Company Q, University of Minnesota, 1888-89
Co-eds at the University of Minnesota were organized into a Women’s Military Company. According to a report in the March 1889 Key of Kappa Kappa Gamma, “Soon after drill began for the men, the faculty petitioned that a like favor be granted the women. A graceful permission was given, and a company of forty members was soon organized under the command of Lieutenant Glenn, USA stationed at Fort Snelling.
“The uniform is of cadet blue lady’s cloth. Kilt skirt bordered by a band of black broadcloth; blouse fastened with black braid frogs, and with full sleeves gathered to a black cuff. A black zouave jacket completes the dress. Freedom of movement and dress reform are strictly prescribed.
“Six Kappas are ‘uniformisses’ and are enjoying the novel exercise of the hour’s drill. Army tactics are studied and lectures attended. A rifle weighing three and one half pounds will be used for spring target practice.”
This was a Panhellenic group. There were six Kappas, a few Delta Gammas and those who became charter members of Kappa Alpha Theta, Alpha Phi and Pi Beta Phi. Company Q seems to have existed between 1886 and 1892.
According to the University of Minnesota School of Kinesiology web-site, “The military training unit for women, Company Q, continued until 1892, when a more conventional physical activity program for women was established under the Department of Physical Culture, headed by Louise Kiehle from 1892-1900.”
