Jacob F. Brenckle papers

Collection

Identifier: MS-025

Staff Only

Content Description

The Jacob F. Brenckle papers consists of correspondence, notes, and pamphlets, collected from 1906-1930.

All of the correspondence was received by Brenckle; most at Kulm, North Dakota, but some at Camp Pike, Arkansas. Brenckle corresponded with academic and amateur scientists from all over the United States, as well as Germany, Italy, France, and the Netherlands. While topics focus on mycological collection and identification of Great Plains species, there are a few manuscripts on raising bees. The collection also offers valuable insight into the lives and work of academics in the early 1900’s, and contemporary thoughts on World War I.

Dates

Creation: 1906 - 1930

Creator

Brenckle, Jacob Fredric, 1875-1958 (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open for research without restrictions. Researchers are advised to contact the Archives and Special Collections prior to visiting. Advance notice may be needed to retrieve items for research use.

Conditions Governing Use

Researchers must obtain a signed Permission to Publish Form if they wish to reproduce, broadcast, or otherwise disseminate information from published and unpublished works held by ASC. Permission to reproduce, broadcast, or otherwise disseminate information materials from ASC does not constitute permission from the holder of copyright or literary rights. The researcher is responsible for securing permission from the copyright holder to publish or reproduce content from materials found in the collections.

Biographical / Historical

Jacob Frederic Brenckle was born in 1875. A doctor of medicine from South Dakota, he practiced in Kulm, North Dakota, and later Northville, South Dakota. He was an amateur scientist of mycology and ornithology, and made significant contributions to both fields. He was a frequent collector of mycological and botanical specimens, and shared his findings with other amateurs and professionals around the world. The series “Fungi Dakotenses,” issued from 1908-1929, described specimens he had observed while collecting in the Dakotas.

Brenckle continued collecting and sharing specimens during World War I, when he was sent on medical mobilization to Camp Pike, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was home again in Kulm by the end of 1918. He, and the species he collected, are listed in many biological publications. Brenckle died in 1958.