Underwood, R S 1973-06-19
Dr. Underwood, astronomer and longtime math professor at Texas Tech, comments on the growth and development of his department and of the University, in addition to his publications.
General Interview Information
Interviewee Name: R.S. Underwood
Additional Parties Recorded: None
Date: June 19, 1973
Location: Lubbock, Texas
Interviewer: Jeff Townsend
Length: 1 hour 20 minutes
Abstract
Tape 1, Side 1: Gives background,
Born in Minnesota (1891),
Did undergraduate work at University of Minnesota,
Comments on parents,
Astronomy discussed,
Talks about new approaches in astronomy,
Discusses his article in Scientific Monthly, "Are We Alone in the Universe?",
Tells about 100-inch telescope,
Wrote articles for newspaper,
Mathematics degree requirements described,
Lists teaching experiences,
Extended analytical geometry developed,
World’s Who’s Who in Science lists his name,
Chose to teach at Texas Tech,
Specialization of mathematics noted,
Astronomy taught,
Astrology explained,
Impressions of Texas Tech given.
Tape 1, Side 2: Discusses Texas Tech,
Administrations compared,
Comments on incident involving Dr. J. C. Granbery,
Appropriations in math department recalled,
Recounts Clifford B. Jones controversy,
World War II effects felt,
Describes differences in presidents of the university,
Growth of Texas Tech noted,
Remembers social life of students,
Own home described,
Recalls changes in math department,
Former Texas Tech students compared to those of today,
Math department classified as service department,
Split in faculty traced,
Publishes science fiction.
Tape 2, Side 1: Continues discussion of his science fiction writings,
Other publications mentioned,
Tells about textbooks he has written,
Speculates on developments in astronomy.
Tape 2, Side 2: Blank
Range Dates: 1891-1973
Bulk Dates: 1930-1973
Access Information
Original Recording Format:
Recording Format Notes:
Transcript:
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