Tarleton Thursdays: May Fete

Tarleton’s May Fete

What would become a treasured tradition began May 5, 1921, when 36 women participated in a May Fete with a wildflower theme and the crowning of a queen. Miss Margaret Bierschwale and Miss Kathleen Blackshear, members of the women’s physical training department, organized and directed the first production. By 1927 Laura Fellman, Director of Physical Training, was in charge of the May Fete.

Each year the May Fete had a different theme. Some of the themes included “Wildflowers,” “The Sun,” and “All Nations.”  Decorations and accessories were always very colorful. Highlights of the event included the wrapping of the maypole and the coronation of the May Queen. Next week the Alumni Ambassadors are bringing back the Tarleton May Fete tradition. Be sure to join them next Tuesday, April 14, 2009 for the renewal of the May Fete tradition!.And be sure to see their great display about the event in the Dick Smith Library.