John Maxson Stillman

John Maxson Stillman (1852–1923) was a Professor of Chemistry and Executive Head of the Department of Chemistry at Stanford University from 1891 to 1917. He also served as Vice President and Acting President of Stanford during his tenure. Prior to his academic career, he worked as a chemist for the Boston and American Sugar Refining Companies (1882–1891). Born in New York City, he studied at the University of California, Berkeley (1874), and furthered his studies at the Universities of Strassburg and Würzburg before returning to teach at Berkeley until 1882.

His research interests spanned organic and general chemistry, alongside the historical development of scientific disciplines. He was instrumental in securing funding and overseeing the construction of Stanford’s original chemistry building, 'Old Chem,' relocating the department from the Inner Quadrangle. His most enduring work, the posthumously published book The Story of Early Chemistry, remains a notable contribution to the history of science.

While no formal academic awards or grants are explicitly mentioned, his administrative leadership and role in shaping Stanford’s infrastructure highlight his multifaceted contributions. His involvement in the sugar industry before academia underscores his applied and theoretical expertise. He led the Chemistry Department’s organizational growth during its formative years and maintained strong ties with Leland Stanford and university founder David Starr Jordan.