Identifier

MA 1

Dates

1916-1988

Extent

0.84 linear feet (2 document cases)

Abstract

The George Biggar Papers document the career and activities of a broadcaster active in agricultural communication and radio production from the 1920s through the 1960s. The collection includes biographical materials, photographs, correspondence, clippings, scripts, writings, and an M.S. thesis that reflect Biggar’s work in rural and agricultural broadcasting, radio programming, and wartime agricultural reporting. A substantial portion of the collection relates to a World War II agricultural tour and includes diaries, interviews, maps, speeches, research notes, and related documentation. Additional materials address agriculture, economic studies, and professional recognition. Together, the papers provide insight into the development of agricultural radio, the relationship between media and agriculture, and Biggar’s professional career within the broader history of American broadcasting.

Historical Note

The George Biggar Papers document the career of a South Dakota-born broadcaster whose work in agricultural communication and radio production spanned from the 1920s through the 1960s. The collection likely includes materials related to Biggar’s early education and student publications at South Dakota State University, his professional correspondence and scripts from WLS in Chicago and WLW in Cincinnati, and documentation of his contributions to rural broadcasting and wartime agricultural reporting. His involvement in creating the National Barn Dance program and his oversight of farm and entertainment programming illustrate his role in shaping early American radio.

George Biggar played a significant role in the development of rural and agricultural radio in the United States. His work bridged the fields of agriculture, mass communication, and entertainment during a formative period for radio broadcasting. His participation in international agricultural tours during World War II reflects the connection between media and agricultural policy. Biggar’s career demonstrates the influence of South Dakota State University alumni in national broadcasting history and agricultural outreach.

In 1938, Biggar joined WLW in Cincinnati, Ohio, overseeing rural and entertainment programming. During World War II, he toured Great Britain at the invitation of the British Information Service, documenting wartime agricultural practices. After retiring from WLW in 1964, he purchased WLBK in DeKalb, Illinois, where he concluded his career. Biggar later lived in Laguna Beach, California, and Fargo, North Dakota, before passing away on March 19, 1989.

Content Notes

This collection contains a variety of materials documenting historical, personal, and professional narratives. It includes biographical sketches, photographs, clippings, collected scripts, writings spanning several decades, and an M.S. thesis. A significant portion is dedicated to a World War II trip, featuring correspondence, diaries, interviews, maps, speeches, research notes, and collected materials. Other highlights include tributes, miscellaneous items, and materials related to agriculture and economic studies. The collection offers a comprehensive view of various topics and periods, emphasizing key historical events and personal experiences.

SDSU Archives and Special Collections

This document is a descriptive inventory of the collection in the SDSU Archives and Special Collections. It contains:

  • An overview of the collection, including information about the person or organization and a brief description of the materials and subjects found within.
  • A detailed inventory listing, organized by boxes and folders.
  • Information on how to access the materials, including any restrictions or special conditions.

In most cases, the materials in the collections have not been digitized and are not available online. If you would like to know more about the contents of the collection, please contact the SDSU Archives at:

Language

English

Publisher

South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections, Hilton M. Briggs Library, Brookings, South Dakota.

Rights

In Copyright: This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses, you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s). Materials in this collection may be subject to Title 17, Section 108 of the United States Copyright Act. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with copyright, privacy, trademark, and other applicable rights for their intended use. Obtaining all necessary permissions is the user's responsibility. Written authorization from the copyright and/or other rights holders is required for publication, distribution, or any use of protected materials beyond what is permitted under fair use.

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