Alfred Vivian, dean of Ohio State’s College of Agriculture, shows Maudine Ormsby to former Illinois Gov. Frank Lowden. Credit: Courtesy of The Ohio State University Archives.
For most homecoming queens, their reign is temporary. For Maudine Ormsby, the honor became a century-long legacy at Ohio State.
Maudine, a Holstein cow known for her record-breaking milk production, was nominated for homecoming queen by agriculture students in 1926 and won the crown that year.
Now, 100 years later, another Holstein cow will honor Maudine.?
The cow, whose name is unknown, from Ohio State’s College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences’ Wooster campus, will serve as grand marshal of the homecoming parade on Friday, according to Penny Barkhurst, director of engagement and alumni relations for CFAES.
“I took my position about two and a half years ago and since then, I’ve been dreaming about a hundred-year celebration for Maudine,” Barkhurst said.
Barkhurst said having a cow serve as the face of this year’s homecoming parade celebrates Ohio State’s agricultural roots while highlighting the university’s work in animal sciences and technology.
“To be able to feature a Holstein cow in the parade is just a great reminder of who we are,” Barkhurst said.
Hannah Snively, director of annual giving in the CFAES Office of Advancement, said in an email that the young female cow was chosen for her temperament and availability.
“There are no familial ties, but she is connected with Maudine Ormsby in spirit,” Snively said.
Friday will mark the young cow’s first-ever event appearance, as she is currently adjusting to her new environment at Ohio State’s Multi-Species Animal Learning Complex, Snively said.
Kevlin Haire, assistant university archivist, said Maudine’s story has continued to be remembered as a distinctive part of Ohio State’s past.
“She was immediately famous for it. It was just over time that she became a legend because it is such a unique story,” Haire said.
Julie Schnell, lifelong leadership engagement specialist with Ohio State’s Office of Student Life, said in an email that honoring Maudine’s legacy reflects Homecoming’s tradition of celebrating the people and stories that have shaped the university.
“Her recognition this year highlights the joy and sense of community that have been hallmarks of Homecoming for 114 years,” Schnell said.
Haire said Maudine’s story still connects the university’s past with the students who are part of the university today.
“To learn that we had a cow win Homecoming queen is just a way for students to say, ‘Oh wait, I’m part of a larger history here,’” Haire said.
