Interview with Earl Mendenhall

Abstract

An interview with Earl Mendenhall, graduate of Throop College of Technology, which in 1920 became the California Institute of Technology. Mr. Mendenhall entered Throop in the fall of 1914 and graduated April 1918 (commencement date had been moved up from June so graduates could participate in the war effort). He discusses the Throop curriculum and his work with Royal W. Sorensen (electrical engineering). Recalls part-time work at Pasadena’a Municipal Light Plant; acquaintance with John Pendleton of Plomb Tool, Los Angeles. Anecdotes of student life, including the pole rush and various pranks. Recollections of Throop’s president, James A. B. Scherer; professors Franklin Thomas (civil engineering); Howard Lucas (organic chemistry); W. Howard Clapp (mechanical engineering); Lucien Gilmore (physics); H. C. Van Buskirk (mathematics); Harry Batemen (mathematics); Frederick Beckmann (German). Recalls establishment of Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, 1916; Thomas Edison’s visit to campus; trustee Henry M. Robinson. Discusses early interest in electrical engineering. Works with Carl E. Johnson; joins U.S. Electrical Manufacturing Company. Social life at Throop.