About the Collection
The Albert Cook Outler Papers comprise the largest and one of the most significant archival collections at Bridwell Library. Dr. Outler (1908–1989) was a world-renowned theologian and Wesley scholar who served on the faculties of Duke University (1938–1945), Yale University (1945–1951), Southern Methodist University Perkins School of Theology (1951–1979; professor emeritus 1979–1989), and Texas Wesleyan University (1983–1984).
Outler’s professional library and personal papers were donated to Bridwell Library through the advocacy of Rev. Bob W. Parrott. This collection includes 300 boxes (147 linear feet) of correspondence, lecture notes, sermons, publications, office records, photographs, audio and video recordings, diplomas, scrap books, newspaper clippings, and artifacts documenting the life and thought of Albert Cook Outler. These resources offer researchers insights into twentieth-century Christian theological education, the history of the ecumenical movement, the formation of the United Methodist Church, and Outler’s contribution to Wesley studies.