Matthew Fontaine Maury

Matthew Fontaine Maury, the "Pathfinder of the Seas" and a founder of oceanography, was born in Spotsylvania County, Virginia.

Early life

Born near Fredericksburg in 1806, Maury joined the U.S. Navy and turned to scientific study after a leg injury ended his sea duty.

As head of the U.S. Naval Observatory he charted winds and ocean currents, producing sailing directions that dramatically shortened voyages.

His 1855 book "The Physical Geography of the Sea" is considered the first textbook of modern oceanography.

Maury is celebrated as a pioneering oceanographer and meteorologist.

Military

Lieutenant General "Chesty" Puller, the most decorated Marine in U.S. history, was born in West Point, Virginia.

Politician · Military

George Washington was the first President of the United States and commander of the Continental Army, born in Westmoreland County, Virginia.

Scientist

Mary Jackson, NASA's first Black female engineer and a subject of "Hidden Figures," was born in Hampton, Virginia.

Explorer · Military

Admiral Richard E. Byrd, the pioneering polar aviator and explorer, was born in Winchester, Virginia.