He then traveled around the continental United States while conducting scientific studies before returning to Cleveland to work as a house and sign painter.

[5] Based in San Francisco,[4] he was responsible for inspecting and classifying geological specimens submitted to the bureau,[5] as well as providing studies, annual reports, and various special publications.

[4] Taking charge of the old geological society's collection and other property, he established a public museum and library.

He was responsible for the mineral exhibits of California and the United States at the 1884 New Orleans and 1893 Chicago World's Fairs.

[1] Henry G. Hanks was the namesake of hanksite, a sulfate mineral identified by William Earl Hidden based on a specimen from Searles Lake in California in 1885.