F.O. Butler Foundation Records

Identity elements

Reference code

SDSU-Archives UA 078

Level of description

Records

Title

F.O. Butler Foundation Records

Date(s)

  • 1932-2023 (Creation)

Extent

3.42 linear feet (3 record boxes, 1 document case, legel)

Name of creator

Administrative history

The F. O. Butler Foundation was established as a trust associated with South Dakota State University to manage and administer assets derived from the estate and property of F. O. Butler. A formal trust agreement was carried out in 1968, providing a legal framework for its operation. The foundation held interests in the F. O. Butler Ranch, Inc., commonly known as the 7-11 Ranch, and these holdings were used in connection with its financial and administrative activities. The foundation was involved in institutional development and planning at the university during the late 1960s and 1970s.

F. O. Butler was a Chicago-based businessman in the paper industry who later developed agricultural operations in South Dakota, where he raised polo ponies and Hereford cattle on multiple ranches, including the 7-11 Ranch. Following the establishment of the foundation, its assets supported projects connected to South Dakota State University, including the development of Butler Plaza between 1977 and 1980. The foundation functioned as the administrative entity through which Butler’s property and related assets were managed in support of the university.

Content and structure elements

Scope and content

This collection documents the administrative, financial, and programmatic activities of the F.O. ButlerFoundation and associated trusts from the early 20th century through 2018. Materials include articles of incorporation, bylaws, trust agreements, tax records, and extensive correspondence, along with board and committee minutes, annual reports, and investment records that illustrate organizational governance and financial management.

Programmatic records highlight philanthropic and educational initiatives, including the Campus Enrichment program, West River Seminar, fellowships, scholarships, and projects such as the F.O. Butler Awards and Butler Plaza. Additional materials relate to affiliated entities such as the Julius W. Butler Trust and Villa Theresa, as well as public relations and historical files.

The collection provides comprehensive documentation of nonprofit operations, financial stewardship, and decision-making over time. It is particularly valuable for understanding the role of private philanthropy in supporting education and community development, as well as for research on nonprofit administration, investment practices, and the regional impact and legacy of the Butler organization.

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Conditions of access and use elements

Conditions governing access

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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. .sdstate.edu/sdsu-archives-and-special-collections/researcher-registration-form)

The collection is open for research, but please note that the materials in the Archives do not circulate and can only be used In the SDSU Archives and Special Collections Reading Room.

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In most cases, the materials in this collection have not been digitized and are not available online.

South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections supports access to the materials in its collections. However, access to some items may be restricted due to their fragile condition, donor agreements, or other considerations.

If you would like to know more about the contents of the collection, please contact the SDSU Archives at: Telephone: 605-688-5094 Email: arcrefs@sdstate.edu

Physical access

Technical access

Conditions governing reproduction

Reproduction of materials from the collection is subject to the following conditions:

  • Permission: Written permission must be obtained from the SDSU Archives for any reproduction, publication, or quotation of materials.
  • Copyright: Users are responsible for complying with copyright laws and securing any necessary permissions from copyright holders.
  • Fragile Materials: Some items may not be reproduced due to their fragile condition.
  • Charges: Reproduction charges may apply, and users will be informed of any costs in advance.
  • Acknowledgment: Any reproduced material must include proper acknowledgment of the South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections as the source.

    For more information or to request permission, please contact the SDSU Archives.

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      Finding aids

      Acquisition and appraisal elements

      Custodial history

      The SDSU President sits as the Chair of the F.O. Butler Foundation. The Office's secretary serves as the Foundation's secretary. They maintain the records of the Foundation.

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      Notes element

      General note

      Copyright and Use Statement

      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.

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