Advanced Search My Lists
You searched for: Topic Education Physical Format Oral histories
Home

Minnesota Digital Library

Search Results Header

Search Results

1. 1973 Bethel Story, Bethel University Promotional Audio, Arden Hills, Minnesota

Creator:
Bethel College and Seminary
Date Created:
1973
Description:
The promotional audio describes Bethel College and Seminary campuses, academic and extra-curricular opportunities, and encourages listeners to support Bethel financially.
Contributing Institution:
The History Center, Archives of Bethel University and Converge Worldwide - BGC
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

2. Interview with Dr. Henry C. Wingblade, History Center, Archive of Bethel University and Converge Worldwide - BGC, Arden Hills, Minnesota

Creator:
Wingblade, Henry C.
Date Created:
1973-05
Description:
H.C. Wingblade discusses his memories of the development of Bethel Seminary and College.
Contributing Institution:
The History Center, Archives of Bethel University and Converge Worldwide - BGC
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

3. Interview with Harvey Waugh (1902-1978), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1974 - 1976
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University librarians Norman Clarke and Lawrence Busse on February 14, 1974, February 25, 1975, November 26, 1975, and February 18, 1976, Harvey Waugh discussed his family background and a wide range of topics related to St. Cloud State. Born in Clarksville, Iowa, in 1902, Waugh worked at the Iowa State Teacher's College before offered a position at St. Cloud State by President George Selke. Waugh described how different things were when he first came to St. Cloud State, and how there was a great lack of organization, of departments, and of staff, along with very poor buildings. Other faculty members are also discussed including presidents George Selke, Dudley Brainard, and George Budd, music faculty Helen Grime, Roger Barrett, and Helen Hulls, also Amy Dale of English, who wrote the lyrics of the school hymn which Waugh set to music. Waugh talked about the various buildings that were part of campus in his early years here. He discussed Eastman Hall, as well as the wonderful Christmas parties that were held in Shoemaker Hall, by invitation. Other aspects of campus living are touched upon, including Mrs. Alice Whitney's presence, being head of a men's dorm, and Quonset huts. He mentioned Selke's great oratorical ability, especially in convincing young people from the Iron Range to come to St. Cloud State. Waugh discussed St. Cloud State president George Budd and his reputation at the university. Waugh described the various programs and plays he helped produce during his time at St. Cloud State, from ""South Pacific"" to ""West Side Story."" He mentioned taking one of his productions, ""The Pajama Game,"" on a European tour in the 1960s. Waugh proudly said that the plays always had a full orchestra and that his choir was called upon to give performances at various conferences and prestigious events. The status of buildings around as well as the construction of new ones, are a frequent topic in the interviews. The plans and building of the current Performing Arts Center as well as his tri-collegiate choral group are mentioned in detail. Information relating to Stewart Hall's construction, the Kiehle library, the Old Main Building and having to share space with other departments is also referenced.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

4. Interview with C.E. Carlson, History Center, Archive of Bethel University and Converge Worldwide - BGC, Arden Hills, Minnesota

Creator:
Carlson, C.E.
Date Created:
1974-07-15
Description:
C.E. Carlson discusses his involvment with Bethel during its transition from a two-year college to a four-year college.
Contributing Institution:
The History Center, Archives of Bethel University and Converge Worldwide - BGC
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

5. Interview with Anna Lagergren, History Center, Archive of Bethel University and Converge Worldwide - BGC, Arden Hills, Minnesota

Creator:
Lagergren, Anna.
Date Created:
1978-02-20
Description:
Anna Lagergren discusses her father, Carl G. Lagergren, dean of Bethel Seminary from 1889-1922.
Contributing Institution:
The History Center, Archives of Bethel University and Converge Worldwide - BGC
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

6. Interview with Lydia Cecelia Olander (1886-?), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1978-11-14
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on November 14, 1978, Lydia Cecilia Olander described her family history. She was born on December 6, 1886, in Orion, Illinois. Olander discussed her parents, who both emigrated from Sweden. Her father came over to become a minister for the Lutheran Church of America, then sent for her mother, whom he married in 1876. Her father was called to a parish in Minneapolis in 1900, where the family then moved. Olander graduated from Central High School in Minneapolis in 1904. Olander recalled her decision to attend St. Cloud State, which was influenced both by her desire to teach as well as she had friends at the school. Arriving in 1904, Olander chronicled her time at St. Cloud State, completing her program in one year. She described living in Lawrence Hall, which burned down during her stay, forcing her to move in with some St. Cloud residents. Olander talked about her extracurricular activities, including the Glee Club. After graduation in 1905, Olander accepted teaching position for third and fourth grade in Brownton, Minnesota, where she taught for two years. Olander then took a position in the Minneapolis Public Schools. Here she taught at Van Cleve School and Hale School from 1929 to 1954. She also attended the University of Minnesota to get licensed to teach junior high. Olander described her experiences working both at the American Vocational Institute and the American Business College
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

7. Interview with Walter F. MacGregor (1890-1979), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1978-11-14
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on November 14, 1978, Walter MacGregor discussed how his family came to Minnesota from Scotland and Ireland. He was born on October 8, 1890, in St. Cloud, Minnesota. He described his elementary and high school education, both of which took place in St. Cloud. MacGregor stated his decision to attend St. Cloud Normal School was easy, since it was very close and allowed him to live at home while pursuing his studies. Arriving in 1911, MacGregor chronicled his time at the St. Cloud State, mentioning his practice teaching in Sauk Rapids, where he taught manual training. He discussed how he obtained a job in Spokane, Washington, and the health problems that forced him to leave that job behind. MacGregor also explained how he was drawn to architecture, and why he decided to pursue that as a career. MacGregor recalled some of the teachers he remembers from St. Cloud State, including Clara Stiles, Elsa Dopp, and George Lynch. He told an interesting anecdote about how George Lynch convinced him to play basketball and then kicked him out. MacGregor also discussed the backgrounds of the students who attended the university when he did. He claimed that many of them came from farming families, and many of them did not come from families with large amounts of money. MacGregor touched on his reasons for joining the Army during World War I, where he spent the duration in Sussex, England, but did not see combat.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

