Roy Jay Holden
(1870-1945)
Professor 1905-1945
Head, Department of Geology 1907-1945
The head of VPI's Geology Department for 38 years, noted geologist Roy Jay Holden sited Virginia's first gas well, located water wells when a shortage threatened VPI, and assessed the safety of the Claytor Lake Dam site, but he forged his true legacy in the classroom. Known as a great teacher, he stimulated a lifelong scientific interest in his students. He died while preparing a lecture for his class.
Holden Hall completed in 1940
Marker can be reached from Stanger Street north of Drillfield Drive.
Courtesy hmdb.org
