Edgar Wesley Owen

Edgar Wesley Owen (1896–1981) was a Lecturer at the University of Texas at Austin's Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences within the Jackson School of Geosciences. He taught courses, advised students, and emphasized professionalism and ethics in geology. Despite refusing a salary, he commuted weekly from San Antonio to Austin until his retirement in 1976.

Education:

• BA in Geology, Denison College, 1915
• MA, University of Missouri, 1916

Research & Contributions: Owen pioneered geological mapping techniques using aerial photography and contributed to the petroleum industry's historical documentation. He co-authored Trek of The Oil Finders (1975) and The Flavor of Ed Owen (1987), detailing his career and philosophy.

Awards:

• Sidney Powers Medal (AAPG, 1964)
• Legion of Merit (military service)
• Honorary Doctorate (Denison University, 1962)

Service & Legacy: Served on the Geology Foundation Advisory Council (1956–1970), promoted AAPG membership among students, and left a legacy in geological ethics and education.