TitleRonald Reagan 1957 visit to Eureka College for Commencement (39)

Inventory Number1957.039

Full CollectionRonald Reagan Collection - Reagan Image Collection - 5x7 Images

Object Description

Photograph of the 1957 Eureka College graduation ceremony during Ronald Reagan's visit to Eureka College at which he attended the commencement for the graduates. Ronald Reagan attended Eureka College between 1928 and 1932. He was a member of the TKE's Iota Chapter during his time in Eureka and served as its President in 1928. Reagan was active in school including theater and football. At the time of the photograph, Ronald Reagan was working as an actor in Hollywood. As one of Eureka College's most famous celebrity, Reagan's arrival to campus was always celebrated by staff, faculty, students, Eureka College Alums, and the citizens of Eureka. 

This black and white photograph shows the attendees of the 1957 Eureka College graduation. The photograph is taken at the end of the aisle facing towards the front by where the procession ends. There are several dozens of attendees sitting along wooden and cement block benches which have been placed in the grass, while two young boys lay along their bellies on a blanket placed upon the grass. While the photograph angle is largely capturing the left side of the aisle, there are a few attendees which can be seen sitting along the right side. Everyone can be seen wearing their finest outfits; the men in suits and ties and the women in hats and dresses. At the front of the aisle near the tree line are several students dressed in graduation regalia. there are students standing in two rows facing towards the audience. The semi-circle formation of the students gives the belief that these students were part of the Eureka College Chorus and was performing at the time of the photograph. The other section of those dressed in graduation regalia to the left of the chorus look like Eureka College staff who are there to participate and support the graduates and the ceremony. 

Object Date1957

Object StatusCurrent

Object TypePhotographs

Country OriginUnited States

Credit LineEureka College

Full LocationEureka College Archives - Digital Archive

SubjectRonald Reagan, Actor Ronald Reagan, Eureka College Visit

Inventory Contact NameChapman, Cassandra - Ronald Reagan Museum - Eureka College