Drury archivist writes pictorial history of campus as part of university's 150th year

As part of Drury University's 150th anniversary, its archivist has put together a pictorial history book — and many of the images inside have never been published before.

The book, simply titled "Drury University," was written by archivist William Garvin, who has spent decades working on the campus.

It was published by Arcadia Publishing as part of its Campus History Series.

The 126-page book covers Drury's beginning in 1873, the campus over time, student life and learning, sports and key figures in its history.

Garvin pulled from Drury's extensive archival collection to highlight critical points of the university from its founding to the present day.

“On the 150th anniversary of Drury University, I hope this book will convey the wonderful ‘historic weight’ of our institution,” said Garvin, in a news release. “I hope it will give voice to the generations of students, faculty and staff who have made Drury such a unique community of learners.”

The university is celebrating its 150th anniversary on Monday.

Garvin, director of library and information services, said one of his favorite stories featured in the book is about Drury graduate Carlos Hurd, the first reporter to interview survivors of the Titanic. He was on board the Carpathia, the ship that rescued many Titanic survivors; at the time, Hurd’s story was considered “the scoop of the century.”

Copies of “Drury University” can be purchased from the author in Drury’s Olin Library, at Drury’s campus bookstore or on Amazon, where it sells for $23.99.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Drury University archivist writes pictorial history book for 150th