Waddell, J. A. L. (John Alexander Low), 1854-1938
Dates
- Existence: 1854-1938
- Existence: 1854 - 1938
Biographical Note
John Alexander Low Waddell was born in Ontario, Canada in 1854. He graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1875 and taught rational and technical mechanics at the institute from 1878-1880. He was also professor of engineering at the Imperial University of Tokyo from 1882-1886. Following this he worked as an engineering and design consultant in both the United States and abroad. Waddell built bridges domestically and internationally in Canada, Mexico, Russia, China, Japan and New Zealand. He held honorary doctorates from McGill University, the universities of Missouri and Nebraska, the Imperial University of Japan and the University of Puerto Rico. He is also known for advocating for quality training for engineers and engineers’ professional status. He developed numerous innovations in bridge engineering, including the vertical-lift bridge, materials suitable for large-span bridges and the use of nickel steel in heavily stressed girders.
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
John Alexander Low Waddell papers
Reprints of articles and addresses primarily on bridge engineering as well as handwritten bridge specifications by John Alexander Low Waddell.