Professor Ira E. Cutler in his office in University Hall

Cutler studied genetics and breeding in fowl, plants, and goats.

Laura Cutler enjoyed a lively social life during her time at the University of Denver in the 1920's. This card was from a party held February 2, 1926.

Cutler's family (from left to right): Marjorie, Laura, "Mother," Hazel, Owen, and Alice. Items belonging to Marjorie, Marian (not pictured) and Laura are included in this collection.

Collection Overview

Creator: Cutler, Ira E., 1863-1936

Title: Ira E. Cutler Collection

Inclusive Dates: 1890-1989

Size: 2.2 linear ft.

Processed By: Finding aid and Web version prepared by Robin Beran, March 2000; revised July 2003

Ira E. Cutler was Professor of Biology and Zoology at the University of Denver from 1898 until he retired as Professor Emeritus in 1934. During that time, he also served as an expert for the U.S. government, conducting experiments in botany and developing various hybrids of Indian corn. He supplied both botanical and pharmaceutical supply houses from his garden, one of the largest in the West. He cultivated new varieties of plants such as columbines (including a now-lost spurless species), iris, and cacti. He propagated the Denver University Rose from a bush given to Chancellor Henry Buchtel; these roses, with red centers and yellow petals to match the school colors, continue to grow today on campus and in surrounding neighborhoods.

Cutler organized the University of Denver Glee Club in 1900 and directed it for many years. He published several songs of his own composition, including the University of Denver Alma Mater, "Hail to Denver U." He formed a boys club that eventually became the first Boy Scout troop west of the Mississippi, and drilled ROTC students during World War I. Towards the end of his life he became much respected in the field of ornithology. During this time he amassed examples of bird species which became the nucleus of the University's ornithological collection.

Ira E. Cutler passed away on May 25, 1936. Professor Cutler's daughter Marjorie served as the registrar for the University from 1937 to 1970, during which time she was active in the Women's Faculty Club.

Scope and Content

The collection includes Cutler's papers, correspondence, notes, and research interests. Also included are dance cards, calling cards, and other ephemera from his wife and children, as well as scrapbooks, family photographs, group photographs of various organizations, and early campus photographs. A few items from the years between Professor Cutler's death and his daughter Marjorie's retirement are also included in the collection.