The Shen Yo Scrapbook (1924-1935) documents the sorority’s activities and those of its members, and appears to have been compiled by the sorority, not an individual member. The scrapbook includes invitations, news clippings, dance cards, place cards, photographs, programs, notes, and various sorority documents pasted onto the scrapbook’s pages that record sorority events.  These events include dinners, teas, pajama sprees, a wheelbarrow race, bridge games, beach parties, dances, and more.  The scrapbook also contains numerous news articles, such as wedding and theater announcements, about various sorority sisters, many of whom were active in local performing arts.  Highlights include hand-painted Art Deco place cards, and orders to rushees during rush week.

Named for the Chinese poet, the Shen Yo sorority held its first meeting 21 December 1921 at the home of Elsie Corrin, and was the first sorority at San Diego State College. The group initially consisted of twelve members who sought to provide “inspiration of achievement” and find “joy in friendship” by forming the sorority. Their colors were Chinese red and blue. By the 1930s, Shen Yo consisted of over eighty members and included an alumni chapter. The sorority held numerous dances, parties, teas, bridge games, and dinners.

0.92 linear ft

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