Old CU

  • 1886 Commencement program image
    Many of America’s first universities were centuries old by the time they admitted women. At CU-Boulder co-education began early — with the Tyler sisters.
  • Skiers at Chautauqua Mesa Ski Area
    For a short time, still within memory for some Baby Boomers, Boulder had its own ski run: Chautauqua Mesa Ski Area operated from 1949-52 and in 1962.
  • CU beanie
    From the early 1900s until sometime in the 1960s, freshmen were required to wear distinctive green caps called beanies or “dinks” until Homecoming.
  • Buffalo coca cola can 1984
    The Sports Beverage Co. of Champaign, Ill., produced Big 8 and Big 10 Football Sports Soda can collections in 1984, but little is known about why they were produced.
  • Pan Am bag
    The campus climate in 1962 was one of controversy and turmoil amid debates over academic freedom, editorial independence of the student press and a recruiting scandal. Here are some highlights.
  • noseguard
    This innovative nose guard patented in 1891 by S. J. Cumnock of Lowell, Mass., was intended to protect the nose, forehead and mouth of a person playing football or a similar sport.
  • picture of memorabilia
    A popular custom originating in the 19th century, dance cards resulted from a woman’s social dilemma of choosing dance partners at parties.
  • watch
    Historic memorabilia from CU president Norlin.
  • old main
    It started with a loud knock on Frank Tyler’s door in the dead of night in January 1874, as the story goes.

  • old main
    Imagine the campus without Varsity Lake — just a deep, muddy ravine channeling snowmelt down the hill.
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