Davis, R. C. (Raymond Cazallis), 1836-

Librarian of University of Michigan.

Raymond Cazallis Davis was born at Cushing, Maine, June 23, 1836, son of George and Catherine (Young) Davis. After his mother's death in 1849, his father, who was a sea captain, took young Davis on a cruise around the world which lasted two years. Later, in 1869 he published a volume of his experiences entitled "Reminiscences of a Voyage around the World." In 1855 Davis entered the University of Michigan. Unfortunately, towards the end of the second year his studies were interrupted by a severe illness which incapacitated him for serious work for some years. In 1868 he returned to the University as assistant librarian. At the end of four years the Regents offered him the position of chief librarian. As acceptance would have involved the displacement of the incumbent, he declined the office, instead leaving Ann Arbor for Maine.

In 1877 the office of librarian at the University having fallen vacant, Davis was again offered the position. He now felt free to accept it. During his long term of service extending over twenty-eight years the Library grew steadily in size and professionalism. Early in his career, a new library building was built and occupied. In addition, Davis developed the card catalog and was aggressive in expanding the holdings of the library. In 1905, at his own request, he retired and was made librarian emeritus and lecturer on bibliography, a course he had instituted in 1882. In 1881 the Regents of the University conferred upon him the honorary degree of Master of Arts. Davis died June 10, 1919.