8. Interview with Ruth Dahlquist, St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1978-11-21
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on November 21, 1978, Ruth Dahlquist described her family history and what inspired her to become a teacher. She was born on January 18, 1898, in Stewart, Minnesota, about an 65 miles southwest of Minneapolis. Her maiden name was Senescall, and her ancestry was Swedish, German, and English. Dahlquist said that she had always wanted to be a teacher, and since so many girls from Stewart, Minnesota attended St. Cloud Normal School for that purpose, it seemed like the natural thing to do. Dahlquist chronicled her time at St. Cloud State. She detailed what life was like in the dormitories. She claimed the teachers were very strict. She discussed the two different St. Cloud State presidents she encountered, Isabel Lawrence and Joseph Brown. Brown, Dahlquist stated, was freer with the students and brought more modern ideas to the school. Dahlquist described several other teachers and their personalities, interests, and teaching styles. She explained what she and her friends would do during their time off, and also discusses the literary societies they were involved in, which, though not sororities, had many similarities to them. Dahlquist graduated in 1917. Dahlquist discussed her experiences after leaving St. Cloud State, including teaching stints in Buffalo Lake and Hutchinson, Minnesota, as well as in the state of Wyoming. She settled in LaPorte, Indiana, where she taught for 19 years. Dahlquist married her husband in 1946; he passed away in 1955. She addressed such issues as World War I, which the U.S. became involved in during her time at the St. Cloud State. Dahlquist claimed that many students were shocked, and that the war was a controversial topic. She reflected on her experiences at St. Cloud State as a whole, and thanked the institution for being so severe and strict with her, as it provided her with a strong foundation that helped guide her for the entirety of her teaching career.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

9. Interview with Marcus E. Erickson (1913-2002), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1979-01-30
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on January 30, 1979, Marcus Erickson detailed his family history and educational background. Erickson discussed his father's receiving a job with Pan Motor Company as their reason for moving to St. Cloud, though the company later folded as a result of the owner going to jail. He described his family was somewhat poor, so the decision to attend St. Cloud State was a natural choice, since it was affordable and would allow him to live at home. He also detailed his reasons for becoming a teacher. After graduating from St. Cloud's Technical (Tech) High School in 1932, he attended St. Cloud State with help from the National Youth Administration (NYA), a New Deal program that allowed students to take part in work study programs. If not for the NYA, Erickson would not have been able to finish college. He also discussed several important teachers to him, including Evelyn Pribble. Erickson claimed that the teachers were very strict, but only because they knew the students were there to learn. He also addressed some of the extracurricular and social activities he was involved in at St. Cloud State, including band and the Camera Club, as well as the demographics of the school. Erickson graduate in 1936 with a bachelor's degree. After graduation, he received teaching jobs in Remer and Brainerd, Minnesota, before he began working with the Army Air Force Program. Here he helped develop a program that would help correct improper weight and balance in airplanes. This program was later moved to Yale, where Erickson was able to receive his master's degree in Education. He also received a master's degree in Science from the University of Michigan. He then moved to California, where he taught until 1956, when he began working with the California Teachers Association. He remained in California and eventually retired. Erickson talked about his career after graduating from St. Cloud State, and also reflected on the ways in which the University prepared him for his career and other aspects of his life. He also discussed his memories of how the Depression affected the school and the people around him. Overall, he claimed that St. Cloud State was a strict but friendly school that prepared him wonderfully for a career as a teacher.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

10. Interview with Charles Martin (1909-1981), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1980-01-28
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on January 28, 1980, Charles Martin described his early life. He was born in 1909 in Randall, Minnesota. His mother died in 1922, and he was an only child, so he and his father lived together until he graduated high school in Little Falls in 1927. Martin spoke of his decision to attend college to become a teacher. He shared several anecdotes about his time there, including how he met and became friends with St. Cloud State president George Selke, as well as his friendship with Miss Evelyn Pribble. He also recalled how his devotion to school plays and his job at the Royal Cafe distracted him from his studies and eventually made him sick, forcing him to miss a year of school. Martin mentioned the struggles he had returning to school during a time of such financial hardship. He recounted the story of how he was able to obtain a position directing school plays at the school, which allowed him to stay and receive his bachelor's degree in 1932. Martin chronicled his post-St. Cloud State life, as well as how terrified he was to student teach. He recalled the difficulty in obtaining work after graduation, but that he eventually found a good position in Sauk Rapids and, later, in Little Falls.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

11. Interview with John J. Weismann (1901-1992), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1980-01-30
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on January 30, 1980, John Weismann briefly discussed his family background. He was born on January 13, 1901, on a farm on Golden Lake, Minnesota, near Rockville. His ancestors emigrated from Bavaria and Luxembourg. The fifth of nine children, Weismann attended grade school in a one-room public school, then went to Tech High School in St. Cloud, from which he graduated in 1920. He decided to attend the St. Cloud State to become an industrial arts teacher and to play sports, particularly football. Weismann explained what motivated him to attend high school and later college. He fell in love with football his senior year of high school, then was inspired to attend St. Cloud State after hearing the St. Cloud State president Joseph Brown talk about the possibilities in industrial arts and coaching. Weismann remembered many teachers, including Helen Hill and Dora Perry. He described the buildings that existed on campus in the 1920s, as well as about football and basketball. Weismann chronicled his life after graduating from St. Cloud State in 1926. He discussed his teaching jobs - Weismann taught industrial arts and coached in Appleton, Minnesota, for one year. He decided he wanted to get his degree, so he majored in Education at St. Thomas University in St. Paul, Minnesota, and then received an offer from St. Cloud State president George Selke to return to the university and assist in coaching as well as teaching industrial arts. Weismann described the various programs he was involved in, from student personnel and being Dean of Men, to the Civilian Training Program, where they prepared young men prior to World War II. Weisman described how St. Cloud State became a very different school after World War II. Weismann talked about how much St. Cloud State and the students have changed. He claimed that students today had much more money to spend on things like eating out, shopping, drinking, and other things. He believed the construction of so many new buildings caused a lot of controversy at the time. Weismann discussed the St. Cloud State presidents and held Joseph Brown and John Headley in the highest regard. Weismann retired in 1969.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

