USGS Science⌕ Search

Geology topics

Newton Earl Chute

Publications and source records attributed to Newton Earl Chute.

14 recordsLinked to original sources

Coal resources of southeastern Massachusetts assessed in 1942

Large easily mined coal deposits of usable quality would be of great value to Massachusetts, particularly in war time. Every effort has been made in this study to evaluate the probable occurrence, quantity, and quality of the coal deposits in southeastern Massachusetts but unfortunately it is impossible from surface observations alone to ascertain adequately the coal resources of this area. Only by means of widespread and systematic underground exploration, accomplished best by core drilling, can the coal resources be determined. All the available data concerning the coal resources is analyzed in this report in order to indicate the feasibility of such an exploration program and where it is most likely to be successful.

Massachusetts↗

The talc, soapstone, and asbestos deposits of Massachusetts

Several talc and soapstone deposits were worked in Massachusetts from about 1810 to 1922. Most of these deposits are in the Chester Amphibolite, or in serpentine lenses in or adjacent to the amphibolite along a belt that extends north-south across the State from Rowe to West Granville; it appears to be a continuation of the Vermont talc belt. The only deposits outside of this belt that have been worked are a talc and soapstone deposit in the north-west corner of Hinsdale and soapstone deposits on the east side of Soapstone Hill in the western part of Petersham. Very little asbestos has been produced in Massachusetts. A small amount of anthophyllite asbestos was obtained from the deposit in Hinsdale, and from a deposit in southwestern Pelham. The talc and soapstone deposits of Massachusetts were formed from serpentine and possibly from amphibolite, schist, and dolomitic limestone. Those fromed from serpentine are mainly at the ends of the serpentine bodies, and those that appear to have been formed from amphibolite or schist are on the faults and folds.

Massachusetts↗