Description: In these interviews, conducted c. 1949 and on November 27th, 1967, Ralph Allen, Jr. speaks to three people associated with the early years of the University of Illinois: Joseph C. Blair, and Paschal and Edith Hatch Allen.  Blair, professor of horticulture from 1900-1938 and dean of the College of Agriculture from 1938-1939, discusses his early life and studies at Cornell University, and also his arrival at the University of Illinois in 1896 and his contacts with farmers and students.  Paschal Allen graduated in 1905, and remembers registration, train trips with the College of Agriculture, Pres. Andrew Draper, Prof. J.C. Blair, Prof. Hopkins, baseball, George Huff, football, and basketball.  Edith Hatch Allen speaks of her uncles, who were in the first and second graduating classes of the University, Altgeld Hall, and the 1902 graduation.

Series Description: Ralph Allen Jr. was a student at the University of Illinois, class of 1912. These interviews and audio recordings were made by Ralph Allen Jr., and others at his request, from 1949 to 1967. The digitized audio includes interviews, speeches, and panels discussing research, experimentation and achievements in the fields of agricultural studies, crop sciences and horticulture, mainly regarding corn and soil treatment; agricultural associations in Illinois, specifically the Farm Bureau and the Illinois Agricultural Association; preservation of knowledge and history in agriculture; and personal memories concerning migration to US and student life during the University early years. Notable speakers include Professor Joseph Blair, Paschal and Edith Hatch Allen, James L Reid’s great grandson, Dave Thompson, and Frank W Hatten.

Date: c. January 1949

Interviewer: Ralph Allen, Jr.

Related Resources: Allen Family Papers, Joseph C. Blair Papers