Verplanck Colvin (1847-1920) was a lawyer and topographical engineer whose understanding and appreciation for the environment of the Adirondack Mountains lead to the creation of New York's Forest Preserve and the Adirondack Park. Born in Albany, New York to a wealthy family, he was educated at private schools where he excelled in the sciences. In 1864, he joined his father's law office in Albany and was later admitted to the bar. Wikipedia
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