Class of 1927
Major: Home Economics

View Interview Transcript (PDF format)

Elsie Chase Kilpatrick was born in 1906 to Will and Martha Chase.  Born in Indian Territory in what later became Woodward County in Western Oklahoma, the family settled in Ralston, Oklahoma where she grew up with two brothers, Art and Ward.

Elsie entered Oklahoma A&M College in 1923 and graduated in 1927 with a degree in Home Economics and certificates to teach physical education and elementary school.  While at OAMC, Elsie participated in many sports activities and was a member of the women’s rifle and softball teams.  She lettered in riflery and softball, earning the prestigious “O” sweater, a feat few women accomplished at that time.  Elsie was also involved on campus with Pi Zeta Kappa, an honorary religious sorority.  Her brothers, Art and Ward were also OAMC graduates and wrestled under Coach Edward Gallagher.

In 1928, Elsie married Lester Kilpatrick, another graduate of OAMC who worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the Egg and Poultry Division.  With Lester, she lived in New Jersey and Virginia before retiring to Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1979.  Together, they have three children.

<< Back to O-STATE Stories Home