William Ross Whitman, instrument maker, in the Survey since February 20, 1890, died at his residence in Washington, D.C., April 26, 1919, in the sixtieth year of his age. Mr. Whitman was born at Portland, Maine, October 8, 1859, and when appointed in the Survey was a resident of New Jersey.

Mr. Whitman was an expert mechanician and unusually gifted in his capacity for comprehending scientific details, for planning and executing work, and for devising improvements in instruments and apparatus.

His life was unselfishly devoted to his official work and to the care of his family. In character he was honorable and upright, of a kindly and gentle disposition.

In: Coast and Geodetic Survey Bulletin, p. 10. April 30, 1919.