Margaret Wheat

Margaret Wheat

Margaret Wheat (1908-1988) was a self-taught geologist and anthropologist with a special interest in ichthyosaurs – the Nevada State fossil.
Born to pioneer parents in Fallon, NV., she went on to study at the University of Nevada, Reno. Her field work experiences ranged from U.S. Geological Survey work to protecting important cave sites from vandals. The major portion of her research was devoted to the Northern Paiute Indians; she recorded and published books on their history, arts and ways of life. Margaret was instrumental in the creation of the Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park in Nevada.
Margaret is now featured in our galleries thanks to sponsorship from Bank of America supporting women’s contribution to Nevadan history.

Margaret Wheat in the field working