The Rattler (Previous issues)
Welcome to one of the country's longest-running student newspapers The Rattler. The Rattler is published twice a semester, four issues a year. It includes information about the campus, students' opinions on arts, culture, sports, and current events. This collection represents the history of The Rattler. New issues can found in the main collection. For more information about The Rattler, please contact them at [email protected].
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The Rattler (Volume 13, Issue 10, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 13, Issue 10 of The Rattler highlights continued growth in student organizations, academic initiatives, and campus life at St. Mary’s University. The Diamond Back yearbook launches a sales campaign, while Major A. M. Prentiss, Chief of Chemical Warfare for the 8th Corps Area, delivers a lecture on the organization of the U.S. Army. Student leadership development is evident as upperclassmen from the City Section meet to organize and elect officers. The Goethe Club formalizes its structure by adopting a constitution, and campus social life remains active with events such as a reception hosted by the Degree Club and a Valentine’s party organized by the Social Club. The R.O.T.C. unit continues to expand and show progress, while plans for a university golf team are under consideration. Athletics remain competitive, with juniors and seniors leading in basketball standings, and the Glee Club and Orchestra extend their presence beyond campus with a concert at Santa Rosa Hospital. The issue also notes early announcements of the upcoming junior lead prom.
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The Rattler (Volume 13, Issue 9, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 13, Issue 9 of The Rattler documents a range of academic achievements, social events, and campus developments at St. Mary’s University. The publication of the honor roll recognizes student academic excellence, while the Military Ball marks the end of the social season. The Theater Guild’s three branches—the orchestra, dramatic club, and glee club—collaborated in recent campus performances, highlighting a strong arts presence. Notably, actress Sylvia Sidney extended her well-wishes to the 1932 Diamond Back yearbook, reflecting outside recognition of the university. The R.O.T.C. unit has officially begun drills, signaling growth in military training on campus, and the alumni association has elected new officers. Intramural sports continue to engage students, and the Mardi Gras dance is reported as a success. Despite limited opportunities for field trips, the Garni Nature Club remains active through guest lectures, while the university library is undertaking efforts to improve its resources and services.
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The Rattler (Volume 13, Issue 8, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 13, Issue 8 of The Rattler highlights a vibrant mix of academic, social, and extracurricular activities at St. Mary’s University. The freshman class is preparing a Mardi Gras dance, while the junior dance is reported as a success, reflecting strong student engagement. The St. Mary’s University Theater Guild announces its first production, scheduled for February 3, marking an important development in campus arts. On January 16, Lieutenant W. F. Cox of the 306th Chemical Regiment delivered a lecture and demonstration on war gases in connection with the proposed R.O.T.C. program. Additional intellectual life is represented by a public debate staged by the Public Utilities class. The issue also commemorates Father Chaminade on the anniversary of his passing. Student organizations continue to grow with the formation of the Goethe Club for German students, while intramural basketball contributes to ongoing student life and recreation.
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The Rattler (Volume 13, Issue 7, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 13, Issue 7 of The Rattler highlights a range of social, academic, and religious activities at St. Mary’s University during the holiday season. The junior class planned an upcoming dance, while Mr. Kirn addressed the Nature Club as a guest speaker. Developments beyond campus include City College inaugurating a social club under the leadership of Fred Lewis, and discussions surrounding the formation of an R.O.T.C. unit. Seasonal events featured the orchestra’s Christmas musicale and the celebration of the Golden Sacerdotal Jubilee of the Very Rev. Joseph Weckesser, held on December 20 and 21. Student life remained active with Sodality elections and reports of a holiday gathering in St. Louis hosted by Earl Ludwig and Mrs. Thorning for students and alumni. Athletic updates note that basketball activities were slowed by inclement weather, alongside summaries of recent sports results.