12. Interview with Freda Snicker Lindenberg (1900-?), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1980-02-04
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on February 4, 1980, Freda Snicker Lindenberg talked about her family history as well as education and early teaching career. She was born on March 8, 1900, in Winfield Township, Minnesota. Her parents emigrated from Sweden at different times, who married in 1884 and had 10 children. During her last year at Oliva high school, she took one year of normal training, which inspired her to be a teacher. Immediately after high school Lindenberg began teaching, including at Minnehaha Park School in Minneapolis After teaching for a few years, she decided to attend St. Cloud State to obtain her teacher's certificate. She discussed those early years of her teaching career, some of which were spent being the sole teacher in a one-room school. Lindenberg focused on her experiences at St. Cloud State. She chose to attend simply because she had heard much about the school and because its close proximity to Olivia. She loved her time at St. Cloud, and described a few of her favorite teachers, including Miss Louisa Van Dyke and Darius Steward. She also mentioned her extracurricular activities, which included membership in the Avon Literary Society, as well as a part in the senior class play of ""Romeo and Juliet."" In addition, Lindenberg chronicled what she and her friends did for fun, including going downtown to trade or attending football and basketball games. She graduated in 1927. Lindenberg discussed her post-college teaching career and life. Here she briefly described the teaching positions she held in Faribault, Owatonna, and Hutchinson, Minnesota, and said that she always loved teaching and working with children. She also mentioned her husband, who she married in 1929. Lindenberg briefly addressed the Depression, which was just sort of emerging as she attended St. Cloud State.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

13. Interview with L. Ferne Goble Atwood (1895-1995), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1980-04-11
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on April 11, 1980, L. Ferne Goble Atwood discussed her family background. Born in 1895 in Illinois, where she was raised, Atwood attended Miami University in Ohio. Here she received her bachelor's degree in History, English, and Home Economics. In 1919, St. Cloud State president Joseph Brown brought her to the university to teach. Atwood described in detail her marriage to Allen Atwood in 1923, a local lawyer, as well as the close relationship she had with his family, who were very prominent in St. Cloud. The Atwoods also formed friendships with many St. Cloud State presidents, like George Budd, as well as other important figures, like Wheelock Whitney. Atwood and her husband's family were very involved with St. Cloud University, donating money as well as their old homes. Atwood voiced her opinions on the changes the University underwent before and after World War II, particularly her views on the decision to tear down the Old Main Building in order to make room for Stewart Hall. Atwood claimed that other than business interests, St. Cloud State University was a chief concern of the Atwoods.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

14. Interview with George J. Benson (1898-1982), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-01-21
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on January 21, 1981, George Benson described his family background. Born in 1898 in St. Cloud, Benson's parents immigrated to the United States in the late 1880s from Sweden. His father worked as a blacksmith in the St. Cloud quarries, while his mother worked as a maid for the Alice and Albert Whitney family. Benson discussed his relationships with several teachers as well as his participation in and recollection of extracurricular activities. He graduated from the St. Cloud State in 1920. Benson had short-lived teaching experiences in both North and South Dakota before receiving his B.S. from Bradley University in Illinois. He then moved to the Panama Canal Zone to teach for five years, where he and his wife started a family. Benson discussed his time in Atlanta, where he received his Master's Degree and taught for 25 years in the same room. Later Benson described his return to St. Cloud, as well as the education of his two sons, who also attended St. Cloud State University.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

15. Interview with Bernard Kurzweg, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-02
Description:
Interview with Bernard Kurzweg, Concordia College class of 1945, from Tallahassee, Florida, in 1981. Mr. Kurzweg talks about, among other things, how the hard discipline of the dorm monitors was good for him, the practice of hazing or 'shagging,' study periods in the morning, old buildings and their use, the patient and saintly school nurse Anna Gutz, the cost of room and board ($185/year), how the faculty chose him to be President of his class and his responsibilities, enforced evening study hours, the challenges of learning Latin and other languages (Biblical, German), standout professors (Paul Stor and Martin Graebner), the debate team, jobs the students had and extra work done for the war effort, reasons for attending Concordia, reflections on the high level of education received, homesickness in early years (was 13 when he first attended), transportation, what classmates are doing now, and comparing the past with the present. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

16. Interview with Carl W. Schrader, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1900-2004
Date Created:
1981-02-08
Description:
Interview with Carl W. Schrader, Concordia College class of 1931, from Memphis, Tennessee, in 1981. Pastor Schrader talks about, among other things, the difficulties he experienced as a very young student (age 12) at Concordia (a boarding school), the loneliness and hazing he and others experienced, some interesting tidbits about his teachers and their classes, his participation in athletics, what he and fellow students did for leisure, and the nearby geography of the school at the time. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

17. Interview with Ben G. Hoffman, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-02-10
Description:
Interview with Ben G. Hoffman, Concordia College class of 1928, from Matairie, Louisiana, in 1981. Pastor Hoffmann talks about, among other things, coming from a family of 11 children, his pleasant experiences at Concordia with his roommates and 'Room Buck' (the older students who led in the dormitories), the simple and wholesome lives of the students, harmless pranks, how wonderful the teachers at Concordia were, recreational activities, nicknames, outbreaks of disease, doing grounds keeping at the school, and the old Concordia campus. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

18. Interview with William H. Lieske, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-02-10
Description:
Interview with William H. Lieske, Concordia College class of 1937, from Matairie, Louisiana, in 1981. Pastor Lieske talks about, among other things, his classmates and what they did upon graduation, Concordia's first two presidents ' Theodore Buenger and Martin Graebner ' as teachers, pranks played on professors, the gradual diminishment of hazing and the gradual rise of coeducation, free time activities, the geography of the campus and its old tunnel system, the deaths of three students during his time there, and participation in musical groups and athletic teams. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

19. Interview with Wesley Kuhn, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-02-12
Description:
Interview with Wesley Kuhn, Concordia College class of 1940, from Biloxi, Mississippi, in 1981. Pastor Kuhn talks about, among other things, the prevalence of and secrecy surrounding hazing ('shagging'), what outstanding professors did, working as student body president with the school president Martin Graebner, working to earn extra money, what the students had to pay for (not tuition), the effect of the depression on the school and students, physical education requirements and intramural sports, and attitudes towards Germans, Germany and Hitler. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

20. Interview with Albert Ziegler, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-02-13
Description:
Reflection by Albert H. Ziegler, Concordia College class of 1918, from Marianna, Florida, in 1981. Pastor Ziegler talks about the events leading up to his two missionary trips to China, the first coming in 1922 (four years after graduating from Concordia) and some of the joys and trials of those experiences. He also talks, among other things, about being POWs (prisoners of war) after the Japanese takeover of Hong Kong in 1941, his children's return to America and Concordia for their education, and what those he graduated with are currently doing. Finally, he discusses his professors. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

