Identifier

MA 8

Dates

1929-1965

Extent

0.21 linear feet (1 narrow document case)

Abstract

Gertrude Stickney Young was a longtime faculty member at South Dakota State University, educator, writer, and civic leader whose career spanned the early and mid twentieth century. The collection documents her academic work, historical writing, and involvement in university and community organizations through correspondence, clippings, departmental materials, manuscripts, and personal items dating from the late 1920s through the mid 1960s. Materials reflect Young’s contributions to the history of South Dakota State University, her family and regional historical research, and her broader role in South Dakota’s educational and cultural life.

Historical Note

Gertrude Stickney Young (September 14, 1883–January 1965) was born in Sioux Falls, Dakota Territory, to Emma and Sutton Young, the first Speaker of the South Dakota House of Representatives. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin in 1910 and pursued additional studies at Cornell University, the University of Chicago, and the University of California.

Young served on the faculty of South Dakota State University from 1907 to 1942, where she gained a reputation as an engaging and respected instructor. Upon her retirement, she was named Professor Emeritus and continued to contribute to South Dakota’s intellectual life through her writing. She authored numerous historical sketches, including South Dakota: An Appreciation and Dakota Again, many of which were privately published and remain in library collections across the state.

A dedicated civic leader, Young was the first president of the Brookings Branch of the American Association of University Women and an active member of local organizations such as the Faculty Women’s Club and the Brookings Woman’s Club. She passed away in January 1965.

Content Notes

The collection includes clippings (1960-1965), correspondence (1929-1962), and materials from the Department of History and Political Science (1943-1957). It features Glimpses of SDSU (1957), A History: The Abbots, the Allyn's, the Stickney's and the Young's (undated), greeting cards (undated), and a Study in History (undated). It also contains manuscripts by Gertrude Stickney Young, including material on the history of South Dakota State University's history department, Christmas cards with artwork by Ada Caldwell, certificates, and other personal items.

This collection offers insights into Young's academic and civic contributions, reflecting her influence on South Dakota State University and her dedication to preserving history. Works such as Glimpses of SDSU and family histories underscore her role as a writer and historian, while correspondence and clippings highlight her professional and personal impact. The collection is a significant resource for understanding South Dakota's educational and cultural development.

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, publicity, 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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