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The Rattler (Volume 13, Issue 6, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 13, Issue 6 of The Rattler highlights expanding academic programs, student organizations, and seasonal campus activities at St. Mary’s University. A taxidermy class was organized, while the Theatre Guild became fully established under the supervision of local producer Mr. Edward Hudson. The Garni Nature Club conducted a field trip along the San Antonio River, and “Diamond Back” was selected as the official name of the university’s annual yearbook. Campus life reflects the approaching Christmas season, with performances by the dance orchestra and an active Glee Club. The Student Council held several recent meetings, and the Sodality organization conducted its first gathering. Athletic updates include the announcement of the All-Star Indoor Baseball Team, the Junior-Senior team being crowned champions, and the start of basketball season. Additional activities include pre-med students completing a medical aptitude test, upcoming initiations by the Rattler Club, and a benefit card party held at the Academy on College Street to support the university yearbook.
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The Rattler (Volume 13, Issue 5, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Founded in 1919, The Rattler is the student voice of St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. The newspaper documents campus life, academic and social issues, student opinion, and local and national events as they relate to the University community. Content typically includes news articles, editorial commentary, arts and culture coverage, sports reporting, and advertisements.
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The Rattler (Volume 13, Issue 4, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 13, Issue 4 of The Rattler emphasizes student ambition, campus organizations, and cultural life at St. Mary’s University. The junior class is highlighted for its anticipated leadership and increased activity during the current scholastic term. The Garni Nature Club held a recent meeting at Lamb’s Ranch, while campus discussions included assembly programming on dramatics and articles addressing mid-term grades and the university’s religious spirit. A new column, “Chaminade Chatter,” introduces a more informal and scandal-focused perspective on campus life. The issue also marks the organization of the Theatre Guild of St. Mary’s and provides updates on inter-class baseball. Additionally, the Rattler Club is actively planning upcoming school events, reflecting continued student involvement across campus.
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The Rattler (Volume 13, Issue 3, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 13, Issue 3 of The Rattler highlights developments in student organizations, campus events, and athletic activities at St. Mary’s University. The Glee Club established a formal constitution, marking an important step in its organization. Students also attended an assembly featuring architect Mr. Harvey Smith as a guest speaker. The university benefited from a generous donation by Mrs. Nell Howry, widow of Captain John Howry, which included a U.S. flag, a microscope, drawing instruments, books, and other materials to support academic growth. In athletics, tennis players are actively training, while the inter-class indoor league continues to progress successfully, reflecting strong student participation in sports.
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The Rattler (Volume 13, Issue 2, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 13, Issue 2 of The Rattler highlights academic, administrative, and student life at St. Mary’s University. A mental test administered by the American Psychological Association included participation from ninety professors. The issue also notes the resignation of Mr. C. O. Cartwright as chairman of the Bexar County Red Cross Life Saving Corps. Student activities are a central focus, including the introduction of a new school song by the Glee Club, multiple campus elections, and a successful senior dance. The senior class elected Earl Lowe as their president, while the Garni Nature Club and Rattler Club also selected new officers. Academic growth is reflected in the physics department’s acquisition of a telescope. The issue further recognizes an alumnus who became governor and includes articles addressing student concerns, such as parking and time management.
