Amazing Facts About Mary Anning – The First Female Paleontologist

#4 She Received Her First Recognition In 1823

Mary Anning’s life was about to change forever when she found three fossilized ichthyosaur skeletons that ranged from 5 to 20 feet.

Mary’s discovery in 1821 was monumental because it put her at the forefront of earth’s science. She helped shape the world of fossil collecting and preservation with her unique talent.

George Cumberland, a fossil collector and artist in January 1823, called Mary’s five-foot ichthyosaur ‘the fossil’s finest specimen.’

He also applauded Mary Anning, her skill to preserve the fossil and the wonders that stem from her ‘dangerous employment.’

Cumberland also said that it’s because of Mary Anning that the world has such fine specimens of ichthyosaur.