Scroll and Quill Used By the American College Quill Club

This scroll and quill were items used by the American College Quill Club at Grinnell College.  The American College Quill Club was a student organization established at colleges across the country in order to promote writing and literature.

Although not a Literary Society like the ones which existed on campuses in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the club was influenced by these earlier organizations.  However, rather than drawing from Greek culture as Literary Societies had done, the Quill Club drew inspiration from Anglo-Saxon culture and literature.  This is demonstrated by the use of the scroll and quill, and most obviously by the college chapter names. Each individual club was designated with an Old English word followed by the word Rune. Grinnell’s club name was Sigel Rune. Sigel is the Old English word for sun.

One hundred and thirty one names in total are listed on the membership scroll. By signing the scroll, students agreed to abide by the constitution and by-laws of the American College Quill Club and the regulations of Sigel Rune. Membership was determined on merit and the submission of an original piece of writing.  To remain an active member, students had to continue to regularly submit writing.  The club was also required to have active faculty members participate.  

Unfortunately, it is unclear what years the Quill Club was active on Grinnell’s campus. If you have any information about this student organization, or were a member, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us at archives@grinnell.edu.

We encourage anyone with an interest in Literary Societies and other student organizations to drop by Special Collections and look at our holdings.  Special Collections and Archives is open to the public 1:30-5:00pm Monday through Friday and mornings by appointment.