Gardner C. Teall, son of William A. Teall, was born on March 6, 1876 in Eau Claire Wisconsin. Teall was a well-known author, artist, editor, and world traveler. His works include “The Pleasure of Collecting” and “A Little Garden the Year ‘Round.” In 1943, Teall presented the first display of his donated items at an art showing at the Eau Claire State Teachers College. The donation included photographs, bookplates, woodcuts, and books that were primarily for art, literature, and history classes. Components of his initial donation would later be integrated into the University Art Collection and general library collection.

Throughout his life, Teall was the editor of multiple magazines including House-Garden and Hearst’s Magazine, as well as an illustrator. While he lived in New York, he became a member of The Authors Club of New York City. He died at the age of 78 on July 22, 1956.