Compelling oral histories from many of the most interesting and important field investigators who came into their prime in the 1950's through the 1990's, describing the role of mentors and students, field courses and field experiences in determining their careers. Backgrounds, education and scientific contributions are elucidated through interviews. Presented in chronological sequence by generation and placed in the context of broader societal influences, these oral histories are used to examine how the pendulum in modern science has swung from description to theory; from generalization to specialization; from emphasis on teaching to domination by research and administrative hierarchies. Read at one level, these vignettes portray the profound sense of fun and joy of science, both as an activity and a career. At another level, the text provides a historical tale of science and scientists that is not normally told.