Andrew O. Skye Papers, 1913-1971 | University of Illinois Archives

Andrew Olaus Skye was born in Larvik, Norway in 1891 to Charles and Christina (Olsen) Skye. Skye immigrated to Michigan as an infant, where he attended Ironton grammar school (1904) and Charlevoix high school (1913). Skye graduated high school late, as he was an officer on Steamship Topeka at the age of sixteen. Skye attended the Ferris Institute, then attended Michigan State Normal for his teacher's certificate (1916) and University of Michigan for his B.A and M.A (1919, 1920). Skye worked as the Superintendent of Horton High School from 1914-1916, and of Rockland Township Schools from 1920-1935; during World War 1, he served as an officer in Balloon Division of the Air Corps. Skye then became an industrial engineer at The Lakeside Press, R.R. Donnelley and Sons (1925-1959), and worked as the superintendent of industrial engineering from 1925-1956. More information can be found about Andrew O. Skye in the scrapbooks included in the June Skye Szirotny collection.

His papers include his CV and a write up on his life by June Skye Szirotny, and papers from his time in college, including his diplomas and some yearbooks. The collection contains a photocopied scrapbook of his life and his copy of Self-Reliance, Fear and the Law of Success by Emerson and Prentice Mulford, published by The Elizabeth Towne Co. Holyoke, Mass. in 1916. Also included are his papers from his time as a superintendent, such as write ups on the recommended courses of study for high schools, and on the consolidation of rural schools. Also included is Skye's "By-Laws Board of Education District 148". This collection also contains Skye's papers from his time as superintendent of industrial engineers at Donnelley & Sons. Included are many work aids and tables for engineering, including an unpublished textbook written by Skye that compiles these various operations, tables, and charts.

Organized into 3 series: Series 1, personal papers, 1913-1971, arranged chronologically with undated material placed last; Series 2, superintendent of schools, 1917-1934, arranged chronologically, Series 3, industrial engineering,1936-1961, arranged chronologically.