Willamette University May Weekend collection

Collection

Identifier: WUA087

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The Willamette University May Weekend collection contains photographs, newspaper clippings, and event programs related to the university's celebration of May Day. Some of the scenes of May Day depicted include the winding of the May pole, coronation of the May King and Queen, and group dances. Newspaper articles detail the merit of the 1956 May Queen and court. Programs outline the events of the weekend, including activities such as tug-of-war over the Mill Stream and theatrical performances.

Dates

1912-1962

Creator

Willamette University (Organization)

Language of Materials

Materials are in English.

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open to researchers.

Conditions Governing Use

Library acts as “fair use” reproduction agent.

For further information, see the section on copyright in the Regulations and Procedures of the Willamette University Archives and Special Collections.

Copyright Information: Before material from collections at Willamette University Archives and Special Collections may be quoted in print, or otherwise reproduced, in whole or in part, in any publication, permission must be obtained from (1) the owner of the physical property, and (2) the holder of the copyright. It is the particular responsibility of the researcher to obtain both sets of permission. Persons wishing to quote from materials in any collections held by University Archives and Special Collections should consult the University Archivist. Reproduction of any item must contain a complete citation to the original.

Historical Note

Willamette University's first May Day celebration took place in 1909. In the early years, campus literary societies elected and crowned a King and Queen of festivities, participated in intramural athletic competitions, and welcomed alumni back to campus. By the early 1930s the May Court no longer elected a King and consisted of a May Queen and her Attendants. As literary societies were largely defunct by this time, sororities played a much larger role in the voting for Queen.

In 1970 several of the regular events attached to May Day, or Spring Weekend as it was later called, were dropped due to lack of interest. This included the election of the Spring Weekend court. Willamette then chose to emphasize the academic instead of the social facet of campus life. The event changed shape to become primarily a preview-day for prospective students.

Extent

1.5 Linear Feet (2 boxes)

Additional Description

Overview

The Willamette University May Weekend collection contains photographs, newspaper clippings, and event programs related to the University's celebration of May Day. Some of the scenes depicted include the winding of the May pole, coronation of the May King and Queen, and group dances.