Robert Stein

Robert Stein (January 9, 1857 – April 21, 1917) was a German-American translator, interpreter of Eskimo–Aleut languages, and amateur Arctic explorer whose contributions in the field of Arctic research were largely ineffectual. Early life Stein was born on January 9, 1857, in Rengersdorf, Silesia. He moved to the United States in 1875, and began his studies intent on going into the clergy. He graduated from Georgetown University with an MD in 1866, but appears never to have practised medicine afterward. In 1892, he and his brother Richard bought land in Maryland, including Harmony Hall. This spawned a small settlement in Prince George's County, Maryland, also called "Silesia", with a population today of around 40 people. Arctic interest Stein worked as clerk and stenographer for the United States Geological Survey from 1885 until 1905, occasionally translating scientific literature into English on a freelance basis. He also became an active member of the newly formed National Geographic Society in Washington, D.C., translating articles for its magazine and presenting papers at its meetings. During this time he developed an "all-absorbing fascination for Arctic exploration".