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This delightful drawing/caricature by John G. Kemper gives the viewer a snapshot-in-time of Western Michigan College in the early 1950's. West Michigan Avenue is along the lower edge of the drawing (north is "down", south is "up"), while the railroad tracks and U.S. 12 (Stadium Drive) cut across it on the diagonal. At the very top are Walwood Hall, the Little Theatre, and Spindler Hall, separated by Oakland Drive which runs down to meet U.S. 12. Oliver Street is not shown; at this time it was only a short lane stopping near Spindler.
In the details we see an airplane next to the Industrial Arts and Mechanical Trades Buildings where students learned aircraft mechanics and where, during World War II, naval cadets received ground and flight instruction. (The Mechanical Trades Building, renamed the Brink Building, was demolished in 2002. The bas-reliefs of turbine engines that decorated the exterior were saved by Campus Facilities. Click here to see photos.) Antennae atop McCracken (science) and Maybee (music) Halls give a hint to the programs offered within. The far right edge of the drawing depicts Vande Geissen Road and the Gateway Golf Course.
John G. Kemper (1909-1991) was a faculty in the Art Department from 1942 until his retirement in 1970. A graphic designer by profession, he provided Western with over 300 designs for such things as posters, plaques, and brochures. His design is still the official seal for the University. Prior to his death he endowed a Medallion Scholarship that was awarded from 1990-91 through 1993-94.
John Kemper's design for cover of 50th anniversary book. (64K)