Harold B. Lee Library

Brigham Young University History

Introduction

Brigham Young University is a private university that seeks to develop students of faith, intellect, and character with the skills and desire for continual learning and service. 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 heritage.

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
  • Brigham Young University: A House of Faith. Bergera, Gary James and Ron Priddis. Salt Lake City, UT: Signature Books, 1985.
  • Brigham Young University: A School of Destiny. Wilkinson, Ernest L. and W. Cleon Skousen. Provo, UT: Brigham Young University Press, 1976.
  • Brigham Young University: The First One Hundred Years (4 volumes). Wilkinson, Ernest L. Provo, UT: Brigham Young University Press, 1975.
  • The Lord’s University: Freedom and Authority at BYU. Waterman, Bryan and Brian Kagel. Salt Lake City, UT: Signature Books, 1998.
• Sample collections dealing with Brigham Young University history All of the collections in the University Archives pertain to the university’s history. A sample of the types of collections held by the University Archives follows. Please schedule an appointment with the University Archivist to discover what collections we may have that pertain to your research topic.
  • Significant Dates in BYU History (UA 380) Collection includes a list of selected significant dates and events in BYA and BYU history, including deed of trust, tenure of presidents and principles, construction of buildings, founding of organizations, clubs, academic departments and colleges, sports events, and festivals.
  • College of Humanities College History, 1965-1987 (UA 628) Notes, memoranda, newsletters, programs, lectures, announcements, news items, correspondence, and miscellaneous materials relating to the College of Humanities at Brigham Young University.
  • Brigham Young University Serials and Newsletters, 1957-present (UA 956) This collection is comprised of serials and newsletters produced by the various departments and other entities that comprise Brigham Young University. The collection is not comprehensive. Also included are a small number of ephemeral items that relate to the collection.
  • Butt, Newbern I. “Collected history of the Old Y Bell, 1884-1968″ (UA 123) Collection includes documented histories, poems and articles (photocopies) concerning the “Y” Bell and other bells at Brigham Young University.
  • Jensen, J. Marinus “History of Brigham Young University, ca. 1937″ (UA 483) J. Marinus Jensen, Newbern Butt, Elsie Carroll and Bertha Roberts made up the Committee on University History, all appointed by Franklin Harris, 1937. This a manuscript history of the university up to around 1937.

This Popular Search Topics page offers only samplings of materials included in the University Archives. To examine the complete collection inventory (and any other additional manuscript materials related to this topic), go to the L. Tom Perry Special Collections EAD Search page, and enter the term “BYU History.”