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Simmons College Traditions . . .
Then and Now

FRESHMAN FROLIC

The Freshman Frolic was one of the earliest Simmons College traditions. Initiated in 1904 by the Class of 1907, the tradition consisted of freshmen participating in a "baby party:" students dressed up as children and played children's games.  The Frolic usually was held in the late Spring and was meant to symbolize a last chance to return to childish ways before assuming sophomore status.

In the early years, the freshmen were invited to this party by the seniors, their sister class. However, as the Freshman Frolic became more established, committees were formed annually to plan and organize the events for the day . The party was held in the refectory, and later when "the land behind the College building became enclosed, the party was conducted in the late spring out-of-doors..."  This area (now the parking lot) was known as the "backyard."

"Every girl who came represented a child of not over twelve years of age," and each played her part to the fullest.  Students dressed in Dutch cuts, short skirts, socks, rompers, and frilly dresses. They donned gigantic bows and had pigtails or bouncy curls in their hair.  Later, some began to dress as little boys in shorts and swagger caps, while others took delight in being "rolled about in baby carriages." Popular games throughout the years were; London Bridge, Farmer-in- the-dell, Drop-The-Handkerchief, and Leapfrog.  After 1915, a "Hurdy Gurdy man" appeared every so often and entertained the freshmen with tunes.  There were also ice cream, lollipops, hot dogs ,and peanuts to be enjoyed.  In later years, a supper followed by an evening of entertainment (usually plays) ensued.

Almost every class added something new to the Freshman Frolic, so  it was constantly changing.  Prizes for "best" and "most original" costume were awarded annually, and later still, prizes for "smartest," "cutest," and "funniest" costume were also awarded.  A grand march was introduced, and the students would walk in pairs past the matrons, who would then judge their costumes.  Faculty members, including President Beatley and his wife, were known to attend the occasion.

There were many deviations from the initial idea of the Freshman Frolic.  A pet show became a regular feature (freshmen would dress up as animals and enter the show).  A few classes mentioned having "themes" such as a circus, county fair, or farmers.  The last mention of the Freshmen Frolic appears in the Simmons News dated May 1942. The event still appeared in the Student Handbook under traditions in 1943 and was reprinted for the next three years. The term "Frolic" was also used thereafter in relation to other events.

 

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Page updated: July 11, 2006