Description
HE WAS AWARDED THE PRIESTLEY MEDAL, THE HIGHEST HONOR CONFERRED BY THE AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY AND WAS AN ACTIVE ADVOCATE FOR THE EDUCATION OF WOMEN, ACCEPTING AND MENTORING WOMEN STUDENTS, AND WORKING TO OPEN BOTH GRADUATE AND UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS TO WOMEN
EDGAR FAHS SMITH (1854-1928) SIGNED QUOTE, “Edgar F. Smith”, on a card 4.25 x 3.5, by the American scientist best known for his interests in the history of chemistry. His large collection of pictures, papers, and books related to the history of chemistry is now at the University of Pennsylvania and is designated as a National Historic Chemical Landmark. In 1876 he was appointed as an assistant professor of analytical chemistry at the University of Pennsylvania and would eventually become head of the chemistry department (1892), became director of the John Harrison Laboratory at the university in1894, and finally the provost (1911-20). Smith used what he called historical chemistry in his work as a teacher, to remind chemistry students of the humanistic side of science and to counter what he saw as an overly commercial approach to scientific training. He also wrote extensively on the history of chemistry. He was a pioneer in the field of electrochemistry, discovering the use of electric current for the separation of metals and minerals. He served three times as president of the American Chemical Society and was also president of the American Philosophical Society. His handwritten quote, in full: “Friend is a word of royal tone/Friend is a poem, All alone.” The card is in fine condition, with minor age toning.
$125 #12658
