Henry Barton wins 1964 Compton Medal

JAN 02, 1964

In recognition of his eminent statesmanship in the organization of American physics and his service over a period of twenty-six years as the first Director of the American Institute of Physics.

About the Winner

Henry Barton was the first Director of the American Institute of Physics. His skill in putting the physics journals of America on a sound financial basis and thus helping to raise them to the high position they now occupy as the outstanding physics journal of the world. His initiative in setting up and Advisory Council on the Applied Physics which did much to encourage the further application of physics in industry and the recognition of physics as a true profession. His role in conjunction with a War Policy Committee, in setting policies for the publication of research in physics and the effective utilization of physicists during the critical war years. His leadership in establishing the first headquarters building for American physics. And finally his kindness, generosity, modesty, and wise counsel that he made available to physicists and their organizations since he retired in 1957 from the Director of the Institute.