Introduction

Welcome to Early Years at Claremont Men's College. In honor of Claremont McKenna College’s 75th Anniversary, join us as we celebrate our vibrant history through a series of exhibitions commemorating the historic milestones, achievements, and individuals who have shaped the College. Reflecting back on Claremont McKenna College’s modest origins will lead to perspectives on the College’s current success and will inform the College’s aspirations for the future. The second exhibition in the series, Early Years at Claremont Men's College, explores the first decade of the College, providing a focus on incorporation, campus growth, faculty and staff, the student body, and student life. Through a selection of archival materials, learn how Claremont Men’s College overcame early challenges, established a campus culture, and positioned itself for future success as a member of The Claremont Colleges.

The Archives consulted a variety of sources in compiling this exhibit and are indebted to those historic resources, most notably, Commerce and Civilization, Claremont McKenna College: The First Fifty Years 1946-1996 by Kevin Starr, An Idea Becomes a College by Mabel Gibberd Benson, and CMC’s 50^th Anniversary timeline.

Members of Claremont Men's College's Class of 1950. Known as the Pacesetters, the original classes of 1948, 1949, and 1950 were the early builders of the College.

The archives contain historical documents, some of which include perspectives and language reflecting the time in which they were written. Claremont McKenna College does not endorse all the views expressed in these documents.