Since last fall, we’ve had the opportunity to digitize a sizable set of large scrapbooks from a surprising source: the University of Alabama Army ROTC. Who knew that military men and women could be so interesting!

Dating from 1953 to 1983, these scrapbooks cover thirty years of activity for the group — and thirty years of American culture. The books (the latter half of which are online, with more to come) give us a sense of the changes in group activities and training emphases as the Vietnam war came and went, evolving photography practices, and even shifts in styles of dress and hair (and facial hair!).

1960-61: A visit from Governor John Patterson

1969-70: Worn out from field training exercises (FTX)

Facing protesters during an exhibition on the Quad

1970-71: Ropes course at Rangers training

Parachute training at summer camp

1971-72: Homecoming parade, Sponsors float

Training at Ft. McClellan

1972-73: Scabbard and Blade blood drive

1978-1979: Self Defense training

Raft races

Mid-winter commissioning

1980-81: Rangers building the Homecoming bonfire

Rapelling practice

1981-1982: FTX at Fort McClellan

Helicopter at Rangers FTX

1982-83: Annual Military Ball

1983-84: Annual Military Ball

Parade banner

We’re still working our way through this collection, so stay tuned as we continue to move back and back, all the way to 1953.