Diplomas

Scope and Contents A collection (13 oversized items) of certificates, diplomas, and misc. items relating the educational history of Allan T. Gwathmey, VMI Class of 1923. Gwathmey was an internationally known scientist specializing in the field of single metal crystals, taught chemistry at the University of Virginia from 1938 until his death in 1963. He was also the founder of the Virginia Institute for Scientific Research.

Scope and Contents The United States Military Academy diploma awarded to Francis H. Smith in 1833. The ink is badly faded. Bears the signature of President Andrew Jackson.

Oversized case 9

Scope and Contents Commission documents, certficates and diplomas awarded to Gilbert P. Chase. 13 items, dated 1890-1925.

Scope and Contents One certificate presented to VMI Cadet H. Franklin Phillips in May 1943. This "three year testimonial" was presented to each member of the Class of 1944, in lieu of a diploma, when the class members were called to active duty in May 1943. It states that Phillips successfully completed three years at VMI and was signed by VMI Superintendent Charles E. Kilbourne and others.

Scope and Contents Documents. VMI Diploma (1853); VMI Society of Cadets Certificate (1853); drawing of VMI Barracks (circa 1852-1853); Confederate Army Commission (1863); Certificate, Pickett Buchanan Camp, Confederate Veterans (1890)

Scope and Contents The collection consists of photograph albums, diplomas, and miscellaneous papers documenting the life of John Edward Townes. The photos depict both his VMI cadetship and his subsequent career in the U. S. Army Coast Artillery Corps (1908-1920) and at VMI as a faculty member (1921-1956). During World War I he served in France with the American Expeditionary Force (AEF).

Contents Note A collection of VMI diplomas from various eras. The oldest is that of Edmund Pendleton, Class of 1842. Contact the VMI Archives for a complete list.