Two Students Hang Out in Their College Dorm Room at the University of Illinois in 1910

It’s fascinating to see that even in 1910 college students were decorating their dorms with posters, photos, and little knick-knacks that reminded them of their friends. At the turn of the century many colleges were still isolated from major cities and students had to find a place to stay, be it a boarding house or with a relative. For many, on campus dormitories just made sense.

The people in the photo appear older, likely due to their hairstyles and clothing. Sunscreen had not yet been invented, and smoking was still fashionable despite its link to lung cancer. Physical affection between men was common in portraits, and the two men in the photo may have been expressing camaraderie rather than romantic feelings. The spoons on the wall remain a mystery, possibly connected to musical activities.