This collection contains the papers of the Carlisle family of Logan, Utah, dating from 1861 to 1971. The papers of John E. Carlisle consist of letters, diaries, genealogy notes, and religious memorabilia. The papers of his son, John C. Carlisle, contain university letters, memos from within the college of education, information on faculty, student records, and general education materials.

The John E. Carlisle papers (boxes 1-6) have been separated into personal papers, correspondence, documents involving the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, diaries and notebooks, and legal/financial documents. The correspondence and diaries are organized chronologically and boxes 1, 3, and 6 contain legal sized documents. John E. Carlisle’s papers are beneficial to anyone interested in studying the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the turn of the 20th century, as it contains a missionary diary from the late 1800s, early temple documents, patriarchal blessing instructions, and a letter from President Heber J. Grant. Also of interest are the many legal and financial documents of John E. Carlisle, which include over 60 unpaid notes of small loans he gave out to citizens of Logan. Additional materials include early 20th century deeds, warrantee certificates, and trust releases.

The John C. Carlisle papers (boxes 7-12) have been divided into USU College of Education, education research and published materials, and legal sized items (box 12). In his travels to promote education in Pakistan and Bolivia, Carlisle collected several books, statistical reports, and conference agendas, which would be beneficial to anyone interested in the evolution of the elementary education systems in these countries. There are several folders related to the College of Education at USU and many booklets, pamphlets, and reports on education. Of special interest are the government-issued reports on education, including a paper from the Atomic Energy Commission that concludes that improving the elementary education system would help America win the nuclear arms race.