Identifier
UA 78
Dates
1942-2023
Extent
3.42 linear feet (3 record boxes, 1 document case, legal)
Abstract
The F.O. Butler Foundation was established as a trust associated with South Dakota State University to manage assets derived from the estate of Chicago businessman F.O. Butler, whose holdings included the 7-11 Ranch in South Dakota. Formalized through a 1968 trust agreement, the foundation served as the administrative entity overseeing these assets and supporting university development initiatives, including projects such as Butler Plaza.
This collection documents the foundation’s administrative, financial, and philanthropic activities from the early 20th century through 2018. Records include legal and trust documents, bylaws, correspondence, board and committee minutes, financial reports, investments, and IRS filings, providing detailed evidence of governance, decision-making, and long-term asset management. Programmatic materials highlight initiatives such as the Campus Enrichment program, fellowships, scholarships, and other educational and community-focused efforts.
The records offer a comprehensive view of the foundation’s role in nonprofit administration and private philanthropy, illustrating its contributions to South Dakota State University and the broader region, as well as the legacy of F.O. Butler and his associated trusts.
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:
- Information request form: Ask Us!
- Telephone: 605-688-5094
- Email: arcrefs@sdstate.edu
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 Copy-right Act. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with copyright, privacy, publicity, trademark, and other applicable rights for their intended use. Obtaining all necessary permis-sions 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.
Recommended Citation
SDSU Archives and Special Collections, Hilton M. Briggs Library, "F. O. Butler Foundation Records" (2026). Archives Finding Aids. 71.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/archives_finding_aids/71