Telling the story of Doctor Gus

The Poplar Bluff museums have tales about us, our family and our history. I want to tell you some of those tales found within their museum walls.

Gus T. Ridgel was in a hurry. It was 1950 and he had just graduated Magna Cum Laude from Lincoln University.

Although this was a great achievement in its own right, Gus was challenged once more.

His college advisor told him to try to get his graduate degree from Missouri University. Besides the fact that there were few African American students on campus, Gus stated “I have a problem.” The master’s degree was a two-year program. “I only have enough money for one year,” he said.

Miraculously, the university approved his request for an abbreviated program and Gus graduated in one year. He was the first African American to receive a master’s degree from Missouri University.

Upon graduation, Gus Ridgel continued to excel. After earning a doctorate, he became the department head of business at Kentucky State University. He retired as the vice president for finance and administration.

In 1987, Dr. Ridgel was honored with a fellowship named after him at the Truman School of Public Affairs.

In 2019, Poplar Bluff further honored its hometown scholar by naming its new public library annex after Dr. Gus T. Ridgel.

Dr. Ridgel’s biography and photo are proudly displayed in the Wheatley Historical Preservation Association Museum located in the Wheatley School. The museum is open to the public by appointment.

Please contact Rex Rattler at 573-872-9090 to schedule a visit. Tell them Mike sent you!

Mike Shane is a veteran, Poplar Bluff resident and board member for the Poplar Bluff Museum.