Files
Loading...
Description
Oral history interview with Illinois State Normal University alum Ronald Beer, Class of 1958. The interview was conducted on October 29, 1983, by Barbara Pedersen, then a member of the Student Alumni Council.
Beer recalls notable features of campus life, such as women's curfews, the architectural character of Old Main, and the social hub known as "The Cage." He also highlights traditions like the rivalry with Illinois Wesleyan University and the activities of the Blackfriars organization.
The interview delves into the influence of President Robert Bone and his wife Karin, emphasizing their positive impact on the university community during a period of significant growth. Beer also remembers several influential professors and administrative officials, including Emma Knudson, Harlan Peithman, Richard Hulet, and Ralph "Pinky" Linkins, among others.
As a university administrator himself, he says that the essential college experience has changed little between the 1950s and 1980s, though because of technological advances students in 1983 “are confronted with a lot more information.” He also discusses extracurricular activities, highlighting events like dances, athletic competitions, operettas, and musical performances.
The interview touches on the cost of living and typical modes of dress in the 1950s, along with his impression of Normal as “a very small sleepy dry town.” Beer expresses fondness for the sense of community at Illinois State Normal University, emphasizing the camaraderie and opportunities for personal growth.
Interview Date
10-29-1983
Index
- Introduction; foremost memories of ISNU: 00:00-04:20
- President Bone: 04:20-05:55
- Comparative difficulty of completing a college education: 08:33-10:19
- Extracurricular activities: 10:19-12:27
- Prices: 12:27-13:20
- Typical mode of dress: 13:20-14:18
- National news: 14:18-15:04
- Entertainment: 15:04-15:52
- Bloomington-Normal: 15:57-17:17
- Alcohol and tobacco use: 17:17-18:15
- Favorite aspects of ISU: 18:15-20:33
- Campus boundaries and buildings: 20:33-21:34
- Conclusion: 21:34-22:50
Recommended Citation
Beer, Ronald Stevig, "Interview with Ronald Beer, Class of 1958" (1958). Alumni Oral Histories. 7.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/aoh/7