Interview with Richard R. LeMaster, January 21, 1985

Interview Summary

Richard R. LeMaster, a University of Kentucky 4-H Extension Agent, was born in Johnson County, Kentucky in 1934. He graduated from Beaver Township High School in Southeast Ohio, and attended Berea College where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture in 1957. He later pursued graduate work at the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville, and in 1967 earned a graduate degree in Education. LeMaster describes how he first became involved in extension work while completing his student teaching at the University of Kentucky. In July of 1957, he went to Madison County where he trained under J. Lester Miller. Upon completion of his training, he became Assistant County Agricultural Agent in Nicholas County. After serving in the military, LeMaster worked as Assistant County Agricultural Extension Agent in Scott County and Jefferson County.

LeMaster states that in Jefferson County his primary responsibility was directing the 4-H program in Louisville. He describes how the 4-H program in Louisville was different from those in the other Kentucky counties where he had worked. He states that the program in Louisville was an urban program which was making the transition from a school-oriented program to a community-based program. From 1967 until 1971, LeMaster worked as an Area Extension Specialist in Louisville and he was responsible for a seven county area.

In 1971, LeMaster came to Fayette County. He describes the long history of 4-H programs in Fayette County, and states that by 1971 there was a solid foundation for building a program. He describes his efforts to revamp the program and merge the automotive, horse, and other programs. LeMaster discusses the Market Lamb Project for suburban young people which provided them the opportunity to raise, care for, and show lambs. He describes the 4-H camping program which grew from fifteen kids in Fayette County to three hundred and forty between 1971 and 1985.

LeMaster states that he feels that 4-H clubs should focus on community service, and mentions a 4-H clown club in Fayette County. He describes professional groups to which he belongs including the Kentucky Association of 4-H Extension Agents, and Epilson Sigma Phi. He mentions a number of young people who have been involved in the 4-H program, and talks about other extension agents with whom he has worked including Rusty Harris and Bill Johnstone. He mentions his family and their individual pursuits.

Interview Keyword

Kentucky's Cooperative Extension Service

Interview LC Subject

LeMaster, Richard R., 1934- LeMaster, Richard R., 1934- --Interviews University of Kentucky University of Kentucky--History University of Kentucky. Cooperative Extension Service

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Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.