William G. Carleton Auditorium

Honoree

William Graves Carleton

William Graves Carleton came to the University of Florida in 1926 to teach history and political science and earn his law degree. Described as one of the most high-spirited and passionate professors, his lectures were attended by thousands of students, who appropriately dubbed him “Wild Bill.” One of the University's most productive scholars, he was voted most influential teacher at the UF by his colleagues. A local publication deemed him the most popular teacher on campus and Man of the Year. He obtained his bachelor's and master's degrees from Indiana University, and he earned his law degree from UF in 1931.

He was Chairman of the Department of Social Sciences in the General (known today as University) College from 1940 to 1957. His American Institutions lectures were attended by up to 600 students, who enjoyed his dynamic classroom manner. His scholarly pursuits included American politics and culture and university relations. Carleton authored The Revolution in American Foreign Policy (1954) and Technology and Humanism (1970), in addition to hundreds of articles and book reviews. After serving the University for almost 40 years, he retired in 1962.

The charismatic lecturer spoke all over the world about political and social issues. He also served distinguished Democratic Party candidates during elections throughout the twenties and thirties.

He was close friends with Manning Dauer and C. Vann Woodward, corresponding with the latter for over 40 years. Carleton retired from the faculty in 1962.

Facility History

Carleton Auditorium was built in 1954 in order to accommodate the fast-growing student population. Located south of Walker Hall, the facility was built to reflect modern influences and remain in harmony with its surroundings. The auditorium is used for a wide variety of courses, and was named for William G. Carleton, a University of Florida history professor from 1926 to 1962.