Background
Backlund, Ralph Theodore was born on August 3, 1918 in Hoffman, Minnesota, United States. Son of Adolph T. and Grace (Sheppard) Backlund.
Backlund, Ralph Theodore was born on August 3, 1918 in Hoffman, Minnesota, United States. Son of Adolph T. and Grace (Sheppard) Backlund.
Bachelor of Arts magna cum laude, University of Minnesota, 1940.
Newswriter, Station Washburn Crosby Company, Minneapolis, 1946-1950; producer news and public affairs, Columbia Broadcasting System, 1950-1955; executive producer public affairs programs, Columbia Broadcasting System Radio Network, 1955-1958; associate editor, Horizon, New York City, 1958-1964; managing editor, Horizon, 1964-1966; special assistant for arts, Bureau Ednl. and Cultural Affairs, Department State, Washington, 1966-1969; board editors, Smithsonian magazine, Washington, 1969-1976; executive editor, Smithsonian magazine, Washington, 1976-1987; contributing editor, Smithsonian magazine, Washington, 1987.
Served with Army of the United States, 1942-1946, 51-52.
Married Caroline Hillman Eckel, May 18, 1956. 1 son, Nicholas Sheppard.