Oglethorpe University Philip Weltner Library was awarded a Georgia Archives Month “Spotlight on Archives” grant from the Society of Georgia Archivists.

Georgia Archives Month, observed in October, is a way to celebrate the value of the state’s historical records, publicize the many ways historical records enrich our lives, and recognize those who maintain our communities’ historical records.

The grant will support the Oglethorpe Archives’ efforts to commemorate OU Athletics and the 100th anniversary of the first Oglethorpe athletic competition on October 20, 1916.

Stephen J. Schmidt ’40 was known as “Mr. Oglethorpe” for his countless contributions to the university while president of the National Alumni Association and chair of the Board of Trustees. This letterman sweater is from Schmidt’s days as quarterback of the OU football team.

As part of the commemoration, the Weltner Library will host a special exhibit of athletics artifacts from the Archives, including memorabilia from OU football in the ’20s and ’30s, items belonging to baseball hall-of-famer Luke Appling ’32, and a retrospective of long-time, current and former coaches.

In addition, Dr. Paul Hudson ’72, Georgia Perimeter College history professor and OU adjunct lecturer, will offer “a glimpse into the early days, glory days, and current days of Stormy Petrel athletics” in a lecture on October 20, 2016 at 7 p.m. in the Weltner Library.