Harold B. Lee Library

Carl F. Eyring and Brigham Young University

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. Dr. Carl F. Eyring was a renowned acoustical scientist in his time. A leader of the Brigham Young University faculty, Carl F. Eyring joined the faculty of Brigham Young University in 1915, and was appointed as acting dean of the College of Arts and Sciences in 1923. He was then appointed to the full position in 1924 and served as dean until his death from leukemia in 1951.  His remarkable impact on Brigham Young University 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 Carl F. Eyring’s legacy.

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 (see index for Eyring, Carl F.)
  • Wilkinson, Ernest L. and W. Cleon Skousen. Brigham Young University: A School of Destiny.  Provo, UT: Brigham Young University Press, 1976 (see index for Eyring, Carl F.)

Primary Sources

• Sample materials dealing with Carl F. Eyring: A sample of the materials that contain information about Carl F. Eyring follows. 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 8 Laboratory notes 1909-1911 Includes handwritten class and laboratory notes for a class in electrical and optical measurements. Class taken at BYU. Chester Snow, instructor.
  • UA 106 Papers, 1912 Collection includes a holograph draft of a thesis concerning electric waves, written while attending Brigham Young University.
  • UA 11 Class notes, 1912-1913 Includes handwritten class notes on mechanics and wave motion, taught by Harvey Fletcher Sr.
  • UA 909 Faculty Biographical Files The file on Carl F. Eyring contains faculty biographical sheets, correspondence, news clippings, and publications related to his career.
  • UA 105 Published papers, 1933, 1948 Includes two published articles from the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America.
  • UA 507 Papers, 1943-1950 Includes correspondence concerning research projects, annual department budgets, personal opinions as to the future of BYU. Also includes records of a farewell reception and address given in behalf of President and Mrs. Howard S. McDonald.
  • BX 8631.29 .Ey67g Good tidings to all people A course of study for Sunday School classes focusing on Christ’s way of life and teachings rather than outlining the history of his life or recounting his miracles.  Stated objectives are: to “obtain a clear understanding of the gospel, a deep intellectual conviction of its saving power, spiritual experiences which will form a part of a growing testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, and a love for the Master Teacher.”
  • BX 8608 .A1a no.1787 The promise of religion in the present crisis: a talk given on Friday, Jan. 31, 1941 at “Leadership Week”, Brigham Young University A discussion of the “experiment of love” as the best response to the nation’s democratic crisis, and of the promise of religion being found in the Savior.
  • BX 8622 .A1 no.42 The Book of Mormon speaks: service to neighbor is service to God A series of addresses given over KSL radio regarding gospel topics such as the worth of souls, service, liberty, the Book of Mormon, etc.

This Popular Search Topics page offers only samplings of materials included in the University Archives that document the life of Carl F. Eyring. Be sure to visit Special Collections to discover other material.