G. Burton Wood Oral History Interview (2 of 2)

In his second interview, Wood explains the tough times he and his family endured as the Great Depression went on. At the time he was attending Oregon State College and worked at the institution, bringing in much needed funds for his family. The Woods took on student boarders as well to help make ends meet. When asked about the general mood of the campus, Wood says that there was an abundant feeling of discouragement due to the overall difficulty of life at the time. One of the most advantageous jobs that Wood performed at the college was being the chauffeur for President Kerr. Wood describes their working relationship at length and remembers Kerr as a considerate and wonderful person.

Once Kerr became promoted to chancellor, he needed to relocate to Eugene. Kerr asked Wood if he would be willing to move to Eugene as well and continue working for Kerr. Wood decided that he indeed would as he still wanted to support his family and continue his education. At the time Oregon State College was no longer providing Business as a major so Wood would not have been able to graduate as his degree was in Business. Although he would graduate from University of Oregon, he clearly felt the animosity that came from the rivalry between OSU and U of O.