This work aims to provide a comprehensive catalogue and index of all contributions to North American geology published between 1732 and 1891. Compiled by Nelson Horatio Darton, a noted geologist, this volume serves as a foundational reference for understanding the historical development of geological research on the continent. It meticulously documents the publications, organizing them by subject and author to facilitate access for researchers and historians of science. The index is designed to be an exhaustive resource, covering a significant period of geological exploration and discovery.

This historical catalogue is regarded as a significant bibliographic tool for researchers in geology and the history of science. Its meticulous compilation provides an invaluable resource for tracing the evolution of geological thought and discovery in North America during a critical period of scientific development. The work's enduring utility lies in its comprehensive indexing, which allows for efficient access to a vast body of historical literature. Scholars can rely on this volume to identify foundational texts and understand the contributions of early geologists.