Oral history interview with James Beard, conducted by Charles Digregorio on July 15, 1978. Beard shares his memories of early 20th-century Gearhart, Oregon, talks about the history of the Portland Civic Theatre, and discusses his career as a chef and cookbook author.

Papers of chef and author James Beard (1903-1985), including clippings and typescripts of articles and recipes that he wrote; materials relating to books that he wrote; appointment books; correspondence; menus he collected; photographs; and biographical information. Beard grew up in Portland, Oregon, but spent most of his adult life living in New York City. He championed regional American dishes, and became known as the "Dean of American cookery."