Purdue University--History

Abstract Letters from Thomas Hendrix to Margaret Kennedy while he was a student and member of the Navy V-12 program at Purdue University

Scope and Contents The James H. Smart papers (1874-1977; 3.4 cubic feet) primarily document James H. Smart’s term as president of Purdue University (1883-1900). The majority of the papers are in the form of letter books (1881-1899). The letter book from 1881-1885 begins with President Emerson E. White; the greater part is by James. H. Smart. The letters are primarily written by Smart, although some are written by his secretary L.D. Swan as well as vice-president Winthrop E. Stone in his absence. The...

Scope and Contents The Horton B. Knoll papers document Knoll's research, working papers, notes and typescripts for his books, A record of a university in the war years, 1941-1945, published in 1947, and The Story of Purdue Engineering, published in 1963. Also included among the papers is research material, working papers, notes and information related to Purdue presidents Owen, Smart, Stone, Elliott, and Hovde. There is also information Knoll compiled for his intended biography of John Purdue, and historical...

Scope and Contents The Mortar Board records (1924-2015; 6.95 cubic feet) document the establishment and myriad activities of the Barbara Cook Chapter of the Mortar Board National Society at Purdue University.  The collection reflects the changing scope of Mortar Board over the years, from their early supportive roles in the university, to their position as a major donor of scholarships and fellowships for women (and later men) students, and their devotion to fostering leadership skills in their members.  This...

Scope and Contents The Richard Owen papers document the life and career of Richard Owen, his correspondence, and his administrative recommendations to the Purdue University Trustees. They include materials from Owen's time at Indiana University and Owen's tenure as President of Purdue. They also show Owen's various professions as geologist, professor, and administrator. Types of materials include: books, reports, and letters.Owen's diary records his daily affairs from 1873-1878. Events and topics...

Scope and Contents The Winthrop E. Stone papers (1880s-1990s; 20.75 cubic feet) documents the life of Winthrop E. Stone, his family, and his administration as the fifth president of Purdue University.  They feature Stone’s academic career as a chemist and agriculturalist as well as his various policies and endeavors while President at Purdue.  They also document his interest in mountaineering.  Extensive records of communication and reporting on Stone’s accidental death while mount climbing is also included....