1915
Organic Analysis

Laboratory

Several "Microscopical Laboratories" were located in the Chemical Laboratory building for work in organic science. Large wooden cabinets with glass doors were located along the sides of the rooms to store glassware and other equipment. Note the microscopes and the materials necessary for making slides in the lower photograph.

The Evolution of Biology from 1895 to 1915

The importance of science in the life of the university increased during the early part Twentieth Century, and the teaching of science changed very much between 1895 and 1915. This growth and change in scientific instruction is seen in the career of Nelson Fithian Davis. Davis had received tuition and board as an Assistant in Chemistry in 1893. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1895, and in 1896 he was appointed "…. Instructor in Organic Science at $350 per year and house." He joined Dr. George G. Groff who was Professor of Organic Science. In 1899, Davis was "…. appointed Assistant Professor in the Department of Organic Science at $900.00 per year". In 1903, his title was changed to Professor of Biology. That same year, he was awarded "the degree of Doctor of Science, pro merito," on the recommendation of the Bucknell faculty. In 1910, Norman Hamilton Stewart was appointed as Assistant Professor of Biology. He replaced Groff. In 1914, Professor Davis moved from the Chemical Laboratory to a new room in Old Main that had been occupied by the former library. The room vacated by Davis was remodeled for use in General Chemistry.

"...Instructor in Organic Science..." BT '82-''20, p. 152 (6/23/1896)

"...appointed Assistant Professor..." ib., p. 173 (6/20/1899)

"the Degree of Doctor..." ib., p. 196 (1/8/1903)

The major source for the information on this page is the Minutes of the Board of Trustees of Bucknell University, 1882-1920 (BT '82-'20).