100 Years of Lincoln University Homecoming: Honoring the Legacy of the 1925 Football Season

Lincoln University of Missouri 1925 Blue Tigers football team.

This year, Lincoln University of Missouri proudly celebrates a century of Homecoming — a tradition built on unity, pride and the enduring spirit of our University. As we prepare for this fall’s monumental 100th Homecoming celebration, we’ll reflect on key moments from Lincoln’s vibrant history each month. These stories honor the legacy that has brought generations of Lincolnites together and inspire us as we look to the future.

Homecoming 2025 will take place October 26 - November 1, 2025. Join us to celebrate 100 years of tradition at Lincoln University!

The History of Lincoln Homecoming
Since its inception during the 1925-26 academic year, Lincoln University’s Homecoming has grown into the largest and most anticipated annual event on campus. The first Homecoming Queen, Miss Mary Dennie—remembered as the “Queen of the Quill”— set the tone for a tradition of excellence and celebration.

Even in challenging times, such as the Great Depression and World War II, Lincolnites returned to campus to honor their alma mater. Over the decades, Homecoming has expanded to include a variety of cherished events: a spirited parade, the iconic bonfire, electrifying concerts featuring renowned performers and the ever-popular Homecoming Dance. These festivities have drawn alumni and friends back to Jefferson City year after year, fostering a sense of unity and pride.

Today, Lincoln University’s Homecoming is more than just a weekend; it’s a celebration of history, community and tradition. As we commemorate this milestone, we honor the generations of Lincolnites who laid the foundation for this remarkable legacy and welcome future generations to continue this rich tradition.

The 1925 Lincoln Tigers Football Season
Football has always been at the heart of Lincoln University’s Homecoming celebrations, uniting alumni, students and the community in support of the Blue Tigers. To kick off this series, we’re revisiting the 1925 football season.

The 1925 football team members included:

• Tolson Robinson (captain)
• Samuel Brown
• Lenel Mason
• John Kelley
• Clarence Gant
• Uncas Aitch
• Chas Norman
• Lewis Mills
• William Wood
• Chas Robinson
• Benjamin King
• Milton Hardiman
• Gary Bailey
• William Wynn
• John Batson
• Ivory Smith
• Everett Hamilton
• Earl Brooks
• John Carter
• Edgar South
• Pearly Poindexter

Lincoln University 1925 Blue Tigers football team schedule.  

• October 2: Lincoln University 12 vs. Columbia Wizards 0
• October 10: Lincoln High School 12 vs. Douglass High School 0
• October 17: Columbia Wizards 6 vs. Lincoln University 19
• October 23: Lincoln University 58 vs. Fulton Eagles 0
• October 31: Lincoln University 13 vs. Kansas Vocational College (K.V.C.) 0
• November 14: Lincoln University 0 vs. Langston 9
• November (Thanksgiving Day): Lincoln University 26 vs. Western University 0.

As we honor the legacy of Lincoln University Homecoming, we’re reminded of the memories that have shaped us and the traditions that unite us. We eagerly anticipate this year’s historic 100th celebration and the exciting highlights it will bring.

Stay tuned for next month’s feature as we continue exploring Lincoln University’s incredible Homecoming history. Together, let’s create new memories, celebrate cherished traditions and build a future filled with Lincoln pride!