The dinosaur once called “Brontosaurus” was reclassified as Apatosaurus (Apatosaurus excelsus) due to scientific naming rules that prioritize the first name published. Paleontologist O.C. Marsh named Apatosaurus meaning “deceptive lizard,” and later discovered Brontosaurus, meaning “thunder lizard.” In 1903, Elmer Riggs argued they were too similar to be separate genera, resulting in Brontosaurus being considered a synonym.
A 2015 study suggested Brontosaurus might be a distinct genus, reigniting interest in the name despite ongoing debate. Brontosaurus remains popular in common culture, and the study found minor anatomical differences between the two. Apatosaurus averaged about 41.3 tonnes, while Brontosaurus weighed around 30.5 tonnes.
Growing up there were two introductions to Dinosaurs for me.
The two great Paleontologists Mr Hanna and Mr Barbara first introduced me to Brontosaurus. Firstly the fact that they used to be popular pets. Above is “dino” after returning home from being lost.
Secondly the historical fact that Brontosaurus was used as an all purpose transport vehicle. Shown above as a police van often frequented by our hero Freddy.
Thirdly they were also used as all purpose quarrying machines. This one being exited by Freddy after the “knock of whistle”.
The second and less controversial was the How and Why Wonder
Book of Dinosaurs, which I still have. There was excellent information and line drawings which fascinated me for hours.
The drawings showing dinosaurs in conflict has had a lasting impression on me. No truly!
The Iconic fight between T-Rex and T-Tops
I used to have an old Bakelite (remember when that was common place?) View Master with a circular slide set with this iconic fight displayed in all its gory glory. T-Tops of course one! Down with T-Rex tyranny!
Another favourite was Brontosaurus with the “life sucks” look and mournful eyes.
Re-painted with rattle cans.
The larger two are from the British Museum of Natural History and the others from “Thrift” and “Two Dollar” shops.
A terror of Brontosaurs migrating across the table.
Nice work on the gaming scale Brontosaurs. That book and those illustrations look familiar to me. I wonder if I had the same book? (a later printing, no doubt!)