Charles A. Lundquist Papers

0.84 linear feet (2 document cases)

The Charles A. Lundquist Papers consist primarily of personal journals spanning from 1940 to 1946. The journals provide a detailed chronological account of Lundquist’s youth in Webster, South Dakota, documenting his academic progress, extracurricular involvement, community engagement, and reflections on national and global events—particularly World War II. Entries begin in sixth grade and continue through his early college years at South Dakota State College.

Subjects include daily routines, school activities, Scouting achievements, sports participation, work experiences, and family life. Of notable historical value are Lundquist’s observations of wartime developments, such as rationing, war bond drives, local Civil Air Patrol and Victory Corps efforts, and reactions to major WWII events, including VE Day, the atomic bombings, and VJ Day. His entries also provide a rare student perspective on education, civic responsibility, and youth culture in mid-20th-century rural America. The journals reflect a disciplined, curious, and civically engaged young man who carefully documented his development as a student, citizen, and aspiring scientist.

These papers offer unique insight into the lived experiences of a Midwestern youth during World War II, capturing both personal development and broader societal impacts through the lens of an individual who would go on to become a key figure in American space science. The journals also serve as a rich resource for understanding adolescent life, education, and patriotism in small-town America during the 1940s.

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In Copyright This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses, you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

Materials in this collection may be subject to Title 17, Section 108 of the United States Copyright Act. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with copyright, privacy, trademark, and other applicable rights for their intended use. Obtaining all necessary permissions is the user's responsibility. Written authorization from the copyright and/or other rights holders is required for publication, distribution, or any use of protected materials beyond what is permitted under fair use.