21. Interview with Walter Haag, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-02-13
Description:
Interview with Walter Haag, Concordia College class of 1934, from Marianna, Florida, in 1981. Pastor Haag talks about, among other things, why he went to Concordia, homesickness and some details of hazing ('shagging') incidents, memorable school work, various professors and pranks played on them, the close bond the students shared, the untimely death of a roommate, the effects of the depression and working at school for extra money, transportation, nicknames of students and profs, and the school's expectations about dating. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

22. Interview with Rudolph Ritz, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-02-17
Description:
Interview with Rudolph Ritz, Concordia College class of 1935, from Largo, Florida, in 1981. Pastor Ritz, whose mother was the chief cook for Kaiser Wilhelm II, talks about, among other things, why he came to study for the ministry at Concordia, how public school teachers sacrificed extra time to help him learn English and math, the president's long list of responsibilities at the school (leading chapel, night watchman, his own secretary), outstanding profs and what made them great, the dissection of stray animals for biology classes, how city boys at Concordia avoided hazing and who got it the worst, classroom clowning and fun, playing sports, the difficulties professors faced, the scandal of dating students (dancing, movies), extracurricular night lectures by a professor on sexual matters, a 'rebel' student newspaper (the 'Rebel Comet'), pro baseball and the St. Paul Saints (Babe Ruth), work outside of school, the conversion of a co-worker to Christianity through his preaching, and an interesting story about a personal letter from President Nixon. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

23. Interview with Arlys Fittje Springer, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-02-18
Description:
Interview with Arlys Fittje Springer, Concordia College class of 1959, from Zephyrhills, Florida, in 1981. Mrs. Fittje-Springer, a graduate of one of Concordia's first women classes, talks about, among other things, how she ended up attending Concordia, working in the school's library, her professors, doing babysitting to pay for school, gym classes, dorm life and dorm rules, learning to read music and the music lessons at school, evening devotions and mandatory chapel, air raid drills, the quality of her education, and the 'placement service' for church teachers. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

24. Interview with Robert F. Gaiser, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-02-19
Description:
Interview with Robert Gaiser, Concordia College class of 1914 (?), from Gulfport, Florida in 1981. Mr. Gaiser talks about, among other things, how his father was a pastor at a congregation ' at one time pastored by a man who became the President of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (Friedrich Pfotenhauer) ' that provided a steady supply of pastors and teachers for the church, hazing incidents and 'payback' years later (at a theological convention!), harmless pranks, the disciplined education received, professors at the school, students working outside of school, transportation and various entertainments, the old campus buildings (the old Reformatory School) since torn down, sports, his later career as a realtor and builder, his convictions about the importance of the church and its mission. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

25. Interview with Harry Smith, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-02-20
Description:
Interview with Harry H. Smith,Concordia College class of 1928 (?), from Orlando, Florida, in 1981. Chaplain Smith talks about, among other things, being the first non-German student at Concordia, studying foreign languages for the first time (German, Latin, Greek and Hebrew), how he was over-indoctrinated but years later found meaning in his religious faith, lots of student pranks and hijinks, the different views of the farm kids and city kids, how his class had all their classes together, how their class president was selected, transportation in the city, places to visit, getting 'pin money' by selling shoes and magazines door to door, becoming a chaplain for the fire department and hospitals, and preaching at Disney World and funerals. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

26. Interview with John Naumann, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-02-25
Description:
Interview with John Naumann, Concordia College class of 1925, from Lehigh Acres, Florida, in 1981. Pastor Naumann talks about, among other things, his birth in India, how he and four of his brothers attended Concordia, resenting the hazing/'shagging' and then doing it himself, the faculty's attitudes towards the practice, working as President Theodore Buenger's 'private secretary', memories about his professors, traveling to do music concerts both as a student and professor at Concordia, pranks pulled on him as a professor and pranks he did as a student, dinnertime and working in the kitchen, President Buenger teaching the students about constellations in the evenings, the limited social life due to the need to work, being quarantined due to illness yet playing hockey in the attic of the building called 'Old Main', visiting other places around the school, experiencing 'campus arrest' where one could not leave the campus without permission, and his great fondness for Concordia. This i
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

27. Interview with Herman Glienke, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-03-02
Description:
Interview with Herman Glienke, Concordia College class of 1947, from Hialeah, Florida, in 1981. Pastor Glienke talks about, among other things, attending Concordia after high school at the age of 18 in order to become a minister, taking extension courses via the University of Minnesota in 1947, receiving hours of extra tutoring from Professor Edgar Streufert, the lack of social opportunities because of the necessity of working to pay for school, some positive social effects of hazing/'shagging,' being 'green' due to starting late, his concerns about the changing attitudes towards keeping tabs on the students starting at that time, and his thankfulness for the kindness and help shown to him during his years at Concordia. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

28. Interview with Walter Volz, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-03-02
Description:
Interview with Walter Volz, Concordia College class of 1956, from Plantation, Florida, in 1981. Pastor Volz talks about, among other things, how he and his brothers would ride their bicycles to Concordia even in winter - after doing their paper routes, the young professors who came on at this time, their excellent forensics/debate team led by professor E.J. Otto, the literary societies on campus and their role in the all-male dramas (Shakespeare and such) performed on campus, participation in the campus printing and yearbook activities, interesting memories of professors, the respect students had for professors who disciplined them (like Professor Edgar Streufert), President William A. Poehler waking up the younger students in the morning, sneaking out to study while being a chapel acolyte, exploring the tunnel system of the old Reformatory school (seeing ball and chains, solitary confinement cells), giving President Poehler's daughters a hard time, his happy recollections of Concordia, and his very busy ministry in south Florida. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now Thrivent).
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

29. Interview with E. G. Runge, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-03-05
Description:
Interview with E. G. Runge, Concordia College class of 1932, from Sullivan's Island, South Carolina, in 1981. Pastor Runge talks about, among other things, how a generous man paid for his first year at Concordia with 'no strings attached' to see if he would like it, streetcar and other modes of transportation, the 'Rebel Comet' student newspaper and its editor, excellent professors and what made them memorable, working off campus and off-campus activities, the lack of dating among students and why, getting enough to eat in the dining hall, his 'close call' with pneumonia and appreciation for the school nurse Anna Gutz, buying a photography business from a fellow student, and hazing / 'shagging' and the 'Supreme Court' young students might face. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

