Mapping and civil service: Samuel Gaskin’s contributions to Nova Scotia geology, 1950-1977

Abstract

Tracing the historical contributions of African Nova Scotians to geoscience provides an opportunity to reflect on their personal challenges, determination, and achievements. Samuel Gaskin worked in the mapping unit of the Nova Scotia Department of Mines (now Department of Natural Resources) from 1950 to 1977 and was (per- haps) the first African Nova Scotian to work in the provincial geo- science department. Due to the impact of the maps he contributed to, Samuel’s knowledge and technical expertise in mapping provided a foundational contribution that positively impacted Nova Scotians through advances in geoscience but also resulted in the production of maps used for tourism and natural sciences.