1798
Born in Montreal on April 20 to a family that had recently emigrated from Scotland, he was the third of nine children.

1814
Sent to Edinburgh, Scotland, to continue his education.

1817
Works as an accountant at his uncle Hart's business in London and travels extensively throughout Europe.

1831-1841
Settles in Swansea, Wales, where he runs his uncle's copper refinery.

1842
Becomes the first director of the Geological Survey of Canada (GSC), holding the position for 27 years.

1851
Presents a notable display at the Great Exhibition in London, then at the International Exhibitions of 1855 (Paris) and 1862 (London).

1856
Establishes the first GSC museum, on Saint-Gabriel Street in Montreal.

1863
Publishes The Geology of Canada.

1869
Oversees publication of the geological map of Canada, his last achievement before retirement.

1875
Dies at Castell Malgwyn in the village of Llechryd, Wales.