Category Archives: Memorabilia

Simpler Speling

Best known for developing the Dewey Decimal System, Melvil Dewey was also interested in the movement to simplify the spelling of the English language (as evidenced in this letter written to Alfred University president Boothe C. Davis in 1922). Dewey … Continue reading

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Hannah Simpson Spencer

Hannah Simpson Spencer (born in 1838) graduated from Alfred University in 1864 and was recently honored by the Kanisteo Valley chapter of the DAR with a “Women in American History Award.” The University Archives recently received the laser-carved wooden plaque … Continue reading

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Magic Lantern Slides

“The delights of travel without its discomforts” — On a cold night in March, 1885 the students of Alfred University and the local community residents gathered in the auditorium in Alumni Hall (then called Chapel Hall) and were treated to … Continue reading

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Sentimental Hairwork

In Nov. 1929, Mary Sherman Greene donated this “hair album” to the Steinheim Museum at Alfred University. As described on her website, Joyce Tice says “During the 1850s to 1870s a custom developed to make a small decorative wreath from … Continue reading

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Boarding Hall Checks

Like today, Alfred University students 100 years ago had to pay for room and board in addition to their tuition. Because of strict societal norms the men’s residence halls were on one side of campus (north) and the women’s on … Continue reading

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Centennial Envelope

Alfred University’s centennial in 1936 was a major campus and community event. Special events, gatherings, and performances marked the very important milestone in Alfred’s existence. It marked an occasion for reflection on Alfred’s history and founding principles, as well as … Continue reading

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Charm(ing)

Sometimes you find Alfred memorabilia in the most unexpected places! University Archivist Laurie McFadden recently shopped in a local antique store and, while browsing, discovered this little gem. Intended as a souvenir for a charm bracelet, this 1950s silver-plated stein … Continue reading

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U.S.S. Alfred

On April 11, 1945, the U.S.S. Alfred Victory joined the Merchant Marine as part of the U.S. Navy’s fleet. University president J. Nelson Norwood spoke at the launch and said in part: “Alfred University feels highly honored in having a … Continue reading

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Erin Go Bragh

Thousands of alumni have fond memories of St. Patrick’s Day at Alfred University. What began in 1933 as a way to promote the ceramic engineering program quickly grew into a university-wide festival and celebration: parades with elaborate floats, unique ceramic … Continue reading

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Steinheim

The Steinheim. “Stone Home.” An iconic building on the Alfred University campus. It appears on various mementos created over the years, collected by alumni; eventually they make their way to the University Archives. This plate is one of a series … Continue reading

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