Introduction
Illinois College is one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the state of Illinois. Founded in 1829, it has a long and storied history, with a wide range of interesting facts and trivia associated with it. In this blog post, we will explore some of the fun facts about Illinois College, including its history, notable alumni, and unique traditions.
History of Illinois College
Illinois College was founded in 1829 by the Illinois Band, a group of eleven Presbyterian ministers who had migrated to Illinois from the east coast. The college was originally located in Jacksonville, Illinois, and was one of the first institutions of higher education in the state. During its early years, Illinois College struggled financially, but it eventually overcame these challenges and established itself as a leading institution of higher education in the Midwest.
Notable Alumni
Illinois College has produced a wide range of notable alumni over the years, including politicians, business leaders, and cultural figures. One of its most famous alumni is John Hay, who served as Secretary of State under Presidents William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt. Hay was also a noted author and journalist, and he played a key role in the Spanish-American War. Another notable alumnus is William Jennings Bryan, who ran for President of the United States three times and served as Secretary of State under President Woodrow Wilson. Bryan was also a noted orator and populist, and he remains a controversial figure to this day.
Unique Traditions
Illinois College has a number of unique traditions that have been passed down through the generations. One of the most famous is the “Blue Boys” tradition, which dates back to the early 1900s. According to legend, a group of Illinois College students were traveling to a football game in St. Louis when they ran into a group of rowdy Washington University students. The Illinois College students responded by painting themselves blue and chanting “Blue Boys!” The tradition stuck, and to this day, Illinois College students refer to themselves as “Blue Boys” and “Blue Girls.”
Another unique tradition at Illinois College is the “Rampage.” This is a campus-wide event that takes place every spring, during which students engage in a variety of games and activities, including a scavenger hunt and a water balloon fight. The Rampage is a time-honored tradition at Illinois College, and it is a great way for students to bond and blow off steam before final exams.
Campus Buildings
Illinois College has a number of beautiful and historic buildings on its campus, many of which date back to the 19th century. One of the most notable is Beecher Hall, which was built in 1829 and is one of the oldest academic buildings in the state of Illinois. The building is named after Catherine Beecher, a noted educator and sister of Harriet Beecher Stowe, who taught at Illinois College in the 1830s.
Another notable building on the Illinois College campus is Crampton Hall, which was built in 1892 and is now home to the college’s science departments. The building is named after Thomas J. Crampton, a noted Illinois College alumnus who served as a member of the Illinois State Board of Education.
Athletics
Illinois College has a proud athletic tradition, with a number of successful teams and individual athletes over the years. One of the most successful programs at Illinois College is the football team, which has won numerous conference championships and produced a number of NFL players. Another successful program is the men’s basketball team, which has made several appearances in the NCAA Division III tournament.
Conclusion
Illinois College has a rich history and a number of unique traditions and notable alumni. From the “Blue Boys” to the Rampage, there is always something interesting and exciting happening on the Illinois College campus. The college’s beautiful and historic buildings provide a stunning backdrop for learning and exploration, while its successful athletic programs offer students the opportunity to participate in a wide range of sports.
As one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the state of Illinois, Illinois College has played an important role in the development of higher education in the Midwest. Its commitment to academic excellence and its focus on developing well-rounded individuals have made it a respected institution of higher learning for almost two centuries.
Whether you are a current or prospective student, a faculty member, or simply a fan of higher education, there is something to appreciate and admire about Illinois College. With its rich history, unique traditions, and commitment to excellence, Illinois College continues to be a source of pride and inspiration for students and educators alike.