Identifier
MA 8
Dates
1929-1965
Extent
0.21 linear feet [1 document case, half]
Abstract
The Gertrude Stickney Young Papers document her significant academic, historical, and civic contributions to South Dakota. A long-time faculty member at South Dakota State University and author of historical works, Young played a pivotal role in shaping the university’s intellectual environment and preserving the state’s history. Key works in the collection include South Dakota: An Appreciation (1944) and Dakota Again (1950), which reflect her dedication to local history. Additionally, her other writings, such as Dr. Frederick A. Stafford in Dakota, 1884-1922 and William Joshua Cleveland, 1845-1910, highlight her broad historical interests.
The collection also contains clippings, correspondence, and manuscripts, including personal items and works like Glimpses of South Dakota State College (1957). Other materials document her involvement in local organizations and her collaborations with figures like Ada Caldwell. This collection is a valuable resource for understanding the cultural, educational, and civic history of South Dakota, as well as Young's lasting influence on the state's historical scholarship.
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 1960 and also attended 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, earning a reputation as a popular instructor. After becoming Professor Emeritus in 1942, she wrote numerous historical sketches about South Dakota, including South Dakota: An Appreciation and Dakota Again, many of which were privately published and remain in libraries across the state.
An active civic leader, Young was the first president of the Brookings Branch of the American Association of University Women and a member of several local organizations, including 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 valuable 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.
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Language
English
Publisher
South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections, 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.
Recommended Citation
SDSU Archives and Special Collections, Hilton M. Briggs Library, "Gertrude Stickney Young Papers" (2025). University Archives. 221.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/finding_aids-university/221