New Donations for Special Collections

The FSU Special Collections has recently received several donations adding to its documentation of the history of Frostburg and the University.

Emeritus Mathematics Professor Dr. Karen Parks donated two photographic images of historic downtown Frostburg taken in 1906.

The Hotel Gladstone was built in 1896 by William R. Percy and his son-in-law Gladstone Hitchins. It was sold to William Gunter in 1903 and has retained the name Gunter Hotel ever since. 

Downtown Frostburg, Main street, 1906

In addition, Brad Richards, Frostburg State University Alumni 1988, donated a collection of items depicting the history of Frostburg State Teacher's College primarily during the 1950s. Included are images of College staff, President Lillian Compton, aerial photography, and letters from President Dwight D. Eisenhower addressed to Frostburg Teacher's College President Lillian Compton when he was President of Columbia University, shortly before he took office as the 34th President of the United States.

Brad Richards and donations

Brad Richards' mother, Ardtha Dunn Richards, worked in the Registrar's Office from 1947-1958 when she retired as Senior Stenographer to raise a family. Ardtha worked in Old Main and Lowndes Hall under Registrars Elizabeth Hitchins and Fred Wescott. She is seen here c. 1953 with Ivan C. Diehl who served at the Teacher's College for 35 years as College Professor, founder of the Geography Department, and Dean of Academic Affairs.  

Norma Bishop, Peggy Lloyd(worked in financial aid), Esther Biggs, Ardtha Richards, April 18, 1958

Eisenhower wrote to College Presidents throughout the country while he was President of Columbia University.  His letters  invoke the common Cold War rhetoric of fighting against oppression and censorship.

This letter, sent to President Lillian Compton (President of Frostburg Teacher's College, 1945-1954) contain's Eisenhower's original signature. 

1926 aerial view of the campus. Old Main, Frost Hall, and the Brownsville District are visible