Missouri S&T is throwing a book release party 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8, at the S&T Store for Forged in Gold: Missouri S&T’s First 150 Years, the new commemorative history book by Dr. Larry Gragg. Copies of the book will be available for purchase.

Anyone who pre-ordered the book and selected in-store pickup can pick up their copy during the event. In addition, Missouri S&T and the S&T Store will celebrate the campus’s 150th anniversary by introducing a limited-edition line of merchandise called the “Legacy Line” as well as 150th-branded shirts, hats and more. Be among the first to see the vintage-inspired fan favorite retired logos and designs, including retro MSM apparel.

The event will include giveaways, a book signing by Gragg, door prizes and more. As a reminder, face coverings that cover an individual’s mouth and nose are required while in indoor public places at the university, including the Havener Center and the S&T Store. Attendees are encouraged to continue to take other protective measures to help stop the spread of germs including frequent hand washing and physical distancing.

About the book

Gragg is a Curators’ Distinguished Teaching Professor emeritus of history and political science at Missouri S&T. His new book, Forged in Gold: Missouri S&T’s First 150 Years, is the account of the university’s commitment to its land grant mission. The book details many stories of the campus, including scandals and pranks, influential faculty and staff, the roles Miners played in America’s wars, athletics, and the Miners who have made an impact on the world. 

In the 1870s, Rolla seemed an unlikely location for a new college, writes Gragg. There were only about 1,400 residents in a community with more saloons than houses of worship. There were no paved streets, sewers or water mains. To visitors, there seemed to be as many dogs, hogs, horses, ducks and geese as humans walking the dusty streets.

Yet, Rolla became the home of Missouri S&T. Over the years, the university evolved from a “country academy” in 1871 to a technological research university. Despite two name changes and the growth of academic programming beyond mining and metallurgical engineering, graduates continue to identify with their school’s heritage and proudly call themselves Miners. 

Forged in Gold: Missouri S&T’s First 150 Years is now available for a pre-order discount. Order at thesandtstore.com by Thursday, Oct. 1, and receive $10 off the regular retail price of $49.99 and be automatically entered for random prize drawings. Books will begin shipping on Monday, Oct. 5. Orders will be shipped to the address provided at the time of pre-order. To make changes after submitting your pre-order form, contact thesandtstore@mst.edu.