Walter Danner papers, 1940-1973

Summary

Creator:
Danner, Walter and University of Georgia. Office of the Registrar
Date:
1940-1973
Extent:
4.75 Linear Feet (7 boxes)
Language:
English
Preferred citation:

Walter Danner papers, UA97-116, University Archives, Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library, The University of Georgia Libraries.

Background

Scope and content:

The Walter Danner papers span the years 1940 through 1973 and is divided into two series: Desegregation (1959-1961) and Administratve Materials/Correspondence (1940-1973). The first series, Desegregation, deals with the efforts of African Americans (particularly Charlayne Hunter and Hamilton Holmes) to be accepted to the University of Georgia and the actions Danner took as Registrar. The second series, Administrative Materials/Correspondence, includes correspondence and other materials that show Danner's interactions with University of Georgia departments and faculty along with with various outside organizations.

Biographical / historical:

Walter Danner was appointed as Director of Admission and Registrar by President Jonathan C. Rogers in 1949. He was a graduate of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and the University of Georgia. Before becoming Registrar, Danner was a professor of Agricultural Engineering at the University of Georgia. Danner was a major figure in the legal battle over UGA's desegregation as the defendent in the Holmes v. Danner case of 1960, in which the Registrar was successfully sued for discriminatory admissions policies and practices. After a protracted battle, Charlayne Hunter and Hamilton Holmes would become the African American students admitted to the University in January 1961. Walter Danner retired on June 30, 1969.

Arrangement:

The Walter Danner papers are arranged into two series: Desegregation and Administrative materials/Correspondence.

Access and use restrictions

Preferred citation:

Walter Danner papers, UA97-116, University Archives, Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library, The University of Georgia Libraries.