Syracuse University World War II Collection, 1941-1950

Summary

Creator:
Syracuse University.
Abstract:
Materials related to activities at Syracuse University during and immediately after the Second World War
Extent:
6 boxes (2.25 linear feet)
Language:
English
Preferred citation:

Preferred citation for this material is as follows:

Syracuse University World War II Collection,

Background

Scope and content:

The Syracuse University World War II Collection spans from 1941 to 1950 and includes materials related to the war effort and the following "G.I. Bulge" on campus. Materials include correspondence between architectural students and alumni and professors, class materials for war programs, service and veteran records and lists, and publications.

Biographical / historical:

World War II ushered in a new era of expansion at Syracuse University. While many colleges and universities faced major drops in admissions, Chancellor William Tolley actively made space for service members and those contributing directly to the war effort in order to preserve enrollment. Syracuse University hosted several educational programs, including the War Service College, the Cadet Nurse Corps, and the Army Specialized Training Program, which prepared both military and non-military students for jobs related to the war effort. In order to make room for the large influx of students, Syracuse University rushed to purchase real estate to house the service members, often displacing fraternity members, civilian students, and female students. Despite the challenges of such rapid expansion, there was little dissent amongst the student body.

After the war, the G.I. Bill encouraged veterans to pursue a college education in record numbers across the country, and Chancellor Tolley was committed to providing opportunities for veterans at Syracuse University. Veterans began enrolling in significant numbers immediately after the war. Although still a small university by national standards, Syracuse ranked first in New York State and 17th in the country in veteran enrollment. The resulting "G.I. Bulge" called for more housing and classrooms. Temporary buildings sprang up all around campus and surrounding areas. New academic programs were developed and social rules were changed.

Acquisition information:
There is no record of how materials in the collection were acquired.
Processing information:

The collection was pulled from a larger collection, the Syracuse University World Wars and the Military Collection, which was broken up into smaller collections. Materials were rehoused in folders and boxes.

Arrangement:

Folders are arranged alphabetically.

Access and use

Restrictions:

There are no access restrictions.

Terms of access:

Written permission must be obtained from the Syracuse University Archives and all relevant rights holders before publishing quotations, excerpts or images from any materials in this collection.

Preferred citation:

Preferred citation for this material is as follows:

Syracuse University World War II Collection,

Location of this collection:
Special Collections Research Center
Syracuse University Libraries
Bird Library, Room 600
Syracuse, NY 13244, United States
Link to repository site
Contact:
315.443.2697
scrc@syr.edu