Description:
Part 1: Born on October 23, 1942, in North Adams, Massachusetts, Edward "Ed" Belding discusses his early years in Williamstown, Mass., and his family's complex history, including his affluent paternal lineage and his mother's struggles as a single parent. He recounts his stepfather's influence and the challenges of moving frequently during his childhood.
Belding's educational journey includes attending Ridgewood High School. He describes his involvement in sports, particularly baseball and track, and his early work experiences. At Rutgers, Belding navigated the pressures of academic life, balancing his studies with part-time work and extracurricular activities. He reflects on his transformation from a conservative background to becoming more liberal and involved in civil rights and antiwar movements during his college years.
Part 2: Belding continues to share his transformative journey at Rutgers University and his extensive career in education. Belding reflects on the cultural and political shifts he experienced during his time at Rutgers, highlighting the influence of the folk music scene, the rise of the Students for a Democratic Society (SDS), and the impact of the Vietnam War protests. He recounts his involvement in the Republican Club, his exposure to diverse ideas, and the significant events that shaped his political and social views.
Belding discusses his early teaching career at Drake College of Business and his eventual transition to the New Brunswick School System during a tumultuous period marked by riots and social unrest. He describes the challenges of teaching in an urban environment, the innovative approaches he employed to engage students, and his efforts to build trust within the community. Belding also touches on his administrative roles, the political dynamics within the school system, and his advocacy for effective teaching practices.
Throughout the interview, Belding shares anecdotes about his family, his passion for genealogy, and his creative endeavors in writing and art.
The Rutgers Oral History Archives received an operating support grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State. In the 2024-2025 cycle, this grant assisted the ROHA staff in making this oral history available to you for your use.