30. Interview with Orville Quast, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-03-08
Description:
Interview with Orville Quast, Concordia College class of 1938, from Lumberton, North Carolina, in 1981. Mr. Quast talks about, among other things, being a small town boy coming to St. Paul, how hazing was good for him, needing parental permission to smoke at Concordia when 16 years old, Professor Paul Stor's interesting biology classes, hitchhiking to school, his responsibilities as his class president, the accreditation of the high school, the effects of the Great Depression on the school, participation in sports and singing groups, being justly punished by upperclassmen, his musings about when President Martin Graebner slept, mandatory study time before early breakfast and in the evening, why he dropped out of seminary after Concordia, and the other people in his class. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

31. Interview with Delbert Roth, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-03-09
Description:
Interview with Delbert Roth, Concordia College class of 1952, from Conover, North Carolina, in 1981. Pastor Roth talks about, among other things, transferring from a Lutheran school in Nebraska to Concordia in St. Paul in part because he needed to work during school, traveling to St. Paul and back home via train, memorable professors he had, stores on campus, being in an oratory competition, participation in sports, being made to work in the campus kitchen for smoking, rolling shot puts down the dormitory halls, choir activities including student direction of, church activities and services in the city, how the girls brought 'social life' to the campus in 1951, positive impressions of Concordia staff and the Christian people he met in the upper Midwest. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

32. Interview with Howard Patten, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-03-09
Description:
Interview with Howard Patten, Concordia College class of 1956, from Conover, North Carolina, in 1981. Pastor Patten talks about, among other things, his upbringing in the small Scandinavian-dominated town of Roseau, where he was one of the few Missouri-Synod (German) Lutherans. He also discusses being a green northern Minnesota boy at Concordia, how he decided on the train ride to St. Paul to be a pastor instead of a doctor, learning about how dancing was sinful, falling asleep in class due to working so hard, his great Greek teacher Fred 'Quickie' Wahlers, how girls helped 'civilize' the campus, his disappointments with teachers and fellow students, his being student body president and his own rebellious streak, being told by the school's president William A. Poehler to attend the worship services he was skipping, Poehler's intellect and imposing presence, organizing a dance at Como Park and attending dances at the University of Minnesota (not permitted at Concordia), hearing really
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

33. Interview with Donald Kurtzahn, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-03-11
Description:
Interview with Donald Kurtzahn, Concordia College's High School class of 1952, from Atlanta, Georgia,, in 1981. Mr. Kurtzahn talks about, among other things, his desire to be a pastor in junior high school, working to put himself through the high school, the food service, playing pranks on professors, playing on the first Concordia football and hockey teams, avoiding hazing by virtue of being a bigger kid and athlete, classmates marrying one another, losing a classmate to a car accident, having parties with friends, cutting classes, being paddled, getting a super education at Concordia and what he did with that education. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Lutherans (now 'Thrivent').
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

34. Interview with Marlin Mentz, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-03-12
Description:
Interview with Marlin Mentz, Concordia College class of 1943, from Douglasville, Georgia, in 1981. Pastor Mentz talks about, among other things, how his grandfather encouraged him to be a pastor, his transfer to Concordia in 1941, the teachers the students respected and why (particularly professors John Berger and Lorenz Blankenbuehler), school President Martin Graebner's many gifts, issues created by World War II, social activities including tavern visits and effectively avoiding the President's supervision, classroom and dormitory exploits and pranks, the school's museum, food service improvements, Dr. Graebner's remarkable office manager Lydia Caldwell (Dierks), the school nurse Anna Gutz, spiritual life on campus and off, and the value, in retrospect, of his deeply classical education at Concordia. This interview was conducted by librarian Margaret Horn (at Concordia from 1956-1987) during a summer sabbatical, and was made possible in part by a grant from Aid Association for Luth
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

35. Interview with James Mack, Concordia University Oral History Project, St. Paul, Minnesota James Mack

Creator:
Horn, Margaret, 1924-2004
Date Created:
1981-03-13
Description:
Interview with James Mack, Concordia College class of 1945, from Rome, Georgia, in 1981. Pastor Mack talks about, among other things, his childhood and the church-worker-producing congregation he came from, crying himself to sleep in a room of 45 boys due to homesickness, former school president Theodore Buenger inviting him to go for a drive with him, President Martin Graebner's brilliance in Latin, getting caught staying out late by President Graebner, working in the library and elsewhere to help pay for school, being forced to get cigarettes for the older boys (part of the 'shagging,' or hazing, that occurred), nurse Anna Gutz's great concern and generosity, playing and coaching baseball, proving English professor Edgar Otto wrong, pranks (mild and dangerous) played on professors, the food donated to the students by local churches, working for a local radio station WMIN, meeting his future wife at a local church event (through the 'Walther League'), their ensuing courtship, city c
Contributing Institution:
Concordia University, Saint Paul
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

36. Interview with H. Wyman Malmsten, History Center, Archive of Bethel University and Converge Worldwide - BGC, Arden Hills, Minnesota

Creator:
Malmsten, H. Wyman.
Date Created:
1981-03-17
Description:
H. Wyman Malmsten describes his role in fundraising for Bethel during the Great Depression.
Contributing Institution:
The History Center, Archives of Bethel University and Converge Worldwide - BGC
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

37. Interview with Carl J. Buckman (1897-1988), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-04-28
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on April 28, 1981, Carl Buckman discussed his parents and their years working at the St. Cloud State Normal School. Buckman detailed his father John's work as Superintendent of Building and Grounds, as well as information about many of the school presidents and teachers, such as President Waite Shoemaker, who were influential to the school and the city. He also chronicled his schooling, which was interrupted both by the necessity to work as well as a stint in the Navy during World War I. In addition, Buckman provided insight into school teachers, such as Albertina Anderson and Darius Steward, personalities, teaching styles, and anecdotes. He touched on extracurricular activities at the Normal School, from sports (mainly football) to the drama club, of which he was a part. In addition, he discussed the relationship between the school and the St. Cloud community, claiming the school was the lifeline of the city. Buckman graduated in 1922. After graduation in 1922, Buckman detailed his teaching and educational experiences. He taught 20 years at South and Edison High Schools in Minneapolis before he and his wife Benita moved to Tucson, Arizona, where he stumbled upon a teaching position at the University of Arizona. He also discussed the effectiveness of the teachers at Normal School in preparing him and other students for the future, especially in terms of disciplinary matters. After 14 years in Arizona, Buckman returned to Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

