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Daniel Lewis
Dibner Senior Curator
Professional Background
Daniel Lewis is an accomplished full-time endowed curator of the history of science and technology at the renowned Huntington Library, Art Museum & Botanical Gardens located in Southern California. In this pivotal role, he manages the invaluable documentary heritage materials, which include rare books and archival collections related to the post-1800 history of science and technology. His distinguished expertise encompasses areas such as historical color systems and natural history, with an exceptional focus on birds, astronomy, and the broader intersections of science and culture.
In addition to his curatorial duties, Daniel excels as a writer and college professor, enriching the academic community with his extensive knowledge in environmental history. His scholarship focuses on the biological sciences and their profound connections to extinction, evolution, policy, culture, history, politics, law, and literature. Daniel's multidisciplinary approach positions him as a significant contributor to the conversation surrounding the historical dimensions of science and its societal implications.
Education and Achievements
Daniel Lewis holds a Ph.D. in History from the University of California, Riverside, where he honed his analytical skills and historical insights. He has also undertaken postdoctoral research positions at prestigious institutions such as Oxford University, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Rachel Carson Center in Munich. This broad range of academic experiences has greatly enriched his understanding of the historical discourse related to science and technology.
His literary contributions are noteworthy, particularly his award-winning books: "The Feathery Tribe" (Yale University Press, 2012), which delves into the professionalization of ornithology in the late 19th century and the implications of Darwinian evolution; and "Belonging on an Island: Birds, Extinction, and Evolution in Hawai'i" (Yale University Press, 2018), an environmental history that explores themes of extinction and survival among Hawaii’s unique bird species. Daniel is currently involved in an exciting new book project centered on twelve species of trees, which will be published by Avid Reader Press, a Simon & Schuster imprint.
Achievements
From 2010 to 2016, Daniel served as the Chief Curator of Manuscripts at the Huntington, leading a team of about twenty curators, archivists, catalogers, and staff. He is proficient in the identification, care, and organization of historical works on paper, with expertise in manuscripts, rare books, and photographic collections. His contributions to curatorial practice are recognized nationally, as he frequently consults on archival and exhibit needs assessments across the country.
One of his most significant achievements includes the permanent exhibit "Beautiful Science: Ideas that Changed the World," which received national acclaim and was awarded as the best exhibit in America by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) shortly after its inauguration. This achievement not only underscores his curatorial excellence but also his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, engaging public displays that resonate with a broad audience.
Additionally, Daniel holds a faculty appointment in Environmental Humanities at Caltech, where he passionately teaches upper-division undergraduate classes on environmental history. His commitment to education is evident through his innovative course offerings, which inspire the next generation of environmental scholars and historians.
Community and Professional Engagement
In pursuit of advancing the field of archival studies, Daniel has held several influential roles, including serving as the President of the Society of California Archivists and as a Research Associate Professor of History at Claremont Graduate University. He has contributed his expertise as an Adjunct Associate Professor of Biological Sciences and History at the University of Southern California, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among departments.
Moreover, Daniel's role as Company Historian at the Los Angeles Times showcases his continued engagement with media and history, bringing together narratives from both the written word and scientific advancement. His comprehensive background uniquely positions him to address the interconnectedness of history, science, and public engagement.
In summary, Daniel Lewis stands out as a leader in the field of environmental history and a dedicated curator of science and technology. His contributions to academia, his impactful publications, and his commitment to preserving and interpreting historical collections embody his passion for fostering a better understanding of the intersection between science, nature, and society.
