Autograph Books

Autographs, accompanied by witty inscriptions, mediocre poetry, humorous artwork, and nostalgic reflections on an already-idealized past, constitute just part of the contents of autograph books as well as yearbooks, scrapbooks, and other forms of signed high school and college keepsakes. These present a compelling category within archival records, offering insights into realms of scholarly exploration, social dynamics, linguistic expressions, genealogical ties, and the student experience. This exhibit delves into Mount Royal's early history through the examination of autograph books and other memorabilia from the holdings of the Mount Royal University Archives and Special Collections.

0265-13 - Cover and dedication page of an autograph book owned by former Mount Royal College student Emory Jackson.

Photographs of Jackson posing outside Mount Royal buildings and showing off his token dapper style. From Jackson's photograph album, BD-0001

The Early Origins of Autograph Books

Autograph books, also known as memory or friendship albums, are diminutive volumes with blank pages intended for the collection of signatures from family, colleagues, and friends. Early historical precursors to the autograph book include tournament participant logs and genealogical tables, with entries including names, coat of arms, and family or personal mottos. Graduation bibles later served as mementoes for university students to capture signatures, addresses, and personal messages from faculty and peers. In addition to being another early form of autograph book, graduation bibles also acted as a crude form of academic credentials by listing a scholar's connections and colleagues in one convenient place. Beginning in the fifteenth century, publishers started to produce specialized blank books to collect autographs, officially supplanting graduation bibles, and thereby solidifying a format that endured with remarkable consistency until the twentieth century.

The use of autograph books spread throughout European universities and centers of learning, although early instances were predominantly confined to German and Dutch cultural spheres. The oldest known autograph book, owned by Calude de Senarclens, an associate of John Calvin, dates back to 1545. Autograph books were primarily associated with higher education in Europe until the seventeenth century, at which point the trend began to shift towards a more youthful and diverse user demographic.

The migration of autograph books to North America took place alongside German and Dutch immigration in the eighteenth century, finding favor among young adults and high school students. This geographical and demographic shift broadened the user base of autograph books to include women and individuals previously excluded from higher education. Traditionally, autograph books were signed in the spring, shortly before graduation or summer break, with the common goal of collecting a complete 'set' of signatures from a class or term.

Introducing: Emory George Jackson

The autograph book pictured above belonged to former Mount Royal College student, Emory George Jackson, of Cheadle, Alberta. Jackson was born on December 23, 1911 and was a student at Mount Royal's Junior High School from 1926 to 1929, and pursued studies in the Commercial Department in 1930. Academic calendars and the college yearbook The Chinook depict Jackson as a young man who excelled in his studies and actively participated in school activities. Jackson's accomplishments included winning a gold medal in general proficiency in 1926 and an award of excellence in geometry in 1929. He was a member of the Literary and Debating Society and also held several positions on the editorial staff for the yearbook, including assistant business manager, classroom reporter, and wit and humour journalist. Jackson helped to organize the 1927 Christmas party and assisted the boys' hockey and basketball teams by acting as the "manager, valet, and nurse..." as well as assisting the coach, Mr. Mosher.

0265-14 - Photograph of the 1927 Chinook Yearbook editorial staff.

Emory Jackson can be found in the second row, second from the left. Other individuals are identified as:

Front row left to right: Lillian Stanley, Winnie Eillis, Dr. G.W. Kerby, Mr. R.S. MacLeod, Dollie Cueeid

Second row left to right: Jack Law, Emory Jackson, Norman Bragg, Charles Douglas, Edwin Puley, Rea Howard, Calvin Cobb

Back row left to right: Mary Cathro, Mary Peteie, Ralph Anderson, Beatrice Benson, Lesley Rowed

