Walter E. Lay Papers, 1889-1993

Summary

Creator:

Lay, Walter Edwin.

Abstract:

Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan, 1915-1958, with emphasis in the area of automotive engineering and design; papers document his research, teaching and consulting activities.

Extent:

2 linear feet
2 oversize volumes

Language:

English.

Call Number:

9667 AA 2

Authors:

Finding Aid prepared by: Eric Hartmann, October 1996.

Background

Scope and Content:

The Walter E. Lay papers include examinations; lecture notes; problem sets; research files; files relating to the building and expansion of the department of mechanical engineering and the Automotive Engineering Laboratory; and visual materials.

Biographical / Historical:

Walter E. Lay was born in Fulton, Michigan on February 5, 1889. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1915 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He began teaching in the Department of Mechanical Engineering later that year. Professor Lay was a pioneer in the area of automobile streaming and he wrote the "bible" on seat design. He had extensive contacts in the automobile industry and spent several summers in research and experimental capacities at Chevrolet, General Motors, Packard and the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics. His activities lead directly to the growth and development of the Automotive Engineering Laboratory now known as the Walter E. Lay Auto Lab. He became a full professor in 1930 and was named director of the lab. Professor Lay retired from the university in 1958. He was granted emeritus status in 1959. After his retirement from the university he remained interested in automotive design issues and also pursued interests in physics and chemistry. He moved to East Lansing in 1972 and died on August 28, 1974.

Acquisition Information:

These papers were donated by Shirley Lay Quimby (Donor No. 8353 in April 1995 and in July 1995.

Arrangement:

This collection is divided into six series:

1. Building and Space Concerns
2. Examinations
3. Lecture Notes
4. Personal
5. Problem Sets
6. Research
7. Visual Materials.

Related

Additional Descriptive Data:

Related Material:

Walter E. Lay was a friend and colleague of Jay A. Bolt. The researcher is referred to the Jay A. Bolt collection for more information.

Subjects

Click on terms below to find any related finding aids on this site.

Subjects:

Automobiles -- Design and construction.
Laboratories -- Michigan -- Ann Arbor.

Formats:

Photographs.

Names:

University of Michigan. Automotive Engineering Laboratory.
University of Michigan -- Faculty.
University of Michigan. Dept. of Mechanical Engineering.
Walter E. Lay Automotive Laboratory (University of Michigan)
Lay, Walter Edwin.