Identity elements
Reference code
Name and location of repository
Level of description
Records
Title
Scabbard and Blade Records
Date(s)
- 1926-1979 (Accumulation)
Extent
0.21 linear feet (1 small document case)
Name of creator
Biographical history
The National Chapter of Scabbard and Blade was founded in 1904 at the University of Wisconsin. The 1st Company, 6th Regiment of Scabbard and Blade was installed at South Dakota State College, May 15, 1927. The purpose of Scabbard and Blade was to aid in raising the standard of military drill in American colleges and universities, to unite in closer relationship their military departments, to encourage and foster the essential qualities of good and efficient officers, and to promote intimacy and good fellowship among the cadets. R.O.T.C. Cadets had to be enrolled in the advanced course before they were considered as prospective members for Scabbard and Blade. Qualifications for membership in the fraternity were similar to those found in other honorary fraternities. The cadet elected had to possess such qualities as efficiency, patriotism, obedience, honor, courage and good fellowship. This organization remained on the campus of South Dakota State University through sometime in the 1970s.
Content and structure elements
Scope and content
This collection is composed of initiation procedures, a manual, and minutes for Company I, 6th Regiment of Scabbard and Blade. The manual includes a calendar of events that the society had to follow throughout the year, procedures for initiation of candidates, jewelry, miscellaneous contact of company officers with national headquarters, standard forms furnished by the executive officer without charge, and duties of company officers. The initiation procedures detail the purpose, scope, time of initiation, nominations, and the objectives and conduct of pledge week. The minutes list members of Scabbard and Blade, elected officers, and treasury reports. Included are discussions on scholarships, amendments to the constitution, military balls, and other events on campus that the society was involved in, such as Hobo Day and Spring Sing.
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use elements
Conditions governing access
This collection is open to researchers without restrictions.
The materials in the Archives do not circulate and may be used in-house only.
Researchers conducting extensive research are asked to make an advance appointment to access archival material. Please call or e-mail prior to visiting the collection and indicate as much detail as possible about a particular topic and intended use.
Physical access
Technical access
Conditions governing reproduction
South Dakota State University supports access to the materials, published and unpublished, in its collections. Nonetheless, access to some items may be restricted as a result of their fragile condition or by contractual agreements with donors.
Languages of the material
- English
Scripts of the material
Language and script notes
Finding aids
Acquisition and appraisal elements
Custodial history
Immediate source of acquisition
Appraisal, destruction and scheduling information
Accruals
Related materials elements
Existence and location of originals
Existence and location of copies
Related archival materials
Related descriptions
Notes element
Specialized notes
Alternative identifier(s)
ID
ID
Description control element
Rules or conventions
Sources used
Access points
Subject access points
Place access points
Name access points
- Scabbard and Blade Fraternity (Subject)