Henry Levinstein (1919-1986) was a professor of Physics at Syracuse University from 1946 to 1986.

He earned his Bachelor's ('42), Master's ('43), and Ph.D. ('47) from the University of Michigan. He taught Physics at the University of Michigan, and came to Syracuse University in 1946 as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics.

His primary interest was in infrared radiation, but he is best remembered for his courses and lectures on the physics of toys. He taught the course at Syracuse and also gave demonstrations to local elementary school students. His interest in toys came from his attempt to reach non-science college students. A room in the basement of the SU Physics Building was full of toys he bought at yard sale, flea markets, toy stores, and via catalog.

Dr. Levinstein was a member of Temple Society of Concord. He served as chairman of the New York State section of the American Physical Society, was chairman of the executive committee of the Third International Photoconductivity Conference, chairman of the Detector Group of I.R.I.S, chairman of the Optical Society of America, and president of the Syracuse chapter of Phi Beta Kappa. He directed Air Force research contracts on infrared detectors and was a consultant for IBM, RCA, GE. Honeywell and JPL.

This 2-box collection was donated by his widow in 2007.

Researchers interested in the Henry Levinstein Papers should mention the specific box numbers needed (e.g. [V 30074, V 30005]) when contacting the Syracuse University Archives. The collection is housed off-site and it is important for Archives staff to know which boxes are needed to be transported to campus. At least 48 hours advance notice is required to allow time to have the materials brought to the Reading Room.