Above: 0152-09 - Chinook Easter, 1928

Left: BD-0001 - Jackson's Grade 12 report card

According to the yearbook, Jackson was affectionately known by the moniker 'Goofy,' during his high school tenure, highlighting his affable disposition, playful demeanor, and eloquent conversational abilities. Additional indications of Jackson's comedic sensibility emerge when scrutinizing the inscriptions penned by his peers in his autograph book. The majority of these entries comprise of jokes, funny rhymes, bogus advice, or whimsical illustrations. An intriguing feature of autograph books lies in the communal and public nature of inscription collection. Signatories harbor no expectation of privacy for their entries, with many inscriptions intentionally crafted to be read by others and, in some instances, amended or expanded upon. Jackson's autograph book boasts several intricate illustrations, suggesting that certain individuals retained the book for an extended duration, dedicating time to refine their inscriptions and peruse those contributed by others before returning the book to Jackson.

Types of Inscriptions: Illustrations

When approaching the Christmas season, stop, look, & loosen.

Sincerely Winnie Willis.

Winifred Willis was a student in the Commercial Department, which taught the knowledge and theory of commerce and practical business training. Willis played on the girls basketball team, worked on the yearbook as a reporter, and was the vice-president of the Literary Society in 1928.

A women's face is her fortune/ only when it draws interest.

Dear Emory: Latin is a language/ at least it used to be/ it killed off all the Romans/ and now its killing me

Sincerely Aggie Kellock Coleman

Anges 'Cornflakes' Kellock graduated from the MRC high school in 1928 and was captain of the girl's hockey team the same year. The yearbook describes her as "...one who is so shy and quiet..." but this autograph book inscription demonstrates both her artistic talent and sense of humour.

I never felt the kiss of love/ nor maiden's hand in mine.

Sincerely, N. Morrison.

Quotes from popular literature like this excerpt from Lord Alfred Tennyson's poem Sir Galahad were a fashionable form of inscription.

The selection of this quote is interesting when considering the signatory, Norman Morrison, was renowned for his "Apollo-like" features and success in romantic pursuits. The yearbooks playfully designates him as the 'answer to the maiden's prayer,' capturing the jesting admiration of his desirability.

M.R.C. March 18, 1929

Sincerely Bessie Weart.

In addition to the visually compelling illustration, this inscription serves as an exemplar of simplicity, succinctly recording the date, location, and the name of the signatory.

Bessie Weart, a Grade 11 student in the year 1929, shared this academic year with her sister Margaret. Notably, both Weart sisters harbored aspirations to pursue careers in the burgeoning realm of the 'talkies' upon completing their high school education.

Some people have the best/of everything but manners.

Lukie

'Lukie' stands as the affectionate moniker for Lucille Walters, a classmate of Jackson. Walters, a prominent and well-liked figure during her tenure at Mount Royal, is recurrently featured in the yearbooks. Notably, her father, George Walters, held the position of College Registrar, and several of her siblings also enrolled at MRC, thus establishing a familial connection to the institution. Walters distinguished herself in academic pursuits, demonstrating prowess in both arithmetic and creative writing. Her literary contributions include two poems, 'Snowflakes' and 'Our Gang,' which are featured in the 1927 and 1928 yearbooks. Additionally, Walters achieved acclaim as a star debater and is frequently referenced in tandem with her close friend, Lilian 'Lill' Stanley.

Types of Inscriptions: Linguistic Play and Poetry

Playing with language by manipulating the forms and functions of words to create emphasis or illicit humour is a common feature of autograph book inscriptions. Common forms of linguistic play might include a cryptographic or hieroglyphic mixture of words and symbols (example: UR 2Y's 4ME = you are too wise for me), changing the sound value of words or specific letters (example: GURAQT = Gee you are a cutie), or the creation of original poetry or verse. Jackson's autograph books serves as a rich repository of instances where classmates, perhaps inspired by his 'joker' persona, enthusiastically engage in linguistic play, fashioning endearing inscriptions that reflect a shared sense of humor and camaraderie among the students.

Dear Emory: There was a young man from Perth/ He was born on the day of his birth/ He was married they say/ On his wife's wedding day/ and he died on his last day on earth.

