Name/Title
Chicora College Change PurseEntry/Object ID
2025.3.1A-BDescription
A black square change purse. A circular emblem on the front center says "CHICORA COLLEGE FOR WOMEN" on the top of the circle, "COLUMBIA SOUTH CAROLINA" on the bottom. In the center of the circle is a depiction of the school crest containing both a thistle and a shield surrounded by a wreath. Below the crest is the year 1929. To the bottom right of the crest is a white mark.
The back contains tears along the left and right folds.Context
This change purse likely belonged to Louise Ulmer (1908–2003), who grew up on a farm near the border of Orangeburg and Calhoun counties. In 1925, she moved to Columbia to attend Chicora College at the Hampton-Preston Mansion and became involved in varying extracurricular activities, including the athletic association, a literary society, and an international relations club.
While the wallet features Louise’s intended graduation date and the Chicora College crest, she married Reverend Thomas L. Ulmer (1906–1965) on June 7, 1928—just after finishing her junior year. Together, the newlyweds moved to Kentucky where Louise completed her degree at the University of Louisville instead. As a pastor’s wife, Louise served as a choir director and church organist for many years before returning to Columbia to teach at Dentsville, L. W. Condor, and Brookland-Cayce Junior High. She was a member of First Baptist Church when she died.Made/Created
Date made
circa 1925 - 1929Inscription/Signature/Marks
Type
EmbossedTranscription
"CHICORA COLLEGE FOR WOMEN \ COLUMBIA SOUTH CAROLINA"Material/Technique
EmbossedDimensions
Dimension Description
Change Purse ClosedHeight
3-1/2 inWidth
3-1/2 inDepth
1/2 inDimension Description
Change Purse OpenedHeight
6-1/4 inWidth
3-1/2 inDimension Description
RibbonWidth
1-1/2 inLength
12-1/2 in
