Jennette E. C. Lincoln

Jennette E. C. Lincoln was hired in 1898 as Director of Physical Training for Women and held this position until 1909. In 1913, she wrote The Festival Book: May Day Pastime and the May-Pole which described various dances and games to be used in schools. In the 1909 Illio, student Elizabeth Nuckols wrote an article titled “May-Pole Review” and said, “The University of Illinois ranks among the first colleges to establish such a custom, and it is through the never ceasing efforts of Mrs. Lincoln, that the May Pole dance has become one of the traditions of the University. Mrs. Lincoln has not only given us a tradition which inspires every student girl, but she has emphasized the value of the spirit of play in one of the most artistic and beautiful forms of out-door life.”