Harold B. Lee Library

Brigham Young University and the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Introduction

Brigham Young University is a private university that seeks to develop students of faith, intellect and character who have the skills and the desire to continuing learning and to serve others throughout their lives. Tracing its roots to Utah’s rich pioneer heritage and to Brigham Young Academy, the original school established in 1875, the university continues to provide an outstanding education in an atmosphere consistent with the ideals and principles of its sponsor, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Brigham Young University’s remarkable history can be uncovered through many of the collections held in the University Archives. The following source materials can get you started on your exploration of Brigham Young University’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

Secondary Sources and General information

Collections held by the University Archives will be more useful to your specific research topic after you understand more about the general history of the university. The following resources are available to help you develop that understanding.

• Histories of Brigham Young University
  • Wilkinson, Ernest L. Brigham Young University: The First One Hundred Years (4 volumes). Provo, UT: Brigham Young University Press, 1975.
  • Wilkinson, Ernest L. and W. Cleon Skousen. Brigham Young University: A School of Destiny.  Provo, UT: Brigham Young University Press, 1976.
  • Butterworth, Edwin Jr. Brigham Young University: 1,000 Views of 100 Years. Provo, UT: Brigham Young University Press, 1975.
• Secondary Sources related to the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
  • UA 1304 Chemistry at Brigham Young University, 1879-1995 A manuscript history of the teaching of chemistry at Brigham Young University covering 1879-1995. It was compiled by Reed M. Izatt and Patricia Zitzman.
  • UA SC 69 A Brief history of the Chemistry Department of Brigham Young University Gives a brief history of the department from its inception.

Primary Sources

• Sample materials dealing with the Brigham Young University Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry: A sample of the materials that contain information about BYU’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. To map out a research strategy, please schedule an appointment with the University Archivist at 422-5821 or gordon_daines@byu.edu for additional help in discovering what other collections we may have that pertain to your research topic.
  • UA 510 Records, 1928-1964 Includes the general department files, and files of the department chair and faculty.
• Sample materials related to the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry:
  • MSS 6264 Loren C. Bryner papers The Loren C. Bryner papers include documents relating to Bryner’s personal and professional life. Loren C. Bryner was the department chair of Chemistry at BYU and an acclaimed Chemist. Included are a few photographs, newspaper clippings, correspondence and papers related to Loren C. Bryner. The majority of the items are related to Loren C. Bryner’s professional chemistry life. A lot of the Chemical research included is related to agricultural and mining issues. A great deal of the papers pertain to the Chemistry Department of Brigham Young University from 1935 until 1970.
  • UA 13 Research notes, 1953 Notes of Leo Vernon, a BYU professor of chemistry and director of Research.
  • UA 14 Laboratory notes, 1956-1957 Includes a lab book for chemistry class.
  • UA OH 62 Oral history interview, Aug. 3, 1980 Interview by Jay Beck with Loren Bryner, a BYU professor of chemistry, concerning his schooling, employment at BYU and Kennecott, and his involvement in science organizations.

This Popular Search Topics page offers only samplings of materials included in the University Archives that document the history of the Brigham Young University Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Be sure to visit Special Collections to discover other material.