Yours till baby's rattle, Bill Hope

William Hope, variously known as Bill, Billy, Will, or Willie, was a grade nine student at the time of this inscription. In the subsequent year, he ascended to the role of associate editor of the yearbook, eventually assuming the position of editor in 1929. His active involvement extended to leadership roles within the Literary Society, where he served as both secretary and president. Aspiring to a legal career, Hope distinguished himself for his mockingly belligerent arguments. Notably, Hope was a member of the 'Big Ten' society along with Jackson and several other signatories illustrated in this display.

Dear Emory, "Never say die", say "damn"/ it isn't classic and it may be profane/ but you'll find you'll recover/ from life's hardest slam/ if/ you never say "die", say "damn"

Sincerely Ethel Dewar, Stettler

A lesser known figure, Ethel Dewar only appears in the Easter edition of the 1929 yearbook. During this time she was a member of the Literary Society Programme Committee and attended a social reception for Dr. and Mrs. Kerby where she won a literary contest.

Dear Emory: 'X' is a sweet little girl going to a dance/ 'Y' is a nice little boy that's going too/ 'Z' is a hard boiled chaperone/ X+Y-Z=bliss.

Sincerely Greta G. Ostrum

Greta Garbo Ostrum was affectionately referred to as "the tiny belle of Bow Island". Ostrum's nickname was 'pint-sized' and she aspired to become a jazz-singer. The yearbooks mention that Ostrum excelled in trigonometry but could be easily distracted by Jackson, with whom she had a flirtatious relationship.

Dear Emory - When spaghetti grows on ice-cream trees/ and Sahara sands are muddy/ and cats and dogs wear B.V.D's/ That's when Emory likes to study.

Yours till the bed springs, Forbes Duke

Forbes Duke was in Grade 9 at the time of this inscription in 1929, making him a few years younger than Jackson. Duke was known for his "million dollar smile" and exhibited a penchant for crafting ingenious inventions from classroom supplies when boredom struck. Additionally, he contributed to the school's sportsmanship as an alternate player on the boys' hockey team.

Dear Emory: Old Mother Hubbard went to/ the cupboard to get her daughter/ a dress. When she got there the/ cupboard was bare, and so/ was her daughter I guess.

Sincerely John Kerr

John 'Speedy' Kerr made notable contributions to various facets of school life, showcasing his athleticism as a player on the boys' hockey team. Kerr also served on the Business Committee for the yearbook and was a member of the 'Big Ten' Society. Beyond the school environment, Kerr demonstrated prowess as a road racer, securing several trophies, medals, and a nickname in recognition of his accomplishments

Dear Emory, May your slide down the/ bannister of life be free/ from splinters.

Ruth Brown

Ruth Brown, hailing from Acme, Alberta, joined Mount Royal for her grade 12 studies in 1928. During her tenure at the institution, she acquired the skill of ice skating for the first time and was known for her curly hair.

BD-0001 - Pages from Jackson's Photograph Album

Photographs of several individuals who signed Jackson's autograph book can be found in the pages of Jackson's photograph album.

Types of Inscriptions: Advice

Inscriptions within autograph books have historically served as conduits for imparting advice to friends. While earlier iterations may have conveyed genuine and earnest counsel, during Jackson's era such advice often assumed a more lighthearted and humorous tone. These inscriptions, aside from providing entertainment, had the additional nuance of highlighting perceived flaws, whether real or imagined.

For instance, the yearbook alludes to Jackson's 'gift for gab,' emphasizing his proclivity for being talkative. Jackson's lively debating skills, both within and outside the classroom, were recognized as potentially distracting to fellow students. The inscription by C.S. Douglas, presented below, offers Jackson good-natured advice, playfully suggesting the wisdom of tempering his chattiness.

Jolly the fellow who is down today/ give him a smile for his sorrow/ for this old world has a funny way/ and you many be down tomorrow. Margaret Wolstenholme, Blairmore

Margaret 'Muggs' Wolstenholme, enrolled in the Commercial Department in 1930, hailed from Blairmore, Alberta. She was romantically involved with an unspecified member of the Mount Royal University hockey team during her time at the institution.

