Summary of "Celebrating 100 Years of History at the Purdue Memorial Union" – This Is Purdue

Episode Release Date: September 5, 2024

Introduction

In the milestone episode titled "Celebrating 100 Years of History at the Purdue Memorial Union," hosted by Kate Young, the official podcast for Purdue University delves deep into the century-long legacy of the Purdue Memorial Union (PMU). Featuring an insightful interview with Bob Mindrum, the former director of PMU and author of Purdue Memorial Union: The First 100 Years 1924-2024, the episode explores the union's rich history, architectural significance, and its pivotal role in shaping the Boilermaker community.

History of Purdue Memorial Union

The Purdue Memorial Union was inaugurated on September 9, 1924, emerging impressively from what was then "fairly barren farmland." Bob Mindrum provides a comprehensive overview of its inception:

"[...] in September 1924, the Purdue Memorial Union opened. It's just amazing to me that at that time, all of a sudden, this magnificent building emerges out of fairly barren farmland..." (03:28)

Bob traces the union movement's roots to early 19th-century England, highlighting how the concept evolved from competitive debate societies at Oxford and Cambridge into inclusive spaces fostering community and student interaction in North America. The initial fundraising efforts by George O. Hayes and his peers in the early 1900s successfully raised nearly a million dollars by 1921, allowing Purdue to commission the Pond and Pond architects from Chicago. The union's early facilities included a cafeteria, soda fountain, lounges, and the Assembly Room (later the South Ballroom), which became central to student life.

Symbolism and Memorial Significance

Originally named the Purdue Union, the addition of "Memorial" in 1921 honored the 4,013 Purdue men and women who served in World War I, including the 67 who lost their lives. Bob emphasizes the profound sentiment behind this designation:

"The building of an enduring and imposing edifice is a memorial to the valor and gallantry of its alumni and student body who unselfishly and heroically gave up all they held dear to enlist for the defense of their country..." (07:36)

Key symbolic elements within PMU include:

• Great Hall: Features a gold and black cross on the floor commemorating the 67 fallen servicemen. Plaques honor those lost in World Wars I and II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and other global conflicts.

• Battery B Flag: Honors Purdue students from Battery B who served in the Mexican-American War.

• POW/MIA Chair: Pays tribute to prisoners of war and those missing in action.

• Veteran and Military Success Center: Located on the second floor, serving as a hub for military-related support and activities.

• Veterans Day Celebrations: Annual events featuring presentations, speeches, musical performances, and a 21-gun salute (09:27).

Evolution Over 100 Years

Over a century, PMU has undergone numerous additions and renovations to meet the growing demands of the campus community while preserving its architectural integrity:

• Union Club Hotel Additions: Expanded in 1939 and 1955, enhancing lodging facilities.

• West Addition: Introduced the West Main Lounge, West Great Hall, and North Ballroom.

• East Addition: Created a new entrance, pathway to the Union Club Hotel, and spaces like the Browsing Room Library (now 811 Bistro dining room), billiard room, and bowling lanes.

• Recent Renovations: The Atlas Family Marketplace renovation introduced modern dining options (12:02).

Throughout these changes, meticulous care was taken to maintain the Gothic Revival architectural style designed by Pond and Pond, ensuring the union remains a timeless landmark.

Impact on Student Life

PMU serves as the heart of Purdue's campus, facilitating community building and student engagement. Bob elucidates the union's role in fostering a vibrant student life:

"The lounges for informal interaction, the offices and meeting rooms for student clubs and organizations... a place where community building can take place." (16:14)

Key contributions include:

• Social Events: From weekly mixers and big ballroom dances in the early decades to rock concerts in the '50s and acoustic folk music in the '70s.

• Facilities: Dining options, bowling, billiards, video gaming, and spaces for student leadership development.

• Autonomy: The union's design empowers students to utilize facilities as they see fit, promoting self-driven engagement (17:42).

