Presidential Papers

Brigham Young University has been led by twelve charismatic and inspired leaders. Their influence on the university is documented in the records of their administrations. The University Archives is home to the presidential records of all of the university’s presidents excluding those of the current administration. These records provide a detailed look into the history of the university and its development over the past century. They cover topics ranging from accreditation to athletics to devotional speakers to relationships with the Board of Trustees. The records of the presidential administrations of Karl G. Maeser to Ernest L. Wilkinson are available to research after consultation with the University Archivist. The records of Dallin H. Oaks through Merrill J. Bateman are unavailable to public research without permission from the current sitting administration (Cecil O. Samuelson). Contact the University Archivist at gordon_daines@byu.edu for information on how to request permission to access these records.

The following Presidential Records are available for public research after consultation with the University Archivist:

• Karl G. Maeser Brigham Young University President’s records, 1876-1892 (UA 1094)
• Benjamin Cluff records, 1892-1903 (UA 1093)
• George H. Brimhall records, 1903-1921 (UA 1092)
• Franklin S. Harris Brigham Young University President’s records, 1921-1945 (UA 1089)
• Howard S. McDonald Brigham Young University President’s records, 1945-1949 (UA 1087)
• Ernest L. Wilkinson Brigham Young University President’s records, 1949-1975 (UA 1086)

The following presidential records are restricted to public research:

• Dallin  H. Oaks Brigham Young University President’s records, 1971-1980 (UA 1085)
• Jeffrey R. Holland records, 1980-1989 (UA 1030)
• Rex E. Lee Brigham Young University President’s records, 1989-1996 (UA 925)
• Merrill J. Bateman Brigham Young University President’s records, 1996-2003 (UA 1073)

For more records associated with the various presidential administrations take a look at the Guide to Processed Collections under the heading “Presidents.”