Ted F. Jackson papers

Collection

Identifier: UA-10.3.382

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The collection primarily consists of research by Ted F. Jackson, D.V.M., and Frederic Halbert into dairy cattle that were fed polybrominated biphenyl (PBB)- contaminated food, and the publication of their article in the Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association in 1974. The collection also contains Jackson's Doctor of Veterinary Medicine diploma (1944), a Registered Veterinarian certificate from the State of Michigan (1954), and slides and photographs of his veterinary practice. A biography of Ted F. Jackson, and an item level inventory of the collection, which was provided by the donor, is included as well.

Dates

Creation: 1944 - 2018
Creation: Majority of material found within 1973 - 1976

Creator

Jackson, Ted Fremont (Person)
Halbert, Frederic, 1945- (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research.

Conditions Governing Use

Permission to publish material from this collection must be obtained from University Archives & Historical Collections, Michigan State University.

Biographical Note

Ted Fremont Jackson was born October 13, 1921 in Allegan County, Michigan. He graduated from Michigan State College (now Michigan State University) in 1944 with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. After receiving his degree, he opened a practice in Battle Creek, Michigan with two other veterinarians. Later, he opened the Beckley Road Veterinary Clinic at his residence.

Jackson was a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association, the American Association of Bovine Practitioners, the Calhoun County Veterinarian Association, and the Southwestern Michigan Veterinary Association. In 1951, he was named President of the Western Michigan Veterinary Medical Association.

In 1973, a Velsicol Chemical plant in St. Louis, Michigan mistakenly shipped a toxic flame retardant known as polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) to a livestock feed plant. Jackson discovered the PBB contamination in his patients. The contamination also spread to humans as the milk and meat from the affected cattle was consumed. One year passed before the animals were culled. In 1983, his son, Jeffrey F. Jackson, made a documentary film called “Cattlegate” about these events.

Jackson died May 13, 1975 in Battle Creek, Calhoun County, Michigan.

Extent

0.5 Cubic Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Legal Status

Donor(s) have transferred any applicable copyright to Michigan State University but the collection may contain third-party materials for which copyright was not transferred. Copyright restrictions may apply. Property Rights: Michigan State University.