The Rooters Club.

Vintage original snapshot photograph showing a group of young women participating in a spirited college “pep stunt,” holding a hand-made banner reading “HOODOO Jennie Jinks.”

Research connects this image to Southwestern College (Winfield, Kansas) circa 1915. Period Moundbuilder yearbook references describe “hoodooing” as a form of spirited cheering used by student rooters to support athletic teams, particularly basketball.

The image captures a rare and engaging moment of early 20th-century college life:

• Women dressed in coordinated outfits and costume elements
• Hand-made “Hoodoo” banner featuring a black cat graphic
• Labeled “Pep Stunt” along the lower edge
• Taken on campus steps, likely during a school event or rally

This photograph pairs with known Southwestern College yearbook imagery of the Rooters Club, providing strong contextual grounding to the time period and activity.  (If still available, my shop also has the men's Rooter's Club All-Stars, a photo of the 1915 men's basketball team and 1915 football team from the same time period as well). Reference yearbook image shown for historical context (not included).

A fantastic piece of early college sports culture, women’s history, and Americana — far more unusual than standard team photographs.

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👉 Be sure to check out other vintage photographs and ephemera in my store.