Our 36th Anniversary

On September 21^st, 1979, the W.R. Poage Legislative Library was born. Thirty-six years later, Baylor Collections of Political Materials continues to uphold the vision of the library’s founders: to pay tribute to W.R. Poage, a Baylorite “whose long career in government service on the state and national level epitomized genuine statesmanship”. Our facility began as a repository for Congressman Poage’s collection of political materials but has since grown to include the materials of congressmen Jack E. Hightower, Marvin Leath, Chet Edwards, and more. We also hold the materials of several judges, Texas legislators, and political organizations.

Since then, the library has undergone many changes. The second floor, which originally housed Baylor’s graduate school, is now home to the Baylor Collections of Political Materials’ processing department and the Center for Global Engagement. Congressman Poage’s office on the first floor will soon become a conference room and the visitor’s foyer has become the W.R. Poage Exhibition Gallery. The library also currently holds the Jack Hightower Book Vault.

On the anniversary of the library’s dedication, W.R. Poage reminds us to appreciate stewardship, civil service, and respect towards our fellow citizens. The legislative library still values these traditions. The following photographs and materials from our collection record the historic dedication in honor of W.R. Poage.

Congressman W.R. “Bob” Poage listens to Frank Mayborn
speak at W.R. Poage Legislative Library’s dedication.

A keychain commemorating the 1979 dedication ceremonies.

Baylor President Abner V. McCall (1961-1981) and Congressman Poage
at the library’s groundbreaking ceremony.

From left to right: Judge McCall, Congressman Poage, Roy Smith, Johnny Appell, Frank Mayborn, and Harry Jeanes. Smith led the Development Council for the library, Appell was the president of the Baylor-Waco Foundation, Mayborn served as Financial Chairman, and Harry Jeanes was a Baylor trustee.