#herbertcruckmick

[wwuheritageresources]

Happy Birthday Herbert C. Ruckmick! 

Born on this day in 1898 in Kings County, New York (Brooklyn). Mr. Ruckmick attended the Manual Training High School, Pratt Institute, and Teachers College, Columbia University. He had many years of experience in organizing and teaching industrial arts before coming to Western in 1926, including the Horace Mann School at Columbia University. 

Beyond his teaching responsibilities he served as unofficial campus photographer, taking many of the photos that showcase his time here. A veteran of World War I he joined the Navel Reserves (aviation) in 1943 as a Navy Photography Specialist. 

[wwuheritageresources]

Play Day 1926

Featured photos taken by Herbert C. Ruckmick showing students from the Campus School enjoying a fun day. Top photo shows students engaging in Rovenacka Dance, note the piano on the left. Photo two provides glimpses of High Street. This area, now known as the Bird Sanctuary (west of Old Main, next to High Street) was a popular place for student activities back in the 1920s.