Dr. Francis Pendleton Gaines

April 26, 2025

(Original cartoon drawn by John Chapman in 1947. Source: Kamron Spivey)

Dear friends,

Washington and Lee University enjoys a history unrivaled by other institutions. Generals Lee and Washington are undeniably two of the greatest examples in our historical lineage. But we would be remiss to ignore the devoted leaders whose work on campus molded our institution beyond the immediate post-war South. 

One such leader of exemplar quality is Francis Pendleton Gaines, who served as University President from 1930-1959. A devoted scholar of Robert E. Lee and Virginian history, Gaines developed a national reputation for his impressive oratory and outgoingness. He very effectively led the college through the Great Depression and WWII, and set a positive transition for his successor, Fred Cole. 

Fancy Hill features a collection of papers and pictures written to and from Dr. Gaines, which we are gradually putting on our website. Folks who visit us during the Open House on Alumni Weekend (Saturday, May 3, 8:30 to Noon) should be sure to check out the material.

In the meantime, click the link below to view two brief articles regarding Dr. Gaines. The first describes a centennial speech he gave on Lee in 1861; the latter describes his impact on the university. 

Without President Gaines, Washington and Lee wouldn't be the institution we all know and love. Let us hope the present administration will take a few pages out of his book and help improve Washington and Lee for the better. 

Link to two Gaines articles: \https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1Xqa3bGutziYZz320BBDAvcTS2F1JGgz9

Sincerely,

Kamron M. Spivey '24
Campus Director & Research Fellow
The Generals Redoubt