Forrest Hall as a window into MTSU's Past

Items

• University of Texas Weighs Change for Dorm Named for KKK Leader
  Article discussing the University of Texas consideration of renaming Simkins Residence Hall due to its namesake’s role in the Ku Klux Klan. Provides national context for debates over commemorative naming on university campuses and references similar concerns at other institutions, including MTSU and Forrest Hall.
• Forrest Hall: The Evolution of Middle Tennessee's Mascot
  An article tracing the history and evolution of the MTSU mascot, from the unofficial nicknames like the Normalites (1911-1934) to the controversial use of Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest (1950s) , the creation of Beauregard , Lord Byron , Old Blue , and the current mascot, Lightning (1998). The article notes Forrest's image was removed from the official seal in 1978.
• PR director questions logo issue/ BSA cites logo remarks, drafts Forrest statement.
  Coverage of the proposed logo change and the BSA’s formal statement criticizing the Forrest imagery; quotes BSA President Amos Tucker.
• Board Rejects Efforts to Rename MTSU Building Named after First Ku Klux Klan Leader
  This article reports on the state commission’s decision to deny renaming Forrest Hall. It highlights the continued controversy and the historical ties of the building’s namesake to the Ku Klux Klan.
• Denied Again: MTSU Leaders Disappointed They Can’t Change Name of Forrest Hall
  This news report covers the Tennessee Historical Commission’s rejection of MTSU’s petition to rename Forrest Hall. It emphasizes the frustration of MTSU leaders at being unable to make the change despite years of effort.