Edward Kennedy Collection (1912 - 2009)

This small collection documenting the work of Dr. Kennedy includes a variety of research material related to astronomy, physics, the history of science and specifically, Islamic science. Some manuscript works, drafted by Dr. Kennedy specifically build on the works of prominent Arab and Islamic scientists, including, Ibn al Shatir, al-Battani, al-Beiruni, al-Kashi, etc. Rare calculations for planets movements, unpublished tables tracking the movements of the stars, as well as a few slides and photos and some unpublished works are included in the collection. It is a true treasure trove for anyone interested in the history of Islamic science, astronomy and physics in the region.

 Edward S. Kennedy graduated with a BS in electrical engineering from Lafayette College in Easton, USA in 1932 and completed a Ph.D. in mathematics from Lehigh University in 1939. Since the focus of his research involved reading medieval manuscripts written in Arabic, Kennedy accepted in 1946 a professorship at the American University of Beirut, Lebanon, in part with a mind to improve his knowledge of Arabic. In 1951, he married Mary Helen Scanlon, a teacher at what was then called the Beirut College for Women (now the Lebanese American University). He continued to teach in the AUB Mathematics Department for the next 35 years, retiring in 1976.