Sub-Series I.5: Office of Scientific Research & Development (OSRD)

Scope and content:: This sub-series is divided into two groupings, war filing and personnel clearance. Office of Scientific Research and Development (OSRD) war filing is comprised of chronological correspondence with Frank D. Fackenthal regarding contracts for war research, occasionally discussing research topics, the status of contracts and reports about research findings. Files also consist of telegrams and letters, "administrative circulars" from the OSRD (e.g., concerning the employment of aliens on classified contracts or subcontracts). Of particular interest is a January, 1946 list of report titles providing a good list of the kinds of projects sponsored by OSRD and a February 14, 1946 letter to Dr. Stewart from Fackenthal thanking him for the attached statement to the Special Senate Committee on Atomic Energy which includes positive references to Columbia University (statement is dated Feb 11, 1946). The Personnel Clearance Files consist of routine correspondence regarding approval of individuals for OSRD work. Correspondence is directed to Frank D. Fackenthal. Names of individuals are listed in the letters, but not what they were working on.

Access and use

Parent restrictions:: The following boxes are located offsite: Boxes 1-57 and 61-68. You will need to request this material from the Rare Book and Manuscript Library at least three business in advance to use the collection in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library reading room.
Parent terms of access:: Reproductions may be made for research purposes. The RBML maintains ownership of the physical material only. Copyright remains with the creator and his/her heirs. The responsibility to secure copyright permission rests with the patron.

Location of this collection:: Columbia University Archives

University Archives Home Page
6th Floor East Butler Library
535 West 114th Street
New York, NY 10027, USA
Before you visit:: Researchers interested in viewing materials in the RBML reading room must must book an appointment at least 7 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, be sure to request your desired materials before booking your appointment, as researchers are limited to 5 items per day.