Born: December 24, 1895
Died: August 17, 1991
Biography:
Marguerite Thomas Williams (born Marguerite Thomas; December 24, 1895 – August 17, 1991) was an American geologist who made significant contributions in her field. She was a trailblazer and the first African American to earn a doctorate in geology in the United States. Throughout her career, Williams dedicated herself to teaching geography and social sciences, and her work had a profound influence on the understanding of erosional processes and the risks of natural flooding.
Marguerite Thomas was born on December 24, 1895, as the youngest of six children to Henry C. and Clara E. Thomas. She grew up near Washington, D.C., and from an early age, she developed a strong interest in nature, geology, and geography. This passion for the natural world would shape her life’s work.
After completing her secondary education, Marguerite Thomas attended the Normal School for Colored Girls, which was later renamed Miner Teachers College and is now known as the University of the District of Columbia. She graduated from the two-year teacher-training program in June 1916 and received a scholarship to Howard University, where she continued her education.
At Howard University, Marguerite Thomas had the opportunity to study under the mentorship of renowned African American biologist, Ernest Everett Just. Despite her exceptional qualifications, Thomas was not chosen for a position as an assistant professor at Howard University. Instead, another talented black woman named Roger Arliner Young was chosen. This setback did not deter Thomas from pursuing her academic goals.
In 1923, Marguerite Thomas earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Howard University. She then went on to pursue her master’s degree in geology at Columbia University, which she completed in 1930. However, it was her groundbreaking research and dissertation at Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., that would solidify her place in history.
In 1942, Marguerite Thomas completed her PhD dissertation, titled The History of Erosion in the Anacostia Drainage Basin, making her the first African American to earn a doctorate in geology in the United States. Her dissertation was later published by the Catholic University of America Press.
In her dissertation, Williams sought to understand the factors that contributed to the erosion observed in the Anacostia River. She focused on the impact of human activities such as deforestation, agriculture, and urbanization, along with natural erosion. Her research highlighted the importance of considering both human and natural factors when examining erosion and its consequences.
Throughout her career, Marguerite Williams faced unique challenges as an African American woman in a field dominated by white men. In the 1940s, when she began her work, only 3% of employed scientists in the field of geology were female. Women, especially those who were married and over forty, often faced discrimination and were employed in positions beneath their qualifications. Despite these obstacles, Williams persevered and made significant strides in her chosen field.
Marguerite Williams’ contributions to geology and her pioneering spirit paved the way for future generations of women in the field. Her research on the human impact on erosional processes and the risks of natural flooding continues to be relevant and influential. She played a crucial role in expanding our understanding of geology and its relationship with the environment.
Marguerite Williams passed away on August 17, 1991, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, perseverance, and trailblazing achievements. Her groundbreaking work and dedication to education have had a lasting impact on the field of geology and on the advancement of women in science.