus and inspiration which have produced fine re- 

 sults in the history of this science. 



Yet in all its history there has not been a geologic map of the 

 region prepared except on an insignificant scale and no adequate 

 account of its formations and structure have heretofore been 

 given. It is to meet this condition, to provide students of geology 

 and paleontology with a suitable map and guide to this attractive 

 region that I have asked Professor Grabau to prepare the work 

 that follows. 



The Schoharie valley presents a geologic section almost un- 

 equaled in this State for its completeness. 11 begins low in the 

 series with the last stages of the Low r er Siluric (Lorraine) and 

 runs high into the base of the Upper Devonic; its localities are 

 compactly assembled and easily accessible. The valley is beau- 

 tiful, fertile, hospitable and well supplied with the conveniences 

 of living. The spot is ideal for the pursuit of an intimate ac- 

 quaintance with a very considerable and typical representation of 

 New York geology. 



It is believed that this work will aid and stimulate students, 

 clarify the geologic problems which the region presents and, as 

 il is the outcome of a careful resurvey of the region, advance our 

 knowledge. 



John M. Clarke 



State Geologist 



January /!>o.~> 



