The collection is open to all researchers. Manuscript collections and archival records may contain materials with sensitive or confidential information that is protected under federal or state right to privacy laws and regulations, such as the Virginia Public Records Act (Code of Virginia. § 42.1-76-91); and the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (Code of Virginia § 2.2-3705.5). Confidential material may include, but is not limited to, educational, medical, and personnel records. If sensitive material is found in this collection, please contact a staff member immediately. The disclosure of personally identifiable information pertaining to a living individual may have legal consequences for which the College of William and Mary assumes no responsibility.
This item was donated to the Special Collections Research Center by Gina and Eddie Woodward on November 3, 2020.
Content warning: The William & Mary mascot doll contains imagery and language that may be offensive. The materials have been processed for fair use and research purposes.
William and Mary mascot doll, Special Collections Research Center, William & Mary Libraries.
This collection consists of a doll dressed as a clown in a yellow and black checkered outfit with the words "William & Mary Indians" written on the necktie. The term "Indian" in relation to William & Mary first appeared in the early twentieth century as an informal mascot. The William & Mary community began incorporating "Indian" into its identity to promote a sense of school spirit and unity, creating traditions surrounding perceived Native American clothing, events, and experiences. The "Indians" name persisted as an official and unofficial mascot throughout the twentieth century, phased out institutionally by William & Mary in the 1980s.
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