Correspondence

In 1962, Gerard E. Mayer began working on his master's thesis on the history of the University of Denver, 1920 to 1940. In addition to the traditional sources of the university archives, newspapers and yearbooks, Mayer surveyed approximately 200 alumni who studied at the University from 1920 to 1940 asking for their opinions on school spirit, relations between the students and faculty, and the lasting influence of faculty. He received 35 responses, which constitute this collection. The letters vary greatly, as did the experiences of the students during their time at the University. Whether the respondent was an on-campus student or a day student affected their experience. The Great Depression had a serious impact on both students and the University during those years. Professors and chancellors were mentioned as having influence on both DU and the students. Several of the letters mention Ben Cherrington and the Social Science Foundation as adding an element of international interest to the campus. The letters are a source of information on the student experience during the 1920's and 1930's.