Victor R. Gardner papers, 1972-1973.

In 1972 and 1973, Professor Frank Dennis interviewed Victor Gardner as part of an oral history project. Gardner's papers include tape recordings and transcripts of these interviews as well as his own written reminiscences. In these Gardner discusses his experience while a student at Michigan Agricultural College (now Michigan State University) (1901-1905), the development of the Horticultural Department and his colleagues in the department (1923-1945), and achievements throughout his career. Other items include Victor Gardner's letter to the MSU Alumni Association Office listing his professional degrees and accomplishments, and a letter written after Gardner's death by one of his former students, providing a brief but detailed account of his life for publication in a horticultural magazine.

Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: "Item title, Collection title, Collection Identifier, Michigan State University Archives & Historical Collections, East Lansing, Michigan."

Finding aid available in 101 Conrad Hall.

Donated by John Carew.

Donated by Frank Dennis.

Donated by Victor Gardner.

Victor R. Gardner received a B.S. in Agriculture from Michigan Agricultural College (now Michigan State University) in 1905. Upon completion of graduate work at Iowa State College, he accepted subsequent faculty positions at McDonald College, the University of Maine, Oregon Agricultural College, and the University of Missouri. Gardner returned to MAC in 1923 as head of the Horticultural Department, a position he held until 1945. In 1929, he was also appointed Director of the Agricultural Experiment Station. He retired in 1949 with the rank of Assistant Dean.