I.A.C. The BOMB 1894

Object NameBook

Date1894

OriginUSA

MediumPaper and fabric

Dimensions11 1/4 × 8 3/4 in. (28.6 × 22.2 cm)

ClassificationsBooks, Manuscripts, Documents, Personal Symbol & Correspondence

Credit LineGift of Dennis Wendell. In the Farm House Museum Collection, Farm House Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object number85.19.1

Status

Not on view

Collections

Label TextFrom the University Museums Collections Handbook, vol. 2, 2025: The Bomb, the official yearbook of Iowa Agricultural College (now Iowa State University), was published annually from 1893 to 1994, with the sole exception of 1902. Initially, the junior class oversaw its production from 1891 until 1925, at which point the senior class took charge, releasing a special edition that year. The origin of the yearbook’s distinctive title was explained in the 1895 edition: "The first thought that comes to mind at the mention of the name ‘Bomb’ is that of an instrument of war, exploding and causing destruction amongst enemies. But a bomb is occasionally put to a much pleasanter use than that of an engine of destruction. One form is used as a means of conveying messages to distant friends. Our Bomb agrees with such a definition also. Its mission is to awaken pleasant reminiscences in the minds of the alumni, and to convey to them information regarding all their brother graduates." As the university grew, so did the Bomb’s legacy as a cherished record of student life, academics, and campus events. However, by the late 20th century, financial difficulties began to take a toll on its production. In April 1995, due to mounting financial concerns, university administration announced that no further editions of the Bomb would be produced. Though the yearbook had once been a vital part of student tradition, preserving over a century of campus history, its discontinuation marked the end of an era at Iowa State. The Farm House Museum retains several editions of the Bomb beginning in 1894 through 1910. The Bomb allows a close look at the college, its people, and its impact. The Iowa State University Library has digitized all editions of The Bomb.

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