The mysterious Dr Ferdinand von Sommer (~1800–49): Western Australia’s first government geologist

Abstract

Dr Ferdinand von Sommer (~1800–49) was the first government geologist appointed in Western Australia, a state that today owes its prosperity largely to the discovery and development of its rich mineral deposits. During his relatively short life, Ferdinand left a trail of incredible and diverse achievements, exploits and mystery that extended across the continents of Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania during the first half of the nineteenth century. Although his credibility has been challenged and his character maligned—both then and now—this paper aims to showcase his wide-ranging scientific endeavours and contributions, and to present a more complete picture of Ferdinand von Sommer and his legacy.