The Cavalier Daily
Serving the University Community Since 1890

From the archives: Nov. 18 – Nov. 24

This week: future of fraternities, lunar eclipse and stepping

1950s
November 24, 1954
“Writer Reviews College Student’s Military Service Problem”
By Frank Brandt


After 1952, all men who were drafted or enlisted in the military had to complete a total of eight years of service. While many students at the time did not take this possible obligation seriously, joining a Reserve unit while still in school was a practical way to fulfill part of the requirement early. Other benefits included earning promotions or rank before active duty, having more control over military assignments and receiving pay.

1960s
November 19, 1963
“Houses Seeking Answer To Question: Will Future For Fraternities Be Secure?”
By Pinkey Sowers
Photo by Wagner


Fraternities at the University faced criticism in 1963 for a shortage in student interest, financial struggles, not focusing enough on academics and a lack of strong leadership. However, fraternities worked to improve by imposing stricter rules on academics and planning better housing arrangements. The future of fraternities depended on their ability to grow, improve their facilities and keep students interested.

1970s
November 19, 1975
“Lunar eclipse”
No Author
Photo by Chuck Fadely


The University community was able to see a lunar eclipse in 1975 around 5:02 p.m. as the moon passed through the Earth's shadow. The eclipse started at 3:38 p.m. and ended around 8:08 p.m., and if the conditions were right, the moon might have appeared red.

1980s
November 24, 1986
“Jackson lambastes Reagan”
By Lane Thomasson
Photo by Jeff Cudlip


Jesse Jackson, a human and civil rights activist and politician, spoke at Old Cabell Hall in 1986. In his speech, he criticized the Reagan administration for being full of scandals and argued that this corruption would lead to indictments and impeachment. He urged citizens to make a difference by fighting for justice and unity, particularly in issues like affirmative action, support for the poor and education.

1990s
November 18, 1993
“Horsing Around”
By Amy Francis
Photos by Jesse Suter


This article from 1993 covers the Virginia Riding Team which offered equestrians the chance to compete as part of a supportive and welcoming team, despite the fact that riding is typically an individual sport. The team is open to all riders no matter the experience level — the only requirements are passion for the sport and commitment to the team. While the team faced financial challenges, it set goals to reclaim its national championship title and hoped to gain more recognition from the University community.

2000s
November 22, 2002
“Step it up”
By Neela Pal
Photos by Alexis Day


In 2002, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity held a stepping show, a tradition deeply rooted in African-American culture and Black fraternities and sororities. Stepping combines rhythm, movement and unity, with fraternity and sorority members practicing intensely to perform synchronized routines. This tradition exceeds any one performance — it also honors Black fraternal histories and expresses important messages, often reflecting themes of celebration, respect and individuality.

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Ahead of Lighting of the Lawn, Riley McNeill and Chelsea Huffman, co-chairs of the Lighting of the Lawn Committee and fourth-year College students, and Peter Mildrew, the president of the Hullabahoos and third-year Commerce student, discuss the festive tradition which brings the community together year after year. From planning the event to preparing performances, McNeil, Huffman and Mildrew elucidate how the light show has historically helped the community heal in the midst of hardship.