This is an artificial collection composed of 40 scrapbook boxes created from newspaper clippings spanning from 1894 to 1967, with some undated material. The collection is divided into athletic and general scrapbooks, each offering a unique perspective on South Dakota State University’s evolving identity and public presence.
The athletic scrapbooks, dated 1947 to 1967, primarily focus on SDSU sports and include clippings from football, basketball, track, and other athletic programs. These scrapbooks document the development of athletic teams, significant games, student-athlete achievements, and coach appointments. They reflect both the competitive spirit and institutional pride that defined mid-20th century collegiate athletics at SDSU.
The general scrapbooks encompass a broader range of topics, including university events, student activities, agricultural research, scientific advancements, campus infrastructure, and presidential and faculty accomplishments. The scrapbooks also feature clippings from across South Dakota that illustrate the university's influence beyond campus, highlighting its role in local and statewide initiatives. Materials are arranged chronologically rather than by subject. Notable volumes include those covering the early decades of the college (1894–1896, 1906–1912) and several that feature advertising and memorabilia. One volume even includes mixed-year content as late as 1951 interfiled with earlier clippings.
This collection documents SDSU’s public image and historical evolution as represented in South Dakota newspapers. It offers researchers insight into how the university's community and achievements were portrayed over time.
These scrapbooks serve as a rich source for examining the public narrative of South Dakota State University. They are valuable for understanding trends in athletics, education, research, and administration, as well as the university's relationship with the broader South Dakota community. Because the scrapbooks capture articles that are often not available in digital newspaper databases, they are especially useful for institutional history, journalism, and regional studies.
