W. J. (William James) Beal

W. J. (William James) Beal
William James Beal (1833–1924) was an American botanist and educator known for his pioneering work in agricultural science and botany. He is best remembered for initiating one of the longest-running seed viability experiments, which is still ongoing today. Beal also wrote several influential books, including "The New Botany" and "Grasses of North America," which contributed to advances in botany and plant breeding. As a professor at Michigan Agricultural College (now Michigan State University), he played a key role in shaping agricultural education in the United States.

Author's Books:


The designer of this bulletin first had in mind something of the sort for the use of his students, not only the undergraduates, but others living on farms, or teaching in Michigan and elsewhere. Whoever grows seeds to sell, or buys seeds to sow, should be benefited by consulting the illustrations which are unsurpassed for accuracy by anything in this country. They were all made by Mr. F. H. Hillman. A... more...

CHAPTER I.HOW ANIMALS GET ABOUT. 1. Most of the larger animals move about freely.—When danger threatens, the rabbit bounds away in long jumps, seeking protection in a hollow tree, a log, or a hole in the ground. When food becomes scarce, squirrels quickly shift to new regions. Coons, bears, skunks, and porcupines move from one neighborhood to another. When the thickets disappear and hunters abound,... more...