Floyd Wright, great nephew of Michigan Agricultural College botany professor William James Beal, and other Beal relatives reminisce about Dr. Beal and their familial connections while gathered for the Centennial celebration of the W.J. Beal Botanical Garden on the Michigan State University campus. MSU President Dr. Clifton Wharton joins the conversation and later addresses those gathered for the celebration. Beal Gardens curator Dr. George W. Parmelee hosts the event. Dr. Dale Harpstead talks about Beal's contributions to agriculture then unveils the commemorative plaque which is accepted by Dr. Roger Baker, grandson of W.J. Beal. Baker recalls walking the campus with his grandfather and learning about plants at the scholar's knee. Senator Philip Pittenger (Republican, Lansing) reads a proclamation from Michigan Governor William Milliken declaring the second week of May 1973 as "William James Beal Week." He also reads the joint legislative resolution. Floyd Wright talks with an unidentified female relative as they walk to the indoor events. Jerry Roe from the Michigan Historical Commission, presents the recognition of the Beal Garden as a Michigan Historical Place. Dr. John Carew from the Department of Horticulture takes over as Master of Ceremonies. Dr. William Drew, Chair of the Department of Botany, reviews the many botanical accomplishments of W.J. Beal.
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