“Entirely broken down”—a Smithsonian scientist’s last, tragic, expedition

Robert Kennicott (born 1835) demonstrated early interest in science at his father’s home in Illinois. As a sickly child, Robert spent a great deal of time outdoors, nurturing his interest in the natural world. Among his numerous professional accomplishments, Kennicott was one of the founders of the Chicago Academy of Sciences in 1857. His final expedition, into the Yukon Territory of Alaska in 1866, led to his death. Researchers have recently been re-investigating the possible cause of death.

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This Smithsonian scientist’s death was a mystery; 150 years later, his skeleton helped solve it

By Sarah Kaplan

The Washington Post

August 3, 2016