Introduction
Whitman College is a private liberal arts college located in Walla Walla, Washington. Founded in 1882, the college has a long history of providing students with an excellent education. With its beautiful campus, small class sizes, and engaging faculty, Whitman College is a great choice for those looking for a quality education. But did you know there are some interesting and fun facts about Whitman College that you may not know? In this post, we will explore some of the lesser-known facts about the college that make it such a unique and special place. From its history to its campus life, there are plenty of interesting facts to explore about Whitman College. So let’s dive in and discover some of the fun facts about Whitman College.
Founded by a Missionary
One of the most interesting facts about Whitman College is that it was founded by a missionary. Marcus and Narcissa Whitman were two of the first Protestant missionaries to settle in the Walla Walla Valley in 1836. They were instrumental in establishing the first school in the area, which eventually became Whitman College. The college was founded in 1882 and is named after the Whitmans. To this day, the college still honors their legacy with the Marcus and Narcissa Whitman Lecture Series, which brings prominent speakers to the campus each year.
First Women’s College West of the Rockies
Another fun fact about Whitman College is that it was the first women’s college west of the Rockies. When the college was founded in 1882, it was a women’s college and remained so until 1926. During this time, the college was a leader in providing educational opportunities to women. It was also one of the first colleges in the West to offer a degree in home economics.
One of the Oldest Colleges in the West
Whitman College is one of the oldest colleges in the West. It was founded in 1882 and is the second-oldest college in Washington State. The college has a long and proud history of providing students with an excellent education. It has also been recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Home of the Blues
Whitman College is the home of the Blues. The college’s mascot is a blue-and-white bulldog named Boomer. The college’s sports teams are known as the Blues, and the school’s colors are blue and white. The school’s fight song is “On, On Whitman Blues.”
The Penrose Library
The Penrose Library is one of the most interesting facts about Whitman College. The library was built in 1903 and is one of the oldest libraries in the West. It is also one of the largest libraries in the region, with over one million volumes. The library is also home to the Whitman College Archives, which contains a wealth of information about the college’s history.
The Pioneer Log
The Pioneer Log is a student-run newspaper that has been published since 1884. It is one of the oldest student newspapers in the country and provides students with a platform to express their opinions and share their stories. The newspaper is published weekly and is available online and in print.
The Whitman College Choir
The Whitman College Choir is one of the oldest and most respected college choirs in the country. The choir has been performing since 1895 and has performed in some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including Carnegie Hall and the White House. The choir has also released several albums and has toured internationally.
The Whitman College Symphony Orchestra
The Whitman College Symphony Orchestra is one of the oldest college orchestras in the country. The orchestra was founded in 1904 and has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. The orchestra has also released several albums and has toured internationally.
The Walla Walla Symphony
The Walla Walla Symphony is an orchestra that is based at Whitman College and is made up of students, faculty, and community members. The orchestra has been performing since 1935 and has performed in some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. The orchestra has also released several albums and has toured internationally.
Conclusion
Whitman College is a unique and special place with a long and proud history. From its founding by missionaries to its commitment to diversity and inclusion, there are plenty of interesting and fun facts about Whitman College. From its sports teams to its choirs and orchestras, there is something for everyone at Whitman College. So if you’re looking for a quality education and a unique college experience, Whitman College might be the perfect fit for you.