Julian Stanley Wise Papers 1935-1973

Access and use

Location of collection:
Roanoke Public Libraries
Virginia Room
Roanoke Public Libraries
706 South Jefferson Street
Roanoke, VA 24016
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Dyron Knick
Phone: (540) 853-2073

Summary

Language:
English

Background

Scope and content:

The Julian Stanley Wise Papers contains materials associated with Julian Sanely Wise, founder of the first volunteer rescue squad in the nation. Documents include biographical sketches, documents on the history and organization of the Roanoke Life Saving and First Aid Crew and the Virginia Association of Rescue Squads; personal correspondence, media articles; and certificates, tributes and awards.

Biographical / historical:

Julian Stanley Wise, born in Roanoke, VA, on 13 January 1900, was founder of the Roanoke Life Saving and First Aid Crew, the first volunteer rescue squad in the United States. He was the son of Robert Samuel Wise and Marcella Himes. As a nine year old child, Wise was among a group of spectators who had watched helplessly from the banks of the Roanoke River as two men drowned. Inspired by his childhood memory, he and nine of his co-workers at Norfolk & Western Railway formed the volunteer rescue squad. Wise is also credited with helping communities throughout Virginia and other states to organize volunteer rescue squads. He was also involved in the founding of state and international rescue squad organizations. Throughout his life Wise received many awards and tributes, including a citation from President Nixon in 1973 for his dedication to the rescue squad movement. Wise was captain of the Roanoke Squad for 30 years and stayed on as squad president until 1985. He was married to Ruth Light Wise. Wise died on 22 July 1985 at the age of 85.

Acquisition information:
No acquisition information available.
Arrangement:

The papers are arranged into six series. Biographical materials, Virginia Association of Rescue Squad materials, Roanoke Life Saving and First Aid Crew Materials, Personal Correspondence, Media Articles and Certificates and Awards.

Physical description:
1 box