Being able to unravel and analyze the findings of others was a rare attribute of university Professor Craig Kennedy. He coupled this with use of various gadgets and devices that were commonplace in the early twentieth century. They seem primitive by much of today's standard equipment but were actual forerunners to what are matter-of-fact equipment, enhanced and extended in the present day. His ability to analyze his findings resulted in the well-earned recognition of "the Scientific Detective." He was always accompanied by young newspaper reporter Walter Jameson, who kept tabs on plot details. Their combination resulted in many comparisons of the teamwork of Dr. Watson with the renowned fictional investigator Sherlock Holmes.

The author of the stories, Arthur B. Reeve, wrote several dozen of the unusual professor's escapades. These were usually issued as regular books which contained individual chapters of numerous short stories. Generally, they segued into separate episodes with many of the ongoing adventures blending into adventures that featured frequently appearing characters.