Miltonian Literary Society Records

Identity elements

Reference code

SDSU-Archives UA 035.06

Level of description

Records

Title

Miltonian Literary Society Records

Date(s)

  • 1887-1931 (Creation)

Extent

0.42 linear feet (1 document case)

Name of creator

Administrative history

The Miltonian Literary Society was one of the earliest student organizations at South Dakota State University. Originally founded as the Lyceum Club in the early 1880s with male-only membership, it split in 1887 to form the coeducational Athenian Literary Society. In 1892, the Lyceum Club reorganized under a new charter as the Miltonian Literary Society. The group focused on developing forensic, dramatic, and social skills through debates, oratory, extemporaneous speaking, dramatic readings, and one-act plays. The society remained active until the early 1930s.

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Scope and content

The Miltonian Literary Society Records (UA 35.6) document the activities of one of SDSU’s earliest student organizations. The collection includes the society’s constitution, secretary reports, meeting minutes, and play programs. Also included are loose papers found in a ledger dating from 1903–1931, which contain clippings, notes, membership records, reports, and a 1916 oration on Booker T. Washington.

These records provide insight into early student life, literary culture, and rhetorical education at SDSU, highlighting the role of literary societies in promoting public speaking, drama, and intellectual engagement.

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Conditions governing access

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Technical access

Conditions governing reproduction

Reproduction of materials from the collection is subject to the following conditions:

  • Permission: Written permission must be obtained from the SDSU Archives for any reproduction, publication, or quotation of materials.
  • Copyright: Users are responsible for complying with copyright laws and securing any necessary permissions from copyright holders.
  • Fragile Materials: Some items may not be reproduced due to their fragile condition.
  • Charges: Reproduction charges may apply, and users will be informed of any costs in advance.
  • Acknowledgment: Any reproduced material must include proper acknowledgment of the South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections as the source.

    For more information or to request permission, please contact the SDSU Archives.

Languages of the material

  • English

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    Copyright and Use Statement

    In Copyright This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses, you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

    Materials in this collection may be subject to Title 17, Section 108 of the United States Copyright Act. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with copyright, privacy, trademark, and other applicable rights for their intended use. Obtaining all necessary permissions is the user's responsibility. Written authorization from the copyright and/or other rights holders is required for publication, distribution, or any use of protected materials beyond what is permitted under fair use.

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