John L. Riddell

Matas Library Photograph Collection, no.2961 

Chairman, Department of Chemistry, 1837 - 1862
Chairman, Department of Materia Medica and Therapeutics, 1839

Dr. Riddell is most noted for his invention of the binocular microscope, first demonstrated in 1852. He was also famous for his pioneering work on the flora of American West which resulted in the identification of many new species.

Dr. Riddell's career spanned many interests. He wrote on many scientific subjects. He also served by presidential appointments as smelter and refiner for the US Mint in New Orleans and as Postmaster of New Orleans during the Civil War.

Riess, Karlem. John Leonard Riddell. In Tulane studies in geology and paleontology ; v. 13(1-2)