Student Literary Journal Collection

Since at least 1928, students have contributed content to a creative literary publication sponsored by the English department. Although the name of the publication changed several times, the introductory statements that accompany each title reflect the desire to foster student self-expression.

The earliest documented creative writing publication, "Sheaf: Winnowings from the Scribblers' Club," is dated May 1928. Issue number 1 was introduced by Gates Thomas, Professor of English, as an official publication of the college. "Summer Rithms" followed in August 1928, consisting of literary work created by students enrolled in the summer session. Each of these two issues were published as an official Teachers College Bulletin.

A year after the publication of "Sheaf," Professor Thomas's introduction stated that the title changed to "The Scrip" beginning with the Summer 1929 issue. While Thomas noted that President Evans arranged for the cover and printing, this issue lacks the Teachers College Bulletin imprint.

Published once each year, the student literary magazine, "The Script," was described in 1960 as a joint publication of Ye Olde Cheshyre Cheese Club and the English Department. With the guidance of faculty advisors, the magazine provided students an opportunity to express themselves in prose and poetry.

In 1964 the publication changed its name and format and became "Persona," the English Department's literary arts journal. Run entirely by students, with the guidance of a faculty advisor, the annual journal features previously unpublished art and literature submitted by Texas State students.

Sources: Sheaf, 1928; Summer Rithms, 1928; The Scrip, 1929; The Script, 1962; Persona, 1964, 2006.