Elon College and the First World War, part 2: Patriotism at Elon, 1917-1918
By Randall Bowman, Archivist and Assistant Librarian. As soon as the United States entered World War I, Americans began volunteering to enlist in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine, and the Red Cross. Elon students were no exception to the patriotic fervor that swept the country. On the very day war was declared, three Elon students volunteered for military service: W. F. Odom, William M. Horner, and Elvin Tuck. Such enlistments soon had a visible effect on Elon’s campus; some members of the graduating class of 1917 were graduated in absentia since they were already in uniform. This was possible because the faculty chose to give credit for courses to any male or female student whose studies were interrupted because they were serving. Elon College encouraged other ways of supporting the war effort; it was announced by the Board of Trustees that the college would give three…
Read MoreThe Rise of the Phoenix
Julia Mueller October 26, 2012 What is a Phoenix? According to Herodotus, the ancient philosopher, the mythological bird builds a nest in an oak tree every 500 years. Here, it bursts into flames and then transforms into a baby Phoenix from the ashes. This bird represents immortality, everlasting vigor, light, and knowledge. Ancient philosophers considered the Phoenix a leader and a symbol of hope. The Phoenix Mascot: On May 9, 2000, Elon announced the new mascot. The reveal took place during College Coffee, and a large egg hatched a 14-foot banner and smoke showing the replacement of the Fighting Christians. After considering about 125 names, the Elon College community members chose the Phoenix as their final choice because of the 1923 fire (that destroyed the Old Main Administration Building) and the college’s recovery. During halftime of the football game on November 4 (Homecoming Reunion Weekend) the Phoenix mascot made its…
Read MoreElon University Seal
Katie Nash August 31, 2012 During most events at Elon University, the large university seal is usually present. Maybe you have never noticed it before, but hopefully after reading this blog post you will begin to notice it and have a better understanding of what it means and its origins.
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