Alexander Dallas Bache was born in Philadelphia in 1806, the great grandson of Benjamin Frankin. He was a brilliant man who graduated first in his class at the Military Academy and upon graduation was given the post of Asst. Professor of Engineering. He was recognized throughout the world for his scholarship and scientific research.

Among his numerous duties during the Civil War, he served as Chief Engineer for devising and constructing the defenses of Philadelphia, Pa., when threatened by the Rebel Invasion of Pennsylvania, June to Dec. 1863. As a member of the U.S. Sanitary Commission he was active in ameliorating the condition of our soldiers in the field and hospital.

The following summarizes his major contributions:

1826-1827: Assistant Professor of Engineering, USMA
1828-1836: Professor of Natural Philosophy and Chemistry, Univ. of Pennsylvania
1836-1840: President of Girard College
1841-1842 Superintendent of Philadelphia public schools
1842-1843 Professor of Natural Philosophy and Chemistry, Univ. of Pennsylvania
1843-1863: Superintendent of the United States Coast Survey
1863-1867: President, National Academy of Sciences