Mary Spitzer Etter interviewed by Susan Dawson

Creator:

Etter, Mary Spitzer, 1912-2002, Dawson, Susan Elaine, and Smith, Elaine

Scope and content:

Records the recollections of Mary Spitzer Etter, a graduate of the Madison College class of 1934. Describes the landscape and physical layout of the campus in the early 1930s. Recalls the construction and dedication of Wilson Hall, on May 15, 1931, which was attended by the first president of the college, Julian A. Burruss and his successor, Samuel P. Duke. Describes the new auditorium located in the Hall, as well as new office space for the college president and treasurer. Remarks on the minimal landscaping of the college grounds at that time, until the intervention of Prof. George Chappelear, who was instrumental in the planting of many of the trees on campus today. Recollects various aspects of student life, including the hostesses in the Dining Hall who presided over "family style" meals, regulations regarding dress and behavior, both on and off campus, and weekends spent at the College Camp on the Shenandoah River. Mentions such college traditions as the Old Girl New Girl Weddings and recounts tales of ghosts inhabiting the pedestrian tunnels running beneath the Quad. Recalls her participation in the college Glee Club, under the direction of Edna Shaeffer, including anecdotes of concerts given and live radio performances in Harrisonburg and Northern Virginia. Closes with reminisences of her 39 year teaching career, the deaths of her mother and sister, and her recent philanthropic works on behalf of James Madison University and Bridgewater College.

Names:

Etter, Mary Spitzer, 1912-2002
Dawson, Susan Elaine
Smith, Elaine

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