Dr. Paul H, Giddens

Dr. Paul H. Giddens, 81, of Meadville, former Allegheny College professor, recognized for his publications on the oil industry in this region, died Friday, October 26, 1984, at City Hospital.  He had been in poor health for several years.

Dr. Giddens was a professor of history and political science at Allegheny from 1931 to 1953 and served for 15 years as chairman of the department.  During that time, he served as curator of Drake Well Memorial Park at Titusville for 10 years.

Giddens was named president of Hamline College in 1953, retired from that position in 1967 and was named president emeritus of Hamline in 1968.  He was honored in 1972 by Hamline at the dedication of the Paul H. Giddens Learning Center for social sciences and humanities.

Following his retirement as Hamline president, Giddens worked as an historical consultant to Standard Oil Co. of Indiana, a position he held until 1970.

Giddens was awarded honorary degrees from Simpson College, Harvard University, State University of Iowa, Hamline and Allegheny.

He was born February 1, 1903 at Bellflower, MO, a son of Jackson and Bertha Ann Patterson Giddens.  He married Marie Jeanette Robins March 18, 1927.

He was a member of numerous academic, social and professional organizations.

Giddens also served as director of Civilian Defense for Crawford County during World War II and was director of Meadville Community Chest fund campaign in 1945.

Survivors, in addition to his wife, include a daughter, Mrs. Barry (Judith Ann) White of Washington, CA; two sons, Jackson A. of Washington, DC and Thomas R. of Rockford, IL; two sisters, Mrs. Robert (Bertie) Wustrow of Koekuk, IA and Miss Grace Giddens of San Diego and two grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a sister.

Services were held at Waid Funeral Home.