Professor pens biography of Herman B Wells

Bright red roses, a favorite of former IU president Herman B Wells, welcomed guests to the lobby of Herman B Wells library on Wednesday during the introduction of a new book about the library’s namesake.

The book, “Herman B Wells: The Promise of the American University” by Professor James Capshew, a faculty member in the History and Philosophy of Science Department, is a biography of Wells.

The reception featured remarks by IU President Michael A. McRobbie and IU Libraries Dean Brenda Johnson about the book and Wells’ life.

“When Jim Capshew said he was working on his biography, Wells asked, ‘Isn’t there something better you could be doing with your time?’” Johnson said. “It’s clear to all of us who play some part in preserving Wells’ legacy that Jim Capshew’s time has been well spent. Everyone who knew Wells found him to be a most remarkable man, able to give endlessly of his time and attention.”

It is Wells’ humility that makes it interesting to learn more about his true personality, said event attendee Brian Kearney, gift planning officer in the Arthur M. Lotz Office of Alumni and Development.

“What’s great about this biography is that it helps illuminate Wells as a person,” Kearney said. “He was an icon during his life, but he was self-effacing and very humble. As a result, we know him and loved him but didn’t know him as much as we would have liked.”

At the reception, Capshew read a segment of the book about the creation of the Herman B Wells library that discussed how the new library anchored the newer part of campus. The book details Wells’ early life, his road to the presidency of IU and his contributions to the campus.

Wells was associated with IU for 79 years, and he found bliss in belonging to the University, Capshew said.

Wells was dedicated to the students that attended IU, McRobbie said during his remarks.

“Wells would recognize students across campus and, over 20 to 30 years later, could call them by name,” McRobbie said. “He is the great giant at Indiana University.”
The biography was published by Indiana University Press. It was Wells’ idea to establish a press at IU in 1950.

Students, alumni and faculty gathered at the reception, including senior Brad Williams, who expressed interest in learning more about the history of IU before he graduates in two weeks.

“I’m more curious about Wells’ effect on the University now and what made him so unique compared to other presidents across the country,” Williams said.     
Copies of the book were available for purchase, and Capshew autographed the books for attendees.

It was Wells’ love for IU and the fact that he made a commitment to the campus that lasted through his long life that makes him so interesting, Capshew said.

Wells’ commitment to IU stuck out the most to Kearney, as well.

“Even though he died more than a decade ago, there is so much about this University and the world that are still having a great and positive impact from Wells,” Kearney said. “We are still riding on his coattails. It’s a great and marvelous ride to be on.”