Memory Lane: Gaillardians

Drive down any Texas highway in the spring and you’ll see fire-red gaillardia flowers spread between bluebonnets and pinkladies. These bright flowers inspired Texas State’s maroon and gold colors and were the namesake of the university’s historic Gaillardian contest.

Almost 100 years ago, the university’s yearbook staff established the Gaillardian nomination which occurred yearly during homecoming. The award was supposed to honor 12 of “the most popular students on campus” according to the Pedagog from 1928. Around 100 students were nominated for this popularity award, and winning earned you a prime spot in the yearbook.

Look through this gallery of photos of past Gaillardians, courtesy of the Texas State pedagog.