The University of Mississippi Museum's holiday keepsake for 2022 commemorates the 1962 enrollment of James Meredith, the university's first Black student. The keepsake and many of the previous years' designs are available through the museum store. Submitted photo
Design features 60th anniversary of university’s integration
The University of Mississippi Museum and Historic Houses has unveiled its 23rd annual holiday keepsake, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the university’s integration.
Each year, the design alternates between subjects in the museum’s permanent collection, at the university and around Oxford. This year’s keepsake was chosen to honor the enrollment of James Meredith on October 1, 1962.
“Through his bravery and perseverance, Meredith became an inspirational leader of the American civil rights movement,” said Andrea Drummond, the museum’s membership, events and communications coordinator.
Besides the new keepsake, the 2021 Vaught-Hemingway Stadium keepsakes are back for a limited time. Each commemorative ornament is $25 in the museum store. Ornaments can be purchased in person or by phone at 662-915-7073.
Shipping within the continental U.S. is $10, and shipped orders must be placed by December 13 if needed by the holiday. All sales are final.
“Sales of the annual ornament provide much-needed support for the collection and programming we offer throughout the year,” Drummond said. “As always, we are blown away and appreciative of the support we receive from the Rebel faithful.”
Collectible ornaments from previous years that remain available include the Old Skipwith House, Ole Miss Women’s Basketball Jersey, Theora Hamblett House, Oxford’s Double Decker Bus, Herakles Neck Amphora, and Barlow’s Planetarium. Previous years’ ornaments are $10-$20 each.
The UM Museum is at the corner of University Avenue and Fifth Street. Hours are 10 am-4 pm Tuesday through Friday.
By Edwin B. Smith
