These materials are from the first homecoming at Sam Houston Normal Institute (SHNI), which took place on May 30th, 1910. The materials, which include an invitation letter, a program of events, a nametag, and an envelope, were mailed out to alumni out a month in advance of the event. This set belonged to Amalie Goldstucker, who graduated from SHNI the same year.

The schedule for the 1910 Homecoming Day began with a business meeting of alumni, followed by a literary session of alumni with an address titled, “Cultivated Mind and the safeguard of the republic,” given by Professor T. U. Taylor from the University of Texas. This was followed by a barbeque dinner at the old Sam Houston homestead, athletics games on “normal court” and a band concert. Subsequently came the annual address, given by Senator R. E. Cofer of Gainesville, titled “The truth shall set you free.” The day was brought to a close with an alumni reception and a promenade concert.

Homecoming Day was a part of commencement activities, which lasted several days. Homecoming Day was also called Alumni Day.

This event took place during administration of Harry F. Estill, former SHNI student and professor, who was president from 1908-1937. Student activities such as academic and social clubs emerged and flourished during these early years, along with athletics (Cashion 2004). Propriety and “good character” additionally remained high priorities for the administration during this period.



Amalie Goldstucker was born in 1892 in Tyler, Texas. She graduated from Sam Houston Normal Institute in 1910 with a junior and senior certificate and a focus in German. She worked as a schoolteacher and never married. She died in 1970 in Wichita, Texas, and was buried at Hebrew Rest Cemetery.