Autograph Letter Signed.
This noted educator was one of the founding teachers (physics and chemistry) in the 1870s at what became Southern Illinois University, rising in the administration until 1897, when he was named their fourth chancellor -- a post he held until 1913; the university expanded greatly during his administration, and today Parkinson Laboratory is named in his honor. Item #47209
ALS, 2pp (separate leaves), 7¼" X 11", Carbondale, IL, 5 June 1916. Addressed "To Whom This May Come." Very good. Two-punched at left margin; small, inoffensive mounting remnant at upper left of second leaf. Concerns Mary Bostwick Day (1883-1959), librarian at Morris Library at SIU and long-time librarian at Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry. On imprinted letterhead as "President Emeritus," Parkinson pens a glowing letter of recommendation, reading in part: "Miss Mary B. Day has been connected with the library of the Southern Illinois State Normal University for four years, the first year as assistant, the remaining time as head librarian. Miss Day retires of her own choice with the record of having served very efficiently and acceptably to the authorities, and student body of the institution. In addition to her special preparation for the work of librarian she brings the culture and training coming from a full University course and a year of travel and study abroad." He closes, "Miss Day was employed during my administration as president of the normal school, when I was a close observer of her work and her attitude toward the duties of her position and her attitude toward those in authority. I commend, most heartily, Miss Day to those who need the services of an excellent librarian and a cultured lady." Boldly signed at the close, where he adds his title "Pres. Emeritus." Most unusual.
Price: $95.00