Interview with Charles E. Barnhart, May 30, 1985

Interview Summary

Dr. Charles E. Barnhart was dean of the College of Agriculture, director of the Kentucky Experiment Station, and director of the Cooperative Extension Service of Kentucky. He was born in Windsor, Illinois in 1923. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture from Purdue University in 1945, a Master of Science Degree in Animal Production from Iowa State University in 1948, and a Ph.D. Degree in Animal Nutrition from Iowa State in 1954. Barnhart states that his family's move to a central Indiana farm, his activities in the 4-H program, and a mentor led to his early decision to become a county agricultural agent. Barnhart discusses his work as assistant county agricultural agent in Tippecanoe and Henry counties in Indiana, and recalls that advisors at Purdue strongly encouraged him to pursue graduate studies at Iowa State rather than becoming a county agent.

Barnhart came to UK in 1948 where he taught and completed swine research. Barnhart recalls several outstanding UK graduate students. He states that UK has one of the top swine research programs in the United States and mentions a few projects and the awards he has received. Barnhart was associate director of the Agricultural Experiment Station under Dr. William A. Seay from 1962 until 1966. He discusses their mutual goals. He mentions the expansion of land resources at the Princeton, Kentucky facility and the acquisition of the Coldstream farm facility. In 1966, Barnhart became the director of the Agricultural Experiment Station.

On May 1, 1969, Barnhart became dean of the College of Agriculture. He also kept his positions as director of the Agricultural Experiment Station and director of the Cooperative Extension Service. He describes the administrative organizational system and his role in it. Barnhart emphasizes the national need for the 4-H program. He mentions the regulatory services program at UK and the College of Agriculture's international agriculture work through the Agency for International Development. He reminisces about his most satisfying experiences, especially his relationship with Dr. Lewis Cochran and the development of the Robinson Forest. Barnhart notes the need to maximize the use of funds at the university. He mentions his family and his many appointments and awards.

Interview Keyword

Kentucky's Cooperative Extension Service

Interview LC Subject

Agriculture. Barnhart, Charles E., 1923- Barnhart, Charles E., 1923- --Interviews University of Kentucky University of Kentucky--History University of Kentucky. Cooperative Extension Service

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Interview Usage

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