University Archives Artifact Collection

RG14

This collection contains three-dimensional objects related to University history. Items include trophies, plaques, certificates and banners awarded to Wake Forest sports teams, pennants and banners, t-shirts, sports memorabilia, and autographed balls. Also included are items used by the Wake Forest College library, items owned by Samuel Wait, pins, shoes, medals, and a roll of toilet paper.

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Biographical and Historical Note

Wake Forest College was founded in 1834 to provide education to Baptist preachers and laymen. Samuel Wait, who had canvased North Carolina for support of the college, was elected the first principle of the college. The trustees officially renamed the institution to Wake Forest University after the college began offering graduate coursework in 1967. Over the course of the 20th century the university has collected numerous artifacts from college departments and private donors, which formed the foundation for this collection.

Collection Overview

The University Archives Artifact Collection contains historical artifacts. It consists of materials donated by the athletic department, including trophies and plaques, private donors, including items owned by Samuel Wait and other significant figures, and University departments. The collection spans the years from the college's founding in 1834 to 2018.

Collection Arrangement

Organized into six series: Series 1. Other artifacts; Series 2. Plaques and certificates; Series 3. Textiles; Series 4. Sports balls; Series 5. Trophies; and Series 6. T-shirts.

Administrative Information

Publication Information
Processed by Ryan Butler, 2013
Revision Description
Revised by Stephanie Bennett, Natalie Cascario, Stephanie Bennett, 2016, 2017, 2018. 2021
Revision Description
Revised by Kate Trathen, added 2 pennants and a pin., 2026 February
Revision Description
Revised by Sam Sfirri, 2026 April
Revision Description
Revised by Kate Trathen, new materials added, 2026 May
Conditions Governing Access Note
This collection is open for use. 
Custodial History Note
History of ownership has been recorded in the provenance of individual items where it is available. 

Collection Inventory

  • Artifacts
  • Plaques and certificates
  • Textiles
  • Sports balls
  • Trophies
  • T-shirts