38. Interview with Charles Graham (1929-), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-07-22
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on July 22, 1981, Charles Graham discussed his family background and his educational history. He shared an anecdote about an ancestor who fought at the Battle of Waterloo. Graham discussed his college career and the internship he obtained in Washington, D.C., which gave him valuable political experience and sparked his interest in administration. Graham chronicled his years teaching in Wisconsin, including at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and at Whitewater, as well as his time working with Wisconsin senator William Proxmire. He detailed his impressions of Whitewater, a town he described as tumultuous and heavily affected by the turmoil of the 1960s. Graham touched on his appointment to a New Mexico college that he eventually turned down. The appointment was controversial since Graham was not of Spanish origin in a community that was almost entirely Spanish. He saw St. Cloud State as a change of scenery as well as a good step for his career. Graham discussed his presidency at St. Cloud State (serving from 1971 to 1981), the changes he implemented, and general observations about the faculty and students. He focused on the advent of collective bargaining, discussing how it affected the faculty. Graham also gave attention to his goal to develop and polish more career-oriented programs outside of teaching. He also discussed his attempts to make students more internationally aware, as well as his goal to unify the campus physically after the rapid expansion of campus during the 1960s. Graham discussed the idea of consolidation, meaning he had attempted to take all these new programs that had been added to improve the academic quality to benefit the students.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

39. Interview with Marie Petit Hinkle (1887-?), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-07-24
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on July 24, 1981, Marie Petit Hinkle described her early education and family. She was born on September 10, 1887, in Verndale, Minnesota. Her parents came to Minnesota in 1880 from Iowa and her father worked on the grain elevator in Verndale his entire life. Hinkle also mentions that Verndale High School, which she attended, was not accredited, so she had to make up some science classes when she went to St. Cloud State. Hinkle arrived at St. Cloud State in 1906 and graduated the next year. She discussed some of the teachers she remembers, such as Isabel Lawrence and Jason Keppel. Hinkle mentioned social activities, such as playing cards with Mrs. Shoemaker, Waite Shoemaker's wife. She also played basketball, and attended parties in Lawrence Hall. Hinkle discussed her life after graduating from St. Cloud State. She taught for a couple of years, including in Pine River, Minnesota, and later in Verndale, before getting married in 1912 and having a family. She talked of her volunteer work, as well as the many moves she and her family made, from Fargo to Minneapolis and finally to Detroit Lakes. Hinkle believed that the St. Cloud State prepared her wonderfully for teaching in the real world.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

40. Interview with George Budd (1915-2009), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-07-28
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on July 28, 1981, George Budd discussed his family history and educational background. Born in 1915 in Oswego, New York, Budd talked about pursuing an education during the Great Depression, as well as his family's reaction to his decision to teach. Budd delayed college for three years after high school and then attended the Oswego Normal School. After graduation, Budd taught for three years before moving to Buffalo, New York, to earn his bachelor's degree. Budd served in the Air Force during World War II, which made it possible for him to earn a master's and doctorate degrees at Columbia University. This led him to administrative positions at Washington State and in Oneonta, New York. He also in detailed the process by which he pursued the St. Cloud State presidency, a post he served from 1952 to 1965. Budd left in 1965 to become the president of Pittsburg State University in Kansas. Budd felt that he was unprepared for the St. Cloud State presidency, not really knowing what to expect. He discussed the tremendous growth in population, both in St. Cloud itself as well as at the university, and its affect on his administration. Budd provided a detailed account of how the change from a teacher's college to a state university transformed the campus, leading to new buildings, a complete makeover of the curriculum, and the growth in community involvement. Budd tackled a variety of other topics, from the change in student demeanor and activity throughout his years as president, from those accomplishments he is most proud of, including the establishment of a summer theatre and the Alexandria-St. Cloud State College Performing Arts Foundation, and of the importance of the Alumni Foundation. He also talked about the idea that this was a period of tremendous growth throughout the country, and he simply tried to help St. Cloud State adapt to growing needs and desires of students who did not want to be teachers.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

41. Interview with Joan Anderson Growe (1935- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-08-05
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on August 5, 1981, Joan Anderson Growe discussed her family and educational background. Joan Anderson Growe was born in 1935 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Her father's parents came from Sweden, while her mother's family was of German descent. She described the few career opportunities for women at the time. However, her parents encouraged her to go to college. After graduating from Buffalo High School in 1953, she attended St. Cloud State to become a teacher. She discussed her decision to complete her degree in 3 years, graduating in 1956. She gave much attention to the living situation on-campus, as well as the social activities she was involved in. She claimed that she attended college at a time when students were not focused on world affairs, but only on their own lives and surroundings, something that changed drastically in the 1960s. She also believed that the university always provided plenty of social activities, from sporting events to dances, to keep her busy. After graduating from St. Cloud State in 1956, Growe briefly summarized her experiences, which included teaching in Bloomington as well as becoming certified to teach special needs students. After becoming involved in the anti-Vietnam movement and the League of Women, she became interested in politics. In 1972, she won an election to the Minnesota state legislature. In 1974, Growe was elected as Secretary of State and won reelection in 1978. She also briefly discussed the ways in which St. Cloud State University prepared her for her future career.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

42. Interview with Robert Wick (1913-2006), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-08-17
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on August 17, 1981, Robert Wick described his family history, as well as his educational background. Born in 1913 in Henry County, Iowa, Wick said he was the only member of his family to attend college, receiving great encouragement from his grandfather to pursue his education at a time during the Great Depression. Wick described his time teaching after college in Iowa, and then his experiences in the Army. Of the unit of 100 men that fought in Europe, he was one of six who returned home. After the war, Wick attended graduate school at the University of Iowa, and through a friend from Iowa, found an opportunity to teach in St. Cloud while pursuing his doctorate. Wick discussed his time at St. Cloud State. Arriving in 1948, he taught speech courses and coached the debate team. He described his transition into administration and felt his time as a lieutenant in the Army had given him good experience to do so. Wick talked about being Dean of Science, Literature, and Arts, and some of the changes he took part it. Wick also described the road that led him to become St. Cloud State president, which he served as from 1965 to 1971. He detailed the goals he had as president, mainly to create more physical space for a campus that was growing rapidly. He also wanted to improve working and learning conditions for faculty and students and refine some of the programs since the school had gone from a teacher's college to a university with a broad curriculum. Wick described changes that took place while president, such as the growth of the Inter-Faculty Organization. He said students' attitudes changed during the Vietnam War, claiming that some came to the university simply to protest and did not care about pursuing an academic career. Wick touched upon the relationship between the university and the city of St. Cloud, stating that he did not believe it was very good when he first came in 1948. But that he and other presidents tried to improve it.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

