Oregon University Yearbooks

The University of Oregon, located in Eugene, Oregon, has a rich history that spans over 140 years. One of the best ways to explore this history is through the university's yearbooks, which have been published annually since 1900. The yearbooks, titled "Oregana," provide a unique glimpse into the lives of students, faculty, and staff during different eras of the university's history.

A Brief History of the University of Oregon Yearbooks

The first “Oregana” yearbook was published in 1900, and it was a small, 100-page book that featured photographs and information about the university’s students, faculty, and organizations. Over the years, the yearbook has grown in size and scope, with modern editions featuring hundreds of pages of content, including photographs, articles, and advertisements. The yearbook has been published continuously since 1900, with the exception of a few years during World War II.

Early Years: 1900-1940

During the early years of the “Oregana” yearbook, the university was still a relatively small institution, with fewer than 1,000 students. The yearbook reflects this, with a focus on individual students and faculty members, as well as the university’s various clubs and organizations. The yearbook also includes photographs of the university’s buildings and campus, which provide a glimpse into the institution’s growth and development during this period.

One of the notable features of the early "Oregana" yearbooks is the inclusion of photographs of university events and activities, such as football games, parades, and concerts. These photographs provide a glimpse into the social and cultural life of the university during this period.

Middle Years: 1940-1980

During the middle years of the “Oregana” yearbook, the university underwent significant changes, including the introduction of new academic programs and the expansion of the campus. The yearbook reflects these changes, with a focus on the university’s growing student body and the introduction of new clubs and organizations.

1960s and 1970s: A Time of Social Change

The 1960s and 1970s were a time of significant social change in the United States, and the University of Oregon was no exception. The “Oregana” yearbook from this period reflects the university’s involvement in the civil rights movement, the anti-war movement, and the women’s liberation movement. The yearbook includes photographs and articles about protests, rallies, and other events that took place on campus during this time.

One of the notable features of the "Oregana" yearbook from this period is the inclusion of photographs of student protests and demonstrations. These photographs provide a glimpse into the university's role in the social and political movements of the time.

Modern Era: 1980-Present

During the modern era of the “Oregana” yearbook, the university has continued to grow and develop, with the introduction of new academic programs and the expansion of the campus. The yearbook reflects these changes, with a focus on the university’s diverse student body and the introduction of new clubs and organizations.

2000s: A Time of Digital Transformation

The 2000s were a time of significant digital transformation, and the University of Oregon was no exception. The “Oregana” yearbook from this period reflects the university’s adoption of digital technologies, including the introduction of online editions of the yearbook.

One of the notable features of the "Oregana" yearbook from this period is the inclusion of digital content, such as videos and podcasts. These digital features provide a glimpse into the university's use of technology to enhance the student experience.