«Rah! Rah! Rah! C-O-L-U-M-B-I-A!»
1886
Standing tall by the riverbank, a classical female figure grips a massive oar like a warrior's spear, her sash proudly displaying the word 'COLLEGE'—a nod to Columbia College (now Columbia University). She gazes out over the water while crowds of spectators and a tall monument fill the background sketch. The inscription 'New London, June 26, 1886' anchors this scene to the famous Intercollegiate Rowing Association regatta held in Connecticut. Thomas Nast, best known as the 'Father of the American Cartoon' for creating the modern image of Santa Claus and Uncle Sam, here trades political satire for collegiate spirit, capturing a celebratory cheer for the rowing team.
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