SUU Legacy: Howard R. Driggs

Dr. Howard R. Driggs (1873-1963) served on the first faculty of Southern Utah University when it was founded as the Branch Normal School in 1897. He later taught at the University of Utah and at New York University, where he was a Professor and Chair of the English Department in the School of Education. He was the author of many books in the field of English education.

During his distinguished career, Dr. Driggs was also a well-known historian and author of books on the pioneer trails and settlement of the West. He became the President of the Oregon Trail Memorial Association in 1928, a national organization dedicated to the preservation of the Oregon Trail. It later became the American Pioneer Trails Association which he headed until his death in 1963.

His collection of manuscripts, research notes, correspondence, photographs, memorabilia historical and creative writings, personal and family records, is curated in the Gerald R. Sherratt Library.