University in Blacksburg in Montgomery County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Earl Bertram Norris
(1882-1966)
Photographed by Bernard Fisher, May 28, 2011
1. Earl Bertram Norris Marker
Director, Engineering Experiment Station
1932-1952
An engineer, educator, administrator, and author, Earl Bertram Norris worked professionally in the industrial field, taught mechanical engineering, and served as as engineering dean before becoming an engineering dean at VPI. His service as a lieutenant colonel in World War I drew praise from Gen. John J. Pershing. At VPI, the president considered him indispensable. He chaired the administrative council, doubled the curricula in engineering, and co-wrote three text books.
Norris Hall first wing completed in 1960
Erected by VPI Class of 1953.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Education • War, World I. A significant historical year for this entry is 1960.
Location. 37° 13.761′ N, 80° 25.375′ W. Marker is in Blacksburg, Virginia, in Montgomery County. It is in University. It can be reached from Drillfield Drive west of Stanger Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Blacksburg VA 24061, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Southwest Virginia, in the Blue Ridge Highlands, and in the New River Gorge. It is also in the American South, specifically in the Upper South, in Appalachia, and specifically in Southern Appalachia. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Time Capsule (within shouting distance of this marker); William MacFarland Patton (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Julian Ashby Burruss
this page online
Also see . . . Norris Hall. Virginia Tech website entry (Submitted on June 2, 2011.)
Photographed by Bernard Fisher, May 28, 2011
2. Norris Hall
Photographed by Kevin W., April 5, 2013
3. Earl Bertram Norris Hall and Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on June 3, 2025. It was originally submitted on June 2, 2011, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia. This page has been viewed 781 times since then and 15 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 2, 2011, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia. 3. submitted on April 6, 2013, by Kevin W. of Stafford, Virginia.
