The United States Geological Survey, its origin, development, organization, and operations

The United States Geological Survey, in the Department of the Interior, was created by act of Congress approved March 3, 1879, so that March 3, 1904, marks the completion of the twenty-fifth year of its existence. The quarter-century anniversary happens to fall near the date set for the opening of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition at St. Louis, at which the Survey will make an exhibit. It is hoped that many of the people of this country will be interested in that exhibit, and, in connection therewith, it has been thought desirable to place before the public, by means of a small bulletin, an account of the organization and work of the Survey and the results it has achieved.