Francis P. Garvan papers, 1856-1976

Francis P. Garvan (1875-1937) was born in Hartford, Connecticut. He graduated from Yale University and studied law at Catholic University in Washington D.C. and New York Law School. After graduating in 1899, he practiced law for one year when he was appointment to the staff of the District Attorney's Office of New York City. As Assistant District Attorney for eight years he distinguished himself as an investigator of crime and prosecutor of criminals. During World War I, Garvan was Chief of the United States Bureau of Investigation and was manager of the New York Office of the Alien Property Custodian. Through this work, Garvan conceived the Chemical Foundation, Inc., which was approved by President Wilson, to seize German patents to help build a stronger American chemical industry. As its first president, Garvan oversaw many projects including medical research. In the 1930s, he formed the National Farm Chemurgic Council to promote the utilization of farm products for industrial purposes.