Bill and Gladys Russell Papers

Collection

Identifier: MC 2276

Staff Only
Select files to request

Scope and Content Note

The collection consists of materials created and collected by Gladys and Bill Russell, primarily memorabilia and correspondence pertaining to the University of Arkansas and to their support of Arkansas and national politicians. Notably, the collection contains scrapbook pages regarding and correspondence from former Arkansas governor and senator Dale Bumpers, who was a friend of Bill Russell.

Dates

circa 1948-2010

Creator

Russell, Gladys English, 1923-2014 (Person)

Language of Materials

Materials are in English.

Access Information

Please call (479) 575-8444 or email specoll@uark.edu at least two weeks in advance of your arrival to ensure availability of the materials.

Use Information

No Use Restrictions Apply.

No Interlibrary Loan.

Standard Federal Copyright Laws Apply (U.S. Title 17).

Biographical Note

William Leon Russell was born July 26, 1914 in Arkansas. He served in multiple capacities during World War II, including as Company Commander of Company I, 330th Infantry, 83rd Infantry Division, and he was awarded the Silver Star. In 1943, he married Gladys O. English. He later went on to serve two terms as Sheriff of Franklin County, Arkansas, and to serve in the Korean War, earning eight Purple Hearts throughout his military career. He passed away on October 29, 2000.

Gladys Russell was born Gladys O. English on June 26, 1923, in Warrenton, Georgia. She was an active member of Fayetteville's Cavalry Baptist Church and won first prize at the Washington County Fair for her knitting. She passed away on September 24, 2014.

Gladys and Bill Russell moved to Fayetteville, Arkansas in 1964. The couple had four children, and both were active in supporting various Arkansas and national political campaigns.