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Jackson L. Goodhue collection on the Douglas cannon

 Collection
Identifier: 1000-203

Scope and Contents

Scrapbook compiled by Jackson L. Goodhue, Class of 1957, relating to the 1957 Douglas Cannon heist. Collection includes clippings from campus and local newspapers and photographs.  Included with the collection is Mr. Goodhue’s correspondence (both written and e‐mail) with Wesleyan University regarding his desire to write an article for the Alumni Magazine on the 1957 theft.  It does not appear that the Alumni Magazine published the article, but there is a draft. 

Dates

  • Creation: 1957-2007

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research.

Conditions Governing Use

University records - Copyright held by Wesleyan University; all other copyright is retained by the creator - In Copyright – Non-Commercial Use Permitted

Biographical / Historical

The Douglas Cannon enters Wesleyan history in the mid-1800s when it would be fired during national celebrations. In the 1860s, a yearly contest began where freshmen had the mission of firing the cannon and the sophomores attempted to stop the firing. The constest became known as Cannon Scrap. While the contest ended sometime around 1910, the cannon remained a part of Wesleyan tradition. In 1957, the cannon began to be stolen, forming a new tradition. It has appeared in dormitories, Washington D.C. and the United Nations. In 1995, the cannon was returned to its pedestal only to disappear again. It now appears during important Wesleyan events.

Extent

0.25 Linear Feet (1 half hollinger box)

Language of Materials

English

Abstract

This collection is on the 1957 Douglas cannon heist and history of the cannon as recollected by Jackson L. Goodhue, class of 1957.

Arrangement

Collection is arranged in the order it was receieved.

Title
Jackson L. Goodhue collection on the Douglas cannon, 1957-2007
Status
Unprocessed
Author
Erica Ciallela
Date
April 15, 2020
Description rules
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Language of description
Undetermined
Script of description
Code for undetermined script
Language of description note
English

Repository Details

Part of the University Archives Repository

Contact:
Olin Library
252 Church Street
Middletown CT 06459 USA
860-685-3864