Alma College - Scotsman Yearbook (Alma, MI)

Page 169 text:

TRADITIDN xi-3 QP. 4 51 , ..-.un -a . as Scotsmen and Scotswomen and their yearly histories are duly recorded by the Scotsman, the annual. The Scottish theme is even carried out in the men's residence halls where each living unit is named after an authentic clan, chosen from an official list. The clan system is a very appropriate arrangement in this area, for a clan is a Scottish family unit. Some of the Alma clans have developed unique reputations. The Stewart Rebels have been noted as intramural champions, while McPher- son clan has developed a reputation for scholarship and participa- tion in campus politics. Each clan has the opportunity to develop its own program, depending upon the interests of its residents. Spe- cial awards are presented to the clan with the highest scholarship average and to the clan which presents the best appearance at the annual open house. There is a wealth of tradition behind this Scottish theme and figuring as a very important part in it all is, of course, the Pres- byterian Church itself since the sturdy Scots were the mainstay in the history and development of the Church. Gone are the days of Presbyterian, Presbyterians, Rah! but in reality the Presbyterians are still here - proud of their history and traditions and upholding them through the rich Scottish traditions.

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THE SCOTC ,Ti 'A 4 ALMA KILTIE MARCHING BAND What would a college be without its time-honored traditions? Probably not a very lively place. Of the many cherished traditions at Alma College, perhaps the most colorful and gay, is patterned after the stout Scots. Originated just about twenty years ago, the Scottish tradition and theme are thoroughly carried out and integrated in the campus life. One can hardly imagine a football game without the tunes of the bag- pipers, the flings of the Kiltie Lassies, the maneuvering of the au- thentically clad Kiltie Band, and the resounding cry of Go, Scots, Go! as Alma cheers its husky gridders on to victory. Why are the Alma Scots the Scots? Why not the Thistles, Maroons or any of the other possible names? Up to 1931 Alma's athletic teams were known as the Presbyterians, but in that year the Almanian Cunder the editorship of Harry M. Crooks '32J decided that Presbyterians, Presbyterians, Rah! Rah! was rather a clumsy sounding and inappropriate cheer and began the search for a more fitting team name. The newspaper sponsored a contest and Herb Estes C341 emerged as the winner with Scots. f The five dollar prize for the best name came in mighty handy for me in l931! recalls Estes.J Scots it's been ever since. Alma students are often referred to .tif

Page 170 text:

CI 'f-4 ue N . ah, I i we 1 ' W A 4 - fb The bagpipers for this year are, left to right: Robert Scott, Harold Kirkpatrick, James King ond Dale Brown.