Isaac Israel Hayes (1832-1881) was a prominent American physician and Arctic explorer whose archival records provide an in-depth understanding of his expeditions and scientific accomplishments. These materials are held at various institutions and include manuscripts, photographs, correspondence, and personal notes.
Dartmouth College houses Hayes’ manuscripts, including his book From Pole to Pole, as well as photographs and printed materials related to his work as a polar explorer . These documents span from 1860 to 1881 and reflect his participation in Grinnell’s Second Expedition and his own explorations in Greenland.
The Chester History Center houses newspapers and biographical materials related to Hayes, including his activities as a member of the New York State Assembly from 1875 to 1881 and his involvement in the construction of the Hudson River Tunnel . These documents highlight his political career and contributions to infrastructure projects.
The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Digital Collections contain his correspondence with various government agencies, including letters regarding medical property and his appointment as a lieutenant colonel . These letters provide insight into his military interactions and administrative activities.
The Smithsonian Institution Archives contains materials related to his polar research and medical career . These documents highlight his contributions to Arctic exploration and medical practice at the time.
Also available in the Open University Digital Archive is a letter from Hayes dated June 26, 1867, in which he discusses the publications and translations of his book The Open Polar Sea . This letter reveals his literary activities and the international recognition of his work.
These archival documents are a valuable resource for researchers studying the history of polar exploration, nineteenth-century medical practice, and political activity in the United States. They provide a deeper understanding of the legacy of Isaac Israel Hayes and his impact on various areas of society.