The Man Behind the Music: Theodore Milton Selden

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Although Black History Week Celebrations did not begin until 1926, we know that our Black history extends well before that particularly with the founding of Lincoln University in Pennsylvania in 1854. They are the first degree granting HBCU in the nation. The artifact below is one of the numerous rare artifacts housed in our Lincolnian Collection. While most alum are familiar with A. Dennee Bibb writing the alma mater, Dear Old Orange and Blue, did you know that the musical arrangement was created by Theodore Milton Selden? Theodore Milton Selden (1898–1922) was a Lincoln University Class of 1919 graduate. After Lincoln, he continued his education at Dartmouth College, Class of 1921, and later began coursework at the University of Pennsylvania in 1921. While pursuing higher education, Selden worked as a Pullman porter. His life was tragically cut short in a 1922 train wreck, and he was identified only by his Kappa key, marking both his fraternity ties and the legacy he left behind.

Courtesy of Nanny Jack and Co. Archives