Increase Allen Lapham (c. 1811 – September 14, 1875)[1] was an American writer, scientist, and naturalist, whose work focused primarily on the what is now the U.S. state of Wisconsin.

[2][3] He made maps of the area and published numerous books on the archaeology, biology, and geology of the region, and discovered both the Panther Intaglio Effigy Mound and Milwaukee Formation.

He founded the Wisconsin Natural History Association, and served as the state's Chief Geologist for two years.

[4] He displayed a talent for scientific observation early on while working on the canals and their locks, producing drawings that he could sell at the age of thirteen.

[citation needed] In July 1836, Lapham moved to Kilbourntown (which soon incorporated into the city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin) and worked closely with Byron Kilbourn in his business and development endeavors.

[10] He published many more papers and books through his life, particularly on geology, archaeology and history, and flora and fauna of Wisconsin, including publication by the Smithsonian Institution.

[19] When the agency was created through the U.S. Secretary of War, Lapham made the first such accurate Great Lakes storm warning from Chicago.