Looking for some last minute Halloween costume inspiration? Ever wondered what Halloween looked like at Amherst nearly 100 years ago? While we don’t know what the students were up to, we do know that the faculty loved to dress up and held an annual Halloween party in the Pratt Gymnasium in the early 1930s. President Stanley King also held annual costume parties for the faculty on various themes, including the “Gay 90s” (which would be like a 1980s themed party now) and historical characters. Please enjoy some highlights pictured below and for many more pictures come in to look at the Amherst College Photograph Collection!
Undated faculty Halloween party in Pratt Gymnasium
Faculty Halloween party in Pratt Gymnasium, 1930
A faculty group at President King’s “Gay 90s” party in 1935.
Physics Professor William Stifler and his wife in 1934 dressed as Ebeneezer and Sabra Snell. Professor Snell was one of the earliest graduates and professors at Amherst.
Professor Henry Thacher in 1936. I don’t know which historical character he is supposed to be, but I love it!
Professor Ralph Beebe and his wife Libby exploring their inner Napoleons in 1936.
An unidentified angel from President King’s 1936 party.
Professor Curtis Canfield and his wife Libby in 1936. I don’t know who they are dressed as, but I love their sass!
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