MSS 143

Gallaudet University Alumni Association, est. 1889
Collection of Gallaudet University Alumni Association, 1964-1989

Gallaudet University Archives.

Descriptive Summary

Repository: Gallaudet University Archives
Call No.: MSS 143
Creator:
Title: Collection of Gallaudet University Alumni Association, 1964-1989
Quantity: 0.5 Linear Feet (1 document box)
Abstract:
Note: This document last updated 2005 December 7.

Administrative Information

Acquisition Information:.

Processed by: Sara Robinson. 2004 November 24.
Processing Note:
Conditions on Use and Access: This collection is open to the public with no restrictions. Photocopies may be made for scholarly research.

Related Material in the Archives:

See ALADIN

Historical Sketch

The Gallaudet College Alumni Association was established in 1889. The association got its start with the unveiling of Daniel Chester French’s sculpture of Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Alice Cogswell. This statue was a gift from the alumni and friends of the College. The day after the unveiling, the alumni who had gathered for the unveiling met to establish an alumni association.

In 1893, when the Columbia Institution changed its name to Gallaudet College in honor of T. H. Gallaudet, the alumni played a large role in this. The alumni continued to make waves on Kendall Green. One example is the generous donation of $50,000 for a memorial building in honor of Edward M. Gallaudet.

In 1967, to keep up with the alumni, the college opened an alumni office on campus and hired a full time director to oversee its daily operations.

Thousands of alumni return to Kendall Green to visit their alma mater every year. Homecoming serves as a great occasion for their reunions. In 1989, more than 1,000 alumni visited for the association’s centennial reunion.

The Gallaudet University Alumni Association currently boasts a membership of 15,000+ alumni.

Scope and Content

The collection consists of calendars, tickets, program books, newsletters, receipts, correspondence, financial records, and other papers pertaining to the planning and implementation of the Gallaudet University Alumni Reunions in 1964, 1967, and 1970. The bulk is dated in 1964 for the Centennial Reunion of which Francis C. Higgins was chairman.

Series Descriptions and Folder Lists

No Series.