Finding aid for the USC Helenes scrapbooks and realia
5015
Sue Luftschein
USC Libraries Special Collections
2012 March
Doheny Memorial Library 206
3550 Trousdale Parkway
Los Angeles, California 90089-0189
specol@usc.edu
Language of Material:
English
Contributing Institution:
USC Libraries Special Collections
Title: USC Helenes scrapbooks and realia
creator:
USC Helenes
source:
USC Helenes
Identifier/Call Number: 5015
Identifier/Call Number: 1256
Physical Description:
9.04 Linear Feet
1 time capsule, 5 boxes
Date (inclusive): 2006-2011
Abstract: This collection includes scrapbooks and realia, a 2006 time capsule, and branded clothing from the USC Helenes service organization.
Historical note
The USC Helenes is the oldest women's service organization at USC.
Arabella De Oliviera established the USC Helenes in 1921 as an all-female service organization; at that time they represented
the University as the "Official Hostesses of USC". Originally called the Amazons, membership was reserved for upper classmen.
The lower classmen involved were divided into two groups: the Chimes and the Spurs. When the Amazons changed their name in
1969 to the "Helenes," the three separate branches became one unified organization. The name change was implemented to align
with the Trojan theme of the University and was inspired by the iconic Helen of Troy. The Helenes engage in service for both
the University and the surrounding Los Angeles community.
Scope and Content
The USC Helenes scrapbooks and realia consist of scrapbooks, a time capsule, a quilt, branded clothing (4 t-shirts and a jacket),
trophies, and certificates. The scrapbooks document Helenes activities (including the Annual Mother Daughter Tea, themed
parties and events, membership activities) and participation in USC and community activities (including the Los Angeles Marathon,
Swim with Mike, Los Angeles Food Bank).
Conditions Governing Access
COLLECTION STORED OFF-SITE. Advance notice required for access.
Conditions Governing Use
All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the University Archivist.
Permission for publication is given on behalf of Special Collections as the owner of the physical items and is not intended
to include or imply permission of the copyright holder, which must also be obtained.
Preferred Citation
[Box/folder# or item name], USC Helenes scrapbooks and realia, Collection no. 5015, University Archives, Special Collections,
USC Libraries, University of Southern California
Acquisition
Donated by the USC Helenes, October 2011.
Subjects and Indexing Terms
Service learning -- California -- Los Angeles -- Archival resources
Student volunteers in social service -- California -- Los Angeles -- Archives
Clothing
Realia
Scrapbooks
University of Southern California -- History
University of Southern California -- Archives
University of Southern California -- Students
USC Helenes
USC Helenes -- Archives
Box 1
Scrapbook 330774
2006 Fall-2007 Spring
Box 1
Scrapbook 330773
2007 Spring-2008 Fall
Box 1
Meeting agenda and notes, photograph, logo drawings 330789
2009 and undated
Box 3
Fight Cancer quilt 330780
circa 2009
Box 3
T-shirts and jacket 330781
circa 2009
Box 6
City of Los Angeles Certificate of Commendation
2011 November 13
Box 6
Trophies
2011-2012, undated
