Mount Holyoke College. Astronomy Dept.
Mount Holyoke College Astronomy Department records, circa 1891-2006.
The Astronomy Department records consist of correspondence, reports, financial records, log books, documentation of observations and astronomical measurements, charts and maps, student records, teaching notes, lab assignments and work, announcements and fliers, clippings, department histories, and photographs. These records also document the Williston Observatory building, the development of the department and the curriculum, the workings and work done in the observatory, as well as department personnel, and acquisition of equipment. The records include detailed information on the observatory library and how it was maintained. The records also contain letters written by Hellen Pillans, and there is some information regarding the life and work of Alice H. Farnsworth.
The teaching of astronomy has been a part of the Mount Holyoke curriculum since the Seminary was founded in 1837. Charles A. Young was among the early lecturers on the subject of astronomy (1869-1890s), and in 1907 astronomy was made a major course of study at the College. In 1960, the Department of Astronomy became a joint Four College department with the advent of the Four (now Five) College Consortium with The University of Massachusetts, Smith College, Amherst College and Hampshire College.
Farnsworth, Alice H. (Alice Hall), 1893-1960.
Mount Holyoke College. Astronomy Dept.
Pillans, Helen
Mount Holyoke College. -- Williston Observatory.
AIP-ICOS
Mount Holyoke College. Archives and Special Collections. 8 Dwight Hall, 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA 01075-6425, USA