Up for sale is a fascinating piece of American academic and engineering history: an original 1936 University of Illinois Bachelor of Science Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. Conferred on June 8, 1936, this document represents an elite achievement from the height of the Great Depression, awarded to graduate John Whitney Luce.
Rare "High Honors" & Program History Luce graduated "With High Honors", a prestigious merit reserved for the absolute top tier of the graduating class. To put this in perspective, only 22 candidates total were presented for Mechanical Engineering degrees on that day in 1936. During this golden era of classic engineering, the UIUC program was highly influential, heavily focused on practical, civic-minded industrial research to help rebuild American infrastructure during the Depression.
Notable Historical Signatures The diploma features three crisp, prominent signatures from key figures in Illinois history:
Dr. Arthur Cutts Willard (President of the University): A world-renowned engineer whose landmark mechanical ventilation research directly led to the construction of New York's Holland Tunnel. UIUC's Willard Airport is named in his honor.
Orville M. Karraker (President of the Board of Trustees): A dedicated civic leader who steered the university through its leanest economic years.
Harrison E. Cunningham (Secretary of the Board of Trustees): Served for nearly 40 years and was the co-founder and first director of the University of Illinois Press.
Condition: In good vintage condition for its age. The script, gold embossed text, and signatures remain incredibly sharp and legible. It has been securely kept inside its protective cover. The blue faux-leather textured case features the original gold embossed University of Illinois seal (Chartered 1867) on the front.
Please note: The case shows significant wear and visible damage along the edges and corners due to age, which is expected for a 90-year-old artifact (see photos). The satin corner ribbon straps on the inside still hold the document in place.
This is a phenomenal display piece for any UIUC alumnus, engineering professional, or collector of 20th-century history.
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