Special Collections Blog: Dragon Tales

Oneonta Archery Program

Written by John Duffy, Class of '19, Alden Room Research Assistant

From the 1920s to 1950s Archery was one of the most popular extracurricular activities for students to take part in.  Here in the Alden Room we recently acquired one of the original bows that our former students had used years ago.  This bow was originally acquired through donation to Alumni Engagement from an alumnus of the school.  The archery program was taken very seriously amongst the student body with competitions and award systems being scheduled by the school newspaper, The Pen Dragon.  The first mention of the program was in 1928.  Tips and tricks on how to properly shoot can be found in the 17^th issue of the 1938 paper. 

Picture of a woman with bow drawn from the 1942 Oneonta Yearbook

Awards were handed out based on the accuracy at which students could hit the target from 30 yards out.  Ribbons ranging from green to gold were handed out for scores from 50 to 160.  The most skilled students with scores over 160 or high scores from longer distances would receive a letter for their excellence.  An official archery chairman was in charge of the scores and awards similar to the intramurals we have today.  This co-ed competition was a good way of uniting the school in fun outdoor activities. 

Picture of Two Women with Bows Drawn from the 1940 Oneonta Yearbook

The bow that we have is 71.5 inches tall and 1.5 inches wide with an official Archer’s Company marker on the side.  The Archer’s Company from Pinehurst, North Carolina sold many bows like ours throughout the east coast.  This bow, like many other artifacts from the school’s past, can be seen up close in the Alden room for all who are interested in learning more about our school’s history and the activities of students past.

Up close image of bow to show Pinehurst logo

Picture of Bow upright next to a yardstick to show height comparison