Early Freshman Traditions

One of the first things an incoming freshman noticed upon his arrival at WPI was that he was different. A freshman was set apart and marked as separate from upperclassmen. There were several ways this was done and all freshmen participated. After introductions to the school by faculty and administration, freshmen met their nemesis for the next semester, the sophomore class. After this fairly physical first meeting, the rest of the freshman obligations began.

Beginning in the early 1900s, all freshmen wore beanies. They were maroon and gray with a maroon bill and "W" on the front. If the freshmen were victorious in the Rope Pull, the beanies were allowed to come off. Otherwise, they were worn until Thanksgiving.

In addition, freshmen were required to wear bow ties during their first week at Tech. Maroon on one side, gray on the other, they were the "real tie" bow ties and were worn so only one color showed. The daily determination of the color was unique. Each morning, freshmen would look at the flagpole that stood where the Quad is today. Whichever flag had been hoisted by the sophomores, maroon or gray, was the tie color of the day. Of course, the flag could be changed during the day and any unlucky freshman caught by a sophomore with the wrong color showing had to re-do his tie.

A freshman tradition that evolved later was the signboard-two 10-inch by 12-inch cardboard placards draped over the shoulders, one in front and one in back. They were marked with lettering precisely two inches high stating the wearer’s name and hometown. This ritual was an excellent way to get to know fellow classmates; it was also invaluable for the fraternities during Rush.

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Last modified: Feb 22, 2006, 14:21 EST