Morgan, William

https://repository.stcloudstate.edu/scsu_oh/5 [11654]

Biographical Information: William (Bill) Morgan was born in 1933 in Pipestone, Minnesota. With degrees from Macalester College (BA, 1955) and the University of Minnesota (MA, 1962; Ph.D, 1972), Morgan arrived on campus in 1978. He taught mostly in American Studies, retiring in 2000. Before arriving at St. Cloud State, Morgan worked at Central Michigan University, University of Kentucky, St. Mary’s Junior College, and University of South Florida. After retirement from St. Cloud State in 2000, Morgan continued to teach as well as pen a local history article in the St. Cloud Times. Based much on his interest in architectural history, Morgan has written the following books: Earth, Wood, Stone: Central Minnesota Lives & Landmarks (Volume I and II), Salt Lantern: Traces of an American Family, and Light from the Hearth: Central Minnesota Pioneers & Early Architecture.

Transcript Summary: In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Archivist Tom Steman on December 5, 2016, William (Bill) Morgan spoke mostly about his experiences as a professor at St. Cloud State University and his interest in architectural history. Morgan discussed the many positions in which he was able to incorporate architectural history and historic preservation in attempts to save old buildings from being destroyed. In particular, Morgan spoke of the Carnegie Library that once stood in downtown St. Cloud and the community efforts in attempt to save it. Morgan, who has written several books about St. Cloud’s history, also discussed how the growth of St. Cloud State physically changed the relationship between the campus and community. Morgan also spoke on his academic career, both as a student and an educator, particularly on teaching within the history department at St. Cloud State with architectural history and Minnesota history. Finally, Morgan expressed his appreciation for the unique architectural experience that St. Cloud State offers, and that the only change he has seen in students over his many years as an educator is how they dress.