Learn to say "no" in seven languages/ you will be safe the world over.

Ewan S. Clark

Notably, Ewan S. Clark was not a student but a member of the college staff. Clark served as one of two staff representatives to the Chinook yearbook in 1929-1930 and coached the girls' basketball team. Clark left an impression on students by giving a memorable performance as a fortune teller during the 1929 Halloween party.

Dear Emory/ do not marry a girl lion-tamer/ with tunic of gold/ or she'll tame you/if you get very bold

Yours without a doubt Frank Spalding

Frank Spalding's association with Mount Royal spanned grades 9-10, during which he garnered recognition for his artistic talents. His artistic proficiency was officially acknowledged when he assumed the role of the art editor for the Chinook in 1928.

S-sh / To those who talk, and talk and talk/ this proverb should appeal/ the steam that blew the whistle/ has never turned a wheel.

C. S. Douglas

Charles 'Chas' Douglas played a prominent role in the Mount Royal community during the year 1927. He served as the grade 12 class report for the yearbook and also contributed the valedictorian address. Beyond these roles, Douglas assumed the responsibilities of the treasurer for the Boy's Bible Class and was a member of the debate team.

Types of Inscriptions: Remembrances and Well Wishes

Well-wishes for the future and nostalgic remembrances of the 'good times' are one type of inscription that has persisted from the earliest days of autograph books. Since autographs were collected during times of transition, typically at the end of term, graduation, or before a move, they help to create a sense of belonging and continuity during times of change. The inscriptions also have a forward-looking purpose, intending to serve as aids for memory and nostalgia long after the high school and college experiences have become distant. They encapsulate a collective desire to preserve and cherish the bonds forged during those formative years, acting as timeless tokens of friendship and shared moments. In Jackson's autograph book, numerous inscriptions echo shared past experiences, contain inside jokes, and implore the recipient to remember classmates as they part ways.

Dear Emory: Remember well and keep in mind/ a constant friend is hard to find/ but if you find one kind and true/ Don't change an old one for a new. Sincerely, Helen Knowles

Helen Knowles was a student in the Commercial Department in 1929. After graduation she went on to work in her father's office in Okotoks as an assistant.

Emory: There is a word in language told/ in friendship ever dear/ in English is 'forget-me-not'/ in French tis 'souvenir'. Irene Chappell, Blairmore

Irene Chappell, hailing from Blairmore Alberta, was a student in the Commercial Department known for the speed of her stenography. During her time at MRC Chappell served on the Program Committee of the Literary Society. Chappell enriched the society's gatherings by frequently providing entertainment through her musical talents, showcasing her singing abilities and performing solos and duets on the piano.

Dear Emory, Though many miles divide us/ and distance be our lot/ still cultivate that little flower/ they call forget-me-not. Very Sincerely Lillian, Crossfield

It is difficult to identify the author of this inscription with complete certainty as Jackson attended school and regularly interacted with three classmates named Lillian: Lillian Stanley, Lillian Short, and Lillian Johnson. However, contextual clues suggest a strong association with Lillian Stanley. Jackson's autograph book features inscriptions from individuals closely affiliated with Stanley, and they shared active participation in extracurricular activities such as the Literary Society and editing and contributing to the yearbook. It's noteworthy that, akin to Jackson, Stanley continued her education at Mount Royal College's Commercial Department after completing high school, further solidifying their shared experiences and close connection.

Dear Emory, When far away by love your carried/ and to some little girlie married/ Remember me for friendship's sake/ and send me a piece of your wedding cake. An M.R.C. friend, Frances Lalor. Stettler, Alberta

Frances Lalor, despite limited information in the yearbook, distinguished herself as a senior member of the girl's basketball team in 1928.

Making Connections

Autograph books can be useful for tracing the social, historical, and even genealogical connections between individuals, particularly through the use of cross-referencing with additional resources like the yearbooks and academic calendars from the Mount Royal University Publication Collection. This process can lead to a richer understanding of these students, their interests, and their connections to each other.

