Identity elements
Reference code
Name and location of repository
Level of description
Title
Date(s)
- 1916-1988 (Creation)
Extent
0.84 linear feet (2 document cases)
Name of creator
Biographical history
George Biggar, born January 11, 1899, near Aurora, South Dakota, graduated from South Dakota State University with a BS in Agriculture in 1921 and an MS in Dairy Husbandry in 1922. Active in campus publications, he served as editor of the Industrial Collegian newspaper and contributed to the Jackrabbit yearbook. Transitioning to journalism, Biggar began his radio career in 1924 at WLS in Chicago, producing agricultural and farm programs. He was instrumental in launching the National Barn Dance, a platform for emerging country performers, and notably dispatched Herb Morrison to cover the Hindenburg disaster.
In 1938, Biggar joined WLW in Cincinnati, Ohio, overseeing rural and entertainment programming. During World War II, he toured Great Britain at the invitation of the British Information Service, documenting wartime agricultural practices. After retiring from WLW in 1964, he purchased WLBK in DeKalb, Illinois, where he concluded his career. Biggar later lived in Laguna Beach, California, and Fargo, North Dakota, before passing away on March 19, 1989.
Content and structure elements
Scope and content
This collection contains a variety of materials documenting historical, personal, and professional narratives. It includes biographical sketches, photographs, clippings, collected scripts, writings spanning several decades, and an M.S. thesis. A significant portion is dedicated to a World War II trip, featuring correspondence, diaries, interviews, maps, speeches, research notes, and collected materials. Other highlights include tributes, miscellaneous items, and materials related to agriculture and economic studies. The collection offers a comprehensive view of various topics and periods, emphasizing key historical events and personal experiences.
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use elements
Conditions governing access
The collection is open to all researchers, with materials accessible on-site only and not available for circulation.
For extensive research, scheduling an appointment in advance via phone or email is encouraged, including details about the research topic and intended use.
To access materials, researchers must complete and sign the Registration Form and provide proof of identity (e.g., University ID or driver’s license). By signing, researchers agree to adhere to the Reading Room Rules. The registration document also includes guidelines on making copies of materials, correct referencing, and copyright obligations.
Physical access
Technical access
Conditions governing reproduction
South Dakota State University supports access to its collections, both published and unpublished. However, access to certain items may be restricted due to their fragile condition, donor agreements, or copyright.
Reproduction of materials is allowed for research purposes only, and written permission is required for publication or distribution.
Due to the delicate nature of some items, reproduction may be limited.
Languages of the material
- English
Scripts of the material
Language and script notes
Finding aids
Uploaded finding aid
Acquisition and appraisal elements
Custodial history
Immediate source of acquisition
Appraisal, destruction and scheduling information
Accruals
Related materials elements
Existence and location of originals
Existence and location of copies
Related archival materials
Related descriptions
Notes element
General note
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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.
Specialized notes
Alternative identifier(s)
ID
ID
Description control element
Rules or conventions
Sources used
Access points
Subject access points
Place access points
Name access points
- Biggar, George C. (George Cecil) 1899-1989 (Subject)
- Morrison, Herb (Subject)
- WLS (Radio station : Chicago, Ill.) (Subject)
- WLW (Radio Station : Cincinnatti, Ohio) (Subject)