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The Rattler (Volume 13, Issue 1, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 13, Issue 1 of The Rattler marks the beginning of a new academic year with notable growth and development across campus. The San Antonio Public Service Company has approved an extension of the Cincinnati Bus line to St. Mary’s, improving accessibility for students. University expansion is evident in increased enrollment, a larger faculty, and the enlargement of chemistry laboratories, while the summer session set a new enrollment record. Student life remains active with seniors hosting an opening dance, juniors electing class officers, and the reorganization of the Glee Club and Garni Nature Club. The issue also highlights additions to the library collection and features accounts of the Rattler’s summer travels.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 15, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 15 of The Rattler highlights senior activities and ongoing campus life as the academic year nears its close. The Class of 1931 presents a double-faced electric clock to the university as a parting gift while continuing discussions of graduation plans. Student organizations remain active, with the Garni Nature Club planning a field trip to Helotes Creek and both the M Club and Sodality holding meetings. Social life is marked by the success of the first Junior Prom, while academic interest is reflected in an article emphasizing the importance of a strong vocabulary. Athletic coverage includes popular swimming classes, baseball results, and Rattler batting averages.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 14, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 14 of The Rattler highlights a variety of academic, cultural, and athletic developments on campus. The St. Mary’s orchestra is scheduled to appear in two Music Week presentations, while swimming activities are in full season with additional instruction planned as weather permits. Judge W. S. Fly, Chief Justice of the Fourth Court of Civil Appeals in San Antonio, serves as the April 17 assembly speaker. Leadership changes are also noted, with Chandler Diehl and Gail Eaton selected to head the paper in the coming year. The issue recognizes San Antonio’s celebration of the Fiesta de San Jacinto and offers praise for the freshman edition of the paper, alongside updates on recent baseball outcomes.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 13, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 13 of The Rattler serves as the Freshman edition, highlighting the class’s involvement in a wide range of extracurricular activities. In a show of school spirit, the freshmen cancel their own dance to support the Junior Prom. The issue also features a lighthearted and slightly boastful column on sophomore antics, reflecting a playful tone and the spirited personality of the student body.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 12, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 12 of The Rattler highlights a range of social, cultural, and religious activities on campus. The introduction of the Junior Prom marks a new addition to student social life, while the Sacred Concert receives strong acclaim, featuring performances by two soloists. Alumni engagement is noted through a “Fite Nite” event, and campus organizations remain active with the Sodality holding its second meeting. The issue also includes updates on the baseball season and observes St. Mary’s participation in Holy Week services, reflecting the university’s ongoing spiritual traditions.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 11, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 11 of The Rattler highlights continued academic, social, and athletic activity on campus. The Freshman class prepares its edition of the paper, while Mr. Dick O. Terrell, a prominent San Antonio lawyer, addresses students at an assembly. Religious life is emphasized through student participation in the Lenten Mission, alongside ongoing efforts to support the gymnasium drive. Social events include a wiener roast hosted by the Rattler Club. Athletic updates note the start of the baseball season, the ongoing indoor baseball league, developments in the tennis tournament, and the introduction of swimming courses.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 10, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 10 of The Rattler highlights significant academic and athletic developments on campus, including the appointment of Dr. Richard Hickey as Dean of Studies and the continued expansion of intramural sports programs. The university orchestra is set to present a Sacred Musicale, reflecting ongoing cultural and religious engagement. In a major athletic shift, St. Mary’s University has indefinitely discontinued intercollegiate football following several years of competition. The issue also features a review of the basketball season, the beginning of a tennis tournament, and the start of baseball practice, alongside updates in alumni news.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 9, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 9 of The Rattler reports on academic, social, and regional developments as the semester progresses. A physics class visit to Brooks Field highlights ongoing academic activity, while enrollment rises with the addition of 46 new students. The issue also notes San Antonio’s upcoming bicentennial celebration, to be marked by an elaborate five-day event. Campus life remains active with the Freshman Club’s first social and the observance of Lenten devotions at St. Mary’s. Athletic coverage focuses on the close of the basketball season, including summaries and play-by-play accounts of recent games.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 8, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 8 of The Rattler reflects a dynamic period on campus, featuring plans for a patriotic program by the university orchestra and coverage of the Alumni Association’s Oyster Bake. Academic life is highlighted through the publication of the honor roll and the expansion of library resources, while student leadership developments include the organization of the Freshman Club and the election of Herb Wiedinger as its president. The issue also includes an article on Lent, reports on basketball highlights and results, and notes the formation of an eight-team intramural basketball league, underscoring the continued growth of both intellectual and extracurricular activities.