43. Interview with L. Ruth Cadwell (1897-1987), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-10-23
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on October 23, 1981, L. (Lucy) Ruth Cadwell chronicled her family background, including a brief history of how her family came from Ireland and Massachusetts to Iowa. She was born on December 4, 1897, in Boone, Iowa. After receiving some teacher education at her high school, Cadwell decided to pursue teaching as a career. She attended Iowa State Teacher's College in Cedar Falls, Iowa, earning a bachelor's degree in 1923. She taught for a few months in Oxford, Ohio, before finding a position teaching geography and supervising students at St. Cloud State in 1924. Cadwell discussed her time at St. Cloud State, which began in 1924. Cadwell addressed what some of the faculty were like, including Albertina Anderson, and also mentioned many changes the university and the city of St. Cloud endured during her 42 years working there. Cadwell discussed World War I and II, the Dust Bowl, and the Depression, stating that her salary was cut during that time. She also mentioned her work with the Army Air Corp during World War II. In addition, she explained her impression of students she worked with throughout her long career, including her attempts to create more social activities for them, along with her ideas about how the community of St. Cloud interacted with the college. After retirement in 1966, Cadwell taught Adult Basic Education courses, while also helping assemble "The Centennial History," a nine volume collection detailing the history of St. Cloud State University. Cadwell received several civic awards for her work in the community, especially her work teaching adults how to read and write.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

44. Interview with Vernon Leitch, St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-03-25
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on March 25, 1982, Vernon Leitch described his college education (receiving degrees at Moorhead State University, Bowling Green State University, and the University of Northern Colorado) and early involvement in working with the Inter-Faculty Organization (IFO). He stated that he was a member of teaching unions while he taught high school in Barrett and Hibbing, Minnesota, but was not active. He discussed why he became involved with the IFO, explaining the reason for pursuing a connection with the Minnesota Education Association (MEA) and how people's opinions of that connection changed. Leitch described the work he did for the IFO-MEA, claiming that it took a great deal of time, work, and effort. In addition, Leitch expressed his thoughts on what made the campaign a success. Leitch chronicled his involvement with the IFO-MEA after the successful campaign. He served as president for a few years for the union and described the goals he tried to accomplish while in that position. He claimed that being the first president was difficult. Leitch felt that since every decision that was made could set a precedent, resulting in a very cautious and somewhat conservative approach. He also discussed the MEA and their involvement in collective bargaining at SCSU after the election. Leitch discussed what he believes to be the successes of the IFO-MEA, along with some concerns he has for the future. He felt that after the victory, there was much less complaining about difference in salaries. However, he stated that the IFO-MEA has not been as involved in campus policy-making as he would have liked. Leitch was optimistic about the future of collective bargaining, as long as faculty stay involved, and not leaving the responsibility to a handful of individuals.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

45. Interview with Francis (Fran) Voelker (1931-2012), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-03-30
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on March 30, 1982, Francis (Fran) Voelker gave a brief history of his education and background. Fran was born in Thorp, Wisconsin. He went to St. John's University, then entered the military for a few years. When he got out of the service in 1955, he accepted a job teaching high school English in Foley, Minnesota, where he stayed for four years. During that time, he pursued his master's degree, which he received in 1959. Voelker discussed his experience with the Faculty Association and collective bargaining in general. Voelker chronicled his early experiences with the Minnesota Education Association (MEA) in Foley, as well as the motivations of St. Cloud State faculty to actively pursue collective bargaining. Voelker believed that many faculty members felt that salaries were bad and their voices were not heard, so frustration began to build until they decided to do something about it. Voelker said the reasons to join the MEA was good, claiming that they had a good training program and a professionalism that really helped the Inter-Faculty Organization (IFO). Voelker focused on the election in 1975 and said that even if the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) won the election, he would have joined, as most faculty simply wanted some form of representation. Voelker discussed the work he did with the IFO after the election, including lobbying during state legislature to get funding and meet negotiation deadlines. Voelker believed that collective bargaining was very successful in defining roles. He said the adversary relationship that resulted between administration and faculty was unfortunate, but did not have to be a result of collective bargaining. It was something he hoped would be amended in the future.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

46. Interview with Larry Meyer (1948- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-03-30
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on March 30, 1982, Larry Meyer described family background as well as his motivation to attend SCSU. His grandparents were immigrants from different parts of Europe who met in the Twin Cities. When he was 12, Meyer's family moved to a farm near Princeton, Minnesota. His parents encouraged him to go to college, despite the fact that they were somewhat poor. He chose St. Cloud State, as it was very close and financially more appealing. Meyer mentioned that there was financial aid available for anyone who wished to go to college. Meyer chronicled his activism while at St. Cloud State, describing what drew him into politics. He became caught up in the anti-Vietnam movement and the student power movement. He said many issues were prevalent, including women's hours and other social restrictions. Meyer described his involvement in the Student Senate, including his decision to run for President as a moderate, which alienated some of the more radical activists. He won the election, serving the 1969/70 academic year. Meyer said campus politics took him all over the country, from New York to Los Angeles. Meyer discussed his experiences after college. After graduation in 1971, he joined the Army Reserves simply because once finished with college, young men had to either sign up for the active army or the volunteer reserves. He then embarked on a political career, which allowed him to work with Hubert Humphrey, Wendell Anderson, and the Minnesota DFL party. Meyer recounted his time working as an intern with Walter Mondale in Washington, D.C., in 1969, at a time when the city was a very tumultuous place. Meyer explained the ways in which St. Cloud State, both in his educational and political lives there, helped prepare him for the career he made for himself.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

