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Robert C. Thompson papers

 Collection — Multiple Containers
Identifier: MSA 253

Scope and Contents

The Robert C. Thompson papers (1949-1951; 0.8 cubic feet) documents campus life during Robert Thompson’s time at Purdue University.  They feature material related to Thompson’s study of mechanical engineering, including artifacts he created in a machine shop course.  Student life is also represented in dormitory photographs, student rule handbooks and student publications.  Types of materials include: photographs, negatives, artifacts, and booklets.

Dates

  • 1947 - 1969
  • Other: Date acquired: 11/02/1999

Creator

Language of Materials

Collection material is in English.

Access Information

Collection is open to researchers.

Copyright and Use Information

Copyright held by Purdue University. Consult with Purdue University Archives and Special Collections prior to reproduction of materials.

Biographical Information

Robert C. Thompson graduated from Purdue University in 1951 majoring in Mechanical Engineering. He attended mechanical engineering summer school during 1948, between his freshmen and sophomore years.

Extent

0.863 Cubic Feet (One legal-size full-width manuscript box, one shoe box, and one flat folder)

Arrangement Note

The Papers are organized into three form series: 1.  Photographs and Negatives, circa 1940s (0.3 cubic feet)  The photographs document student dormitories, special events, various campus buildings, and aircraft at the Purdue Airport.  Aerial shots of campus are included.  A house and bridge construction is also featured.  Many photographs are paired with their negatives.  Original order of the photographs is retained. 2.  Publications, 1947-1969 (0.3 cubic feet) The publications include student rules, Purdue 75th anniversary souvenir magazine, and student-produced publications. The student publications include literary booklets, a humor magazine, and a mechanical engineering magazine. One publication is oversized. Materials in the series are arranged in alphabetical order. 3. Artifacts, 1948 (0.2 cubic feet) The artifacts document Thompson’s study of mechanical engineering, illustrating work he completed in a machine shop course. They include small brass and aluminum shapes and an electric lamp.

Custodial History

Materials mingled with some of father’s materials.

Source of Acquisition

Robert Thompson

Method of Acquisition

Donation

Processing Information

Whenever possible, original order of the materials has been retained.  All materials have been housed in polyester sleeves, acid-free folders, and acid-free boxes.
Title
Robert C. Thompson papers
Status
In Progress
Author
Michael Maune and Keertana Marella
Date
2020-04-22
Description rules
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin
Language of description note
English
Edition statement
Third edition. Collection description was first completed 2014-02-10.

Revision Statements

  • 2020-04-22: Collection description updated by Keertana Marella
  • 2024-02-08: Extents updated by William Niner.

Repository Details

Part of the Purdue University Archives and Special Collections Repository

Contact:
504 Mitch Daniels Boulevard
West Lafayette Indiana 47907 United States
765-494-2839