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 7, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 7 of The Rattler outlines key academic and campus developments, noting the forthcoming release of grades and the scheduling of February examinations for pre-med students. Social life remains active with plans for a senior dance on Valentine’s Day, while preparations are already underway for the annual Oyster Bake. The issue features an article honoring Father Chaminade, alongside coverage of recent basketball games and score summaries. Additional highlights include an economics class debate and the announcement of scholarships from the Knights of Columbus, reflecting both the intellectual and extracurricular vitality of the university community.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 6, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 6 of The Rattler reports on a vibrant start to the new year, highlighting the university orchestra’s presentation of three concerts in the past month and the appointment of Joe Lucchese as head of the Alumni Association for 1931. Campus traditions and spiritual life are emphasized through the M Club’s initiation of new members, the celebration of Midnight Mass in the university chapel, and an article recognizing January as the Month of the Holy Name. Over the holiday period, a new bell was installed, while continued efforts to improve campus infrastructure include fundraising for a new gymnasium floor and the commencement of road upgrades. The issue also features the posted basketball schedule and notes student engagement through a junior-hosted dance honoring the basketball teams.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 5, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 5 of The Rattler highlights the close of the football season with a reflective summary of the 1930 campaign, while also noting the university’s growing emphasis on intramural sports programs. As the Christmas season approaches, campus life remains active with the Rattler Club’s banquet, a newly launched fundraising drive for a gymnasium floor, and the successful Freshman Frolic. The issue also celebrates the strong reception of the year’s first musicale and marks the transition into the winter athletic season with the opening of basketball.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 4, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 4 of The Rattler highlights a dynamic period of academic, social, and extracurricular activity at St. Mary’s University. The Glee Club prepares for its first public performance, while the orchestra organizes its upcoming Christmas musicale. Student life remains active, with the freshman class hosting a dance at the Plaza Ballroom and the Rattler Club planning a major initiation event. Academic achievement is recognized through the publication of the honor roll, and campus development continues with plans for a new greenhouse. The Garni Nature Club expands its studies into taxidermy, reflecting growing scientific interest. The issue also includes reflections on Thanksgiving, updates on football games, and the results of recent class and club elections, illustrating a well-rounded and engaged university community.
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The Rattler (Volume 12, Issue 2, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 12, Issue 2 of The Rattler reflects a period of growth and activity at St. Mary’s University, highlighted by increased enrollment and evolving academic and student life policies. University President Father Alfred H. Rabe traveled to El Paso to attend the knighting of Joseph I. Driscoll into the Order of St. Gregory the Great, while cultural life was enriched by the successful staging of The Prince of Pilsen by the San Antonio Civic Opera Company. Academically, seniors are no longer required to complete a thesis for graduation, and the university has adopted a new library system. Student life remains vibrant, with the junior class hosting a dance at the San Antonio Casino Club, freshmen electing class officers, and the formation of both the University Glee Club and an intramural indoor baseball league. The Student Council, though newly established, shows early progress, and athletics receive strong attention with the release of the football schedule and updates on recent games.
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The Rattler (Volume 11, Issue 16, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 11, Issue 16 of The Rattler serves as a commencement edition, honoring the graduating class of 1930 with a tribute and accompanying photographs. The issue outlines key events surrounding graduation, including the announcement of Carl Wright Johnson as commencement speaker and the orchestra’s final concert scheduled for May 15. Religious and community engagement is noted through the participation of university clergy and brothers in a Knights of Columbus initiation ceremony in Falls City. The paper also features alumni updates and reports the passing of Ernest Steves, a prominent San Antonian and active member of the university’s Alumni Association. Athletic coverage includes the publication of complete baseball records and a note on a tennis playoff match postponed due to rain, reflecting a comprehensive close to the academic year.
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The Rattler (Volume 11, Issue 15, Edition 1)
St. Mary's University
Volume 11, Issue 15 of The Rattler highlights a variety of campus traditions, social activities, and athletic developments at St. Mary’s University. Among the notable events is a sophomore class entertainment program, reflecting student-led initiatives in campus life. The university prepares for May devotions, while religious observances are further emphasized by the presence of the Very Rev. Joseph C. Provincial of the Western Province of the Society of Mary as a guest at a Jubilee celebration. The issue also includes commentary on the significance of Fiesta de San Jacinto, with students actively participating in and enjoying Fiesta week. Athletic activities continue to expand, with the organization of a tennis team, the introduction of swimming classes in the university pool, and updates on recent baseball game outcomes, illustrating a well-rounded and engaged student body.