47. Interview with Arthur F. Grachek (1940- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-03-31
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on March 31, 1982, Arthur Grachek discussed his background, detailed his education, and his return to St. Cloud State University. Grachek graduated from Foley High School in 1958. He chose to attend St. Cloud State University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Speech and Social Studies in 1962 and a master's degree in 1964. He taught at St. John's University in Minnesota, as well as at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, where he also received his doctorate. Grachek returned to St. Cloud State University in 1971, where he eventually became very involved in the Inter-Faculty Organization (IFO). He discussed how he became interested in collective bargaining and unions, crediting his family involvement with labor unions. Grachek said Ruth Cadwell, whose house he lived in for five years while attending St. Cloud State University, introduced him to the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). Grachek chronicled his first years at St. Cloud State and how he became heavily involved with the IFO. He discussed the idea that the IFO needed a political force to accompany it, which is why they found the Minnesota Education Association (MEA), which offered them tremendous support to establish a labor union for St. Cloud State faculty. Grachek described the work he did to educate people about the IFO-MEA, as well as his thoughts on why it was able to achieve victory, despite some initial resistance to the MEA. Grachek described hi ideas about the successes the IFO has achieved at St. Cloud State, including the fringe benefits it helped faculty obtain. He also discussed what he feels are problems with collective bargaining organizations, stating that some small local colleges lose their autonomy, which is something he hoped at the time would be remedied in the future.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

48. Interview with Ludmila (Mil) Voelker (?- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-04-01
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on April 1, 1982, Ludmila (Mil) Voelker discussed her background. Mil was born in Dodge, Nebraska, in the 1920s. Her father emigrated from Czechoslovakia, settling in Nebraska and later South Dakota, where he lost his farm during the Depression. The family eventually moved to Litchfield, Minnesota. Voelker attended the College of Saint Benedict, where she received her Bachelor's degree in English, with a minor in speech and philosophy. She then taught English for three years in Holdingford, Minnesota, until 1954 when her future husband Fran, returned from Korea. They married that December, and for the next 10 years Ludmila stayed home to raise their five children. In 1965, she began working part-time at St. Cloud State while also beginning work on her master's degree. She eventually began teaching full-time at the St. Cloud State. Voelker focused on her involvement in collective bargaining at St. Cloud State, and her support for the Inter-Faculty Organization (IFO) and Minnesota Education Association (MEA). Voelker explained why she became involved with collective bargaining at St. Cloud State. She believed that partnering with the MEA was a good move, as it was the strongest political unit available to them at the time. Voelker discussed her time as president and some of the activities she was involved in. Voelker chronicled her time as IFO president, and the importance of a woman being in a position of power at a time when such a thing was not very common. She claimed that the campus needed an articulate woman to show that women were capable of holding authority. Voelker discussed what she did after holding that presidency, including being the president of the Minnesota Council of Teachers, which she held before taking a year of sabbatical and beginning work on a degree in Theology. Finally, she expressed her feelings on whether or not collective bargaining on campus was a success. She felt that the tension it has created between administration and faculty is unnecessary, and that work needed to be done to build trust between the two.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

49. Interview with Eugene Perkins (1921-2004) and Lorraine Perkins (?- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-04-02
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on April 2, 1982, Eugene and Lorraine Perkins discussed their family history, as well as their reasons for attending St. Cloud State. Lorraine chronicled the long history her family had with the St. Cloud State, as her grandfather attended the Normal School and roomed with Waite Shoemaker. Many of her aunts and several other relatives also attended the university. Eugene mentioned they lived close to the university and his dad worked with there. Lorraine said she wanted to go to Carleton College to become a writer. But the Depression prevented her from doing so, as Carleton College was expensive. So, she decided to become an English teacher. Eugene also discussed his time in World War II, which interrupted his college studies. Lorraine arrived at St. Cloud State in 1938, while Eugene first attended in 1939. They met in 1939. Lorraine talked about her varying living situations, including a year in Shoemaker Hall. Eugene also discussed the GI Bill, which of course brought many veterans to the school. Eugene described his time at the Eastman House, which was housing for returning GIs. Both Eugene and Lorraine oversaw and lived for a time in Eastman House. Lorraine and Eugene also described some of the extracurricular activities on campus, such as literary societies, sports, and different clubs such as the photo club, which Eugene belonged to. Lorraine and Eugene chronicled their experiences after leaving St. Cloud. Lorraine talked about being hired in Hayward, Minnesota, before being married, then being told to return her contract, as they did not hire married teachers. She gave up teaching for 20 years to raise her family. Eugene talked about the path that led him to pursue counseling; he taught in Paynesville, Minnesota, for three years while taking graduate classes at the University of Minnesota, with a focus on guidance and counseling. After receiving his master's degree, he went to Cincinnati, where he worked as a counselor and a school psychologist. He returned to St. Cloud State in 1958, eventually receiving his doctorate from University of Northern Colorado. Lorraine wanted to return to school, receiving a master's degree in 1967. She chronicled the establishment in 1968 and her work in the Writing Skills Center, which she believed was the only place for some students, especially foreign students, to get help. They described their support of international students. Finally, they expressed their approval of the vast physical changes undergone by St. Cloud State in the 1960s and 1970s, resulting in a beautiful campus.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

50. Interview with Louis Filippi (1920-2012), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-04-06
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on April 6, 1982, Louis Filippi described how his parents came from Italy before World War I and settled Keewatin, a town in Minnesota's Iron Range. Born in 1920, Filippi discussed life in the Iron Range and the camaraderie that he formed with other children whose parents also came from Europe. Filippi discussed his motivations for attending St. Cloud State after graduating from high school in 1939, including that two of his favorite hockey goalies, Frank Brimsek and Sam LoPresti, attended the university. Filippi chronicled his time at St. Cloud State, especially the teachers he particularly admired, such as Roland Torgerson and George Lynch. Filippi mentioned that he lived with other Iron Range men throughout his college career and that they tended to stick together. Filippi played football, baseball, basketball, and track. He also discussed the effects that events such as the Great Depression and World War II had on his college career. Filippi described his impressions of St. Cloud State. He discussed the socioeconomic backgrounds of most of the students, believing that most were of lower-income families. Filippi claimed that most of the students he knew were eager to have jobs while going to school. He also discussed the "esprit de corps" among the students, claiming that they had an immense pride in the school and were involved in supporting the school at most functions. Filippi felt the community was supportive of the university, but not strong and adamant supporters of its activities. After graduation from St. Cloud State in 1943, Filippi entered the service, despite having a contract with the Philadelphia Eagles to play football. When he finally returned from overseas in 1946, he opted out of his contract with the Eagles and moved to Little Falls, Minnesota, to work as a coach and teacher and as an NCAA referee.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories
Download JSON