UNPACKED! Sorting through mementos for Centennial celebration
“Faded photographs, covered now with lines and creases, Tickets torn in half, memories in bits and pieces …” If you are of the generation that would remember the 1968 hit single, Traces , by the Classics IV, you can almost hear it echoing in the background as you glance through Mercyhurst memorabilia recently donated by a friend of the late Mary Lou Kelly, Mercyhurst College Class of 1960. Kelly earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and was active in the English Club, and served as an editor on the Merciad student newspaper and the college yearbook. The
Within the collection was a dark green 3 by 5 leather bound booklet, The Pioneer Yearbook of Mercyhurst College - - - When the materials were unpacked in the university advancement ofces, ardent Mercyhurst fans reacted with nostalgia, history bufs with reverence, and those preparing for the university s Centennial with delight. ’ Although Traces is about a love lost, it points out how even simple things can bring back vivid memories — in this case, of Mercyhurst s formative years. ’ donated collection includes her college keepsakes along with mementos saved by her mother, Cleland Driscoll Kelly, Class of 1932, who also was an editor on the Merciad staf. , circa 1929;
a weathered but otherwise unblemished 8 by 10 photograph of the Class of 1932 (all 12 members); kitschy Mercyhurst mugs and assorted paraphernalia, including vintage dance cards; a 1931 program for the musical comedy production of of the Merciad student newspaper; commencement programs; and - - Sally Ann ; issues
’ a History of Mercyhurst Colleg e written by Sister Eustace Taylor, RSM, for Mercyhurst s Golden
Anniversary in 1976. There is even an unframed authentic watercolor by Sister Angelica Cummings. These are just the kinds of gifts that will allow us to showcase our unique history in an archival display that connotes meaning as well as a little bit of whimsy, director of alumni engagement. We are grateful to receive these cherished items that have been so well preserved for decades. Frank said the university would welcome additional artifacts “ ” “ ” said Lindsay Frank,
and memorabilia from alumni as it prepares to celebrate its 100-year anniversary in 2026. If you would like to contribute items of historic signifcance, please contact Lindsay Frank at lfrank@mercyhurst.edu .
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