Interview with John W. Oswald, August 12, 1987

Interview Summary

Dr. John Oswald was president of the University of Kentucky from 1963-1968. In this interview he discusses the controversy that occurred when the University of Kentucky attempted to purchase Maine Chance Farm. He talks about the decision to purchase the property, the factors that led to the controversy, and the subsequent lawsuit. He talks about the attempts to discredit him before his testimony at the trial, and discusses the results of the lawsuit. He talks about some of the other people involved in the issue, including Albert Kirwan and Ralph Angelucci, and how his relationships with them changed throughout the process.

Oswald talks about the social environment of the 1960s and how it affected universities. He discusses some of the other controversial issues that occurred during his time at the University of Kentucky. He discusses attempts to infringe upon academic freedom and freedom of speech, and discusses how he handled these situations.

He talks about his decision to resign from the University of Kentucky and discusses the reasons behind his decision. He talks about what he considers to be his greatest contributions to the university.

Interview LC Subject

Oswald, John W. (John Wieland), 1917-1995 Oswald, John W. (John Wieland), 1917-1995--Interviews University of Kentucky University of Kentucky--History

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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.