Letters Home: University of Arkansas Student Experience Captured in Correspondence

Photo Submitted

A new exhibit on display in the lobby level of Mullins Library features letters from the Special Collections department written by former University of Arkansas students with dates ranging from 1878 to the 1950s. One letter references the first documented protest on the U of A campus in 1912, known as "X-Ray." Several letters sent from alumnus Brooks Hays to his mother detail his financial and academic woes. Hays later went on to become a member of the United States House of Representatives and president of the Southern Baptist Convention. 

Also included in the exhibit are photos and ephemera, such as tickets, programs and invitations. Several of these items were collected by director and actress Beth Brickell, a U of A alumna who went on to star in television shows such as Hawaii Five-O and Bonanza.

Since the early years of the Arkansas Industrial University — the original name of the University of Arkansas — students have shared experiences, trials and tribulations with their families and friends, near and far. Although the technology they've used has evolved from handwritten letters in the 19th century to text messages today, certain themes remain constant throughout the university's history. The items on display convey the social atmosphere of the campus, the financial constraints and concerns students had, and the academic pressures of being college students. The exhibit will be on display through the fall semester.

Interested in preserving your memories from your experiences at the U of A? Email Amy Allen at ala005@uark.edu.