Notable Guests and Events

PMU has hosted an array of illustrious guests and significant events, cementing its status as an iconic venue:

• Musicians and Orchestras: Tommy Dorsey with Frank Sinatra (25:46), Duke Ellington accompanied by Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Simon and Garfunkel, Harry Chapin, The Temptations, Sonny and Cher, and more.

• Celebrities and Public Figures: Bob Hope, Jack Benny, Loretta Young, Red Skelton, Nipsey Russell, and even the San Diego Chicken mascot.

• Special Events: Purdue astronauts’ reunions, including alumni like Neil Armstrong, and Saturday morning football game day festivities (25:58).

These events not only entertained but also fostered a sense of pride and connection within the Purdue community.

Traditions and Annual Events

One of the standout traditions at PMU is the Christmas Tree Lighting:

"The Christmas tree lighting event is really rather recent in the history of the union. It probably started in the early 2000s..." (19:42)

Key aspects of the tradition include:

• Tree Arrival: Volunteers, including the Purdue Bull Gang, transport the 25 to 30-foot tree into the union's south entrance.

• Lighting Ceremony: Former Purdue President Mitch Daniels typically ignites the lights, accompanied by a countdown from staff members in the utility closet (19:36).

• Community Involvement: The event attracts students, alumni, and community members, fostering a festive atmosphere and providing comfort to students during the holidays (19:42).

Other significant events highlighted by Bob include:

• Junior Promenasade/Prom: Major dances in the early decades.

• Military Ball: Celebrating military service members.

• Guest Speaker Events: Such as Clive Jones' AIDS activism speech and the Purdue AIDS Quilt display.

Bob Mindrum’s Reflections and Favorite Memories

As the former director, Bob shares personal insights and cherished memories from his 21-year tenure:

• Building a Strong Team: Emphasizing financial management and operational success to enable capital improvements (26:12).

• Balancing Tradition and Innovation: Managing the union's multifaceted demands, from preserving architecture to introducing modern amenities like Wi-Fi and Starbucks (27:32).

• Personal Anecdotes: Recalling moments like witnessing an alumnus father and son appreciating the union’s blend of historic charm and contemporary facilities (27:28).

These reflections underscore Bob’s commitment to maintaining PMU’s legacy while adapting to evolving student needs.

Future of Purdue Memorial Union

Looking ahead, Bob expresses optimism about PMU’s continued evolution:

"I have no doubt that the Union will continue in its legacy." (28:26)

He envisions PMU remaining a dynamic space that adapts to future generations' needs while steadfastly serving its core mission of community engagement and support. Bob believes the union will continue to host innovative events and uphold its tradition of fostering inclusivity and belonging among Boilermakers.

Conclusion

The episode "Celebrating 100 Years of History at the Purdue Memorial Union" offers a comprehensive exploration of PMU's enduring significance. From its inception as a war memorial to its role as a bustling center for student life, the union exemplifies Purdue's spirit of innovation, community, and tradition. Through Bob Mindrum's detailed narratives and personal anecdotes, listeners gain a profound appreciation for PMU's past, present, and future, encapsulating why it remains a beloved landmark for Boilermakers worldwide.

For those interested in delving deeper, Bob's book Purdue Memorial Union: The First 100 Years 1924-2024 is available through Purdue University Press, and additional historical footage can be accessed on the This Is Purdue YouTube channel.

Notable Quotes:

• "This is really the story of Pond and Pond, the architects... their symbolism was a big part of what the Purdue Memorial Union was and is." – Bob Mindrum (13:38)

• "The men who sleep in the halls of death do not ask for grief. They died that the world might be made better and brighter and that their country might be free from the stain of dishonor." – Governor Warren T. McCrae's Speech (07:36)

• "If you can't get excited about working today, you're probably in the wrong business." – Bob Mindrum reflecting on staff efforts during busy event weekends (26:12)

Credits:

This episode was produced by the This Is Purdue team, featuring videography by Ted Schellenberger and collaborators, social media marketing led by Maria Welch, and contributions from the entire podcast team. For more details, visit YouTube.com/thisisPurdue or the Purdue podcast website at purdue.edu/podcast.

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