WIN'CHELL, ALEXANDER (1524-91). An American geologist. He was born at Northeast, Dinehess County. N. V., and was graduated at Wesleyan University in 1847. After teaching natural science in several schools and acting as principal of schools in Alabama, he was elected professor of physics and civil engineering in the University of :Michigan in 1853. Two years later he was transferred to the chair of geology, zo ology, and botany. He was State Geologist and Naturalist of Miehigan, 1859-62. and again, 1869-71. In 1873 lie was chosen chancellor of Syracuse University, but resigned the following year and was made professor of geology, zoology. and botany. In 1S75 he received a like appoint ment in Vanderbilt University and filled both positions till 137S, dividing his time between the two institutions. In 1879 lie was recalled to the University of Michigan as professor of geology and paleontology. Ile was one of the founders of the Geological Society of America and aided in the establishment of the American Geologist. He was best known as an enter
taining lecturer and author of numerous books aiming to popularize science. especially geology. His advocacy of evolution met with the disapproval of the authorities of the Methodist Church and led to his dismissal from Vanderbilt University. Among his works were: The First Biennial Report of the Geo logical Surrey of Michigan, (1861) ; Geological Map of Michigan (1865) ; The Grand Traverse Region. (1866) ; Genealogy of the Family of 11'inchcll in America (1869) ; Geological Chart (1870) ; Sketches of Creation. (1S70) : Geolo!ql of the Stars (1872); The Doctrine of Erolution (1874) ; Reconciliation of Science and Religion (1877) ; Prcadamites (1380) ; Sparks front a Geologist's hammer (1881): World-Life, or Com parative Geology (1883); Geological Excursions and Geological Studies (1836).