Demmon, Isaac N. (Isaac Newton), 1842-1920

Isaac Newton Demmon was a member of the Department of English and Rhetoric at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Professor of English at University of Michigan.

Professor of English, 1876-1920; curator of Rare Books.

Isaac N. Demmon was born in Northfield, Ohio on August 19, 1842. He attended Butler College in Indianapolis for two years, then left to enlist as a private in the 132nd Indiana Infantry in the Civil war. In 1865 he entered the University of Michigan, graduating in 1868 (B.A.) and 1871 (A.M.).

Upon his graduation in 1868 Demmon was appointed professor of Greek in Alliance College, Ohio. Two years later he resigned to accept the chair of ancient languages in Hiram College. In 1872 he became an instructor in mathematics at the University of Michigan, resigning shortly to become principal of the Ann Arbor High school. In 1876 he returned to the university as assistant professor of rhetoric and history. In 1881 he was appointed to the chair of rhetoric and English, and when that chair was divided in 1903, he chose the chair of English.

Demmons was instrumental in the development of the university's library. He was an expert bibliographer and was made curator of rare books at the university. It was because of his persistence and relationship with Michigan Senator James McMillan that the library received McMillan's collection of Shakespearian books. Demmon retired from the university in February 1920. He died September 29, 1920.