Williams, John Edward, 1867-1943

Person

Staff Only

Dates

Existence: 1867 - 1943

Biographical Note

John Edward Williams, Virginia Tech mathematics professor and dean of the college, was born in Charlotte County, Virginia on September 17, 1867. The son of Albert H. and Matilda Berkeley Williams, he graduated from Hampden-Sidney College in 1892 before serving as principal of Boydton High School for two years. From 1894 to 1895, he served as assistant principal of Roanoke's Commerce Street School, then returned to Boydton as a private instructor for Col. Thomas F. Goode.

Williams entered a special course in pure mathematics at the University of Virginia in 1896, obtaining his master's degree in 1899 and doctoral degree in 1902. He served as a mathematics instructor at the university from 1899 until 1903, when he was appointed to the mathematics department at Virginia Tech.

In 1924, Williams was named Virginia Tech's dean of the college, a position he would hold until his death. A Presbyterian and Royal Arch Mason, Williams also served on the state board of education and on the Hampden-Sidney board of trustees and was a member of several mathematics- and science-related societies. In 1925, Hampden-Sidney conferred upon him an honorary doctor of laws degree.

Williams married Sallie Taylor Patton, daughter of Col. William M. Patton, in 1905. The couple had three children. John Edward Williams died in Blacksburg on April 19, 1943.

Found in 2 Collections and/or Records:

Records of the Dean of the College, John E. Williams

Record Group

Identifier: RG-11-02

Abstract This collection contains several series of documents related to Professor John E. Williams's (1867-1943) service as Dean of the College for Virginia Tech between 1924 and 1943. They include correspondence with businesses, governmental organizations, parents, alumni, and other administration members of Virginia Tech. Also included are lists of statistics on enrollment, student organization and university finances, scholarships, as well as reports on the honor and "rat" system. Williams was...

Dates: 1920 - 1940

Found in: Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech / Records of the Dean of the College, John E. Williams

John Edward Williams Papers

Collection

Identifier: Ms-1956-005

Abstract

This collection contains the papers of John Edward Williams (1867-1943), professor of mathematics (1903-1924) and Dean of the College (1924-1943) at Virginia Polytechnic Institute. Materials include class notes taken by Williams as a graduate student at the University of Virginia; notes and solutions for various mathematical problems; texts of Williams' speeches; printed articles by Williams and others; and diplomas and membership certificates.

Dates: 1892 - 1940

Found in: Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech / John Edward Williams Papers

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