Waugh, Harvey

https://reflections.mndigital.org/catalog/stc:7390#/kaltura_audio

Biographical Information: Harvey Waugh was born in 1902 in Clarksville, Iowa. He graduated high school in Iowa, and eventually went to college to specialize in Music. While he was working at the Iowa State Teacher's College, his supervisor mentioned his name to George Selke, who was then president of St. Cloud Teacher's College. Selke offered him a position at St. Cloud State, and Waugh came to help set up the Music Department, eventually becoming head of the department. He also worked with the Drama Department in organizing school plays. He continued to work in the Music Department throughout his time in St. Cloud, and even served as Chairman of the Division of Arts and Music before retiring. At the time of these four interviews (1974-1976), Waugh was retired, but still active in music.

Transcript Summary: Waugh discussed his family background and experiences at St. Cloud State, especially becoming head of the Music Department. Of particular note is the discussion of the enrollment boom following World War II, including population estimates, and lack of sufficient housing and classrooms due to the surge. He talked about George Selke, who was a close friend of Waugh's and instrumental in bringing him to St. Cloud State. Waugh described how different things were when he first came to St. Cloud State, and how there was a great lack of organization, of departments, and of staff, along with very poor buildings. Other faculty members are also discussed including presidents George Selke, Dudley Brainard, and George Budd, music faculty Helen Grime, Roger Barrett, and Helen Hulls; also Amy Dale of English, who wrote the lyrics of the school hymn which Waugh set to music.

Waugh talked about the various buildings that were part of campus in his early years here. He discussed Eastman Hall, as well as the wonderful Christmas parties that were held in Shoemaker Hall, by invitation. Other aspects of campus living are touched upon, including Mrs. Whitney's presence, being head of a men’s dorm, and Quonset huts. He mentioned Selke's great oratorical ability, especially in convincing young people from the Iron Range to come to St. Cloud State. Waugh discussed St. Cloud State president George Budd and his reputation at the university.

Waugh described the various programs and plays he helped produce during his time at St. Cloud State, from "South Pacific" to "West Side Story." He mentioned taking one of his productions, "The Pajama Game," on a European tour in the 1960s. Waugh proudly said that the plays always had a full orchestra and that his choir was called upon to give performances at various conferences and prestigious events.

The status of buildings around as well as the construction of new ones, are a frequent topic in the interviews. The plans and building of the current Performing Arts Center as well as his tri-collegiate choral group are mentioned in detail. Information relating to Stewart Hall's construction, the Kiehle library, the Old Main Building and having to share space with other departments is also referenced.

Interviews conducted by Lawrence Busse and Norman Clarke