The research process has yielded valuable information, including more comprehensive names, common nicknames, hometowns, academic strengths and weaknesses, and involvement in extracurricular activities. Furthermore, it provides insights into the students' relationships with Jackson and each other, unveiling details about teammates, romantic partners, friendships, teachers, and the social characteristics of different cohorts. Notably, the highlighted inscriptions reveal Jackson's strong affiliations with fellow students engaged in the student yearbook, the campus Literary Society, varsity sports teams, and those residing in the college's dormitories. This interconnected network underscores the rich social tapestry and collaborative spirit within the Mount Royal community during that period.

Several of the inscriptions highlighted above pertain to students who belonged to the 'Big Ten' Society. While not an official society, the Big Ten consisted of boys from the first floor residence, who self-identified as a social group in the 1929 yearbook. Each member of the Big Ten boys had a reputation for being a good-natured troublemaker, and the yearbook contains brief descriptions of the rationale for each members' inclusion. Jackson was included for both his "loudly insistent ties, sox, shirts, sweaters, shoes, etc.," and for his deviation from the academic expectations after receiving the general proficiency medal in his inaugural year at MRC. The other members of the Big Ten included: Charlie Daniel, Paul Elson, Willie K. Hope, Bob Hovis, Rea Howard, Norman D. Morrison, Hugh J. MacDonald, Leslie Lake, and John Kerr. Jackson's autograph book contains inscriptions from most member of the Big Ten, highlighting the closeness of their friendships that were forged in mischief.

Left: Photographs of a few Big Ten members engaging in some frivolity from Jackson's photograph album, BD-0001.

Click here to flip through a complete digital copy of Jackson's autograph book and discover other amusing inscriptions.

A man often chases a woman until she catches him. Be careful, Emory, where you race

With all good wishes L. Leacock

The inscription and musical score presented above are attributed to Leonard Leacock, a faculty member in the MRC Conservatory of Music. Renowned as a pianist, composer, and cherished educator, Leacock dedicated over sixty years of his career to teaching music and musical theory at Mount Royal College. His compositional portfolio spanned various genres, including orchestra, piano, strings, voice, and other instruments. He was honored as a member of the Order of Canada, acknowledging his significant contributions to the field of music. Leacock was well known for foraging close relationships with students and would gift them with mini-musical scores that he created just for them. Another example of this type of personal composition can be found here. Click here to learn more about Leacock by browsing the descriptions in the Leonard Leacock fonds.

Other Types of College Momentos

The popularity of autograph books began to wane around the mid-twentieth century as yearbooks became common. Autograph books continued, but the user demographics shifted younger yet again, and the trend was taken up by children, typically around the ages of seven to nine. Yearbooks contain a wealth of information such as photographs of individual students, teachers, athletic teams, and social groups, not available in autograph books. While most yearbooks are created with student input and involvement, they are overseen and approved by the institutions the represent, with much of the publication cost also managed by the institution. As a result, yearbooks contain more detailed information about students, classes, clubs, and the events of the past year making them a natural place for students to collect signatures and remembrances.

0001-05 - Signed pages from a 1937-1938 Chinook yearbook previously owned by Mount Royal College student Helen Hartman Smith.

The autographs collected in the yearbook pages above are considerably less detailed compared to those in Jackson's autograph book. The illustrations, rhymes, and poems have disappeared but there's a trade-off with the addition of photographs and other personal information about the students, which provides some context that is absent in traditional autograph books. Below is another example of a signed keepsake—a beanie hat from the same era as Jackson's autograph book, signed by the graduating class of 1927-1928.

Photographs of a felt Mount Royal College beanie with autographs and illustrations from the class of 1927-1928. Item# T023.

Learn More

To learn more about the history of Mount Royal University, please visit the Archive and Special Collections on the 4th floor of the Riddell Library and Learning Centre or use the links below to explore further.

View Jackson's Entire Autograph Book

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Published January 2024 by Sade Dunn, Public Service Archives and Special Collections Assistant.

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