Extract Sir Archibald Geikie KCB, OM, FRS (1835–1924) was one of the most eminent geologists of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Geikie was instrumental in the development of the science of geology during this period and the eminence he attained was acknowledged by the bestowal of many prestigious honours. During his distinguished career Geikie held numerous appointments, including Director-General of the Geological Survey of Great Britain, President of the Geological Society, President of the British Association, Trustee of the British Museum and President of the Royal Society (the only geologist to have ever held the latter honour). He was also an accomplished writer and during his career he published over 200 scientific papers, survey memoirs, books, articles and an autobiography. In addition, he was a masterful lecturer to any level of audience and a talented artist. As the most distinguished and influential geologist of the period, he received many notable honours, including a Knighthood in 1891, Knight Commander of the Bath in 1907 and the Order of Merit in 1913. In retirement Geikie continued to work vigorously as demonstrated by his contribution to the famous Geological Survey Memoir of the North West Highland of Scotland published in 1907 which he edited, his numerous obituaries of fellow geologists, geological contributions to Encyclopaedia Britannica and other publications, as well as work on his geological collections and Royal Society history.

Abstract The family history of Sir Archibald Geikie (1835–1924) is examined with reference to his immediate family and descendants, including much previously unpublished documentary archival material preserved at the Haslemere Educational Museum. The lives of Archibald’s children are also examined. This account includes previously unpublished images of the Geikie family and gives new insights into aspects of Archibald Geikie’s character through the memories of his grandson, Derick Jacob Behrens (1917–2004). Geikie’s continued academic life after his retirement from the Geological Survey is discussed in relation to that institution.

Abstract Four main depositories of Archibald Geikie material exist in the UK.